The Pop Years

New Kids on the Block shoot to the top of the charts and MC Hammer impresses the world with his smooth moves.

Michael Jackson releases `Thriller' and New Order make history with `Blue Monday'.

An incredible year in pop saw Take That split and the Spice Girls arrive. The `Macarena' had everyone dancing, Babylon Zoo had their 15 minutes of fame, and Underworld had the masses shouting `Lager, lager'.

Rick Astley jostled for chart position with the Beastie Boys, and dance music changed direction forever with MARRS.

Bryan Adams hogs the number one spot and Right Said Fred are too sexy, while Massive Attack and PM Dawn provide the cool beats. Plus, Nirvana hit the big time.

Live Aid takes place; Grace Jones, Prince and Madonna make heads turn; and Jennifer Rush has the year's biggest seller with `The Power of Love'.