Ah, the vibrant 1980s! A time defined by big hair, bold fashion, and an unforgettable soundtrack. As an ’80s kid and a music teacher, I love sharing the tunes that shaped my childhood with my two boys. However, every now and then, I press play on a classic track and realize just how far we’ve come—and not always for the better. Some of these once-beloved songs reveal lyrics that would definitely raise eyebrows today. Here are six iconic ’80s hits that simply wouldn’t fly in the modern era, plus one unexpected track that left me and my kids at odds.
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“Money For Nothing” by Dire Straits
Generations of kids belted out the line, “That little f****t with the earring and the makeup/Yeah, buddy, that’s his own hair,” without a second thought. Looking back, I shudder at the memory of singing it without understanding the hate behind those words. While the song portrays a working-class man’s perspective watching music videos, it raises unsettling questions about the attitudes of that time. Thankfully, many radio stations now bleep the offensive term when playing this track—progress at last! -
“Walk Like An Egyptian” by the Bangles
Remember the iconic dance that accompanied this song? It was all the rage in the ’80s! However, modern Egyptians might not appreciate the stereotype it perpetuates. The catchy tune is based on ancient depictions that don’t reflect how contemporary Egyptians walk. Problematic? Absolutely. -
“De Do Do Do” by The Police
I cherish the music of this legendary band, so naturally, I wanted to share “Walking On The Moon” with my kids. They loved it, but when I followed up with “De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da,” I quickly realized my mistake. Sting’s metaphor about being “tied up” and facing assault is a topic I’d prefer to keep off-limits for now. It’s not a conversation I want to have with my young ones just yet. -
“Parents Just Don’t Understand” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
This was my jam! I vividly remember racing to record it on my mixtape. I was excited to share it with my kindergartner and fourth-grader until I was reminded of a detail I had forgotten—the girl in the story is a runaway only 12 years old. Creepy, right? I managed to mask my discomfort by coughing loudly until that part passed. Mature parenting in action! -
“Girls” by the Beastie Boys
At 11 years old, I reveled in the catchy lyrics of this song. It humorously conveys a boy’s frustration over a girl who doesn’t reciprocate his feelings. However, the chorus that suggests girls exist to do household chores is cringeworthy. I adore the Beastie Boys; they’ve grown into advocates for women, but how I ever thought this song was funny is beyond me. I now change the station whenever it plays, kids or not. -
“We Are The Champions” by Queen
Often hailed as one of the catchiest songs ever, I shared it with my music students to demonstrate musical mastery. However, one student pointed out that the line “No time for losers” isn’t very kind. Another said it sounded like bullying. While I believe Freddie Mercury intended to celebrate resilience, I appreciate that my students recognize hurtful language—an encouraging sign for the future.
Today, if songs one through five come on the radio, I switch them off. It’s disheartening to realize I once thought these lyrics were acceptable. Teaching my kids the values of respect and kindness is essential, and luckily, there are plenty of great ’80s tracks that we can enjoy together. Just not “Darling Nikki”—hold on a sec, my kid just asked me what that magazine was for!
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In summary, while the music of the ’80s brings nostalgia, it also serves as a reminder of how societal norms have evolved. Teaching our children to recognize and challenge problematic messages in media is crucial as we strive for a more respectful and inclusive world.