1987 in British Music

The Story of 1987

British pop went house, and acid house culture began its takeover. The first summer of love in a decade saw house music flood into the UK from Chicago and Detroit, transforming British club culture. M/A/R/R/S' 'Pump Up the Volume' was a landmark – a sample-heavy dance track that was number one for two weeks. Steve 'Silk' Hurley's 'Jack Your Body' was the first house number one. Rick Astley's 'Never Gonna Give You Up' was the year's biggest seller – pure pop perfection from the Stock Aitken Waterman hit factory. The Pet Shop Boys released 'Actually', including 'It's a Sin' and 'What Have I Done to Deserve This?' with Dusty Springfield. George Michael's 'Faith' album made him a global superstar. U2's 'The Joshua Tree' was everywhere. Def Leppard's 'Hysteria' was hard rock's blockbuster. But the most significant development was happening in the clubs: the Hacienda in Manchester, the Shoom in London. Acid house was illegal warehouse parties, the smiley face logo, Ecstasy and the birth of rave culture. The government was alarmed. The kids were delighted. British dance music was born.