Episode 541: Aging the Music of 1986
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In Episode 541 of Baconsale, hosts Joel, Kent, and Zach embark on a nostalgic journey through the music of 1986, celebrating its 40th anniversary with a deep dive into the year’s most iconic songs, bands, and cultural moments. The episode features a mix of heartfelt retrospection, playful banter, and spirited debates over what defines 'the sound of 1986.' From The Bangles' 'Walk Like an Egyptian' and New Order’s 'Bizarre Love Triangle' to controversial picks like Metallica’s 'Master of Puppets' and the guilty pleasures of Kenny G’s 'Songbird,' the trio explores how music from this era continues to resonate across generations. They also tackle categories like 'It’s Grown On Me,' 'Overrated,' 'Older Than 40,' and 'Would Fit Today,' revealing personal connections, unexpected turns, and the enduring emotional power of 1986’s sonic landscape. The episode culminates in a passionate final showdown for 'Favorite Overall,' with Joel ultimately claiming Bon Jovi’s 'Living on a Prayer' as the definitive anthem of the year.
Music from 1986 remains emotionally powerful, often tied to personal memories and generational identity.
Songs like 'Bizarre Love Triangle' and 'Living on a Prayer' have aged surprisingly well and still feel relevant today.
The 80s synth sound, while iconic, is often reinterpreted in modern music, proving its lasting influence.
Guilty pleasures—like Kenny G or Janet Jackson’s 'What Have You Done for Me Lately?'—are not just nostalgic but culturally significant.
Personal taste in music is deeply shaped by context, memory, and shared experiences, not just sonic quality.
Intro: The 1986 Music Time Capsule
The episode opens with a playful ad for 'Hits of 1986' and a warm welcome from the hosts, setting the stage for a nostalgic deep dive into the year’s most iconic music. The hosts reflect on their own experiences with 1986 music, including childhood memories and family connections.
Hits Like 1986: The Sound of the Era
“This is the beginning of our playlist. So this has to hit. Like 1986. Let's hope it does.”
It’s Grown On Me: Songs That Won Hearts Over Time
“The older I get, the more I like it to the point now where I'm like, yeah, I could easily listen to that in the car.”
Overrated: The Songs We Can’t Love
“I hate this song. But what's wrong with that one? It's so sappy and cheesy, and I hate the music video.”
Older Than 40: Songs That Feel Like the 70s
The hosts explore songs that, despite being from 1986, feel decades older. Joel highlights Boston’s 'Amanda'—recorded in 1980 and released six years later—as a 70s relic. Zach picks Queen’s 'Who Wants to Live Forever,' calling it 'sleepy and kind of dreary,' and notes its emotional weight in Highlander.
“It has to be. I can't deny my love for this song.”
“I hate this song. But what's wrong with that one? It's so sappy and cheesy, and I hate the music video.”
“I can't reverse Dionne Warwick. Never reverse Dionne Warwick.”
Hosts
Joel
person
Zach
person
Kent
person
New Order
other
Bon Jovi
other
Metallica
other
The Bangles
other
Kenny G
person
Dionne Warwick
person
Peter Gabriel
person
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