80s Music Quiz: Name the Hits and Artists
Quick, free 80s music trivia to test your knowledge. Instant results.
Editorial: Review CompletedUpdated Aug 26, 2025
This 80s music quiz helps you test your recall of the decade's iconic hits, artists, and lyrics with 15 multiple-choice questions. When you finish, explore 80s music trivia, try an 80s music quiz with answers, or guess the 80s song. You will see your score right away.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyse chart data to recognize top 80s singles
- Identify iconic 80s artists and their signature songs
- Demonstrate understanding of 80s music genres
- Evaluate lyrical themes and pop culture references
- Master trivia skills for retro music discussions
Cheat Sheet
- Explore top-charting singles of the 1980s - Dive into unforgettable hits like Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" and Madonna's "Like a Virgin" to see what made these tracks skyrocket to #1. You'll spot the signature production tricks and catchy hooks that defined the decade's sonic footprint.
- Familiarize yourself with influential 80s artists - From Prince's electrifying guitar riffs in "Purple Rain" to Whitney Houston's powerhouse vocals on "I Wanna Dance with Somebody," these icons shaped the era's soundscape. Learning their signature styles will help you appreciate how individuality drove 80s creativity.
- Delve into emerging 80s genres - Synth-pop's neon tones, new wave's edgy vibe, and glam metal's big hair anthems each brought something fresh to the airwaves. Recognizing these genre hallmarks will sharpen your ear for the decade's musical diversity.
- Analyze 80s lyrical themes - Love ballads, rebellion anthems, and social commentaries all found their way into chart-topping tracks. Songs like The Human League's "Don't You Want Me" tell stories that capture the era's cultural moments and youthful energy.
- Understand the MTV revolution - When MTV launched, visuals became as important as the music itself. Michael Jackson's "Thriller" video set a new gold standard, blending cinematic storytelling with chart appeal - perfect for studying the shift in promotion tactics.
- Recognize LGBTQ artists' impact - Icons like Freddie Mercury and Elton John didn't just deliver unforgettable performances; they paved the way for diverse representation in pop culture. Their bold artistry and openness challenged norms and expanded the musical landscape.
- Study 80s production tech - Synthesizers, drum machines, and digital recording revolutionized how hits were made. From Kraftwerk-inspired arpeggios to punchy electronic beats, these innovations shaped the era's unmistakable sound.
- Examine the "Second British Invasion" - Bands like Duran Duran and The Human League stormed U.S. charts with stylish flair and new-wave energy. Their crossover success highlights the transatlantic exchange that fueled 80s trends.
- Investigate hip-hop's rise - From underground block parties to mainstream stardom, artists like Run-D.M.C. and LL Cool J turned rap into a global phenomenon. Tracing their journey reveals how hip-hop culture reshaped the music industry.
- Review Live Aid and charity anthems - Events like Live Aid and songs such as "We Are the World" showcased music's power to unite for a cause. Studying these collaborations highlights how artists leveraged fame for social impact.