reasons why 80s hair bands were the worst thing to happen to music
Introduction
As someone who loves music from all eras, it may seem odd to say that 80s hair bands were the worst thing to happen to music. But hear me out.
Yes, there were some catchy tunes and memorable performances from bands like Bon Jovi, Poison, and Guns N' Roses. But let's be real here - the majority of the "music" that came out of this era was pure garbage. And here are the reasons why:
The Fashion
Let's start with the most obvious aspect of 80s hair bands - their fashion sense (or lack thereof). The amount of hairspray and spandex that went into their outfits was ridiculous. And let's not forget about the bandanas and the excessive amount of leather. It was like they were trying to outdo each other in who could look the most ridiculous.
But the fashion wasn't just limited to the bands themselves. Their fans also adopted this over-the-top style, leading to a sea of mullets and neon colors. It was a dark time for fashion, indeed.
The Music
Now let's get to the real reason why 80s hair bands were the worst - their music. Sure, there were some hits that still get played on classic rock radio stations. But for every "Livin' on a Prayer," there were a dozen songs that were forgettable at best and downright awful at worst.
The lyrics were often sexist and shallow, glorifying drugs, sex, and partying. The melodies were repetitive and generic. And the guitar solos - oh, the guitar solos. They were often long, meandering, and added nothing to the song.
The worst part? These bands often got more attention and recognition than truly talented musicians who were creating innovative and meaningful music.
The Attitude
The attitude of 80s hair bands was also a problem. They often acted as if they were invincible, with little regard for their own health and well-being. Drug and alcohol abuse was rampant among these bands, leading to many untimely deaths.
And let's not forget about their treatment of women. Many of their lyrics objectified and demeaned women, portraying them as little more than sex objects. This toxic attitude wasn't just limited to their music - it was also reflected in their personal lives and interactions with fans.
The Legacy
So what is the legacy of 80s hair bands? Sure, some people still enjoy their music and even dress up like them for Halloween parties. But overall, they've left a bad taste in the mouths of music fans who are looking for something more than a cheap, fleeting thrill.
They've also had a damaging effect on the music industry as a whole. Not only did they contribute to the rise of MTV and a focus on image over substance, but they also created a template for future bands to follow - one that valued spectacle over musicianship and empty lyrics over thoughtful songwriting.
Conclusion
In the end, it's clear that 80s hair bands were a blight on the music world. While they may have had some catchy tunes and memorable moments, their overall impact was largely negative. It's time to move past this era of music and focus on artists who are creating meaningful, innovative, and genuine music.