The 1980s was a time for change in the world of popular music. The decade that had just come to a close was characterized by radical changes in the music scene, with many new and influential artists emerging.
The 1980s brought some of the most prominent female singers to date (Madonna, Whitney Houston) as well as some major breakthroughs for male artists (Michael Jackson, Prince). With its growing influence on pop culture, the 1980s saw a number of new trends emerge including hip-hop and rap music, which both became prominent genres during this time.
Another big change in popular music was that these trends greatly affected girl names at an early age. In fact, there were some notable baby names during this period that have become increasingly popular ever since then.
Diana
Diana was a popular name for girls in 1980 and it has remained so up to this day. It’s likely not a coincidence that it happens to be the name of some of the most famous princess figures in history, including Diana Spencer, the then-Princess of Wales.
Throughout the 80s and the 90s, Princess Diana was at the height of her fame, known for her kindness, good looks, and impeccable fashion sense. It is understandable if this resulted in many people naming their kids Diana during this period.
Elizabeth
Elizabeth was also a common name in the 1980s, much like Diana. It was likely first popularized by Queen Elizabeth II and other members of her family. This trend continued into the 90s as well, with many people choosing to name their daughters after this royal figure.
Susan
Susan is another name that was very popular in the 1980s and the early 1990s. It’s not surprising, considering its meaning. The name means “lily flower”, which denotes a certain feminine and soft aura to the name. It may also be famous due to the rise of the Hollywood actress Susan Sarandon.
Amanda
Amanda was also popular in the 1980s and early 1990s. The name has the meaning of lovely or loveable, and it is of Latin origin.
Louise
Louise was also a popular name during this period. The name can mean “famous warrior” or “brightness” and “radiance.” It may have experienced a resurgence during the 1980s due to the rising popularity of Madonna, whose full name is Madonna Louise Ciconne.
Jessica
Jessica was yet another popular girl name in the 1980s and early 1990s, with its meaning being “beholden by God” or “gift from the gods.” It is a very sweet sounding name that many parents would choose for their daughters at this time because it is regarded as a symbol of purity and innocence. Jessica may have been popular these years due to the Jessica Rabbit character, who was introduced in the 1988 animated film “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?”, directed by Robert Zemeckis.
Michelle
Michelle was another name that experienced a resurgence in popularity during the 80s and 90s. It is of Greek origin meaning “who brings victory” or “victory of God.” It likely rose to fame during this decade because of Hollywood actress Michelle Pfeiffer, whose career flourished in the 1980s.
