When Cassette Tapes Ruled the 80s

About this episode

This episode explores the impact of cassette tapes on 1980s music and pop culture.

Cassette tapes defined 1980s music. Not only did they give rise to the Walkman and Boombox, but also the art of making a mix tape. Today, we look back on the creation that not only changed music and tech but also pop culture itself. From recording music off the radio and copying tapes--to the panic that faced the industry--analog audio quickly became the most important music format of the 80s. With origins going back to the 1960s, it didn't look like the compact cassette was going to hang on, until the Phillips company made a decision that would change the industry forever... Support the show and get bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s

People in this episode

Host: Jamie Logie

Topics covered

• cassette tapes
• 1980s music
• pop culture
• music technology
• mix tapes

Keywords

• cassette tapes
• 1980s
• music format
• mix tape
• Walkman
• Boombox
• analog audio

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Phillips

Products: Walkman, Boombox

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