Number 1 Songs in 1981 — UK and US Charts
UK #1
"Don't You Want Me"
The Human League
The defining synthpop anthem of the era. Released in November 1981, it became the Christmas number one and the best-selling UK single of the year.
US #1
"Bette Davis Eyes"
Kim Carnes
A smoky, synth-driven reimagining of a 1975 song that spent nine weeks at number one in the US. It won Record of the Year at the Grammys.
Biggest Films of 1981 — Box Office Hits
Raiders of the Lost Ark
Box Office: $389 million
Steven Spielberg and George Lucas created the ultimate adventure film. Harrison Ford's Indiana Jones became an instant icon, blending old-fashioned serial thrills with blockbuster spectacle.
Fashion and Style of 1981
Fashion, clothing and visual culture from the era
Architecture and Buildings of 1981
Buildings completed and structures opened in 1981