The 1980s

In the 1980s hip hop developed more complex styles. Michael Jackson was one of the first African American pop icons. In 1982, his song "Thriller" helped to make African American music more popular. Prince and Whitney Houston became popular during this time as well. Prince had four number one singles in the United States and Whitney Houston released her first album in 1985. The album had three number one singles which made her the first woman and first African American woman to have three number ones from one album. The mid 1980s was called the golden age of hip hop. A couple of artists during this time were Run-D.M.C., and Wu-Tang Clan. In the late 80s jazz rap started to be developed.