Articles by Brad

Ah, the 1980s—a decade filled with vibrant colors, radical fashion, and groundbreaking music. But let's not forget one of the most electrifying cultural phenomena that emerged during this era: breakdancing. From the streets of the Bronx to the Hollywood silver screen, breakdancing became an integral part of 80s culture. Those gifted with the dance moves of this new art form were admired and respected, quickly becoming popular with a wide range of people. (And the rest of us? We watched in awe as we attempted to imitate their moves.) But what was it about breakdancing that made it so popular? Perhaps it was the fact that anyone could do it—regardless of age, gender, or background. Or maybe it was its connection with hip-hop music that provided a soundtrack for these mesmerizing performances. Whatever the reason, the idea that anyone could become a breakdancer and find a place within this unique culture was—and still is—truly inspiring. The Roots of Breakdancing Before we...

The 1980s was quite the decade. Not only did these years see the rise in neon, punk rock music and the introduction of the VCR to the world, but it also marked a seismic shift in global politics. Namely, 1989 saw the fall of the Berlin Wall, one of the most emblematic symbols of Cold War-era division. The post-war world saw a tangible manifestation of the ideological divide between the East and West through the Berlin Wall. Erected overnight, this concrete barrier divided a city and symbolized the vast chasm between two superpowers and their contrasting worldviews. While many know that the Berlin Wall was an event that occurred, few remember the immense sacrifices people made in order to escape from East German and Communist rule. Thousands of people risked their lives climbing over the wall, digging tunnels under it, and swimming across rivers that separated East Germany from West Germany. Let’s take a closer look at how the Berlin Wall came to be, why it stood for as long...

The 1980s delivered some of the most iconic movies in film history. It was a decade packed with bold ideas, unforgettable characters, and stories that still influence pop culture today. From the rise of blockbuster franchises to groundbreaking special effects, the films of the 80s created a cinematic legacy that continues to shape what we watch and love. Whether it was science fiction, teen drama, action, or adventure, these movies left a lasting mark. But what makes a movie truly iconic? It’s more than box office numbers. It’s the way these films became part of our lives, our conversations, and our memories. One of the most unforgettable films of the 1980s was E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Directed by Steven Spielberg, it introduced audiences to a friendship between a young boy and a lost alien that captured hearts around the world. The image of the bicycle flying across the moon became one of the most iconic visuals in cinema history. You can join the ongoing E.T. discussion in...

In the panorama of cultural history, the 1980s stands out as a decade of bold expression and radical change, particularly in music. The sonic landscape was reshaped with the emergence of various genres, each leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of music. As children of the 80s, we know just how impactful those sounds were. Synth-pop, hip hop, and punk rock dominated the airwaves and fans alike. It was a time of exploration and experimentation that set the stage for generations to come. Let’s remind ourselves of just how unique the 80s were in terms of musical expression - and see if we can’t rediscover some old favorites along the way. The Synth-Pop Revolution Synth-pop, or “synthwave” as it is sometimes called, is arguably one of the most recognizable sounds to come out of the 80s. Pioneered by artists like Depeche Mode and Human League, this electronic subgenre combines catchy melodies with a unique blend of synthesizers and drum machines. It’s a simultaneously retro...

The 1980s was a decade of bold style, electrifying music, and dramatic shifts in popular culture. Amidst the kaleidoscope of neon fashion and iconic synth beats, one platform emerged that not only encapsulated the spirit of the decade but helped shape it: MTV. Launched on August 1, 1981, MTV (Music Television) emerged as more than just a cable channel - it was a cultural phenomenon that revolutionized music, television, and pop culture as we know it. MTV transformed the music industry, making music videos a necessity for artists and shaping the tastes and styles of an entire generation. The network played a significant role in propelling the careers of many of the decade's biggest stars, from Madonna to Michael Jackson, and became synonymous with the vibrant, audacious energy of the 80s. So what was it that helped make MTV so special? The answer lies in its revolutionary approach to broadcasting, which drew from the visual arts and embraced a whole new way of experiencing...