Icon Turned STARK ACOUSTIC SONG into a ROCK ANTHEM-It Hit #1 but it LOST Its SOUL!-Professor of Rock

You know, I agree with a lot of music historians who have called 1984 the greatest year in music. There were a ton of great songs and albums released that year… But, after going back and reviewing the music that came out in 1985… I am not so sure that ’84 is better than ’85. You will see what I mean when we countdown the Top 10 Song of 1985 NEXT on Professor of Rock... INCLUDING a Movie song -- Don't You Forget About Me -- that was turned down by everyone except for a female-fronted rock band. But she was pregnant and couldn’t do it so she talked her husband Jim Kerr of Simple Minds into it... and Born in the USA, which is the most misinterpreted song ever, and even to this day it played for all the wrong reasons... and another #1 hit by Tears for Fears that the band admittedly ripped off the title from a rival band’s song and paid him 5 bucks for it. It’s the best of 1985 next on Professor of Rock.
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#classicrock #80smusic #80srock #tearsforfears
Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. if you remember the Doublemint twins You’ll dig this channel of deep musical nostalgia. make sure to subscribe below right now. Make sure to vote in our head-to-head poll on ProfessorOfRock.com for the next few weeks to set the seeding for our bracket. Today's head-to-head match-up is the Beach Boys Vs. Kansas! Go to ProfessorOfRock.com to make your pick!
Since we are into 2025 and it has now been over 40 years I thought I would do a top 10 song for 1985… and it was even tougher than 84! Again my criteria is that the song had to be a top 40 hit. Let’s get it on! Kicking off our countdown of the Top 10 Songs of 1985 is a track that, for years, was despised by the band that recorded it. At #10, it's Simple Minds with “Don’t You Forget About Me:” The song is the money track from The Breakfast Club. It is synonymous with the iconic legacy of the film directed by the late John Hughes. Keith Forsey and Steve Schiff penned this track exclusively for The Breakfast Club. Forsey, who also co-wrote movie hits like "Shakedown" for Beverly Hills Cop II and the title track for Flashdance, oversaw the Breakfast Club soundtrack.
Keith Forsey revealed that Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music was his first pick to record the song, but Ferry declined. A big fan of the Scottish band Simple Minds, Keith decided to pitch the track to them by personally delivering a cassette demo. Simple Minds originally wanted to use their own song, "Alive and Kicking," for the film, but Don't You (Forget About Me) had been written specifically for the script-it was the only option. At first, the band couldn’t wrap their heads around why that was the case.
Simple Minds' lead singer Jim Kerr opened up about their initial frustration over not being allowed to record the song they wanted. "Wait a minute-you want us because you love the songs we write, but now you want us to do your song?" he recalled. At first, they flat-out refused to even consider it. Kerr and his bandmates were firmly against recording anything they hadn't written themselves. A lot of people turned this amazing song down… Breakfast Club co-producer, Michelle Manning said, “I remember offering the song to Billy Idol. He didn’t understand. I think a lot of people that passed will never say they passed. Cause we had the movie, and that demo which was literally just like the final song with Keith. And people wer...

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your BEST of 1985? You choose...Best song or album or artist?

[@David-i1g1r]

New Holes in Old Shoes Nils Lofgren

[@peterd.9978]

Phil Collins - No Jacket Required

[@TB6791]

Brothers in Arms - Dire Straits Scarecrow - John Cougar Mellencamp

[@alexs.8401]

How did Money for Nothing by Dire Straits not make this list?

[@christineml1476]

"Dare to be Stupid" album by Weird Al

[@tinypuma1]

Always loved Huey Lewis’s cameo in “Back to the Future” saying Marty’s band was just “too loud” while playing a cover of Huey’s “Power of Love”.

[@karentrimmer]

"Everybody Wants to Rule the World" always reminds me of the first time taking my 6y/o son roller skating. My son died a few weeks ago. It's good to remember the happy times.

[@mournblade1066]

Wow, I'm terribly sorry to hear that! That's so sad. 😪

Oh wow, sorry to hear that. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family. "Don't take my heart, don't break my heart" 😥

[@LHarris-h8y]

So so sorry for your loss. You'll see him again someday.

[@frankschuler2867]

I’m so sorry, Karen!

[@robertfoote3255]

You will eventually realize......there were no bad times.

[@MrJbassrw]

I was 15 and a sophomore in high school in 1985.. I always try and tell my kids what a fantastic, and now alien time the 80s were. The great music just kept coming and I can close my eyes and smell it and taste it all when the songs are playing. Peace!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome!

[@22lyric]

Is telling your kids how wonderful it was really the best thing for them? It must be depressing to hear all the time that the past is so much better than the present. Use your effort and energy into making THEIR lives the best! Good grief!

[@dustybrand]

I was a year behind you and started high school in 1985. I thought it was going to be a John Hughes movie. Boy was I wrong. Really, really wrong.

[@dennistrull1475]

Agreed the 80s were special. It seems like America is in some kind of post Pinnacle situation now.

[@MrJbassrw]

@@22lyricok dr Phil thanks

[@CassandraElkin]

I graduated in 85, so these songs... I can't even say what they mean to me, there are no words...

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome! Happy 40th!

[@execatty]

Born in 67 graduated 85 and could not agree more.. We had it the best.. Peace

[@beachplumb]

Same

[@ccbasketball7086]

Born 66, Grad HS in 85, these songs are all so great still to this day - the Movies too!

[@rakov1]

Ditto.

[@alliswede42]

I'm 43 and married to a Swedish Gen Xer who had never seen any John Hughes movies before very recently. Over Christmas break we watched a few, including Breakfast Club. When it was over, he said, "I see why it's such a classic!" Of course, he knew the Simple Minds song but finally he got to hear it in its most iconic context. Thank you, Professor! 🙏

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

You know what? I think I’m going to watch Breakfast Club this weekend.

[@yvettevitacaponigro]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 👍🏻✌🏼😊🌹

[@carlacook5181]

Nightshift is a wonderful tribute and I am glad that it showed the beautiful soulful voices of the Commodores as probably only this song could do, it brings me calmness and peacefulness, I remember being shocked when Marvin Gaye was killed like he was, this song was a love letter to these men with the golden voices. Rock and Roll Heaven had the same feeling in a slightly different way back in the 70s. Adam, I loved this show, it was great as usual, please enjoy your weekend, do something fun. In 1985 I was busy raising two little boys and taking care of my husband and the house, I still listened to my Boston, Bob Seger and the songs of the 70s that I had listened to as a teenager, the only exception was I loved John Mellencamp, one day after a business trip my husband was a bit frustrated when he got home from the airport, he had gone by Fed X to pick up a package and they gave him one that belonged to “ some guy named Mellencamp “ he said he had to turn around and take it back, I jumped up and yelled at him, did you say Mellencamp? Don’t you know who that is? He said no, I said Johnny Cougar, John Mellencamp is Johnny Cougar, I laughed and told him that he should have brought it home, maybe he would have made the trip from Indiana to Cincinnati to pick it up. True story. I learned to enjoy Van Halen from my two year old jumping off a retaining wall and yelling Jump! as he jumped down that’s when I learned he and his five year old brother were watching the forbidden MTV while I did housework, I started watching it with them every once in a while and it opened me up to a whole new kind of music. Good night Adam, I don’t know where you live, but I live in t Southeast Tennessee and everything has gone crazy here because we are expecting a few inches of snow, schools and businesses are already closed, I don’t have to worry about any of that as I live in a nursing home, my son sent me plenty of drinks and food so, I don’t have to worry about that, lol if you have never experienced a winter here, you’d be in for a treat if you tried to buy needed items at the grocery store, all the shelves are empty of bread and milk, I love where I live but not “where” I live, stay warm.

[@brianvernon249]

I was born June 1977. My late wife was born Feb 1968. We got together in December 2003. She was a legit 9 face model. 9.5 years older than me but looked my age. She was the most interesting person I will ever know. Her 2 years in the UK, one year treated as peerage class cotillion debutant & the other serving beer to Jim Capaldi from Traffic as he was the local drunk. Heather Graham’s License to Drive face on *now* Brie Larson’s body. I made her ashes into a diamond. Btw, it wasn’t just looks: music, bathroom cleanliness, paying bills on time, morals, family values and level of partying - we gelled on everything. Sometimes when it just meshes, don’t fight it and ride it out. Only one life. Use it.

[@MichaelD6287]

For me, the core years of the 80's (1984, 1985, 1986) were the absolute best years for music, but 1985 is the peak year all around: music, film, entertainment. Thanks for this countdown, Professor. Once again you've triggered a lot of memories!

[@derrickdevildog5724]

Careless Whisper was the first dance my wife and I shared. Almost 40 years later we’re still together. Of course that is our song.

[@NailHeavenAshford]

Strange that your song is one about being unfaithful.

[@superannieoakley4513]

Well, this yr would've been our 40th anniversary, but in my case, our favorite song, Careless Whisper, actually turned just into that. Ironically, I thought we were still great! So after 31yrs of marriage, we divorced. Hardest thing I've ever had to do. Still love George Michael & that song! Congrats on your 40yrs together!

[@karencahill4798]

Good God I’m almost 69. I graduated high school 1974. I truly enjoy your site, the stories and tidbits behind each song 🎵

[@bartbluemusic]

Love these countdowns! Some great songs here ... "Power of Love" ALWAYS gives me feel good vibes, Back to the Future is also one of my favorites!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen!

[@kunserndsittizen2655]

@@ProfessorofRockI like how Huey Lewis turned it down saying that he didn’t know how to write a song called BACK TO THE FUTURE and they let him write what he wanted

[@mykemech]

I graduated in 85. These songs hurt. Best ever! Reminds me of when I still had hope.

[@Bruce-h8t]

Hey!! You just keep your mind in the present and enjoy everything. If you are worried about things and stressing out? Sit down and right a list on what you are Grateful for. Nothing to be grateful for. Start small. I'm grateful for this cup of coffee. I'm grateful for my next breath. I'm grateful for this warm, sunny morning, etc. Apparently it's impossible to be worried and grateful at the same time. Go get yourself an Attitude of Gratitude. It's helpful. I wish you all the Best. Don't worry everything will be alright.

[@mykemech]

@Bruce-h8t I'm all OK brother! My comment might've been a little melodramatic! I'm positive and settled in life well enough. A few key areas in life didn't go anything like I wished and in the context of missing those things, it makes it hard to reflect on those days when the future was all rosy looking.

[@l.scales7516]

HOPE IS THE REAL '4 LETTER WORD' IT'S an evil thing ! & Probably leads to more self endings when it's shown to be ' hopeless ' in a cruel manner.

[@RobertL_0563]

Voices Carry should've been in the top 5: a phenomenal song. Aimee Mann's voice is so powerful, and the video is well done.

[@ProfessorofRock]

It was so tough leaving it out!

[@dustybrand]

Her toe in The Big Lebowski.

[@danielwoodard680]

@@ProfessorofRockdo an episode on this song. Please.

[@qttm]

​@@dustybrand Her toe? (I didn't see the movie...or the breakfast club..or pretty much any of the 'choice ones'🤷‍♀️)

[@FrancesBowman]

Raise your hand if Aimee Mann inspired a rat tail! I had one for years. I wanted white hair too but had to wait until I went prematurely gray.😃

[@stevem-h3562]

How the hell do you learn to write like that at 17? Staggering. George was a unique talent, one of the best Britain has produced.

[@PhansiKhongoloza]

He was an incredible song writer. Not as good as Bon Scott. But he was good.

[@jeromethiel4323]

That Ah-Ha music video wrecked me. I couldn't think about much else for weeks after i saw it the first time. At one time i had that on a 45 single.

[@MrJayehawk]

It is an amazing video and still holds up today, when most from the 80s definitely do not.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s such an iconic video, forty years later.

[@amandajingleheimerschmidt3050]

When I first saw the video for “Take On Me” it solidified my interest in Art as a career ❤ 😍 I thought, “YEESSS! I wanna make stuff like that!!”

[@BrandyStaples-d8l]

Didn't expect to see Night Shift on the list. One of my all time favorites. Such a perfect tribute.

[@socks1960-0]

The Breakfast Club is the only movie, in my life, that as soon as it was over, I bought a ticket to see it next showing!

[@chadcallis8866]

We just used to stay in our seats to watch it again. No one threw us out then. I sat through a view to a kill twice in 85.no one bothered you

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Don’t blame you. Wicked came close for me.

[@magneto7930]

I recently reconnected with that movie. I saw it in the theater when it first came out, but I didn't give it the appreciation that it deserved. Now I see the brilliance in all aspects of it, a movie perfect for its time!

[@miguelservetus9534]

Why? The characters were not good people, showed little respect or interest in one another.

[@DK-gy7ll]

I would say 1983 through 1985 were the most epic years for popular music. One incredible song after another for three years straight. I'm so glad I grew up during that time because my youth had the best soundrack of any generation before or since.

[@hatethevandals]

Dire Straits Brothers In Arms was the first cassette tape I bought as a kid… man, the memories! Still a phenomenal album! Your top 10 is spot on

[@whodat3700]

Me too sort of. At the same time Godly and Cream's cassette was in the discount bin for 3 bucks so I bought it because of the song "Cry". Another awesome 80s song.

[@DanielLewisSEO]

I am so happy you did not pick We Built this City! My personal list in no order would be Can't Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon, St Elmo's Fire by John Parr, Out of Touch by Hall & Oats, Shout by Tears for Fears, Heaven by Bryan Adams. I am really surprised Heaven is not on there at all! I also would include Loverboy by Billy Ocean but that is because it was the first song I heard when at 13 I bought a radio and headphones to secretly listen to music in my bedroom (because my parents would not let me listen to rock) So it will always hold a special place in my heart, same for Suddenly which I heard when I went out and bought the cassette. Let's see One More Night by Phil Collins, The Wild Boys by Duran Duran, We Belong by Pat Benatar, Never Surrender by Corey Hart, Strut by Sheena Easton, Glory Days by Bruce Springsteen. Isn't Summer of 69 from 85? Carless Whisper by George Michael, Take on Me as well. I realize that is more than 10 but this was just by top 5 lol My Favorite album would be Out of Touch by Hall & Oats.

[@thomastillman9093]

I hate, i mean with every fiber of my being, HATE We Built This City! It enrages me whenever I hear it. Im mad just thinking about it.

[@JeffTaggart-p6o]

1985 The Cure - Head On The Door The Smiths - Meat Is Murder Oingo Boingo - Dead Man’s Party New Order - Low-Life Tears For Fears - Songs From The Big Chair 1985 was the transition year from New Wave to College Rock (precursor to Alternative)

[@ProfessorofRock]

Yes. I love all of those RECORDS!

[@smoofollowingqalroundthewo206]

And, Tears for Fears is in Vegas for a few shows next month!!!🎉🎉

[@JeffTaggart-p6o]

@ Wonder if they’ll ever play “Mothers Talk” again

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

You aren’t wrong Heff!

[@tattoogurlinky]

I just came across your channel and, being an ‘80s kid, it is my absolute favorite! I’ve always been a music junkie and the memories that come from watching your videos are priceless! ❤

[@ProfessorofRock]

So glad you’re enjoying the channel!

[@jonahhex8178]

Welcome! Very positive community here. Good vibes from music junkies and rock nerds on every episode!

[@ZeraphineDoll]

Love Bryan Ferry but so happy he refused Don’t You Forget About Me…Simple Minds version is a haunting masterpiece!

[@ProfessorofRock]

For real!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I could never imagine him singing that.

[@bicyclist2]

These are some of the most iconic songs of the 80's. I love them so very much. I had these on cassette tape. Thank you.

[@daddiofilms1540]

I've recently found this channel and you have been entertaining me ever since. Additionally, I graduated HS in 1985 and never thought why I loved certain songs until you noted, they all were big in 1985.

[@rogerdeahl9629]

Another Countdown Episode!!!! 🎉🎉🎉 1985 will always be remembered for Live Aid. The resurgence of Queen. Simple Minds was all over radio. Great movies also. Thanks Professor. Just love these countdowns. Everyone have a great day! (Q*Bert too).

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks Roger!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What are we gonna do to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Live Aid?

[@rogerdeahl9629]

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Celebrate Life.

[@jbr2991]

Professor, I was born in 67, graduated high school in 85. What a magical time to be alive. This may sound silly, but I feel blessed to be a part of such a great era. Thanks so much for keeping the music relevant and alive.

[@l.scales7516]

Born 1/3/67, grad '84

[@thumpersquid]

The Q*bert shirt is my favorite shirt you've worn so far. Can't beat the 80's

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen! Used to LOVE playing it!

[@Whisper_292]

I had love/hate relationship with Q*Bert. I loved playing it, but I was terrible at it.

[@himay333]

My favorite part of qbert was the speaker in the bottom of the cabinet that you heard the thud from when you fell.

[@DDKaraokeOutlaw]

@@Whisper_292 I was terrible at it as well. My favorite is Galaga.

[@dustybrand]

The downside of the game was that any kid named "Hubert" was known as "Q*Bert" after it's release. Also- a lot of boys named "Doug" became known as "Dig-Dug".

[@MyName-pl7zn]

My favs from 85 How Will I know Whitney Houston She Sells Sanctuary - The Cult Voices Carry- til Tuesday Raspberry Beret - Prince Smooth Operator - Sade We Belong- Pat Benatar Summer of 69 Bryan Adams I feel for you- Chaka Khan Im on Fire- Bruce Springsteen Great picks professor, you defined 85 perfectly with ypur picks

[@ProfessorofRock]

How Will I Know actualypeaked in 86! thanks My Name!

[@MyName-pl7zn]

@ProfessorofRock lol you definitely are the professor, thanks for your knowledge!! Good call, I had to look it up, you're correct

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Raspberry Beret! The kind you find at the secondhand store.

[@SaltyDog1967]

I graduated high school in 1985 and still remember "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" playing on the radio when we pulled into Daytona Beach for Spring Break my senior year.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s a beach song alright!

[@jodybaldwin4864]

Brothers in Arm's!!! INCREDIBLE Album.. I discovered music a little later than most on a sense. My parents had such opposing musical tastes I could never agree where my musical taste would go. BIA changed all that, AND was probably the 1st album as a family we could all listen to together and let it take us all to our happy place. Please do a feature on albums, Professor and start with this banger.

[@luddite4change449]

Hard to leave them off the list, such a ground breaking album

[@RobertL_0563]

The 80s were an incredible time for music; '83 to '88 being the most influential. The marriage of movies with songs was mind-blowing, as evident in today's list.

[@ProfessorofRock]

For real!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I would argue 1983-1987 was the true golden age.

[@geraldross967]

Check out the lyrics to "sowing the seeds of love" you will be surprised.

[@consciouscrypto3090]

Brothers in Arms was an epic classic. Best album of the year for sure, among top 5 for the decade as well. Masterpiece.

[@Laney-yf4hh]

85 was the year I graduated. This music brings me back to a time that I was so sad but would still love to go back to.

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure!

[@execatty]

Eddie money said it better than anyone.. I wanna go back and do it all over, but i can't go back, I know Not sure anything rings more true than those immortal words..

[@Laney-yf4hh]

@@execatty Too Right!

[@execatty]

@@Laney-yf4hh and I too graduated 85. Great great days, in so many ways.. Jeez

[@mikepraed4623]

84 here. Can't believe I survived.

[@skylx0812]

I got a kick out of Sade jokingly referring to herself as the "Anti-Madonna" when she first burst on the scene in US at that time. A former model her public appearences included old school formal gowns and gloves. Then for Live Aid she was in a snazzy stylized black jacket but when it came off she was in a striking backless number. Loved the photo taken from behind of that little powerhouse in front of that enormous crowd.

[@paulalaurita3358]

Sade is always on my most played Spotify list every year. Her voice is just smooooooth.

[@SM-McKraken]

I turned 19 in Jan 1985, and all these songs resonate with me, though some I scorned back then, because I was an early 80's punk rocker in DC at the time, and these songs were mainstream. Which as a punker, I was somewhat against. In the many years since, I've come to appreciate most of these songs. It's very nice to hear some of the behind-the-scenes info you're dropping, because back then, it was hard to find info like this (no interwebs!! 😱😉). 🤘😑🤘

[@stevecarey2030]

Yeah I was a punk at that time and I have to say I despised every single song on this list LoL. Still don't like em, but music's pretty subjective so I'm glad people can find what they like.

[@noahman27]

Awesome list!! Senior in High School in '85!! What a great list. Two songs affected me very strongly...Everybody Wants to Rule The World...but nothing grabs me immediately and so strongly as Boys of Summer - from the very first time I ever heard it! I have the same powerful reaction to it every time it plays on the radio. Whoa!!! Thanks Professor!

[@alexnejako777]

Careless Whisper was the one 80s song my father liked. My mom liked My Prerogative and we listened to the 45 frequently ( later in the decade)!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What did your father listen to otherwise, most of the time?

[@alexnejako777]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 classical music 24 7

[@TwoKeysStudio]

I graduated from DeVry, started my career, and got married in 1985. These songs all bring back awesome memories. The 80's were a great time to be alive. I'm stil married to the same person and technically show that I still work for the same company (several different positions and company ownerships, but they all kept my original hire date). Anyway...great stuff from the Professor as always.

[@rogertemple7193]

I really enjoy your covering the 80's as I was 20 at the time in 1985 and this definitely is the best of 1985 and the MTV years with the best rock and pop artists Simple Minds, Huey Lewis and the News, George Michael, Journey, Don Henley, Bruce Springsteen, a-ha, the Commodores, Mr. Mister and at number one Tears for Fears I'm 60 now and as always I thank you for keeping the 80's alive here thanks again Professor.🎶🎶📻📻🎶🎶

[@buzzsmith8146]

I'm still impressed with your extensive knowledge of the genres and the subsequent presentations on your channel. Thanks, Adam.

[@conspirica7420]

Alive and Kicking is still on my playlist. 80's music rocks!

[@bicyclist2]

I love the Q Bert T shirt. I love the 80's so much. 85' was a great year. So many Great memories. Thank you.

[@denisebacher5040]

Thank you for this trip down my memories. I was 20 years old in ‘85. In the 80’s I had a good job and had this great Walkman knockoff ( it was a Panasonic) that I could listen to the radio and record songs when I did. I’d be walking around EVERYWHERE ( why own a car when you can walk or ride a bus) in my black high top Reeboks and listening to music and recording songs. Oh how I loved my life! It was much simpler then. So carefree.

[@beachplumb]

Good picks, Professor. I’m not sure I appreciated it sufficiently back in ‘85 (as a high school senior). But now - 40 years later - I think “Night Shift” may be the pick of this litter! Great, great song.

[@fjcrod]

I can't even begin to tell you how much the music of 1985 resonated with me. It was such a pivotal year for me and your song choices touched me deeply. You've really stirred me today, Professor. I recently watched Bruce Springsteen. He happened to do an amazing cover of, Nightshift. When the Boss covers a song, you know it's an amazing song. This might just have been my favorite of all your top 10s.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen! I like it too!

[@patrickkaye9734]

Perfect #1. Visited Florida that spring and road tripped the weekend. Orlando to Daytona Beach, down the east beach cities all the way to Key West, back up to Miami, then crossed to the west coast, up those beaches to St. Pete, then back to Orlando. Like, 1000 miles in two days. EVERY radio station l'd tune in played Everybody Wants to Rule the World! Loved it then, love it now. Never gets old. An all time favorite.

[@theirishhammer9108]

Everyone wants to rule the world is my favorite song of all time! I was stationed in Athens Greece in the Air Force when it came out. It was during a peak of the cold war. Living in Europe, the beauty of Athen's summers has engrained this in my mind forever. I'm back there every time I hear it!

[@ProfessorofRock]

So great!

[@smoofollowingqalroundthewo206]

TFF is at Vegas for about 5 shows in Feb!

[@hugome778]

All of these iconic songs bring me right back to my junior year of college. They were in the bars, on the radio, and of course on MTV. That was probably the last year I really listened to new music. I consider the best decade of music 1975-1985. After that I got busy being an adult, and looked to the past for the songs I wanted to hear from my youth.

[@peteybigs6138]

Vision Quest has one of the best sound tracks of the 80's. Lunatic Fringe by Red Rider is still my favorite workout jam.

[@andrewehunt68]

Another spectacular video! Thank you professor! All of your videos are outstanding, but especially the ones about the 1980s, which take me right back to my youth. You have a lot of my favourites listed here, especially "Broken Wings" by Mr. Mister, a song that I cherish. The Richard Page interview was fabulous! He's so great, such a remarkable talent. And your number one (I won't give away any spoilers here) was perfect! Two of my favourites of the year are "Be Near Me" by ABC and "So in Love" by OMD. But I'm with you: Hard to pick whether '84 or '85 is the best year. Pretty much '82 through '86 were incredibly solid years for popular music, IMO. Bravo! Well done!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@BeckieJP]

OMG! Qbert! That was one of my favorite games in the day! My daughter is a HS junior now and a musician (percussion and violin) with musician friends. They all still play Careless Whisper and it’s a school favorite.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome!

[@aistobe]

I love Chrissie Hynde. She's an amazing songstress. That said, Alive & Kicking is my favorite Simple Minds song. Don't You (Forget About Me) was a powerful outro to The Breakfast Club. I can remember the feeling walking out of the theatre having just heard it for the first time. I have to agree with you about On the Night Shift. Great song. Everybody Wants to Rule the World corresponds with the best time in my life.

[@petercena9497]

1985 was different in that most of the good songs actually hit the top 40. My top 10: 1. Take on Me - A-ha 2. Shout - Tears For Fears 3. Driver 8 - R.E.M. 4. Voices Carry - Till Tuesday 5. I'm on Fire - Bruce Springsteen 6. One Lonely Night - REO Speedwagon 7. Freedom - Wham 8. View to a Kill - Duran Duran 9. Fortress Around Your Heart - Sting 10. That Was Yesterday - Foreigner

[@ProfessorofRock]

THanks!

[@smoofollowingqalroundthewo206]

Sting’s Dream of the Blue Turtles was my entry into jazz music.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Maybe put in there “Head over Heels”?

[@deborahhanna9126]

A-ha is still my favorite band. They have more than 10 studio albums (the most current one just released 2024 called True North) All of their albums are English language but individual members have several solo projects and lead singer Morten Harket has both English and Norwegian albums. Still rocking the original lineup, They are one of the biggest bands in the entire world, hold records for Rock in Rio from 1991 and Morten has an unofficial record for single longest note in a song for 'Summer Moved On' and yet they are still considered a one-hit Wonder.

[@petercena9497]

@deborahhanna9126 Two hit wonder in the states.

[@maryrowe3981]

All the music runs together and I love these year’s best shows. Thank you, Professor!

[@Stevelives13]

There will never be an era with such iconic songs. Its strange how song soundtracks always seemed to be such classics.

[@MrDivingfool]

You picked the song that I think defined the 80’s with, ‘Everybody wants to rule the world’. Nailed it.

[@endcensorship874]

I'm class of 1985. 40 year reunion this summer. And, once again since I have the chance, I am absolutely convinced the best song of the year is The Powerstation cover of Bang A Gong (get it on) Best song of the year, and I will fight anyone on this!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I'll Put TFF up against that any day! Ha ha!

[@endcensorship874]

(I wrote this before watching, so if you do cover them then I'll come back for a mea culpa)

[@endcensorship874]

@@ProfessorofRock As a drummer, the first time I heard Bang a Gong, I said to myself "THAT IS HOW I WANT TO PLAY!" It was a moment of enlightenment. (I'm in I.T. these days, not living the rock star life I thought was my destiny!)

[@DDKaraokeOutlaw]

Good Morning/Afternoon. Fellow Class of 85.

[@dustybrand]

Yessir. The great Tony Thompson on drums.

[@JanesDough855]

I agree with your picks. This was a time of such fun in life. I feel sorry for the younger folks of today, they are totally missing out on this kind of joy.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Agreed janes!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

At least we have Internet Archives and KZbin!

[@azfirewiseify]

Turned 13 in 1980. A magical time to move into adulthood. Music, movies, dress, 70’s muscle cars were affordable and Life was great! My memory is fond towards the girls that made growing up unforgettable. Cherry or Piña colada lip gloss turned nightfall into paradise by the dashboard lights!

[@yvettevitacaponigro]

😂🤣✌🏼

[@guntherdawg]

This dog is old enough to remember 1985 fondly, great episode topic!

[@bobdavis4848]

This dunderhead is old enough to remember 1975 fondly, but this episode does cover good mid 80s info; good day, good boy Gunthardt!

[@guntherdawg]

@@bobdavis4848 good days to teh wisened and scholarly DJ Dunderhead! 🎶

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks my friend. What's your best of 85?

[@michaeldoubleday9985]

'85 was a wondrous year of music! 8th grade and a big crush on a girl! Great memories

[@bobdavis4848]

@@guntherdawg Thanks very much, good beagle boy. Are you going to give a big bark out your mid 1980s favorites to answer POR?

[@TheZoePath]

I'm 54 years old now and hearing all these songs just puts me in such a DEEP state of nostalgia. And here's what's even stranger about it -- I lived my entire childhood in the Dominican Republic ... and they loved these songs there too ... even though most Dominicans had no idea what the lyrics said! 😂

[@WarBrer247]

Dokken - In My Dreams Ratt - Lay it Down Mötley Crüe - Home Sweet Home (The video that ruled MTV that year) The Cult - She Sells Sanctuary

[@sleepyhollow783]

Musical brother!🎸

[@shad8103]

1985 was my graduating year from 8th grade and freshman year of high school. I remember all of these songs like it was with great fondness.

[@RobertL_0563]

Good morning Professor and music friends! Dont You Forget About...1985; where have forty years gone? Have a great day!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Good morning!

[@cal88usa]

Am so glad I was born in 77. I remember listening to all of these wonderful songs. Till this day those songs stand the test of time.

[@catherine6653]

1985 is my favorite year. I I bought alot of records this year. Here are a few favorites: Tears for Fears - Songs From the Big Chair A-ha - Hunting High and Low Howard Jones-Dream Into Action INXS- Listen Like Thieves Sting- Dream of the Blue Turtles Prince- Raspberry Beret Back to the Future released July 1985. My favorite movie.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great picks!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Howard Jones is one of my FAVES!

What an awesome episode! Favorite songs Night Shift and Boys of Summer. Favorite Artists Huey and the News, Chrissie and the Pretenders. I have a very short list of all-time favorite albums yet you mention four here. Brothers in Arms and Songs From the Big Chair of course. Hunting High and Low and surprisingly The Warrior, where the only flaw is the title track being too catchy and so overplayed, yet the rest of the album is amazing. Thank you Prof, for the trip back to my glory days!😊

[@DukesMusic84]

Cheech & Chong - Born In East LA. That one hits different now, another BANGER. Cheech was Kendrick before Kendrick.

[@smoofollowingqalroundthewo206]

Brothers in Arms, the title track, always reminds me of the shuttle Challenger disaster because it happened to be playing in the background of our dorm room when the explosion happened. Oddly apropos tonally and lyrically. Still takes me back to that moment every time I hear it.

[@cameraman655]

‘85’ was my year for so many reasons. I just wish I had not sold my DeLorean (Flux Capacitor) model…

[@ProfessorofRock]

YES! Did you really have one?

[@cameraman655]

@ No, I came close in 86, but they didn't have the Flux Capacitor package.🤬🤣🤣

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@cameraman655 WHOA!

[@dustybrand]

I had a good friend in high school who had a stepfather who was some big deal heart surgeon. He had a DeLorean. Imagine my shock in summer of '87 learning that my Pontiac Fiero was packing about equal horsepower.

[@cameraman655]

@ Yeah, in all seriousness it had some issues, with the powertrain in particular as well as the Gull Wing doors, and, as you stated, underpowered. Uniqueness aside, it was a car that was not worth the asking price. I decided to pass on it (if memory severed they were retailing for about $25k, which was almost in the Mercedes 450SL range, just before John was busted by the Feds). Interesting side note, a Houston area entrepreneur bought the remaining parts, frames, and unsold units and set up a shop where one could custom order and build DeLorean DMC-12. It's about a 15 drive from my home, I have been there and if you are a DMC-12 fanboy, it is DeLorean Mecca.

[@chriswablington7118]

Saw Mr Mister perform “Broken Wings” by sheer luck Nov 14, 1985 on Mississippi State campus. I was a freshman. A friend of mine was given tickets by a classmate who couldn’t make the concert and he invited me to go! I immediately developed a newfound appreciation for Mr Mister and Tina Turner was just phenomenal during the “Private Dancer” period! 1985 was, without doubt, a phenomenal year for music!

[@musclecarmitch908]

Awesome year! Awesome songs!👍

[@ProfessorofRock]

How is it that is was even tougher than 84? Ha ha!

Wow, I was always a big fan of 1982 or 1984 music back in the day. But I think you've enlightened me. Fantastic list and fantastic music of the day. I sure miss the 80's. I was a junior in high school in 1985 and had my first girlfriend at that time. I met a couple of my best friends working at a fast-food restaurant and we still keep in touch today and get together now and then even though we all live in different states. Thanks, Professor, for the wonderful memories.

[@jayroutson7271]

What You Need-INXS She Sells Sanctuary -the Cult I was in 7th grade. So much great music that I still love.

[@zippitydoodah5693]

Well done. Nightshift was indeed an awesome song. What a vibe.

[@Whytemonkee]

1985 was another Banner Year for Album releases. My Favorite The Cult - Love Album, followed by Tears for Fears - Songs from the Big Chair.

[@TJ-id6ee]

Yes!!

[@marktait2371]

cult we played the blank out of i had a maxell cassette copy need to dig out of old truck

[@whodat3700]

Everybody wants to rule the world is still one of my favorite songs. Something about it just stirs up my insides like I can feel the song. Just love it.

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

I should've been consulted on this list!

[@Whisper_292]

It's _his_ list, you silly person. 😝

[@allengray5748]

Let's see it!! ☮️

[@guntherdawg]

Show us your list, Constipated!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Sorry!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Give me yours!

[@bigalsmith521]

I had a newspaper route back in the day and I remember frequently stopping to rewind the tape in my Walkman to listen to Born In The USA over and over.

[@himay333]

10 - Obsession by Animotion 9 - Raspberry Beret by Prince 8 - Things Can Only Get Better by Howard Jones 7 - Cool It Now by New Edition 6 - Don't You (Forget About Me) by Simple Minds 5 - Out of Touch by Hall & Oates 4 - Can't Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon 3 - Money For Nothing - Dire Straits 2 - Take On Me - A-Ha 1 - EWTRTW - Tears for Fear

[@ProfessorofRock]

Love it!

[@himay333]

Honorable Mentions Axel F (Harold Faltmeyer), We Belong (Pat Benetar), All Through the Night (Cindy Lauper), Smooth Operator (Sade), and one of my favorite Hall and Oates songs Method of Modern Love

[@himay333]

​@@ProfessorofRockI could probably come back tomorrow and have 4-5 different songs in my top 10. Really hard year to break down!

[@sophdog1678]

I was working in a ski resort in Oz when Everybody Wants to Rule the World came out. It was an instant hit on the hotel's dance floor, and was played every day for the rest of the snow season. Will never forget how that song made all of us staff feel about life and the world. It was collectively "our" song.

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

Back in the Saddle Again Naturally

[@guntherdawg]

Welcomes to teh saddle backs, Constipated!

[@jwyllor]

Thank you so much for the memory flashbacks! What a different world we live in now.

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

If you notice that the Crocodile Hunter 🐊 and Jim of Simple Minds. Are the same people.

[@bobdavis4848]

I'm grateful Kerr is still alive; nice to see you, CISC!

[@michaelesrom6956]

❤ Class of 85 here and I couldn't agree more! Where has 40 years gone? The best of times!

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

Once again a woman and her kean mind and insight brings us a another #1 hit

[@Whisper_292]

'Sright!

[@Sfu1751]

And a million times a man with a lean mind had a #1 hit 😂😂😂😂🤡🤡🤡🤡

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

@Sfu1751 💯

[@guntherdawg]

I don't mean to be keen but you may wish to correct “kean“ before @bobdavis4848 notices!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Huh?

[@babygerald4645]

I love these top 10s and 1985 is one of my favorite years ever. 1985 was the year a 12-year old babygerald scored his first walkman and started his music collecting addiction. The first three tapes in my personal collection were Wham, Simple Minds and a-ha. My parents had Springsteen and we listened to that album all year long, too. Great selection here, Professor.

[@jerryoxley1827]

1984-1986 was indeed a great time for music. Some of the best songs came from that era. Simple Minds has to have my favorite soundtrack hit of all. The Breakfast Club was so brilliant. And the music was perfect. The Power Of Love was great as well. So many great songs from that era. Journey, Van Halen, Huey Lewis & The News, The Police...the list goes on and on. It was a terrific time for music.

[@ProfessorofRock]

YES it was! Thanks for watching!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

1985 was right in the center of it!

[@markavis1]

1985? I was in the Air Force and I was getting ready to return from a three year stint in Germany. I had gone on a temporary assignment to Denmark. I spent a lot of time in clubs while I was there. With all the great songs that had come out that year, I fell in love with music hard. I remember Simple Minds 'Don't you forget about me'; A-ha's 'Take on me', and Dead or Alive's 'You spin round (like a record). My family was in the States and I was going to be heading back there soon. So, I was very lonely and music helped fill the void. My choice for best song of that year is Prince's 'When doves cry'. And my favorite band is Hall and Oats. Thanks Adam.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for your service!

[@kristinaslocum2044]

AFN was surprisingly good at keeping americans stationed in Germany current with US music. Radio Luxembourg was close enough with their english language broadcasts to meld the Euro hits in. I was a teen in Germany at the same time frame, 1985 was absolutely a standout for movie soundtracks especially

[@ChadGriffey-w9m]

All great songs. Good list. I have such a special place in my heart for Simple Minds Breakfast Club Don’t You Forget About Me. This song/movie still moves me to this day. Glad they chose to record it.

[@ProfessorofRock]

So good!

[@KyleInTexas]

1985 was a time of transition for me. Finishing 8th grade and going into my Freshman year in H.S. makes for a seminal connection in time for me. Musically, there are so many memories connected as well. Money For Nothing - Dire Straits, Somebody - Bryan Adams, Can't Fight This Feeling - REO, One More Night - Phil Collins, just to name a few. I got tired of having to keep rewinding to listen to Broken Wings that I made mix tape exclusively with only Broken Wings on it. 1 full hour of only that tune was what we did back then, because we could! Great list.

[@GoddessLadyRei]

Don't you forget about me is one of the greatest songs of all time. I bawl my eyes out every time I hear it. Never forget about the suicidal population. You helped me live this long.

[@brewster84067]

I was 15 in '85, music junkie, in a band (new wave, all synths of course). Truly one of, if not the best music year in my life. As a 50-something, when I have a few libations and want to get nostalgic, spinning songs from '85 on Spotify always hits the spot.

[@jumpers4goalposts]

A lot of these songs still give me “goosebumps”. 1985…the year I was 18. Music forms the backbone of your life. I’m so grateful that the 1980s was teenage years.

[@ProfessorofRock]

WoW!

[@erinarnold9640]

Thanks so much. Truly enjoy your show. I graduated H.S in '85. Totally rad.😊

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great! Thanks for watching!

[@erinarnold9640]

@ProfessorofRock keep rocking!

[@Quevallyn]

I was 10 in 1985. The Power of Love was the first 7 inch I bought for myself. Still one of my favourite songs.

[@mrkeiths48]

In the mid eighties my life was in hyper drive. There was nothing more satisfying after surfacing in the Sea of Japan to hear the latest music that had just come out. I was always impressed at how well the Filipino bands could imitate Billy Idol and all of the greatest bands at that time. While I agree with your number one pick, I have to say Aha got robbed! They were great, and I believe MTV gave them due credit. Thanks Professor, the flashbacks to the eighties music helps me slow that time period down. Nowadays, my daughter asks me if I will ever leave the eighties behind. NOTTTTTTT!!!!!!!

[@christopherriley15]

Don’t you is absolutely the #1 song of the 80’s hands down. And I don’t even like it much! But the whole world does. Great episode

[@michaelcole1538]

From 1980 throughout the 80s rock and popular music was unmistakably unique and unforgettable the decade that changed music in multiple categories including country and pop

[@Curious245]

Take on me was my song has a teen ! Did I ever have fantasies of love forever listening to that song and the video was hypnotic to me anyhow lol ! Wow ! Time sure slipped by ! ☺️ thanks loved your list brought back a lot of fond memories 🫶🏻