1981 Music Events — Verified Historical Highlights

1981 Music Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

05 Jan Deadmau5 Born: Joel Zimmerman, professionally known as Deadmau5, was born in Niagara Falls, Ontario. He would go on to become a pioneering electronic dance music (EDM) DJ and producer, significantly influencing the global electronic music scene.
11 Jan Birth of British Singer Jamelia: Jamelia, a prominent British pop and R&B singer, was born on this date. She would later become known for her successful music career in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
14 Jan Rosa López, Spanish singer: Rosa María López Cortés, known as Rosa López, is a Spanish singer born on January 14, 1981, in Peñuelas, Granada, Spain. She gained fame by winning the first season of 'Operación Triunfo' in 2001, earning the nickname 'Rosa de España.' In 2002, she represented Spain at the Eurovision Song Contest with the song 'Europe's Living a Celebration,' finishing in seventh place. Her debut album, 'Rosa,' released in 2002, achieved five-times Platinum status in Spain. source: en.wikipedia.org
15 Jan John Lennon's 'Imagine' Tops UK Charts: John Lennon's iconic song 'Imagine' reaches number 1 in the UK, reflecting the continued global mourning and celebration of the legendary musician's musical legacy.
16 Jan John Lennon releases 'Woman' single in the UK: John Lennon's single 'Woman' was released in the United Kingdom on January 16, 1981. The track, from his album 'Double Fantasy', was the first single issued after his death on December 8, 1980. It reached number one on the UK Singles Chart, marking Lennon's third consecutive chart-topper following '(Just Like) Starting Over' and 'Imagine'. source: beatlesbible.com
17 Jan Ray J's birth date confirmed: Ray J, the American singer, songwriter, and actor, was born on January 17, 1981. He is known for his music career as well as his appearances in reality television. His contributions to the entertainment industry have made him a notable figure since the late 1990s. source: biography.com
21 Jan Andy Lee Birth: Andy Lee, a rapper in the Korean music group Shinhwa, is born. Shinhwa would become one of the longest-running K-pop groups in history.
25 Jan Alicia Keys Birth: Alicia Keys, a Grammy Award-winning American singer, songwriter, pianist, and actress, is born. She would go on to become a prominent figure in R&B and soul music, known for her powerful vocals and social activism.
30 Jan 8th Annual American Music Awards held on January 30, 1981: The 8th Annual American Music Awards took place on January 30, 1981, at the ABC Studios in Los Angeles, California. The ceremony was hosted by Mac Davis, Crystal Gayle, and Teddy Pendergrass. Notable winners included Kenny Rogers, who received multiple awards, and Michael Jackson, who won Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist for his album "Off the Wall." source: upi.com
31 Jan Justin Timberlake born in Memphis, Tennessee: Justin Timberlake, an American singer, songwriter, and actor, was born on January 31, 1981, in Memphis, Tennessee. He gained fame as a member of the boy band NSYNC before launching a successful solo career. Timberlake is known for his contributions to pop and R&B music, as well as his work in film and television. source: biography.com
01 Feb Sophisticated Ladies Musical Premiere: The musical 'Sophisticated Ladies', celebrating the music of Duke Ellington, premiered in New York City, showcasing the legendary jazz composer's influential musical legacy.
05 Feb Piaf musical opens in New York City: The play 'Piaf' by Pam Gems, depicting the life of French singer Édith Piaf, premiered on Broadway at the Plymouth Theatre in New York City on February 5, 1981. The production ran for 165 performances, closing on June 28, 1981. Jane Lapotaire starred in the title role, earning critical acclaim and winning the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Play. source: ibdb.com
08 Feb Broadway Musical Closes: The musical 'Brigadoon' concludes its run at the Majestic Theater in New York City after 133 performances, marking the end of its Broadway engagement.
10 Feb Natasha St-Pier birth: Canadian singer Natasha St-Pier was born on February 10, 1981, in Bathurst, New Brunswick. She gained fame in the early 2000s and is known for her contributions to French pop music. source: imdb.com
13 Feb Pink Floyd's 'Dark Side of the Moon' sets record for longest-running rock album on Billboard chart: On February 13, 1981, Pink Floyd's 'Dark Side of the Moon' achieved a milestone by becoming the longest-running rock album on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart, with 402 consecutive weeks. This record-breaking streak began in March 1973 and continued until April 1988, totaling 741 weeks on the chart. source: top5000-rocketman5000.blogspot.com
15 Feb Karl Richter, German conductor, dies at 54: Karl Richter, renowned German conductor, organist, and harpsichordist, passed away on February 15, 1981, in Munich, West Germany, at the age of 54. He was widely recognized for his interpretations of Johann Sebastian Bach's works and his contributions to Baroque music. Richter founded the Munich Bach Orchestra and the Munich Bach Choir, leading them on numerous world tours and recording extensively. source: upi.com
25 Feb 23rd Grammy Awards Highlights: The 23rd Grammy Awards celebrated outstanding musical achievements, with Christopher Cross's 'Sailing' and Billy Joel's works receiving prestigious awards.
01 Mar Sophisticated Ladies Broadway opening: "Sophisticated Ladies," a musical revue based on Duke Ellington's music, opened on Broadway at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre on March 1, 1981. The production ran for 767 performances, closing on January 2, 1983. The original cast featured Gregory Hines, Judith Jamison, Phyllis Hyman, Hinton Battle, Gregg Burge, and Mercer Ellington. source: en.wikipedia.org
03 Mar Lil' Flip's birth date confirmed: Lil' Flip, the American rapper known for his hit songs in the early 2000s, was born on March 3, 1981. He gained fame with tracks like 'The Way We Ball' and has been influential in the Southern hip-hop scene. His contributions to music have made him a notable figure in the genre. source: britannica.com
04 Mar Carol Banawa: Filipino pop singer emerges: Carol Banawa, born on March 4, 1981, in Pasay, Philippines, is a renowned singer-songwriter and actress. She began her career in the entertainment industry at a young age, gaining prominence through her participation in the children's show 'Ang TV' in 1994. Over the years, she has released multiple albums and singles, earning her a significant place in the Philippine music scene.
07 Mar Bring Back Birdie closes after four performances: 'Bring Back Birdie,' a Broadway musical sequel to 'Bye Bye Birdie,' opened on March 5, 1981, at the Martin Beck Theatre and closed on March 7, 1981, after only four performances and 31 previews. The production received negative reviews, with critics describing it as 'depressing' and 'tired.' Despite the short run, Chita Rivera received a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical for her performance. source: en.wikipedia.org
14 Mar Roxy Music's 'Jealous Guy' reaches number one on UK Singles Chart: Roxy Music's cover of John Lennon's 'Jealous Guy' topped the UK Singles Chart on March 14, 1981, marking the band's only UK number-one single. The track, released in February 1981, was a tribute to Lennon, who was murdered in December 1980. It also achieved number one in Australia and reached the top ten in several European countries. source: officialcharts.com
16 Mar Yarbrough & Peoples' "Don't Stop the Music" tops R&B charts: On March 16, 1981, Yarbrough & Peoples' single "Don't Stop the Music" reached number one on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, marking a significant achievement in the duo's career. source: en.wikipedia.org
18 Mar Jang Nara: South Korean actress and singer: Jang Nara, born on March 18, 1981, in Seoul, South Korea, is a renowned actress and singer. She gained prominence with her 2002 studio album "Sweet Dream" and has starred in various television series, including "Successful Story of a Bright Girl" (2002) and "The Last Empress" (2018–2019). source: en.wikipedia.org
27 Mar John Lennon releases 'Watching the Wheels' single in the UK: John Lennon's single 'Watching the Wheels' was released in the United Kingdom on March 27, 1981. The track, featured on his album 'Double Fantasy,' reached number 30 on the UK Singles Chart. The B-side of the single is 'Yes, I'm Your Angel' by Yoko Ono.
31 Mar First Golden Raspberry Awards held in 1981: The inaugural Golden Raspberry Awards ceremony took place on March 31, 1981, in John J. B. Wilson's living room alcove in Hollywood. The event recognized the worst films of 1980, with 'Can't Stop the Music' winning Worst Picture. The ceremony was a response to the perceived low quality of films like 'Can't Stop the Music' and 'Xanadu,' which inspired Wilson to establish the Razzies. source: en.wikipedia.org
01 Apr Hannah Spearritt's birth date confirmed: Hannah Spearritt, the English singer and actress known for her role in the pop group S Club 7, was born on April 1, 1981. She gained fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s, contributing to the group's success with hit songs and television appearances. Her career has spanned music, television, and film. source: britannica.com
05 Apr Maurice Zbriger: Canadian musical luminary passes away: Maurice Zbriger, a prominent Canadian musician and conductor, passed away on April 5, 1981. He was known for his contributions to classical music in Canada and his work with various orchestras. His death marked a significant loss to the Canadian music community. source: nytimes.com
10 Apr Caveman with Ringo premieres: The film 'Caveman with Ringo' premiered on April 10, 1981. This comedy featured a unique blend of prehistoric themes and musical elements, showcasing Ringo Starr in a leading role. The film received mixed reviews but has since gained a cult following. source: imdb.com
11 Apr Valerie Bertinelli's Wedding: Actress Valerie Bertinelli marries rock musician Eddie Van Halen, a high-profile celebrity wedding that captured significant media attention during the early 1980s.
12 Apr Yes band disbands in early 1981: In early 1981, the progressive rock band Yes officially disbanded after a challenging tour supporting their 1980 album 'Drama'. The lineup changes, including the addition of Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes, led to internal tensions and a decline in audience reception, particularly in the UK. Following the breakup, members pursued various projects, with Horn and Downes forming Asia, and Chris Squire and Alan White collaborating on the Cinema project. source: 971theriver.com
16 Apr Copperfield musical opens in NYC: The musical 'Copperfield,' based on Charles Dickens's novel, opened on April 16, 1981, at the ANTA Playhouse in New York City. Directed and choreographed by Rob Iscove, the production featured a book, music, and lyrics by Al Kasha and Joel Hirschhorn. Despite critical acclaim, the show closed on April 26, 1981, after 13 performances. source: csmonitor.com
17 Apr Hanna Pakarinen: Finnish Singer Profile: Hanna Pakarinen is a notable Finnish singer known for her contributions to the Finnish music scene.
19 Apr US Billboard Number 1 Song: 'Kiss On My List' by Daryl Hall & John Oates topped the US music charts on this date, representing the popular music of the early 1980s.
20 Apr Papa John Phillips Drug Arrest: Musician Papa John Phillips, known for his work with The Mamas & The Papas, was arrested for drug possession.
21 Apr Mike Christie: Mike Christie, an English musician, was noted on this date. Additional details about his musical career or significance are limited.
23 Apr UK #1 Song: Making Your Mind Up: Bucks Fizz claimed the number one spot on the UK music charts with their song 'Making Your Mind Up' during the week of April 20-26, 1981, capturing the pop music zeitgeist of the era.
27 Apr Ringo Starr marries Barbara Bach in London: On April 27, 1981, former Beatles drummer Ringo Starr married actress and model Barbara Bach at the Marylebone Register Office in London. The ceremony was attended by approximately 350 fans and several notable figures, including Starr's former bandmates Paul McCartney and George Harrison, who were present with their wives. The couple had met in 1980 on the set of the film 'Caveman' and had been in a relationship for about a year before their marriage. source: upi.com
28 Apr Sheena Easton's 'Morning Train' tops US charts: On April 28, 1981, Sheena Easton's hit single 'Morning Train (Nine to Five)' reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. This song marked Easton's first major success in the American music market, solidifying her status as a pop star. source: billboard.com
30 Apr 16th Academy of Country Music Awards held on April 30, 1981: The 16th Academy of Country Music Awards ceremony took place on April 30, 1981, at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California. Hosted by Larry Gatlin, Don Meredith, and Tammy Wynette, the event honored outstanding achievements in country music. Notable winners included Barbara Mandrell as Entertainer of the Year, George Jones as Male Vocalist, and Dolly Parton as Female Vocalist. source: en.wikipedia.org
03 May U;Nee: South Korean singer and actress: U;Nee, born Lee Hye-ryeon on May 3, 1981, was a South Korean singer, rapper, dancer, and actress. She debuted as a singer in 2003 with her album "U;Nee Code" and gained popularity with the hit song "Call Call Call" in 2005. U;Nee passed away on January 21, 2007, at the age of 25. source: en.wikipedia.org
04 May Sheena Easton's 'Morning Train' reaches number one on US charts: On May 4, 1981, Sheena Easton's hit single 'Morning Train (Nine to Five)' topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. This song marked Easton's first number one hit in the US, showcasing her distinctive voice and pop appeal. The track remained at the top for two weeks, solidifying her status as a prominent artist in the early 1980s music scene. source: billboard.com
05 May Craig David birth: Craig David, the British singer-songwriter known for his hit songs in the early 2000s, was born on May 5, 1981. He gained fame with his debut album 'Born to Do It' and has since become a prominent figure in the music industry. source: britannica.com
08 May Björn Digsgård, Swedish musician: Björn Digsgård, a Swedish musician, was born on May 8, 1981. He is known for his contributions to the Swedish music scene and has been involved in various musical projects throughout his career. source: discogs.com
11 May Bob Marley passes away, marking the end of a musical legend: Bob Marley, the iconic Jamaican reggae musician, passed away on May 11, 1981, at the age of 36. His music and message of peace, love, and social justice have left a lasting impact on the world, influencing countless artists and movements. Marley's legacy continues to resonate, making him one of the most celebrated figures in music history. source: britannica.com
12 May Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music opens on Broadway: On May 12, 1981, Lena Horne's one-woman musical revue, 'The Lady and Her Music,' premiered at the Nederlander Theatre in New York City. The show, which ran for 333 performances, closed on June 30, 1982, coinciding with Horne's 65th birthday. It received critical acclaim and won several awards, including a special Tony Award and a Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female. source: ibdb.com
14 May Irakere and El Trabuco Venezolano perform live at Poliedro de Caracas: On May 14, 1981, the Cuban jazz band Irakere and the Venezuelan ensemble El Trabuco Venezolano held a live concert at the Poliedro de Caracas in Venezuela. This performance was recorded and released as a live album titled 'Irakere & Trabuco – En Vivo, Poliedro de Caracas, Mayo 14 '81' in 1982. The album features a mix of jazz and Latin American music, showcasing the collaboration between the two groups. source: en.wikipedia.org
15 May George Harrison releases single 'All Those Years Ago': On May 15, 1981, George Harrison released the single 'All Those Years Ago,' which was a tribute to his former bandmate John Lennon following his assassination. The song features contributions from Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, making it a significant collaboration among the surviving Beatles. It reached the top of the charts in several countries, reflecting Harrison's enduring influence in music. source: bbc.com
17 May Inacent Black closes on Broadway after 14 performances: Inacent Black, a play by A. Marcus Hemphill, closed on Broadway at the Biltmore Theatre on May 17, 1981, after 14 performances. The production, which opened on May 6, 1981, featured music and lyrics by Gene McFadden, John Whitehead, and Melba Moore, and was directed by Mikell Pinkney. The cast included Melba Moore in the title role. source: ibdb.com
19 May George Harrison releases 'All Those Years Ago': On May 19, 1981, George Harrison released the single 'All Those Years Ago,' which served as a tribute to his former bandmate John Lennon following his assassination. The song features contributions from Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, making it a significant collaboration among the surviving Beatles. The track reflects on their shared history and Lennon's impact on music and culture. source: rollingstone.com
25 May Rock Musician Roy James Brown Dies: Roy James Brown, a notable rock musician, passed away on May 25, 1981. His contributions to the music industry were recognized by fans and peers alike. source: rollingstone.com
01 Jun UK Music Chart Topper: "Being With You" by Smokey Robinson was the number one song in the United Kingdom for the week of June 1st to June 7th, 1981, highlighting the international music scene.
02 Jun Death of Rino Gaetano, Italian Musician: Rino Gaetano, an influential Italian singer-songwriter known for his satirical and politically charged songs, died in a car accident in Rome on June 2, 1981, at the age of 30. He was returning home alone when his Volvo collided with a truck on Via Nomentana. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Gaetano succumbed to his injuries a few hours later. His death remains a significant event in Italian music history. source: ansa.it
05 Jun George Harrison's 'Somewhere in England' album released in UK: George Harrison's ninth solo album, 'Somewhere in England,' was released in the United Kingdom on June 5, 1981. The album, which includes the tribute song 'All Those Years Ago' dedicated to John Lennon, peaked at number 13 on the UK Albums Chart. The US release occurred four days earlier, on June 1, 1981, where it reached number 11 on the Billboard 200. source: beatlesbible.com
08 Jun Mandrell Sisters win five honors at 15th Music City News Country Awards: At the 15th annual Music City News Country Awards on June 8, 1981, Barbara Mandrell and her sisters, Louise and Irlene, collectively received five of the 14 awards presented. Barbara Mandrell was named Top Female Artist and Musician of the Year, while the sisters jointly won Best Country Music Television Program and Best Country Comedy Act. Louise Mandrell was also honored as Most Promising Performer of the Year. source: upi.com
09 Jun Vic Zhou was born on June 9, 1981: Vic Zhou, a Taiwanese actor and singer, was born on June 9, 1981. He gained fame as a member of the boy band F4 and has since had a successful career in both music and acting. Zhou is well-known for his roles in various Taiwanese dramas, contributing significantly to the entertainment industry in Taiwan and beyond. source: britannica.com
15 Jun Billy Martin - Musician Profile: Billy Martin, born on June 15, 1981, in Annapolis, Maryland, is an American musician, songwriter, and producer, best known as the lead guitarist and keyboardist for the pop punk band Good Charlotte. He formed the band in 1996, achieving significant success with albums like "The Young and the Hopeless" and "Good Morning Revival." Martin is also a fashion designer and has been involved in various philanthropic activities. source: nndb.com
17 Jun Pink Floyd's final performance of 'The Wall' at Earls Court Exhibition Centre: On June 17, 1981, Pink Floyd performed the last show of their 'The Wall' tour at the Earls Court Exhibition Centre in London. This concert marked the band's final performance with bassist and founding member Roger Waters until their reunion at Live 8 in 2005. The show was recorded and later released as the live album 'Is There Anybody Out There? The Wall Live 1980–81'. source: pinkfloydz.com
20 Jun Gerry Cott leaves Boomtown Rats: On June 20, 1981, guitarist Gerry Cott departed from The Boomtown Rats, citing musical differences and a growing disillusionment with the band's direction. His departure occurred shortly after the release of their album 'Mondo Bongo' and during their world tour. Following his exit, the band continued as a five-piece ensemble. source: theboomtownrats.blogspot.com
21 Jun Steely Dan Breakup: Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, founding members of the iconic rock band Steely Dan, announced their separation, marking a significant moment in the band's history and the music industry.
26 Jun Diana Ross and Lionel Richie release "Endless Love" as a duet single: On June 26, 1981, Diana Ross and Lionel Richie released "Endless Love," a duet featured in the film of the same name. The song became a major hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks from August 15 to October 10, 1981, and was named the greatest song duet of all time by Billboard. source: en.wikipedia.org
28 Jun Piaf Musical Concludes Broadway Run: The theatrical production 'Piaf', a biographical musical about the famous French singer Édith Piaf, concludes its run at the Plymouth Theater in New York City after 165 performances.
02 Jul Paul Anthony Finn - Irish Musician: Paul Anthony Finn, singer and songwriter for the Irish band The Flaws, emerged in the music scene.
04 Jul First National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C.: The inaugural National Independence Day Parade was held on July 4, 1981, along Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C. Organized by Charles W. Ferguson, the parade featured high school marching bands, military bands, and various musical groups. It continued annually until 1993, when financial challenges and security concerns led to its discontinuation. source: en.wikipedia.org
13 Jul Frankie Smith's 'Double Dutch Bus' leads R&B charts: On July 13, 1981, Frankie Smith's hit song 'Double Dutch Bus' reached the top of the R&B charts. The song became a significant part of the early 1980s music scene, known for its catchy beat and playful lyrics. source: billboard.com
14 Jul Lee Mead born: Lee Mead, a British actor and singer, was born on July 14, 1981. He gained fame after winning the role of Joseph in the West End musical 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat'. source: bbc.co.uk
19 Jul Didz Hammond Birth: Didz Hammond, musician known for his work as bassist and backing vocalist in bands Dirty Pretty Things and The Cooper Temple Clause, is born.
20 Jul Dayang Nurfaizah - Malaysian Singer: Dayang Nurfaizah, a notable Malaysian singer, was born on this date. She would later become a prominent figure in the Malaysian music industry.
23 Jul Steve Jocz birth date: Steve Jocz, also known as Stevo32, is a Canadian musician and former drummer for the rock band Sum 41. He was born on July 23, 1981, in Ajax, Ontario, Canada. source: en.wikipedia.org
31 Jul Birth of M. Shadows: Matthew "M. Shadows" Sanders, future lead vocalist of the heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold, was born. He would later become a significant figure in the modern metal music scene.
01 Aug MTV launches first music video channel: On August 1, 1981, MTV, the first 24-hour video music channel, began broadcasting in the United States. The inaugural video was "Video Killed the Radio Star" by The Buggles, marking a significant shift in the music and television industries.
11 Aug Sandi Thom: Scottish singer-songwriter born on August 11, 1981: Sandi Thom is a Scottish singer-songwriter known for her hit single 'I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (With Flowers in My Hair).' She gained fame in the mid-2000s and has released several albums since then. Thom's music blends elements of folk, pop, and rock, and she has been recognized for her distinctive voice and songwriting skills. source: bbc.co.uk
15 Aug Song Ji-hyo's birth date confirmed: Song Ji-hyo, a South Korean actress and television personality, was born on August 15, 1981. She is well-known for her roles in various television dramas and as a cast member of the popular variety show 'Running Man.' Her career has spanned over two decades, making her a prominent figure in the South Korean entertainment industry. source: imdb.com
18 Aug My Fair Lady revival opens at Uris Theatre in New York City: A revival of the musical 'My Fair Lady' opened at the Uris Theatre in New York City on August 18, 1981. The production featured Rex Harrison reprising his role as Henry Higgins, with Jack Gwillim as Colonel Pickering, Milo O'Shea as Alfred P. Doolittle, and Nancy Ringham as Eliza Doolittle. Directed by Patrick Garland, the revival ran for 119 performances and 5 previews, closing on November 29, 1981. source: ibdb.com
30 Aug Brian J. Robinson Birth: Brian J. Robinson, a Canadian musician known for his work with the band A Wilhelm Scream, was born on this date.
06 Sep Yumiko Cheng: Hong Kong Singer: Yumiko Cheng is a Hong Kong singer, representing the vibrant music scene of the region during the early 1980s.
15 Sep Rafael Méndez Obituary: Rafael Méndez, a renowned Mexican-born trumpet virtuoso born in 1906, passes away, leaving behind a significant musical legacy.
21 Sep Rolling Stones Begin Tattoo You Tour: The Rolling Stones launched their Tattoo You tour at JFK Stadium in Philadelphia on September 21, 1981. This tour supported their album of the same name and was another milestone in the legendary rock band's extensive touring history.
25 Sep Rolling Stones launch 'Tattoo You' tour: The Rolling Stones began their American Tour 1981 on September 25, 1981, at John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, promoting their album 'Tattoo You'. The tour became the highest-grossing of the year, with approximately 2.5 million attendees and $50 million in ticket sales. source: en.wikipedia.org
08 Oct Ruby: Egyptian Singer: Ruby, a notable Egyptian singer, was recognized in the music industry on this date.
10 Oct Una Foden Born: Irish singer-songwriter and dancer Una Foden was born, who would later become known as a member of the pop group The Saturdays and for her solo music career.
11 Oct Prince opens for Rolling Stones: On October 11, 1981, Prince opened for the Rolling Stones during their North American tour. This performance was notable as it showcased Prince's rising star in the music industry. source: rollingstone.com
12 Oct 15th Country Music Association Awards held on October 12, 1981: The 15th annual Country Music Association Awards took place on October 12, 1981, at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee. Hosted by Mac Davis and Barbara Mandrell, the ceremony honored outstanding achievements in country music. Notable winners included Barbara Mandrell, who was named Entertainer of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year, and George Jones, who received the Male Vocalist of the Year award. The event was televised live on CBS. source: upi.com
14 Oct Birth of Akon, Senegalese-American R&B singer: Akon, born Aliaune Thiam on October 14, 1981, in St. Louis, Missouri, is a prominent Senegalese-American singer, songwriter, and producer. He gained fame in the early 2000s with hits like "Lonely" and "Smack That," and has since become a significant figure in the music industry, known for his philanthropic efforts as well. source: biography.com
15 Oct Formation of Metallica in Los Angeles: Metallica was formed on October 15, 1981, in Los Angeles, California, by drummer Lars Ulrich and guitarist James Hetfield. The band quickly gained popularity in the heavy metal scene, becoming one of the most influential and commercially successful bands in music history. Their unique blend of thrash metal and powerful lyrics has left a lasting impact on the genre. source: britannica.com
28 Oct Metallica founded in Los Angeles: Metallica, the iconic heavy metal band, was founded on October 28, 1981, in Los Angeles, California. The band was formed by drummer Lars Ulrich and guitarist/vocalist James Hetfield, and it has since become one of the most successful and influential bands in the history of music. Their unique sound and powerful performances have garnered a massive global following. source: britannica.com
29 Oct Death of Georges Brassens, legendary French poet-songwriter: Georges Brassens, a prominent French poet and songwriter, passed away on October 29, 1981. Known for his profound lyrics and unique musical style, Brassens left a lasting impact on French music and culture. His works continue to be celebrated for their poetic depth and social commentary. source: britannica.com
31 Oct Birth of Selina Ren, member of S.H.E. group: Selina Ren, a member of the popular Taiwanese girl group S.H.E, was born on October 31, 1981. The group, formed in 2001, has gained significant popularity in the Mandopop music scene and is known for their harmonious vocals and engaging performances. Selina has also pursued acting and other ventures alongside her music career. source: taiwannews.com.tw
10 Nov Musical comedy 'Oh, Brother!' opens in NYC: 'Oh, Brother!' is a musical comedy that opened on Broadway at the ANTA Playhouse in New York City on November 10, 1981. The production, directed by Donald Driver, featured music by Michael Valenti and a book and lyrics by Donald Driver. It was a contemporary adaptation of Shakespeare's 'The Comedy of Errors,' set in the modern Middle East. The show had a brief run, closing after three performances on November 11, 1981. source: ibdb.com
13 Nov Ringo Starr releases 'Wrack My Brain' single: On November 13, 1981, Ringo Starr released 'Wrack My Brain' as the lead single from his eighth solo album, 'Stop and Smell the Roses'. Written and produced by George Harrison, the song became Starr's last single to chart in the US, reaching number 38 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album, featuring collaborations with Paul McCartney, Harrison, and others, was released in the UK on November 20, 1981. source: beatlesbible.com
15 Nov Camelot musical opens in New York City: The Broadway revival of the musical 'Camelot' opened at the Winter Garden Theatre in New York City on November 15, 1981. This production featured Richard Harris reprising his role as King Arthur, a character he had previously portrayed in the 1967 film adaptation. The revival ran until January 2, 1982, before embarking on a national tour. source: ibdb.com
16 Nov Merrily We Roll Along Broadway Premiere: Stephen Sondheim and George Furth's musical 'Merrily We Roll Along' opened at the Alvin Theater in New York City, running for a brief 16-performance engagement. Despite its short run, the musical would later become a cult classic in musical theater history.
17 Nov Birth of Sarah Harding, British pop singer: Sarah Harding, a member of the British girl group Girls Aloud, was born on November 17, 1981. She gained fame in the early 2000s and became known for her contributions to pop music and television. Harding's career included various solo projects and appearances in reality TV shows. source: bbc.com
21 Nov Olivia Newton-John's 'Physical' tops charts: On November 21, 1981, Olivia Newton-John's single "Physical" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking the start of a ten-week reign at the top. The song became her most successful hit, achieving significant sales and airplay, and was accompanied by a music video that contributed to its popularity. source: en.wikipedia.org
22 Nov Rock Musical 'Marlowe' Closes in NYC: The rock musical 'Marlowe' by Jimmy Horowitz and Leo Rost concluded its run at the Rialto Theater in New York City after 48 performances. While a short-lived production, it represented the diverse and experimental nature of musical theater in the early 1980s.
28 Nov Merrily We Roll Along closes on Broadway: The original Broadway production of 'Merrily We Roll Along' closed on November 28, 1981, after 16 performances and 44 previews. Directed by Hal Prince, the musical received mostly negative reviews and was considered a commercial failure. source: en.wikipedia.org
29 Nov Closure of My Fair Lady Musical Revival: The Broadway revival of the classic musical 'My Fair Lady' by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe concluded its run at the Uris Theater in New York City after 119 performances.
02 Dec Britney Spears was born on December 2, 1981: Britney Spears, an American singer, songwriter, and dancer, was born on December 2, 1981, in McComb, Mississippi. She rose to fame in the late 1990s and is often credited with influencing the revival of teen pop in the late 20th century. Spears has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. source: britannica.com
13 Dec Amy Lee, lead singer of Evanescence, was born: Amy Lee, the co-founder and lead vocalist of the rock band Evanescence, was born on December 13, 1981. She is known for her powerful voice and has received multiple awards for her contributions to music. Lee has played a significant role in the band's success, particularly with their hit album 'Fallen.' source: biography.com
20 Dec Dreamgirls Broadway premiere: The musical 'Dreamgirls' premiered on Broadway at the Imperial Theatre on December 20, 1981. Directed and choreographed by Michael Bennett, the production ran for 1,521 performances before closing on August 11, 1985. The original cast featured Jennifer Holliday as Effie White, Sheryl Lee Ralph as Deena Jones, and Loretta Devine as Lorrell Robinson. source: en.wikipedia.org
21 Dec Dima Bilan, Russian Pop Star: Dima Bilan is a renowned Russian pop singer, known for his successful international music career and representing Russia in the Eurovision Song Contest, where he won in 2008.
29 Dec Angela Via, American singer: Angela Via, born Angela Jolene Trullinger Villarreal on December 29, 1981, in Raymondville, Texas, is an American singer and songwriter known for her pop music recordings in both English and Spanish. She began her career in the late 1990s, gaining recognition with her single "Catch Me If You Can," which appeared on the Pokémon: The First Movie soundtrack. Her self-titled debut album was released in 2000 by Atlantic Records. source: music.apple.com

What happened in 1981?

Discover what the world looked like in 1981:

Discover 1981 1981 Historical Events 1981 Nobel Prize Winners 1981 Most Popular Baby Names 1981 Chinese Horoscope 1981 Movies 1981 TV Series 1981 Academy Awards 1981 Books 1981 VideoGames