1980 Music Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1980 Music Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 11 Jan The Pretenders release their debut album: The Pretenders, a British rock band formed in 1978, released their self-titled debut album on January 11, 1980. The album, produced by Chris Thomas and Nick Lowe, features singles like "Stop Your Sobbing," "Kid," and "Brass in Pocket." It achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and number 9 on the US Billboard 200. source: britannica.com
- 13 Jan André Kostelanetz dies at 78 in Haiti: André Kostelanetz, the renowned Russian-American conductor and arranger, passed away on January 13, 1980, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, at the age of 78. He was known for popularizing orchestral music and was a prominent figure in American classical music. source: washingtonpost.com
- 19 Jan Pink Floyd's 'The Wall' tops US album charts: On January 19, 1980, Pink Floyd's album 'The Wall' reached number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, marking the band's third US chart-topping album. The album maintained this position for 15 consecutive weeks, becoming one of the best-selling albums in the US with over 23 million copies sold. source: number1albums.com
- 21 Jan Nana Mizuki born on January 21, 1980: Nana Mizuki, a prominent Japanese singer and voice actress, was born on January 21, 1980. She is well-known for her contributions to anime music and has gained a significant following both in Japan and internationally. Mizuki has released numerous albums and singles, establishing herself as a leading figure in the Japanese entertainment industry. source: britannica.com
- 26 Jan Frank Sinatra performs at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro: On January 26, 1980, Frank Sinatra performed at Rio de Janeiro's Maracanã Stadium, drawing an audience of approximately 175,000 people. This concert set a Guinness World Record for the largest paying audience for a solo performer at that time. The event was part of a series of performances in Brazil, including four exclusive shows at the Rio Palace Hotel from January 22 to 25, 1980. source: bbc.com
- 28 Jan Franco Evangelisti, Italian composer, dies at 54: Franco Evangelisti, an Italian composer known for his work in electronic music and sound theory, passed away in Rome on January 28, 1980, at the age of 54. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 01 Feb Michael Jackson's "Off The Wall" single debuts on U.S. charts: On February 1, 1980, Michael Jackson's "Off The Wall," the title track from his first solo album, made its U.S. chart debut. It peaked at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached #5 on the R&B singles chart, where it held that position for three weeks. source: michaeljackson.com
- 03 Feb Sarah Lewitinn: American Record Producer and Music Critic: Sarah Lewitinn, born on February 3, 1980, in New York City, is an American record producer, music critic, DJ, blogger, and music director for the Canadian fashion brand Aritzia. She began her career as an assistant editor at Spin Magazine, championing bands like My Chemical Romance and The Killers, which led her to start her own record label, Stolen Transmission. In 2006, New York magazine named her one of "The Most Influential People in Music," citing her significant impact on the industry. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 07 Feb Pink Floyd's 'The Wall' live premiere at Los Angeles Sports Arena: On February 7, 1980, Pink Floyd performed the live debut of their album 'The Wall' at the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena. The concert featured the entire album, supplemented by the instrumental 'The Last Few Bricks' to allow time for the construction of a wall on stage. The performance was notable for its elaborate stage design, including 450 foldable cardboard bricks, animated projections, inflatables, and a replica Stuka dive bomber. The show faced a brief delay when a stage curtain caught fire during the opening number but resumed promptly. This marked the beginning of a series of seven consecutive nights at the venue. source: pinkfloyd.com
- 12 Feb Canterbury Tales revival opens at Rialto Theatre in New York City: A revival of the musical 'Canterbury Tales' opened at the Rialto Theatre in New York City on February 12, 1980. The production ran for 16 performances, closing on February 24, 1980. The show was based on Geoffrey Chaucer's work, adapted by Nevill Coghill, and featured music by Richard Hill and John Hawkins. source: broadwayworld.com
- 18 Feb Regina Spektor's birth date confirmed: Regina Spektor, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, was born on February 18, 1980, in Moscow, Russia. She later moved to the United States, where she gained fame for her unique blend of musical styles and poignant lyrics. Spektor's work has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase over the years. source: biography.com
- 19 Feb Bon Scott, AC/DC lead singer, dies at 33: Bon Scott, the lead vocalist of Australian rock band AC/DC, died on February 19, 1980, at the age of 33. After a night of heavy drinking at London's Music Machine club, Scott was found unconscious in a car and was pronounced dead at King's College Hospital. The official cause of death was acute alcohol poisoning, and the coroner classified it as 'death by misadventure'. source: thisdayinmusic.com
- 22 Feb Jeanette Biedermann: German pop singer and actress: Jeanette Biedermann, born Jean Biedermann on February 22, 1980, in Bernau bei Berlin, is a German singer, actress, and television personality. She began her career at age six as an acrobat in Circus Lilliput and later pursued music and acting, gaining fame with her role in the soap opera 'Gute Zeiten, schlechte Zeiten' and her successful music career. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 27 Feb Highlights of the 22nd Annual Grammy Awards: The 22nd Annual Grammy Awards, held on February 27, 1980, at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, marked the first inclusion of a Rock music category. The Doobie Brothers dominated the night, winning Record of the Year for "What a Fool Believes" and Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group for "Minute by Minute." Billy Joel's "52nd Street" earned Album of the Year, while "What a Fool Believes," co-written by Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald, secured Song of the Year. Notably, "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor won the inaugural and only Grammy for Best Disco Recording. Bob Dylan received Best Rock Vocal Performance, Male, for "Gotta Serve Somebody," and Michael Jackson won Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male, for "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough." Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond delivered a memorable performance of "You Don't Bring Me Flowers." source: grammy.com
- 07 Mar Anthony Ocaña: Dominican composer and guitarist: Anthony Ocaña, born on March 7, 1980, in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, is a composer and guitarist known for his unique fusion of classical, contemporary, minimal, pop, progressive rock, Caribbean, Latin American, and jazz styles. He began his musical journey at age 5 with piano lessons and later studied classical guitar at the National Conservatory of Music in the Dominican Republic. At 18, he received a scholarship to study composition and guitar at Manhattanville College in New York, where he graduated with honors. Ocaña has performed as the opening act for jazz pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba and multi-instrumentalist Egberto Gismonti. In 2002, he moved to Madrid, Spain, where he continues to compose and perform, releasing several albums that have received critical acclaim. source: imdb.com
- 08 Mar First Soviet Rock Music Festival held in Tbilisi, 1980: The 'Spring Rhythms: Tbilisi-80' festival, the first official rock festival in the Soviet Union, took place in Tbilisi from March 8 to March 16, 1980. Organized by the Georgian National Philharmonic Hall, the Union of Composers of the Georgian SSR, and the Republican Center for Youth Culture, the event featured over twenty bands from seventeen Soviet cities. Notable participants included the bands Mashina Vremeni and Autograph, with the festival being considered a turning point in Soviet and Russian rock music history. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 12 Mar Billy Joel releases 'Glass Houses' album: On March 12, 1980, Billy Joel released his album 'Glass Houses,' which features hits like 'It's Still Rock and Roll to Me.' The album marked a shift in Joel's musical style, incorporating more rock elements compared to his previous works. 'Glass Houses' was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart. source: billboard.com
- 15 Mar Fern Kinney's single reaches UK chart number one: Fern Kinney's single "Together We Are Beautiful" topped the UK Singles Chart on March 15, 1980. The song became a significant hit, showcasing Kinney's vocal talent and contributing to her popularity in the UK music scene during that era. It remains one of her most recognized tracks. source: bbc.co.uk
- 19 Mar Agnes Pihlava: Finnish Pop Singer: Agnes Pihlava, born Agnieszka Ćwiklińska on March 19, 1980, in Leszno, Poland, is a Finnish singer who gained prominence by finishing fourth in the second season of 'Idols Finland' in 2005. She later released her debut album, 'When the Night Falls,' in 2006, featuring songs composed by notable artists such as Mr. Lordi of Lordi, Joey Tempest of Europe, and Tony Kakko of Sonata Arctica. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 21 Mar Birth of Deryck Whibley, Canadian musician and producer: Deryck Whibley, the lead vocalist and guitarist of the Canadian rock band Sum 41, was born on March 21, 1980. He is known for his contributions to the music industry, particularly in the pop-punk genre. Whibley has also worked as a producer and songwriter for various artists. source: biography.com
- 25 Mar Walter Susskind, Czech-born British conductor, dies at 66: Walter Susskind, a distinguished Czech-born British conductor, teacher, and pianist, passed away on March 25, 1980, in Berkeley, California, at the age of 66. Born on May 1, 1913, in Prague, he studied composition with Josef Suk and conducting with George Szell. Susskind had a diverse international career, serving as music director for several orchestras, including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra. source: filmovyprehled.cz
- 27 Mar Reggae musical opens on Broadway at Biltmore Theatre: The musical 'Reggae' premiered on Broadway at the Biltmore Theatre in New York City on March 27, 1980. The production, which ran for 21 performances until April 13, 1980, featured a cast including Sheryl Lee Ralph as Faith and Philip Michael Thomas as Esau. The show was directed by Glenda Dickerson, with choreography by Mike Malone, and was produced by Michael Butler, Eric Nezhad, and David Cogan. source: ibdb.com
- 30 Mar Hüseyin Yalın, Turkish pop singer and songwriter, born: Hüseyin Yalın, known professionally as Yalın, is a Turkish pop singer and songwriter born on March 30, 1980, in Istanbul, Turkey. He gained prominence with his 2004 debut album 'Ellerine Sağlık,' featuring the hit song 'Zalim.' Yalın has been active in the music industry since 2004, releasing multiple albums and singles. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 01 Apr Brian Johnson officially joins AC/DC as lead singer: On April 1, 1980, Brian Johnson was officially announced as the new lead singer of AC/DC, following the death of Bon Scott in February 1980. Johnson, formerly of the band Geordie, had impressed the band members during auditions with his powerful vocals and energetic stage presence. His first album with AC/DC, 'Back in Black,' was released in July 1980 and became one of the best-selling albums of all time. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 04 Apr Red Sovine, country music singer and songwriter, dies at 62: Red Sovine, known for his truck-driving country songs like "Giddyup Go" and "Teddy Bear," died on April 4, 1980, in Nashville, Tennessee, at the age of 62. He suffered a heart attack while driving, leading to a fatal accident. Sovine was buried in Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Nashville. source: countrymusichalloffame.org
- 08 Apr Ben Freeman, English actor, born on April 8, 1980: Ben Freeman is an English actor, best known for portraying Scott Windsor in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale. He was born on April 8, 1980, in England. After leaving Emmerdale in 2007, Freeman pursued a career in musical theatre, taking on various roles in the West End. In 2021, he joined the cast of the BBC soap opera EastEnders as Caleb Malone. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 11 Apr Paul McCartney releases 'Coming Up' single: On April 11, 1980, Paul McCartney released 'Coming Up' as the lead single from his second solo album, 'McCartney II'. The song was recorded in 1979 and features McCartney playing all instruments. The UK release included the studio version, while the US release featured a live version recorded by Wings in Glasgow in December 1979. source: paulmccartney.com
- 12 Apr Brian McFadden was born on April 12, 1980: Brian McFadden, an Irish singer and songwriter, was born on April 12, 1980, in Dublin, Ireland. He is best known as a former member of the boy band Westlife and has also pursued a successful solo career. His contributions to music have made him a notable figure in the pop genre. source: britannica.com
- 21 Apr Howard Stern begins broadcasting on WWWW Detroit: On April 21, 1980, Howard Stern began his morning show at WWWW, a rock station in Detroit, Michigan. He aimed to be more open and honest on-air, which resonated with listeners. However, the station struggled to compete with other local rock stations, leading to a format change to country music in January 1981. Stern left shortly after, declining offers from other stations. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 24 Apr Alejo Carpentier dies in Paris: Cuban novelist, essayist, and musicologist Alejo Carpentier passed away in Paris on April 24, 1980. He was 75 years old at the time of his death. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 29 Apr Kian Egan born in Sligo, Ireland: Kian Egan, an Irish singer and member of the boy band Westlife, was born on April 29, 1980, in Sligo, Ireland. He gained fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s as part of Westlife, which became one of the best-selling music acts in the world. Egan has also pursued a solo career and appeared on various television shows. source: britannica.com
- 30 Apr Barnum musical opens in New York City: The musical 'Barnum' premiered at the St. James Theatre in New York City on April 30, 1980. Directed and choreographed by Joe Layton, the production ran for 854 performances, closing on May 16, 1982. The cast featured Jim Dale as P.T. Barnum and Glenn Close as Charity Barnum. source: ibdb.com
- 01 May Pink Floyd's 'Another Brick in the Wall' banned in South Africa: In May 1980, the South African government banned Pink Floyd's song 'Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2)' and the album 'The Wall' due to its association with student protests against apartheid-era education. The song had become an anthem for students protesting racial inequalities in schools, leading authorities to consider it politically subversive. source: thisdayinmusic.com
- 06 May Taebin: American singer and television host: Danny Im, known professionally as Taebin, is an American singer and television host born on May 6, 1980, in Los Angeles, California. He debuted as a member of the hip hop group 1TYM in 1998 and released his first solo album, "Taebin of 1TYM," in 2004. In 2012, he began hosting the Mnet America talk show "Danny From L.A." source: en.wikipedia.org
- 09 May Friday the 13th released in U.S. theaters: The 1980 slasher film 'Friday the 13th' was released in U.S. theaters on May 9, 1980. Directed by Sean S. Cunningham, the film follows a group of camp counselors who are murdered one by one by an unknown killer while attempting to reopen an abandoned summer camp. It was a major box office success, grossing $59.8 million worldwide. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 10 May Happy New Year Broadway musical closes: The Broadway musical 'Happy New Year' closed on May 10, 1980, after 17 performances and 27 previews. Directed by Burt Shevelove, the production featured music and lyrics by Cole Porter and was based on Philip Barry's play 'Holiday'. The cast included Michael Scott as Johnny Case and Kimberly Farr as Julia Seton. source: broadwayworld.com
- 14 May Death of Ian Curtis, lead singer of Joy Division: Ian Curtis, the lead singer of the influential post-punk band Joy Division, died by suicide on May 14, 1980, at the age of 23. His death occurred just before the band was set to embark on their first North American tour, profoundly impacting the music scene and leading to the band's subsequent rise in popularity. Curtis's struggles with epilepsy and depression were well-documented, and his legacy continues to influence artists today. source: bbc.com
- 16 May Paul McCartney releases McCartney II album: On May 16, 1980, Paul McCartney released his album 'McCartney II'. This album marked a departure from his previous work, showcasing a more experimental sound and featuring the hit single 'Coming Up'. It was well-received and is considered a significant part of McCartney's solo career. source: bbc.co.uk
- 17 May Paul and Linda McCartney's Saturday Night Live appearance: On May 17, 1980, Paul and Linda McCartney appeared as musical guests on Saturday Night Live, hosted by Steve Martin. They performed 'Coming Up' and 'All-Night Television' during the episode. source: snl.fandom.com
- 19 May Blackstone! opens at Majestic Theatre in New York City: On May 19, 1980, 'Blackstone!', a magic-themed musical show featuring Harry Blackstone Jr., premiered at the Majestic Theatre in New York City. The production ran for 104 performances, concluding on August 17, 1980. source: broadwayworld.com
- 31 May Andy Hurley born in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin: Andy Hurley, born Andrew John Hurley on May 31, 1980, in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, is an American musician best known as the drummer for the rock band Fall Out Boy. He joined the band in 2003 and has been a member since. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Jun 34th Tony Awards honors Broadway excellence: The 34th Annual Tony Awards ceremony took place on June 8, 1980, at the Mark Hellinger Theatre in New York City. Hosted by Mary Tyler Moore and Jason Robards, the event celebrated outstanding achievements in Broadway theater for the 1979–1980 season. Notable winners included 'Evita' for Best Musical and 'Children of a Lesser God' for Best Play. source: tonyawards.com
- 09 Jun 14th Music City News Country Awards held on June 9, 1980: The 14th Music City News Country Awards took place on June 9, 1980, at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee. The Statler Brothers won three honors, while Loretta Lynn and Marty Robbins each won two awards. source: onthisday.com
- 13 Jun Paul McCartney releases 'Waterfalls' single: On June 13, 1980, Paul McCartney released 'Waterfalls' as the second single from his album 'McCartney II'. The song, characterized by minimalist instrumentation, reached number 9 on the UK Singles Chart but did not chart in the US. source: officialcharts.com
- 16 Jun Joey Yung's birth date confirmed: Joey Yung, a prominent Hong Kong singer and actress, was born on June 16, 1980. She is known for her contributions to Cantopop and has received numerous awards throughout her career. Yung has been a significant figure in the Hong Kong music industry since the early 2000s. source: britannica.com
- 20 Jun The Blues Brothers film release date: The Blues Brothers premiered in the United States on June 20, 1980. The film, directed by John Landis and starring John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, features musical performances by artists such as James Brown, Cab Calloway, Aretha Franklin, and Ray Charles. It was released in approximately 600 theaters, grossing over $115 million worldwide during its initial run. source: britannica.com
- 21 Jun Death of Bert Kaempfert, German Musician: Bert Kaempfert, a renowned German composer and orchestra leader, passed away on June 21, 1980, in Majorca, Spain, at the age of 56. He was best known for composing "Strangers in the Night," which became a major hit for Frank Sinatra. source: britannica.com
- 25 Jun Nozomi Takeuchi: Japanese gravure idol and actress: Nozomi Takeuchi, born on June 25, 1980, in Okazaki, Aichi, Japan, is a Japanese gravure idol and actress. She is affiliated with the show-business production Yume Kikaku and graduated from Kunitachi College of Music, where she studied piano. Her nickname, 'Kojocho' (meaning 'factory manager'), originates from her official blog handle. Takeuchi has released several photobooks and appeared in various image videos and stage dramas. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 28 Jun José Iturbi, renowned musician, passes away: José Iturbi, a celebrated Spanish pianist, conductor, and composer, died on June 28, 1980, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 84. He was known for his performances in Hollywood films during the 1940s and his contributions to classical music. source: britannica.com
- 29 Jun Sweeney Todd musical concludes Broadway run: The original Broadway production of 'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street' closed on June 29, 1980, after 557 performances and 19 previews. Directed by Hal Prince, the cast featured Angela Lansbury as Mrs. Lovett and Len Cariou as Sweeney Todd. The production won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 02 Jul Paul McCartney's 'Coming Up' reaches number one on US Billboard Hot 100: On July 2, 1980, Paul McCartney's single 'Coming Up' topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking his seventh post-Beatles number one hit. The song, originally from his 'McCartney II' album, was promoted with a live version that gained significant airplay. It held the number one position for three consecutive weeks, from June 28 to July 12, 1980. source: musicchartsarchive.com
- 10 Jul Jessica Simpson born on July 10, 1980: Jessica Simpson, an American singer, actress, and fashion designer, was born on July 10, 1980, in Abilene, Texas. She gained fame in the late 1990s with her debut album and has since become a prominent figure in entertainment and fashion. source: biography.com
- 12 Jul Olivia Newton-John and Electric Light Orchestra's 'Xanadu' reaches UK number one: On July 12, 1980, 'Xanadu' by Olivia Newton-John and Electric Light Orchestra topped the UK Singles Chart, marking the first and only UK number one for ELO. The song, from the film of the same name, was a collaboration between Newton-John and ELO's Jeff Lynne. source: officialcharts.com
- 15 Jul Ben Selvin, American musician and bandleader, dies at 82: Ben Selvin, renowned as the 'Dean of Recorded Music,' passed away on July 15, 1980, at his home in Flower Hill, New York, at the age of 82. He was known for his prolific recording career, estimated to have produced between 13,000 to 20,000 song titles, and for leading the Novelty Orchestra, which released the best-selling song 'Dardanella' in 1920. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 25 Jul AC/DC releases 'Back in Black' album: On July 25, 1980, AC/DC released their iconic album 'Back in Black'. This album marked a significant moment in rock history, being the first to feature vocalist Brian Johnson after the death of Bon Scott. It went on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time, showcasing hits like 'You Shook Me All Night Long' and 'Hells Bells'. source: rollingstone.com
- 02 Aug Olivia Newton-John's 'Magic' tops Billboard Hot 100: Olivia Newton-John's song 'Magic' reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on August 2, 1980, and held the top position for four consecutive weeks. The track, featured on the soundtrack of the film 'Xanadu,' was written and produced by John Farrar. It also achieved success on other charts, including spending five weeks at number one on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 04 Aug John Lennon and Yoko Ono begin recording 'Double Fantasy': On August 4, 1980, John Lennon and Yoko Ono commenced recording sessions for their collaborative album 'Double Fantasy' at The Hit Factory in New York City. This marked Lennon's return to the music industry after a five-year hiatus dedicated to family life. The recording sessions continued until October 19, 1980, producing a total of 22 songs, with the album released on November 17, 1980. source: johnlennon.com
- 05 Aug Claire Kuo's birth date and place: Claire Kuo, born Kuo Po-yu on August 5, 1980, in British Hong Kong, is a Taiwanese singer and television host. She graduated from Shih Hsin University and was a competitive cheerleader. Her debut album, 'I Don't Want to Forget You,' released in 2007, earned her numerous awards, including Best Newcomer. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 12 Aug Paul Simon releases 'One-Trick Pony' album: On August 12, 1980, Paul Simon released his fifth solo studio album, 'One-Trick Pony', which also served as the soundtrack for the film of the same name, in which Simon starred. The album features the Grammy-nominated track 'Late in the Evening', which peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. source: paulsimon.com
- 16 Aug Vanessa Carlton was born on August 16, 1980: Vanessa Carlton, an American singer-songwriter, was born on August 16, 1980, in Milford, Pennsylvania. She gained fame with her hit single "A Thousand Miles" in 2002, which showcased her piano skills and distinctive voice. Carlton has released several albums and continues to be recognized for her contributions to pop music. source: biography.com
- 17 Aug Blackstone! musical closes at Majestic Theatre after 104 performances: The musical 'Blackstone!' concluded its run at New York City's Majestic Theatre on August 17, 1980, after 104 performances. The show, which opened on May 19, 1980, featured magician Harry Blackstone Jr. and was nominated for a Drama Desk Award for Unique Theatrical Experience in 1981. source: ibdb.com
- 19 Aug Darius Campbell Danesh's birth date: Darius Campbell Danesh, born on August 19, 1980, in Glasgow, Scotland, was a Scottish singer-songwriter, actor, and film producer. He first gained prominence as Darius Danesh on the ITV talent show Pop Idol in 2002. He passed away on August 11, 2022, in Rochester, Minnesota, USA. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 24 Aug Oklahoma! musical closes on Broadway after 293 performances: The 1979 Broadway revival of 'Oklahoma!' concluded its run at the Palace Theatre on August 24, 1980, after 293 performances. Directed by William Hammerstein and choreographed by Gemze de Lappe, the production starred Christine Andreas as Laurey and Laurence Guittard as Curly. The show received critical acclaim, with Andreas and Groener earning Tony Award nominations, and Vidnovic winning a Drama Desk Award. source: ibdb.com
- 25 Aug 42nd Street Broadway premiere: The musical '42nd Street' premiered on Broadway on August 25, 1980, at the Winter Garden Theatre. Directed and choreographed by Gower Champion, the production ran for 3,486 performances before closing on January 8, 1989. The original cast featured Jerry Orbach as Julian Marsh, Tammy Grimes as Dorothy Brock, Wanda Richert as Peggy Sawyer, and Lee Roy Reams as Billy Lawlor. source: pbs.org
- 10 Sep Mikey Way born on September 10, 1980: Mikey Way, the bassist for the rock band My Chemical Romance, was born on September 10, 1980. He is known for his contributions to the band's success in the early 2000s, helping to shape the emo and punk rock scenes. His work has influenced many musicians and fans alike. source: biography.com
- 13 Sep Divine Madness premiered at Toronto International Film Festival: On September 13, 1980, 'Divine Madness,' a concert film featuring Bette Midler, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film, directed by Michael Ritchie, showcases Midler's live performances at Pasadena's Civic Auditorium in February 1980. It was released in U.S. theaters on September 26, 1980. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 14 Sep Charlie and Algernon Broadway premiere: The musical 'Charlie and Algernon' premiered on Broadway at the Helen Hayes Theatre on September 14, 1980. Directed by Louis W. Scheeder and choreographed by Virginia Freeman, the production featured P. J. Benjamin as Charlie and Sandy Faison as Alice Kinnian. The show ran for 17 performances and 12 previews, closing on September 28, 1980. It was nominated for the 1981 Tony Award for Best Original Score. source: washingtonpost.com
- 15 Sep Paul McCartney releases 'Temporary Secretary' single: On September 15, 1980, Paul McCartney released 'Temporary Secretary' as the third single from his album 'McCartney II'. The track, characterized by its experimental synthesizer-driven sound, was issued exclusively as a 12-inch single in the UK, limited to 25,000 copies, and did not chart. Despite initial negative reception, it has since gained a cult following among fans. source: paulmccartney.com
- 17 Sep Les Misérables musical premieres in Paris: The musical adaptation of Victor Hugo's 'Les Misérables' premiered at the Palais des Sports in Paris on September 17, 1980. Directed by Robert Hossein, the production featured Maurice Barrier as Jean Valjean and Rose Laurens as Fantine. The show ran for 107 performances, attracting over 500,000 spectators. source: lemonde.fr
- 19 Sep Birth of Tegan and Sara Quin: Tegan and Sara Quin, Canadian twin sisters, were born on September 19, 1980, in Calgary, Alberta. They are known for their contributions to the music industry as a pop duo, gaining fame for their distinctive sound and lyrical content. Over the years, they have released multiple albums and received several awards, becoming influential figures in the indie pop genre. source: biography.com
- 20 Sep Ozzy Osbourne releases 'Blizzard of Ozz': Ozzy Osbourne's debut solo album, 'Blizzard of Ozz,' was released on September 20, 1980, in the UK. The album features the hit single 'Crazy Train' and marks the beginning of Osbourne's solo career after his departure from Black Sabbath in 1979. source: ozzy.com
- 22 Sep John Lennon and Yoko Ono sign recording contract with Geffen Records: On September 22, 1980, John Lennon and Yoko Ono signed a recording contract with Geffen Records, marking their return to the music industry after a five-year hiatus. The agreement led to the release of their collaborative album, 'Double Fantasy,' which featured a mix of Lennon and Ono's compositions and was released on November 17, 1980. source: ultimateclassicrock.com
- 23 Sep Bob Marley's final concert at Pittsburgh's Stanley Theatre: On September 23, 1980, Bob Marley performed his last scheduled public concert at the Stanley Theatre in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as part of the Uprising Tour. Despite collapsing two days earlier due to complications from malignant melanoma, Marley proceeded with the performance, delivering a set that included songs from his latest album, 'Uprising,' as well as classic hits. This concert was later released as the live album 'Live Forever: The Stanley Theatre, Pittsburgh, PA, September 23, 1980.' source: jambase.com
- 25 Sep T.I. born on September 25, 1980: The American rapper, songwriter, and actor T.I., whose real name is Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., was born on September 25, 1980, in Atlanta, Georgia. He is known for his contributions to hip-hop and has received multiple awards throughout his career, including Grammy Awards. T.I. is also recognized for his work in film and television, as well as his entrepreneurial ventures. source: biography.com
- 27 Sep WHOT pirate radio station launches in Brooklyn: On September 27, 1980, WHOT, a pirate radio station, began broadcasting in Brooklyn, New York, operating on 1620 AM and 92.5 FM frequencies. WHOT was known for its eclectic programming, including a mix of music genres and talk shows, and was operated by individuals previously involved with other pirate stations like WCPR and WFAT. The station faced legal challenges from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and was eventually seized on July 6, 1989. source: onthisday.com
- 28 Sep Broadway musical 'Charlie and Algernon' closes after 17 performances: The musical 'Charlie and Algernon' closed on September 28, 1980, at the Helen Hayes Theatre in New York City after 17 performances. Based on Daniel Keyes' novel 'Flowers for Algernon,' the production featured music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by David Rogers. Despite its brief run, the show received a Tony Award nomination for Best Original Score in 1981. source: washingtonpost.com
- 03 Oct The Police release 'Zenyatta Mondatta': On October 3, 1980, the English rock band The Police released their third studio album, 'Zenyatta Mondatta'. The album, recorded in the Netherlands, reached number one on the UK Albums Chart and number five on the US Billboard 200. It produced hit singles like 'Don't Stand So Close to Me' and 'De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da', and won two Grammy Awards in 1982. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 05 Oct James Toseland born on October 5, 1980: James Toseland, a British motorcycle racer and musician, was born on October 5, 1980. He is known for his achievements in the Superbike World Championship, where he won two titles. In addition to his racing career, Toseland has pursued a career in music, releasing albums and performing. source: britannica.com
- 13 Oct Ashanti's birth date: Ashanti Shequoiya Douglas, known professionally as Ashanti, was born on October 13, 1980, in Glen Cove, New York. She is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who gained prominence in the early 2000s with her self-titled debut album, which included the hit single "Foolish." source: en.wikipedia.org
- 21 Oct Banjo Dancing opens at Century Theatre in NYC: 'Banjo Dancing,' a one-person theatrical performance by Stephen Wade, opened at New York City's Century Theatre on October 21, 1980. The show, which combines storytelling, traditional music, and percussive dance, ran for 38 performances before closing on November 30, 1980. source: broadwayworld.com
- 23 Oct Tintypes musical opens on Broadway at John Golden Theatre: The musical revue 'Tintypes' opened on Broadway at the John Golden Theatre in New York City on October 23, 1980. The production, which ran for 93 performances until January 11, 1981, featured a score blending patriotic songs, romantic tunes, and ragtime popular between 1897 and 1914. The cast included Carolyn Mignini, Lynne Thigpen, Trey Wilson, Mary Catherine Wright, and Jerry Zaks. source: upi.com
- 24 Oct John Lennon's '(Just Like) Starting Over' single release: John Lennon's '(Just Like) Starting Over' was released as a single on October 24, 1980, in the United Kingdom, with Yoko Ono's 'Kiss Kiss Kiss' as the B-side. This track marked Lennon's return to the music scene after a five-year hiatus and was the first single from his album 'Double Fantasy'. source: beatlesbible.com
- 25 Oct Virgil Fox, renowned organist, dies at 68: Virgil Fox, an American organist celebrated for his innovative 'Heavy Organ' concerts featuring Bach's music with light shows, passed away on October 25, 1980, in Palm Beach, Florida, at the age of 68. He was known for his tenure as organist at Riverside Church in New York City from 1946 to 1965 and his extensive recording career. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 28 Oct 1980 U.S. presidential debate between Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan in Cleveland: On October 28, 1980, incumbent President Jimmy Carter and former California Governor Ronald Reagan participated in the second presidential debate of the 1980 election cycle. The 90-minute debate, moderated by Howard K. Smith of ABC News, was held at the Music Hall in Cleveland, Ohio. The debate covered various topics, including domestic and foreign policy, and was watched by an estimated 80.6 million viewers, making it the most-watched debate in American history at that time. source: pbs.org
- 15 Nov Ace Young - American singer: Ace Young, born Brett Asa Young on November 15, 1980, in Denver, Colorado, is an American singer, songwriter, and actor. He gained national recognition as a finalist on the fifth season of "American Idol," finishing in seventh place. After the show, he released his self-titled debut album in 2008 and has appeared in various Broadway productions, including "Grease" and "Hair." source: en.wikipedia.org
- 17 Nov John Lennon releases 'Double Fantasy' album: On November 17, 1980, John Lennon released his album 'Double Fantasy,' which featured a mix of his and Yoko Ono's songs. The album was notable for its themes of love and reconciliation, and it received critical acclaim. Tragically, Lennon was murdered just weeks after the album's release, making it his final studio album. source: britannica.com
- 21 Nov REO Speedwagon releases 'Hi Infidelity' album: On November 21, 1980, REO Speedwagon released their album 'Hi Infidelity,' which became a significant commercial success. The album features hit singles like 'Keep on Loving You' and 'Take It on the Run,' solidifying the band's popularity in the rock genre during the early 1980s. 'Hi Infidelity' is often regarded as one of the defining albums of the era. source: allmusic.com
- 28 Nov Mark Morris Dance Group's debut performance at Merce Cunningham Studio: On November 28, 1980, Mark Morris and his friends presented a concert of his choreography at the Merce Cunningham Studio in New York City, marking the debut of the Mark Morris Dance Group. The program included works such as 'Barstow' set to Harry Partch's music, 'Brummagem' to Beethoven, 'Castor and Pollux' also to Partch, and the world premieres of 'Dad’s Charts' and 'Zenska'. source: markmorrisdancegroup.org
- 30 Nov West Side Story revival concludes on November 30, 1980: The 1980 Broadway revival of 'West Side Story' concluded its run at the Minskoff Theatre on November 30, 1980, after 333 performances. Directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins, the production featured Ken Marshall as Tony, Josie de Guzman as Maria, and Debbie Allen as Anita. Both de Guzman and Allen received Tony Award nominations for Best Featured Actress in a Musical, with Allen winning the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical. source: ibdb.com
- 05 Dec Ibrahim Maalouf born on December 5, 1980: Ibrahim Maalouf, a renowned French-Lebanese trumpeter and composer, was born on December 5, 1980, in Beirut, Lebanon. He is known for his unique blend of jazz, classical, and Arabic music, and has gained international acclaim for his innovative approach to music. Maalouf has released several albums and has collaborated with various artists across different genres. source: britannica.com
- 06 Dec Kei Yasuda: Japanese singer: Kei Yasuda, born on December 6, 1980, in Futtsu, Chiba, Japan, is a Japanese singer, musician, and actress. She gained prominence as a member and co-leader of the Japanese girl group Morning Musume, joining as part of the second generation alongside Mari Yaguchi and Sayaka Ichii. Yasuda was also a member of the pop group Dream Morning Musume. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Dec John Lennon assassinated in New York City: John Lennon, a former member of The Beatles, was shot and killed outside his apartment building in New York City on December 8, 1980. The assailant, Mark David Chapman, was arrested at the scene and later sentenced to 20 years to life in prison. Lennon's death shocked fans worldwide and marked a significant moment in music history. source: bbc.com
- 13 Dec Broadway musical 'Perfectly Frank' closes after 16 performances: 'Perfectly Frank,' a musical revue celebrating the works of composer and lyricist Frank Loesser, opened on November 30, 1980, at the Helen Hayes Theatre in New York City. Despite its tribute to Loesser, the production received mixed reviews and closed on December 13, 1980, after 16 performances. source: broadwayworld.com
- 14 Dec Worldwide vigils honor John Lennon after his death: On December 14, 1980, millions of fans worldwide participated in silent vigils to honor John Lennon, who was tragically murdered on December 8. The largest gathering took place in New York's Central Park, where over 100,000 people, including actress-activist Jane Fonda and Mayor Edward Koch, braved the cold to listen to recorded music and pray in silence at 2 p.m. EST. Similar tributes were held in cities like Memphis and Chicago, reflecting Lennon's global impact. source: theguardian.com
- 25 Dec John Lennon's posthumous chart success: Following John Lennon's tragic death on December 8, 1980, his music experienced significant posthumous success. His single "(Just Like) Starting Over" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 on December 27, 1980, and his album "Double Fantasy" topped the Billboard 200 chart on the same date, marking a remarkable resurgence in his popularity. source: americansongwriter.com
What happened in 1980?
Discover what the world looked like in 1980: