Ep 7. 1987

A Year In Music season 4 episode 7 delves deep into the music scene of 1987. The episode takes viewers on a journey through one of the most eclectic years in music history, highlighting the diverse range of genres that dominated the charts and airwaves. From the emergence of hip-hop and the rise of hair-metal to the continued dominance of pop, 1987 was a year of transformative music.

The episode opens with a discussion on the impact of Prince's album "Sign o' the Times," which is widely considered one of his greatest artistic achievements. Prince's experimentation with different genres and styles in this album paved the way for future musicians to explore new sounds and push the boundaries of popular music.

From there, the episode explores the rise of hip-hop and its impact on popular culture. 1987 marked a turning point for the genre, with breakout hits from artists like LL Cool J, Public Enemy, and Eric B. & Rakim. With their socially conscious lyrics and energetic beats, these artists brought a new kind of energy to the music world, challenging listeners to think critically about societal issues like racism and poverty.

But hip-hop wasn't the only genre making waves in 1987. The episode also highlights the rise of hair-metal, with bands like Bon Jovi and Guns N' Roses dominating the charts. Their raucous, rebellious sound was a stark contrast to the more polished pop music of the era, and gave rise to a whole new subculture of fans.

Speaking of pop, the episode also discusses the continued dominance of Madonna, who released her album "Who's That Girl" in 1987. With hits like "Causing a Commotion" and the title track, Madonna cemented her status as the queen of pop and continued to push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in mainstream music.

Other notable moments from 1987 include the release of U2's "The Joshua Tree," which elevated the band to superstar status, and the debut of Guns N' Roses' iconic music video for "Sweet Child O' Mine." The episode also touches on the impact of Michael Jackson's "Bad" album, which solidified his role as the King of Pop and broke countless records.

Overall, A Year In Music season 4 episode 7 provides a comprehensive overview of the music scene in 1987, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity that emerged during this transformative year. Whether you're a die-hard fan of hip-hop, hair-metal, or pop music, this episode has something for everyone, giving viewers a newfound appreciation for the diverse range of genres that shaped the musical landscape of modern times.