Q4. What was the best-selling album of the 1980s?

Only Elder Millennials And Gen X'ers Will Be Able To Pass This '80s Kid Quiz

Q4. What was the best-selling album of the 1980s?

When crafting this question for the '80s Kid Quiz, we wanted to dive deep into the music scene of the 1980s, an era bursting with iconic albums and artists that defined a generation. Here's a breakdown of the options and why each one is significant.

• Thriller - Michael Jackson

This option is the correct answer and represents the pinnacle of '80s music. Thriller by Michael Jackson was not just an album; it was a cultural phenomenon. Released in 1982, it became the best-selling album of all time, a record it still holds today. The album includes timeless hits like "Billie Jean," "Beat It," and the titular track "Thriller," which came with an iconic music video that is still celebrated. Michael Jackson's influence on pop culture was immense, and Thriller showcased his talent and innovation. This album is a must-have on any music platform, including Apple Music.

• Like a Virgin - Madonna

Madonna's Like a Virgin was a defining moment in pop music and solidified her status as the Queen of Pop. Released in 1984, it featured hits like "Material Girl" and "Like a Virgin," songs that became anthems for the youth of the '80s. Madonna's style, provocative performances, and catchy tunes made this album a cultural touchstone. While it wasn't the best-selling album of the decade, it certainly left a significant mark and is frequently revisited on platforms like Apple Music.

• Born in the U.S.A. - Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen's Born in the U.S.A. is another powerhouse from the '80s. Released in 1984, it encapsulated the American spirit and the struggles of the working class. The album's title track became an anthem, though often misunderstood, and it includes other hits like "Dancing in the Dark" and "Glory Days." Springsteen's storytelling through music resonated with many, making this album a staple in rock history. For those who love classic rock, Apple Music offers a fantastic way to relive Springsteen's glory days.

• Purple Rain - Prince

Prince's Purple Rain album, released in 1984, was not just an album but also the soundtrack to the movie of the same name. This work solidified Prince's status as a musical genius with hits like "When Doves Cry," "Let's Go Crazy," and "Purple Rain." The album's fusion of rock, pop, and R&B was groundbreaking, and Prince's flamboyant style and electric performances were unforgettable. Apple Music is an excellent platform to explore Prince's vast and varied discography.

• Slippery When Wet - Bon Jovi

Bon Jovi's Slippery When Wet burst onto the scene in 1986 with a hard rock edge that appealed to the masses. Featuring mega-hits like "Livin' on a Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad Name," this album propelled Bon Jovi to international stardom. It epitomized the hair metal genre that was so popular in the '80s and remains a favorite for many rock enthusiasts. Revisiting this album on Apple Music brings back the raw energy and anthemic choruses that defined the era.

• The Joshua Tree - U2

U2's The Joshua Tree, released in 1987, was a significant artistic achievement and commercial success. With its powerful lyrics and unique sound, it includes classics like "With or Without You," "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For," and "Where the Streets Have No Name." The album's exploration of American landscapes and themes of spirituality and politics resonated deeply with listeners. Apple Music provides a perfect platform for new listeners to discover or longtime fans to revisit this pivotal work.

Article Content

Exploring the significance of each album option helps illustrate the rich tapestry of music that defined the 1980s. While Thriller by Michael Jackson was the best-selling album and the correct answer, each of the other albums also played a crucial role in shaping the musical landscape of that decade.

• Thriller - Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson's Thriller is an absolute masterpiece. It wasn't just the music that made it legendary, but also the way it changed the landscape of music videos. The "Thriller" video, with its elaborate choreography and horror movie storyline, was revolutionary. Michael Jackson, often referred to as the King of Pop, showed off his incredible range and creativity with this album. Each track had its own unique flavor, yet the album as a whole felt cohesive. For anyone looking to understand the impact of 1980s music, Thriller is a must-listen on Apple Music.

The album's influence is evident in countless aspects of pop culture. From Halloween parties featuring the "Thriller" dance to the enduring popularity of tracks like "Beat It" and "Billie Jean," Michael Jackson's work continues to resonate. The production quality, innovative music videos, and Jackson's unmistakable voice make Thriller a timeless classic. Apple Music is an ideal platform to experience this album in high quality, appreciating its lasting legacy.

• Like a Virgin - Madonna

Madonna's Like a Virgin album broke boundaries and redefined what it meant to be a female pop star. The album's provocative themes and Madonna's unapologetic attitude resonated with a generation looking for change. Songs like "Material Girl" highlighted the era's consumer culture, while "Like a Virgin" became an anthem of empowerment and self-expression. Madonna's influence is still felt today, and her music from this era continues to inspire new generations of artists. Apple Music offers a great collection of Madonna's hits, perfect for anyone wanting to dive into her early work.

Madonna's ability to continually reinvent herself and push the boundaries of pop music started with this album. The bold fashion statements, controversial performances, and catchy pop melodies created a blueprint for future pop stars. On Apple Music, listeners can explore the depth of Madonna's impact, from her earliest hits to her latest releases, witnessing her evolution as an artist.

• Born in the U.S.A. - Bruce Springsteen

Born in the U.S.A. by Bruce Springsteen is more than just an album; it's a commentary on American life. Springsteen's ability to tell stories through his music is unparalleled, and this album captures the hopes, dreams, and struggles of everyday Americans. The title track, often misunderstood as a patriotic anthem, actually delves into the hardships faced by Vietnam War veterans. This depth and nuance are what make Springsteen a beloved artist. Apple Music provides a comprehensive look at his extensive catalog, allowing fans to appreciate his storytelling prowess.

The album's other tracks, like "Glory Days" and "Dancing in the Dark," also highlight Springsteen's knack for capturing the essence of the American experience. His raw, powerful voice and relatable lyrics make his music timeless. For those who appreciate deep, meaningful rock music, Apple Music is the perfect place to explore Bruce Springsteen's profound discography.

• Purple Rain - Prince

Prince's Purple Rain is an extraordinary blend of different musical genres. Prince was known for his eclectic style and ability to fuse rock, pop, and funk seamlessly. The album, which doubles as a movie soundtrack, showcases Prince's versatility and genius. "Purple Rain," the song, is an epic ballad that has become a defining track of the '80s. Prince's influence on music, fashion, and culture is immense, and his work continues to be celebrated. Apple Music is a great place to explore Prince's diverse discography and understand his impact.

Prince's bold fashion choices, electrifying performances, and unmatched musicianship made him a standout figure in the music industry. His ability to push boundaries and challenge norms is evident throughout Purple Rain. For those looking to dive deep into his revolutionary work, Apple Music provides a vast collection of his albums, showcasing his incredible range and talent.

• Slippery When Wet - Bon Jovi

Bon Jovi's Slippery When Wet brought a polished, pop-influenced sound to hard rock, making it more accessible to a broader audience. The anthems "Livin' on a Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad Name" are still crowd favorites at concerts and karaoke bars. The album's success helped define the sound of '80s rock and paved the way for other bands in the genre. Revisiting Bon Jovi's hits on Apple Music is a great way to relive the energy and excitement of their music.

The album's catchy hooks, relatable lyrics, and energetic performances make it a staple of '80s rock. Bon Jovi's ability to craft songs that are both anthemic and personal resonated with fans around the world . On Apple Music, listeners can experience the full range of Bon Jovi's work, from their early hits to their latest releases, capturing the spirit of rock 'n' roll.

• The Joshua Tree - U2

U2's The Joshua Tree is a powerful and emotive album that explores themes of spirituality, struggle, and redemption. The band's ability to create a sense of place and atmosphere through their music is evident in tracks like "Where the Streets Have No Name." The album's success helped cement U2's place in rock history, and their influence continues to be felt today. Apple Music offers a comprehensive collection of U2's work, allowing fans to delve into their extensive and impactful career.

The album's exploration of American landscapes and political themes resonated deeply with listeners. U2's signature sound, characterized by The Edge's distinctive guitar riffs and Bono's emotive vocals, is fully realized in this album. For fans of thoughtful, introspective rock music, Apple Music is an excellent platform to explore U2's influential discography.

Conclusion

Each album option in this quiz question represents a significant piece of 1980s music history. From the groundbreaking pop of Michael Jackson's Thriller to the anthemic rock of Bon Jovi's Slippery When Wet, these albums shaped the musical landscape of the decade. Whether you're revisiting these classics or discovering them for the first time, Apple Music provides an excellent platform to explore and appreciate these iconic works.

By understanding the context and impact of each album, we gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse and dynamic music of the 1980s. This quiz not only tests knowledge but also celebrates the rich musical heritage that continues to influence today's artists and listeners. Apple Music serves as a gateway to reliving the magic of the '80s, offering high-quality streaming and a vast library of music that defined a generation.