1980

What Was Happening in 1980

The dawn of a new decade as the world shifted right and disco died

Born in

Number 1 Songs in 1980 — UK and US Charts

UK #1

"Don't Stand So Close to Me"

The Police

The Police were at the height of their powers in 1980. This was the best-selling single of the year in the UK, blending new wave energy with Sting's literary references.

US #1

"Call Me"

Blondie

Written by Debbie Harry and Giorgio Moroder for the film American Gigolo, 'Call Me' spent six weeks at number one and became the best-selling US single of 1980.

Biggest Films of 1980 — Box Office Hits

Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back

Box Office: $538 million

The darker, more complex sequel to Star Wars cemented the franchise as the biggest in cinema. 'I am your father' became one of the most quoted lines in film history.

Fashion and Style of 1980

Fashion, clothing and visual culture from the era

Architecture and Buildings of 1980

Buildings completed and structures opened in 1980

More About 1980

What Was Happening — A journey through the years