Wish You Were Still Here: The Fate of 80s Holiday Pop One-Hit Wonders
Remember those catchy Europop tunes you heard on your summer vacations? We explore what happened to the artists behind them.
The Rise of Package Holiday Pop
Before online booking, travel agents ruled. Thomson Holidays revolutionized the industry with the first computerised booking system in 1982. This also meant that travelling Brits brought back more than just souvenirs... they brought back the *sounds* of their holidays.
From Obscurity to Instant Fame
Acts like Opus, Baltimora, and Nena exploded onto the UK music scene after their songs were discovered during summer breaks. Their Europop anthems became instant classics, defining a generation of holidaymakers.
Whatever Happened to...?
Despite achieving massive success, many of these artists faded from the spotlight. But according to The Guardian article, they aren't bitter about their brief brush with fame.
Legacy of 80s Pop
The impact of 80s pop from different countries can still be felt today. Many popular tracks can be found on Spotify to relive the fun.
Published July 11, 2025 by The Guardian
