1985: A Landmark Year in Music History

Today in Music History is a nostalgic journey back to the thriving music scene of the year 1985. The episode kicks off with a spotlight on the historic "Live Aid" concert that united global acts like U2 and Queen under one cause, and the impact of the daring British band Frankie Goes to Hollywood echoed in their iconic "Relax". We delve into the philanthropic wave led by USA for Africa's "We Are The World", shedding light on the momentous role pop culture played in addressing global issues like Ethiopia's famine. The episode also examines the MTV revolution with Madonna at the forefront, and how she shaped music through memorable hits like "Material Girl" and "Like a Virgin". Rock 'n' roll is explored through the lens of artists like Bruce Springsteen and Phil Collins, with Dire Straits' digital recording breakthrough "Money for Nothing" receiving much-deserved recognition. Another significant moment of 1985 discussed is the emergence of hip-hop into the mainstream, largely credited to Run-D.M.C's revolutionary album “King of Rock”. This episode underscores the pivotal year of 1985 which reshaped pop culture through charitable acts, emerging music genres and the birth of music videos.