Episode4. HOW 80s MUSIC WENT FROM DIY TO THE STRETCH LIMO

The 80s was a defining era for music. But this episode is not about the biggest hits or the most famous stars. I use this episode to reconsider how the politics of the era and the dramatic transformation in technology shaped and then reshaped the music of the era.
The episode will begin by looking at the DIY music revolution that took place in the city of Toronto, Canada. The economic recession actually created perfect conditions for experimentation and grassroots activism. As the industrial city withered young artists took over old lofts and warehouse spaces. There was an explosion of venues and bands. The DIY culture was anti-capitalist, anti-commercial with a powerful political consciousness. I will look at the rise of the Rock Against Racism movement to fight back against fascist and white extremism.

I will then broaden out to look at the larger impacts of musical/political activism in the fight against apartheid, famine and the cold war. The fight against Apartheid was a defining moment of the 1980s in politics and arts. 
By the second half of the 1980s music began to reflect the consumerism and excess of the greed is good era. Part of that was influenced by the huge changes in technology - the transition from cassettes and 45s to the CD. The role of video had a huge impact. And the episode will end by reflecting on the transition of AM radio from being the soundtrack for young teenagers to the rage space for talk radio and conspiracy. 

Soundtrack:
The Grandfather Song - L'étranger 1983 (unreleased track) ©Angus/Cash
Took What Didn't Belong - L'étranger 1982 ©Angus/Cash
Go Gently -L'étranger 1983 (unreleased track) ©Angus/Cash
Sticks and Stones - L'étranger 1984 ©Angus/Cash