80's kick

I am on such an eighties kick right now it's ridiculous. My iPod is pumping sweet 80's tunes 24 hrs a day. Power ballads, synthesizer rock, I love it all. Toto, Pet Shop Boys, Phil Collins, pre-coked up Whitney Houston, UB40, Roxette, Queen, Prince, Cyndi Lauper, Simply Red...Funnily enough it all began at karaoke a few weeks ago, when an intoxicated co-worker, under the impression he had quite the voice (he tried out for Canadian Idol twice), belted out a reasonable rendition of Journey's "Don't stop believin'".

I've always liked the 80's, even in the 80's. I think it has a lot to do with the music - anthemic rock, melodic pop. Innocent lyrics for an innocent time. The music is like a jump-starter to old happy childhood memories long since buried under a sea of cynicism and responsibilities. I've always thought music to be better at evoking memories than photographs - we all remember those songs that serve as soundtracks to our lives (hey, it's a cliche but it's true) - first dance, first kiss etc...nothing brings back those moments as powerfully as the songs that were playing in the background. i.e.

80's b-day party, first slow dance - Groovy Kind of Love, Phil Collins.
First disco - Mr Vain, Culture Beat.
First song I remember from a movie - The Living Daylights, A-Ha (from the Bond flick).
Holidaying in Cape Town, late 80's/early 90's - End of the Road, Boyz 2 Men.

I've compiled a list of 200 must have 80's hits, and it is truly awesome I shit you not. And if only I knew how to copy the playlist and paste it here, you would have a rad afternoon.

And feel free to post those early music memories! Like totally take it easy dudes!