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The Product 80s Video Show

June 13, 2006 :: :: Video

mtv_1981.jpg

Back in the 80s, I used to occupy myself by doing something I called "Reckless Recording." That is, I used to just flip back and forth between the various music video channels like anyone does when they're bored, but I'd record the whole thing on the VCR. Someday, I thought, this will be really funny.

Sadly, none of those tapes survived. I have no idea what was on them. Chances are, they were pretty lame. Instead, I'll dredge up my memories of the 80s, and utilize You Tube to create the ultimate video edit.

MTV Goes on the Air, August 1, 1981
Mark Goodman was annoying. Alan Hunter was a putz. J.J. Jackson was OK. But Nina Blackwood and Martha Quinn were hot. RUMOR: In real life, Nina was actually the shy one, and Martha was the wild one, despite how they were portrayed on MTV. FACT: My sister had five goldfish, named Mark, Alan, J.J., Nina, and Martha.

Hello Again - The Cars
This video was directed by Andy Warhol, who also appears in the video. I remember liking this song and then seeing the video, which was very strange yet very exciting. Now, it makes me wish I could go back in time to New York in 1984. Plus, Ric Ocasek has the biggest adam's apple in the history of necks. Also he eats Hello Jello. And then...OK, just watch the video.

Ace of Spades - Motorhead (Musical segment from "The Young Ones")
I loved "The Young Ones." Also Motorhead is one of the few bands from the 80s that I still stand behind 100%. They were punk, metal, and just plain rock 'n' roll. No one has ever done what they did, and continue to do.

Advertisment - 1984
This was a really cool commercial. Now that I'm a Mac person, I like it a lot and totally grok it. But back when I was a PC person, I secretly loved it when Bill Gates would make speeches with his face spread across a huge screen.

Dog Police - Dog Police
I've tried to describe this video to various people on countless occasions. If you're one of those people, this is what I meant. If you aren't one of those people, prepare to be confused.

Dare to be Stupid - Weird Al Yankovic
Weird Al is known for his parodies, but fans know that his original stuff is so much better. This video is an anthem. For nerds.

Pretty Woman - Van Halen
Quite possibly the greatest music video of all time. I think if I ever meet a woman who's twice my height, I'll tie her up and feel her legs. I think if I ever become David Lee Roth, I'll dress up like Igor and/or Napoleon, and save her via telephone and/or limosine.

Mr. T - Styling
Consider this one to be the cherry on top.