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Original VHS Soundtracks

Music Featured in New & Unique VHS Videos From the 1980s and 1990s

Music from the 1980s and 1990s

VHS video soundtracks from the 1980s often featured popular music from the time period. Depending on the genre of the video, the soundtrack might include rock, pop, new wave, hip hop, or other styles of music. Some videos also featured original music or score specifically composed for the video. VHS video soundtracks were typically produced in a studio, with the music recorded separately from the video footage. The music would then be synced up with the video during the editing process. Some videos, such as concert films, might be recorded live and then edited together afterwards. Some of the most popular VHS video soundtracks from the 1980s include the soundtracks for films like “Top Gun,” “Dirty Dancing,” and “Footloose.” Music videos and concert films by popular artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince were also popular and iconic.

VHS video soundtracks evolved along with the changing music and video landscape of the 1980s. Early in the decade, music videos were becoming more popular and influential, and videos often featured footage from the videos themselves. Later in the decade, concert films and movies with soundtracks featuring popular songs became more common. VHS video soundtracks were often similar to other types of soundtracks from the 1980s, in that they featured popular music from the time period. However, VHS video soundtracks had the added element of being tied to a visual medium, and the music was often chosen to complement or enhance the visuals.

Many notable musicians and composers worked on VHS video soundtracks in the 1980s. Some examples include Giorgio Moroder, who composed the soundtrack for “Top Gun,” and Kenny Loggins, who performed the title track for the same film.

VHS video soundtracks were significant in the 1980s because they helped to popularize and promote music and visual media simultaneously. The success of films like “Top Gun” and “Dirty Dancing” was in part due to their iconic soundtracks, and music videos and concert films helped to cement the popularity of many popular musicians.

Soundtracks from home videos generated at that time by independent producers and filmmakers is now being rediscovered by entrepreneurial spirits who are sharing their discoveries with their audiences via a plethora of niches, like Youtube, Facebook, Instagram and all kinds of podcasts.

There seems to be a growing interest and appreciation for the soundtracks from the 1980s and 1990s. Many people who grew up during that time period have a nostalgic connection to the music, and younger generations are discovering the music through streaming services, social media, and popular culture references.

In addition, the music from the 1980s and 1990s has influenced many contemporary artists and genres, so there is also an interest in understanding the roots and evolution of popular music.

Overall, the rediscovery of soundtracks from the 1980s and 1990s seems to be a trend that is continuing to gain momentum and popularity.

jay leno california big hunks record album

And then there were the lesser-known musicians such as Richard Jan Plasko, who composed the soundtrack for “California Big Hunks.”  His “Dave the Dirty Cowboy” segment has become a true cult classic thanks to Red Letter Media’s Best of the Worst: Black Spine Edition #3 on Youtube.

Another brilliant yet unknown composer is Anthony “Buzz” Barnaba who provided the soundtracks for “The Great Mountain Biking Video,” “Ultimate Mountain Biking” and “Full Cycle: A World Odyssey.” Jazzy pop laced with ethnic sounds from around the world.

And new on the scene is Candace Love who has provided soundtracks on more contemporary videos produced by Crystal Pyramid Productions and distributed by New & Unique Videos, including “Golden Hour,” the re-mastered and re-edited “The Great Mountain Biking Video,” “Ultimate Mountain Biking” and “Lessons in Cycling” with John Howard.

California Big Hunks is a vibrant, nostalgic celebration of the 1980s, capturing the sun-soaked charm and carefree spirit of that era. The soundtrack by Richard Jan Plasko blends upbeat, synth-driven melodies with classic rock tunes that instantly transport the viewer back in time. The music complements the visuals of the six hunks, reinforcing the fun, bold, and adventurous atmosphere of the time.
Castro

Symphonic Music

The Great Mountain Biking Video soundtrack (1987) captures the film’s adrenaline-pumping action, perfectly relating the thrill and adventure of mountain biking in the rugged terrain. Featuring energetic, guitar-heavy rock tracks, the music amplifies the intensity of each ride, syncing with the fast-paced cuts and exhilarating downhill shots.

The Ultimate Mountain Biking (1989) soundtrack shines with the musical genius of Buzz Barnaba, whose compositions infuse the film with energy, emotion, and rhythm perfectly suited to the sport’s rugged intensity. Each track captures the spirit of the riders, making the soundtrack a crucial element in conveying the excitement, endurance, and passion that define the sport. Barnaba’s creative talent elevates Ultimate Mountain Biking into an unforgettable auditory and visual experience.

The Full Cycle: A World Odyssey soundtrack is a captivating fusion of musical artistry, featuring the genius of Buzz Barnaba and the soulful saxophone of Archie Thompson. Together, Barnaba’s dynamic music and Thompson’s expressive sax create a powerful soundtrack that not only complements the action but also enhances the film’s exploration of the human spirit, endurance, and the thrill of cycling across continents. The result is an auditory experience as exhilarating and expansive as the ride itself.