The year 1987 was a significant time in the music industry. It was a period of transition and innovation, with new genres emerging and established artists pushing the boundaries of their sound. The music charts played a crucial role in measuring the popularity and success of songs and albums during this time. They provided a snapshot of the trends and tastes of the era, reflecting the cultural and social climate of the time.
Music charts were an essential tool for both artists and record labels to gauge the success of their releases. They provided a way to track the popularity of songs and albums, helping to determine which ones resonated with audiences and which ones fell flat. The charts also served as a guide for consumers, helping them discover new music and stay up-to-date with the latest trends.
The Top 10 Hits of 1987
The top 10 hits of 1987 showcased a diverse range of themes and styles. From pop ballads to rock anthems, these songs captured the essence of the era. Here are the top 10 hits of 1987:
1. “Walk Like an Egyptian” by The Bangles
2. “Alone” by Heart
3. “Shake You Down” by Gregory Abbott
4. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston
5. “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” by Starship
6. “C’est La Vie” by Robbie Nevil
7. “Here I Go Again” by Whitesnake
8. “The Way It Is” by Bruce Hornsby and The Range
9. “Shakedown” by Bob Seger
10. “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi
These songs covered a wide range of genres, from pop to rock to R&B. They reflected the diverse tastes of music listeners in 1987 and showcased the talent and creativity of the artists behind them.
The Best-Selling Albums of 1987
The best-selling albums of 1987 were a testament to the musical diversity of the era. They represented a wide range of genres and showcased the talent of both established artists and newcomers. Here are the best-selling albums of 1987:
1. “Slippery When Wet” by Bon Jovi
2. “Whitney” by Whitney Houston
3. “The Joshua Tree” by U2
4. “Licensed to Ill” by Beastie Boys
5. “Tunnel of Love” by Bruce Springsteen
6. “Bad” by Michael Jackson
7. “Appetite for Destruction” by Guns N’ Roses
8. “Hysteria” by Def Leppard
9. “Tango in the Night” by Fleetwood Mac
10. “Girls, Girls, Girls” by Mötley Crüe
These albums represented a wide range of genres, from rock to pop to R&B. They showcased the talent and creativity of the artists behind them and resonated with audiences around the world.
The Rise of Pop Music in 1987
Pop music dominated the charts in 1987, with several artists achieving massive success in the genre. The catchy melodies and relatable lyrics of pop songs resonated with audiences, making them instant hits. Artists such as Whitney Houston, Madonna, and Michael Jackson dominated the pop charts, solidifying their status as pop icons.
Whitney Houston’s album “Whitney” was a commercial success, spawning several hit singles including “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” and “Didn’t We Almost Have It All.” These songs showcased Houston’s powerful vocals and infectious energy, making her one of the biggest stars of the year.
Madonna continued her reign as the Queen of Pop with her album “True Blue.” The album featured hits such as “Papa Don’t Preach” and “La Isla Bonita,” which showcased Madonna’s ability to blend catchy pop hooks with thought-provoking lyrics.
Michael Jackson’s album “Bad” was another standout in the pop genre. The album featured hits such as “The Way You Make Me Feel” and “Smooth Criminal,” solidifying Jackson’s status as the King of Pop.
The rise of pop music in 1987 had a significant impact on the music industry. It paved the way for future pop stars and influenced the sound and style of popular music for years to come.
The Impact of Music Videos on the Charts
In 1987, music videos played a crucial role in the success of songs on the charts. With the rise of MTV and other music video channels, artists had a new platform to showcase their creativity and connect with audiences visually.
Music videos brought songs to life, allowing viewers to experience the music in a whole new way. They provided a visual narrative that complemented the lyrics and melodies of the songs, creating a more immersive and engaging experience for viewers.
Some of the most popular music videos of 1987 included Michael Jackson’s “Bad,” which featured a thrilling dance sequence set in an urban neighborhood, and Madonna’s “Like a Prayer,” which sparked controversy with its religious imagery.
The influence of music videos on the charts cannot be overstated. They helped to create a visual identity for artists and their songs, making them more memorable and appealing to audiences. Music videos also provided a platform for artists to experiment with different visual styles and storytelling techniques, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the medium.
The Influence of MTV on the Music Industry
MTV played a significant role in shaping the music industry in 1987. The channel revolutionized the way music was consumed and promoted, providing a platform for artists to reach a global audience.
In 1987, MTV was at the height of its popularity, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch their favorite music videos and shows. The channel featured a mix of music videos, interviews, and live performances, providing a 24/7 platform for artists to showcase their talent.
Some of the most popular shows on MTV in 1987 included “Yo! MTV Raps,” which showcased the emerging genre of hip-hop, and “Headbangers Ball,” which catered to fans of heavy metal and hard rock.
MTV’s influence on the music industry cannot be overstated. The channel helped to break new artists and promote established ones, providing a platform for them to connect with audiences on a global scale. It also helped to shape the visual identity of artists, with music videos becoming an essential part of an artist’s brand.
The Role of Record Labels in Music Promotion
Record labels played a crucial role in promoting music in 1987. They were responsible for discovering and signing new talent, as well as marketing and distributing their music to a wide audience.
Some of the most successful record labels of 1987 included Columbia Records, which was home to artists such as Whitney Houston and Bruce Springsteen, and Warner Bros. Records, which had artists such as Madonna and Prince on its roster.
Record labels used various strategies to promote music in 1987. They invested in marketing campaigns, including radio promotion, print advertising, and music video production. They also organized promotional tours and events to generate buzz around their artists.
The role of record labels in promoting music cannot be underestimated. They provided the financial resources and industry connections necessary for artists to succeed. They also helped to shape the sound and style of popular music by signing and developing artists who fit their vision.
The Emergence of New Genres in 1987
1987 saw the emergence of several new genres that would go on to have a significant impact on the music industry. These genres pushed the boundaries of traditional music and introduced new sounds and styles to audiences.
One of the most notable new genres of 1987 was hip-hop. Artists such as LL Cool J, Public Enemy, and Eric B. & Rakim gained mainstream success, bringing hip-hop into the mainstream consciousness. Their innovative use of sampling, catchy beats, and socially conscious lyrics resonated with audiences and helped to establish hip-hop as a dominant force in popular music.
Another genre that emerged in 1987 was alternative rock. Bands such as R.E.M., The Cure, and U2 gained commercial success with their unique blend of rock, punk, and pop influences. Their introspective lyrics and distinctive sound appealed to a new generation of music listeners who were looking for something different from the mainstream.
The emergence of these new genres in 1987 had a lasting impact on the music industry. They paved the way for future artists and influenced the sound and style of popular music for years to come.
The Legacy of 1987 in Music History
The year 1987 left a lasting impact on the music industry and continues to be remembered as a significant time in music history. It was a period of transition and innovation, with new genres emerging and established artists pushing the boundaries of their sound.
The success of pop music in 1987 solidified its status as a dominant force in popular music. Artists such as Whitney Houston, Madonna, and Michael Jackson became global superstars, setting the stage for future pop icons.
The rise of MTV and the influence of music videos on the charts changed the way music was consumed and promoted. Music videos became an essential part of an artist’s brand, helping to create a visual identity that resonated with audiences.
The emergence of new genres such as hip-hop and alternative rock in 1987 pushed the boundaries of traditional music and introduced new sounds and styles to audiences. These genres would go on to have a significant impact on the music industry, shaping the sound and style of popular music for years to come.
Reflecting on the Best Hits of 1987
The top hits of 1987 showcased the diversity and creativity of the music industry during this time. From pop ballads to rock anthems, these songs captured the essence of the era and continue to be remembered as classics.
The success of these hits was a testament to the talent and creativity of the artists behind them. They pushed the boundaries of their respective genres and resonated with audiences around the world.
Looking back on 1987, it is clear that it was a significant time in music history. The year saw the rise of pop music, the influence of music videos, and the emergence of new genres that would go on to shape the sound and style of popular music for years to come. It was a period of transition and innovation, with artists and record labels pushing the boundaries of what was possible in music.
Overall, 1987 was a pivotal year in the music industry, leaving a lasting impact on music history. The top hits and best-selling albums of the year continue to be remembered as classics, showcasing the talent and creativity of the artists behind them. The year marked a turning point in popular music, setting the stage for future trends and shaping the sound and style of popular music for years to come.
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FAQs
What is the article about?
The article is about the best hits of the year 1987 in music charts.
What kind of music is covered in the article?
The article covers popular music from various genres including pop, rock, R&B, and hip-hop.
What are some of the top hits of 1987?
Some of the top hits of 1987 include “With or Without You” by U2, “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi, “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston, and “Faith” by George Michael.
Who were some of the top artists of 1987?
Some of the top artists of 1987 include Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, U2, Bon Jovi, and George Michael.
What were some of the notable events in music in 1987?
Some notable events in music in 1987 include the release of Michael Jackson’s album “Bad,” U2’s album “The Joshua Tree,” and the first induction ceremony for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
What impact did the music of 1987 have on popular culture?
The music of 1987 had a significant impact on popular culture, with many of the top hits and artists of the year becoming iconic and influential in the years that followed. The music also reflected the social and political climate of the time, with many songs addressing issues such as love, relationships, and social justice.
