Tuesday, August 29, 2006

None More Rock

If somebody were to ever ask me, “What video defines the 80s?,” I know what I would pick. Some would say Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” Others would be partial to Madonna’s “Material Girl.”

But really, for me, it comes down to a simple checklist of 80s clichés.

A NON-DESCRIPT WAREHOUSE LOCATION? Check.

WOMAN WALKING AROUND IN HIGH HEELS? Check.

MULLETS? Check.

ROCKING OUT TO THE AIR GUITAR? Check (BONUS-Entire band playing air instruments).

TIGHT JEANS? Check.

LEATHER SKIRTS? Check.

MUSICANS TURNING DRAMATICALLY TO CAMERA MULTIPLE TIMES? Check.



If anybody doubts that this is simply one of the greatest things MTV has ever aired, wait until you get to the guy playing the keyboard nailed to the wall about a minute-thirty in and try to keep a straight face.

You got to give it up for Steve Perry … he sells the shit out of this thing. I don’t think I’ll ever be not amused by this video. This was mainstream rock in the Reagan era.

3 comments:

Erinna said...

Have you heard/seen Patton Oswalt's routine about metal in the 80s? It's fantastic, and your post reminded me of it...

Mark said...

Yeah, it involves Ted Nugnet and deflecting bullets with the power of his rocking, doesn't it?

Erinna said...

You got it! :)