9 Life Lessons That Shaped Gen X from the Original MTV Era

Oh, how I long for the MTV of my youth, the one that played music videos instead of reality shows. Remember when kids would gather around the TV, captivated by the animated wonders of A-ha or the edgy tunes of the early 90s? Those were the days when music was everything, and videos were more than just a showcase for skin. Today’s MTV feels like a far cry from what we cherished, where we celebrated artists like Chrissie Hynde and the anthems of our generation. So, here are some life lessons we, as Gen Xers, gleaned from the golden age of MTV.

1. MTV Became Our Cultural Icon

From the moment we were introduced to the Moon Man, it felt like he was one of us. Even as MTV transitioned to reality shows, that symbol of our youth remains significant. It’s our piece of history that we’ll always hold dear.

2. Chrissie Hynde: The Original Cool

The Pretenders brought us hits like “Brass in Pocket” and “Message of Love,” and Hynde’s unique style made her an icon. She showed us that coolness could come with substance.

3. Music Took Center Stage

Can you imagine Devo’s “Whip It” getting made today? Sadly, it probably wouldn’t stand a chance in today’s music landscape dominated by boy bands and formulaic hits.

4. Madonna’s Influence

Madonna taught us everything about breaking barriers in pop music. We worshipped her boldness, and she set the standard for female artists that followed.

5. Self-Expression was Key

The 80s and 90s were all about individuality. We embraced our eclectic styles, from goth to glam, and didn’t shy away from showing our true selves.

6. Fun was Serious Business

We had Cyndi Lauper belting out dance hits while also vibing with the indie sounds of The Replacements. It was all about having a blast while appreciating the depth of music.

7. Steve Perry’s Vocals

Long before “Glee” popularized Journey, we were swooning over “Open Arms” at school dances. Those powerful pipes were the soundtrack to our formative years.

8. Living on a Prayer with Bon Jovi

Bon Jovi was our rock god, and we were all in, singing along to “Livin’ on a Prayer” with all our hearts. That era of music was about dreams and resilience.

9. Nirvana: The Voice of Our Generation

As we faced the trials of adulthood, Kurt Cobain’s music defined our angst and struggle. He became the voice for those of us navigating a challenging world, and we still feel that legacy today.

For those interested in starting a family, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re looking for more about the process, this article on at-home insemination is a great read!

In summary, the original MTV shaped our identities and taught us valuable lessons about music, self-expression, and resilience. We carry those memories and influences with us, as they continue to define who we are today.