Duran Duran — 1980s Music, Albums & Concerts

The defining MTV band — new romantic style with stadium-pop ambition.

Origin: Birmingham, England · Years active: 1978–present

Biography

Duran Duran were the visual face of the 1980s. Their stylish music videos for 'Rio', 'Hungry Like the Wolf' and 'Save a Prayer' helped define MTV's first golden age, while the songs themselves were sharp, hook-filled new romantic pop.

Their self-titled 1981 debut launched 'Planet Earth' and 'Girls on Film'. By the time of Rio (1982), they were superstars.

Seven and the Ragged Tiger (1983) made them one of the biggest bands in the world. After splintering into side projects (Arcadia, The Power Station), they reunited for Notorious (1986) and Big Thing (1988).

Duran Duran's sound and image shaped the entire MTV-era aesthetic. They remain a touchstone for synth-pop, indie-rock and modern pop alike.

Key 1980s albums

Essential songs

Genres

new-wave · synth-pop

Upcoming concerts