Remembering the Year 1980: Detroit History, Music, Pop Culture and More
(Photo by William Vanderson/Fox Photos/Getty Images)
Story by Mark Wilson and Anne Erickson
WRIF first started broadcasting true rock ‘n’ roll to the Motor City on On Feb. 14, 1971, and we’ve never looked back!
It’s been an honor to rock with you for the past 50 years, and we look forward to the next 50.
Let’s remember these significant events and milestones in Detroit and around the world in the year 1980!
-
On February 5 of 1980, the 32nd National Hockey League All-Star Game was played at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit.
-
On March 2 of 1980, Hilmer Kenty defeated Ernesto España at Joe Louis Arena to win the World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight championship. He was Detroit’s first world champion boxer since Joe Louis.
-
In April of 1980, The Red Wings compiled a 26–43–11 record under head coaches Bobby Kromm and Ted Lindsay in the team’s first season playing in Joe Louis Arena.
-
In July of 1980, Detroit hosted the Republican National Convention which nominated Ronald Reagan.
-
On Aug. 3, 1980, Al Kaline was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
-
In October of 1980, The Tigers compiled an 84–78 record and finished in a tie for fourth place in the American League East under manager Sparky Anderson.
-
In December of 1980, The Lions compiled a 9–7 record under head coach Monte Clark and finished in second place in the NFC Central.
-
The 1980 Grammy for Record of the Year went to “What a Fool Believes” from The Doobie Brothers and producer Ted Templeman.
-
The 1980 Grammy for Album of the Year went to “52nd Street” from Billy Joel and producer Phil Ramone.
-
Some of the most popular toys from 1980 included Radio Phono, Simon Sez, Nite-Glow toys, Play House and Baby Crissy.
-
Famous birthdays from 1980 included Jessica Simpson on July 10 and Macaulay Culkin on Aug. 26.
-
Millions of viewers tuned into the TV soap opera “Dallas” in 1980 to find out who shot lead character J.R. Ewing.
-
John Lennon was shot outside his New York apartment on Dec. 8, 1980.
Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.
Sign Up For The WRIF Everything That Rocks Newsletter
Get everything that rocks sent right to your inbox. We're talking rock news, concert updates, stories from all around metro Detroit, plus exclusive contests, games and more.
By clicking "Subscribe" I agree to the website's terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.