Hazy '80s Music Video Stills

A still from the music video for "I Eat Cannibals" by Toto Coelo

Has your Wednesday been a little crazy? I know, me too. Don’t worry–we’ve got the cure. A heavy dose of backlighting will make your problems fade away. At least, that was a common tactic in many a 1980s music video. In fact, it seemed like a divine light was perpetually shining down on many of our musical heroes. Not only did it give them a healthy glow, it added a hazy effect that at times was just what the doctor ordered. Who needs clarity anyway?

Take the above still from the 1982 video from Toto Coelo’s “I Eat Cannibals.” The ladies are radiant, a nice contrast to the their shiny black ensembles. Watch the video and read more here.

Next we have a lovely shot from Duran Duran’s “Careless Memories,” which I didn’t know existed until this year. Seems I should have pulled myself away from repeat viewings of “Rio” long ago. About the image below, all I can say is, those must be some heavenly tulips…

A still from the video for "Careless Memories" by Duran Duran

To watch and learn more about the video for “Careless Memories,” click here. Next we have a classic from Talk Talk (watch and read about this awesome video here). The gauzy lighting definitely adds drama, but judging by the video, more drama is the last thing these band members need . They may be losing their minds, but at least they’re illuminated from above:

A still from the video for "Talk Talk" by Talk Talk

We’ll end with a shot of Duran Duran’s Nick Rhodes as he plays the keyboard in the video for “Planet Earth.” Keeping in true ’80s video whiteout fashion, he’s framed by a halo effect. And embellished with a pirate effect. I’m loving the New Romantic look! Read more about the video here.