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1985 MTV Video Music Awards Winners: A Comprehensive Look At The Iconic Event

Author Krops

Back in 1985, the MTV Video Music Awards was more than just an awards show—it was a cultural phenomenon that shaped the music industry. This event marked the beginning of a new era where music videos became as important as the songs themselves. The 1985 VMAs set the tone for what was to come in the world of pop culture, and it's still remembered today as one of the most iconic nights in music history.

Picture this: it’s the mid-80s, and MTV is blowing up like crazy. The channel wasn’t just playing music; it was redefining how we consumed it. The 1985 MTV Video Music Awards took place on September 14 at the Radio City Music Hall in New York City, and it was a night filled with unforgettable performances, groundbreaking moments, and legendary winners. This wasn’t just an awards show—it was a celebration of creativity and innovation in the music video space.

For anyone who loves music history, the 1985 VMAs are a must-know. It’s where some of the biggest names in music first stepped into the spotlight, and it’s where unforgettable moments were created. So, let’s dive deep into what made this event so special and take a comprehensive look at the winners, performances, and everything in between.

Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll find in this article:

  • Introduction to the 1985 MTV VMAs
  • A closer look at the winners
  • Iconic performances that stole the show
  • The impact of the awards on the music industry
  • And more…

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

The History of the MTV VMAs

Before we dive into the 1985 winners, let’s take a moment to appreciate the history of the MTV VMAs. Founded in 1984, the MTV Video Music Awards quickly became the premier platform for celebrating music videos. In the early days, music videos were still a relatively new concept, but they quickly grew in popularity, thanks in large part to MTV. By 1985, the VMAs had already established itself as a major event in the entertainment calendar.

The Evolution of Music Videos

Music videos weren’t just promotional tools back then; they were works of art. Directors like David Fincher and Spike Jonze started their careers by creating music videos, and artists like Michael Jackson and Madonna used them to push creative boundaries. The 1985 VMAs showcased this evolution, recognizing the best of the best in music video production.

So, what made the 1985 VMAs so special? Well, it was the first time many of these categories were introduced, and it was the first time we saw some of the biggest names in music step onto the stage. This wasn’t just an awards show—it was a cultural movement.

1985 MTV VMAs Winners

Now, let’s talk about the winners. The 1985 MTV VMAs was packed with talent, and the winners reflected the diversity and creativity of the music industry at the time. Here’s a breakdown of the major winners:

Video of the Year

One of the biggest awards of the night was Video of the Year, and it went to none other than Peter Gabriel for his iconic video "Sledgehammer." This video was groundbreaking, combining stop-motion animation, puppetry, and live-action sequences. It was a masterpiece that set a new standard for music videos.

Best New Artist

Another standout category was Best New Artist, which was awarded to Cyndi Lauper for her hit "Time After Time." Cyndi was a force to be reckoned with in the 80s, and her win at the 1985 VMAs cemented her status as a pop icon.

Here’s a quick list of some of the other major winners:

  • Best Male Video: Michael Jackson – "Billie Jean"
  • Best Female Video: Tina Turner – "What’s Love Got to Do with It"
  • Best Group Video: Dire Straits – "Money for Nothing"
  • Best Direction: Peter Gabriel – "Sledgehammer"

Iconic Performances

Of course, no awards show is complete without performances, and the 1985 VMAs delivered in a big way. The night was filled with unforgettable performances that left audiences talking for years. Here are some of the highlights:

Michael Jackson’s "Billie Jean"

Michael Jackson’s performance of "Billie Jean" was nothing short of legendary. He brought his signature moonwalk to the stage, mesmerizing the audience with his moves. It was a moment that defined the 80s and solidified MJ’s place as the King of Pop.

Cyndi Lauper’s "Time After Time"

Cyndi Lauper also took the stage, delivering a powerhouse performance of "Time After Time." Her unique style and vocal prowess made her a standout performer, and her set was one of the highlights of the night.

Award Categories and Their Significance

The 1985 MTV VMAs introduced several categories that are still relevant today. These categories weren’t just about recognizing the best music videos; they were about celebrating the artistry and innovation behind them. Here’s a closer look at some of the categories:

Best Direction

The Best Direction category was awarded to Peter Gabriel for his work on "Sledgehammer." This category recognizes the creative vision behind the video, and Gabriel’s win was well-deserved. His video was a masterclass in visual storytelling.

Best Editing

Another important category was Best Editing, which went to Dire Straits for "Money for Nothing." This category highlights the technical skill required to bring a music video to life, and Dire Straits’ win was a testament to their craftsmanship.

Impact on the Music Industry

The 1985 MTV VMAs had a significant impact on the music industry. It wasn’t just an awards show; it was a platform for artists to showcase their work and reach new audiences. The success of the VMAs also helped to legitimize music videos as a valuable medium for promoting music.

Raising the Bar

After the 1985 VMAs, artists and directors were pushed to create even more innovative and visually stunning music videos. The competition was fierce, and the bar was raised higher than ever before. This led to some of the most iconic music videos of all time, many of which were inspired by the winners of the 1985 VMAs.

Cultural Impact

But the impact of the 1985 VMAs wasn’t just limited to the music industry. It also had a profound effect on pop culture as a whole. The event brought together artists from different genres and backgrounds, creating a sense of unity and collaboration. It also introduced new styles and trends that influenced fashion, art, and even politics.

A New Era of Pop Culture

The 1985 VMAs marked the beginning of a new era in pop culture. It was a time when music videos became more than just promotional tools; they became cultural artifacts that reflected the spirit of the times. The event also helped to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse entertainment industry.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, there’s always more to the story than what we see on screen. The 1985 VMAs was no exception, and there were plenty of behind-the-scenes moments that added to the magic of the event. Here are a few fun facts:

  • Peter Gabriel’s "Sledgehammer" video took over three weeks to film, and it involved over 60 different sets.
  • Cyndi Lauper’s outfit for her performance was designed by a team of costume designers and took over 50 hours to create.
  • Michael Jackson’s moonwalk was practiced for weeks leading up to the show, and it became one of the most iconic dance moves in history.

Memorable Moments

Every awards show has its share of memorable moments, and the 1985 VMAs was no exception. Here are a few that stood out:

Peter Gabriel’s Acceptance Speech

Peter Gabriel’s acceptance speech for Video of the Year was both humble and inspiring. He thanked his team and collaborators, acknowledging the hard work that went into making "Sledgehammer" a success. It was a moment that highlighted the importance of collaboration in the creative process.

Cyndi Lauper’s Tribute to Prince

Cyndi Lauper paid tribute to Prince during her performance, dedicating her song to the late icon. It was a touching moment that reminded us of the connections between artists and the influence they have on one another.

Legacy of the 1985 VMAs

Looking back, the 1985 MTV VMAs was a watershed moment in music history. It set the standard for future awards shows and helped to shape the music industry as we know it today. The winners, performances, and moments from that night continue to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.

A Lasting Influence

The legacy of the 1985 VMAs can still be felt today. It’s a reminder of the power of music videos to tell stories, challenge norms, and bring people together. As we continue to celebrate the art of music video production, we can look back on the 1985 VMAs as a benchmark for excellence and creativity.

Conclusion

And there you have it—a comprehensive look at the 1985 MTV Video Music Awards. From the winners to the performances, this event was a celebration of creativity and innovation in the music industry. It’s a moment in history that continues to inspire and influence artists and fans around the world.

So, what can we learn from the 1985 VMAs? First and foremost, it’s a reminder of the power of music to bring people together. It’s also a testament to the importance of pushing creative boundaries and challenging the status quo. As we continue to celebrate the art of music video production, let’s remember the legacy of the 1985 VMAs and the impact it had on the industry.

Now, it’s your turn. What’s your favorite moment from the 1985 VMAs? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family. Together, let’s keep the spirit of the 1985 VMAs alive for generations to come!

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