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Music from 1980s brings back memories
Published 5:02pm Monday, June 25, 2012Shall we discuss ‘80s music, its impact on Hollywood, and its relevancy at weddings? I think we shall.
My husband, John, and I doubled dated with Marbury and Kathleen McCullough Wednesday evening. We elected to take in a viewing of Rock of Ages at Playhouse Cinemas. The movie is set in 1987 in Los Angeles, more specifically on the seedy Sunset Strip. Julianne Hough, Tom Cruise, Alec Baldwin and Russell Brand star. Small town girl moves to Hollywood and meets cute wannabe rock star. They both proceed to bartend in a hip club owned by Baldwin and his metro-tastic assistant Brand. Cruise, an aging rock god, is set to headline his band’s last show at the club before going solo. Hilarity ensues.
Me: It’s going to be amazing.
John: I haven’t seen any previews for it … (doubt etched upon his face here)
Me: Yeah, but when have you watched TV lately?
John: Is it going to be good?
Me: Yes, so says Entertainment Weekly and US. Have I ever steered you wrong?
When Julianne belted out Night Ranger’s “Sister Christian” on a Greyhound Bus in the first 15 seconds, I knew I had mistakenly not realized that the movie was a full on musical. I knew it had been adapted from a musical but uh oh…Ring Pop on my hand, I snuck a nervous glance at John. He did not know yet. Across the row, Marbury was threatening Kathleen and rolling his eyes violently.
Alas – it would be the ‘80s music that would save it for us all. In the early ‘80s, disco had died, and in its place pop, dance and glam metal emerged, with rock still maintaining its mainstream status. As children of the ’80s, we all wanted to leave the theater and hit a karaoke bar immediately. It was both hilarious and ridiculous all at once. We thought we were making fun of the movie, but then we realized the movie was making fun of itself. It does not take itself too seriously, which is clear when Baldwin and Brand serenade each other. Cruise’s portrayal of Stacee Jaxx is big hair gold. Cruise sings all of his own songs and guess what, folks – the man can sing.
When Julianne’s purse spills out on the ground, all women will instantly recognize Maybelline’s iconic pink and green mascara tube. I got a kick out of her denim vest and fanny pack, both items that I own and wear here in present day. Granted, the fanny pack is for work. I love being hands free, y’all.
When Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” was performed, I was instantly teleported back to the dance floor at my sister-in-law, Hadley Howell now Gilliland’s, wedding last Saturday. At one point, I think everyone at the wedding was on the dance floor, hands in the air.
What is it about 80s music at weddings that makes people lose their minds and faculties? I am currently having a flashback of Fred Dobbs doing a handstand and Roger Holliday’s wild leg moves, which were fantastic by the way. We requested Prince’s “Purple Rain,” but it never happened. If you want to slay people at a wedding, just request “Purple Rain.” They can’t handle it.
I was in NYC back around Christmas and went to a ’80s bar called Joshua Tree with about 15 girls. The flat screen covered walls played ’80s music videos on repeat—no band needed. You haven’t lived until you are in a room with 20 screens playing Eric Prydz’s “Call on Me.” It was the happiest place on earth.
’80s music makes you lose all inhibitions. It makes you want to tease your hair while playing Thriller album. Much of the fashion is back in style, including neon colors and high top Converse sneakers. However, hold the perms, please.
Howell works as an advertising representative for Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., in addition to writing this column. Contact Howell at lacey.howell@alexcityoutlook.com to keep her In the Loop of events.
