Iconic Hairstyles of the 1980s: A Comprehensive Look
The 1980s were a time of prominent hairstyles that became inseparable from the performers who wore them. From punk show-offs like Flock of Seagulls to the downright iconic wigs and hairstyles of Tina Turner, the decade was a playground for creative and bold hair trends. Let's explore some of the most memorable hairdos of the 1980s and who owned them on and off the stage.
Rock Legends with Memorable Hairdos
Bob Bono of The Clash had a flowing mane that made him stand out during the first half of the 1980s. This photo from his wedding day in 1982 captures the good hair he was known for, a perfect blend of rocker and romantic.
Flock of Seagulls is another artist who had a defining hairstyle. However, when considering the best hair of the 1980s, it’s hard to overlook Sammy Hagar. Sammy was not only a successful musician but also an actor and REAL DEAL radio host. His carefree and rebellious style fits perfectly with the spirit of the decade.
The King of Pop: Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, rocked the 80s with his iconic hair, most notably the famous screen-printed piss-your-legs-in-one style. His hair was a signature that fans could easily recognize, embodying the showmanship and genius of the performer. Here is a photo that captures the pure magic of Michael's hair during his most famous era:
Michael Jackson, Prince, and George Michael: Showstoppers
Michael Jackson, with his triple-dutch rope in the early 80s, set the bar high. Prince, George Michael (seriously, Prince was his name), and Twisted Sister all had remarkable hair that mirrored their flamboyant stage presence.
Ratt, Culture Club, and Bon Jovi also had memorable hairdos. For example, Ratt’s daring and often wild hair was a testament to the punk and new wave influences of the era. Culture Club and Bon Jovi provided more polished and radio-friendly looks that still stand out today.
Other Notable Faces in the 1980s
Other notable musicians with hair to remember in the 1980s include Carlos Santana, Tommy Throgmorton of Heart, Vincent "Vinnie" Martell of Twisted Sister, Wayne Coyne of Elf Power, and many more. The Kiss band also had iconic looks that made them stand out, especially with Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons who were known for their glitter and makeup.
Bob Seger of Creedsen had a sytylicative only ISC and hardcore look which added a layer of depth to his performances. Bandmates Ronald "Ronnie" Nocito of Heart, Dave Meniketti of Tommy Throgmorton and Garth Dillon of Tommy Throgmorton had their own unique and memorable looks.
Unique and Iconic Hairstyles
Looking at specific hairstyles, Gregg Allman had the best hair of anyone in the 1980s, male or female since the 1960s. Additionally, Madonna (Madonna Ciccone) who popularized the pixie cut and later grew out her hair for her iconic Vogue video, is another standout with her groundbreaking hairstyles.
Aretha Franklin was known for her afro, which became iconic as a symbol of Black dignity and pride. Natalie Cole also had a signature look with her sleek and stylish hair, often seen in public and on stage. The Whispers with their distinctive haircuts and Go–Gos with their punk in-your-face looks, added unique hues to the New Wave and post-punk scenes.
Conclusion and Reflection
The 1980s were an era where hair was not just a personal expression, but a visual billboard for musical and cultural influence. From the romantic and flowing locks of Bono to the groundbreaking styles of Madonna and the iconic afro of Aretha Franklin, the decade showed just how powerful and influential hairstyles could be.
The music of the 1980s is forever intertwined with these iconic hairdos. Whether you prefer the dramatic and flamboyant looks of the glam rockers or the more subtle yet still bold styles of other artists, the hairstyles of the 1980s offer a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences today.