The Sounds of 80s Annoyance: Kajagoogoo, Cindy Lauper, and Fine Young Cannibals

When you think of kitsch and the annoying sound of 80s music, bands like Kajagoogoo and Cindy Lauper might not immediately come to mind. However, the band that truly embodies this era's most distinctive and irksome melodies is quite different.

80s Annoying Music and Cindy Lauper

No dubious honor should be bestowed upon Kajagoogoo; it is Cindy Lauper who truly reigns as the soundtrack of 80s annoyance. Her voice is a perfect embodiment of why this decade's music can be so irritating. It's worth noting that during this time, impressionistic styles and bold fashion choices, such as blonde streaks in one's hair, were not universally encouraged in certain working-class towns. In the early to mid-70s, Wigan, a town in the north-west of England, provided a noticeable contrast to such trends.

Limahl and Nick Beggs: From Underappreciated to Revered

Limahl, the singer of Kajagoogoo, and Chris Hamill, the lead guitarist, were indeed subject to ridicule in their hometown for their unconventional hairstyles. Yet, their influence and success transcended the mockery. Fast forward a few decades, and these same individuals have accomplished remarkable transformations. The poodle-haired bass player, Nick Beggs, is now a highly respected musician in the progressive rock scene. He has honed his skills to such a level that he has become a marvelous player of the Chapman Stick, an instrument well-known in the rock world for its versatility and complexity. Over the years, Nick has shared the stage with talented musicians like Steve Hackett, Steven Wilson, and Rick Wakeman, cementing his status as a virtuoso musician.

Further Reflection on the Hit 'NeverEnding Story'

Even though Limahl and Kajagoogoo had a hit with the theme of "NeverEnding Story," it is generally considered subpar compared to some of the other tunes from the same era. It's arguable whether the original musicians themselves felt the same way, as Limahl acknowledges the better song to be the theme for "NeverEnding Story."

Fine Young Cannibals: The True Annoyance

While Kajagoogoo might have left a mild imprint on the annals of 80s music, it is the band Fine Young Cannibals that stands out for its distinctive and incredibly annoying sound. Their music offers a perfect example of what can make 80s music feel outdated and irksome. This band, renowned for their complex lyrics and quirky tunes, has managed to maintain a certain level of notoriety for their contributions to the decade's soundtrack.