Part of the 80s Music Chart Challenge archive — 2,800+ curated trivia questions and growing daily.
This September 15, 2026 archive holds 7 chart-history questions pulled from the heart of the 1980s. Along the way topics range across Collaborations, Debut Albums, and Producers. The set is weighted across 3 moderate, 3 hard, and 1 expert questions. Questions here touch on John Mellencamp and Pointer Sisters, among others. The run rewards steady chart knowledge as the questions grow tougher toward the end. Every entry is tied to a documented Billboard chart run rather than fan lore. Browse the answers and notes to see how each chart fact fits into the wider decade.
This archive page preserves the daily quiz as published, with answers and explanations included.
"You’re the Inspiration" by Chicago appeared on which 1984 Chicago album?
"You’re the Inspiration" was one of the major hits from Chicago's album "Chicago 17," released in 1984.
“The Girl Is Mine” used a duet format to pair two major pop songwriters and performers within an early-1980s crossover setting. Which performing-artist credit matches the single?
"The Girl Is Mine" was a duet between Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney, combining their pop appeal for the early 80s.
“Truly” by Lionel Richie was the lead single from which album?
“Truly” was the lead single from Lionel Richie’s self-titled solo debut album released in 1982.
The track "A Penny For Your Thoughts," written by Kenny Nolan, was recorded by which veteran R&B vocal group?
Tavares recorded the smooth R&B ballad 'A Penny For Your Thoughts,' penned by Kenny Nolan.
The Pointer Sisters' "Freedom" was released on Planet Records, a label founded by which influential producer?
Richard Perry founded Planet Records, the label under which the Pointer Sisters issued the single "Freedom."
Which heavy metal band released "Hide Your Heart" in 1989, a song simultaneously recorded by Bonnie Tyler, Molly Hatchet, and Robin Beck?
Kiss's "Hide Your Heart" was uniquely recorded by multiple artists simultaneously, including Bonnie Tyler and Molly Hatchet.
During the recording of "Jack And Diane," the extended bridge section with only handclaps and solo vocals (no drums) was suggested by which uncredited British guitarist and arranger?
Mick Ronson proposed dropping the drum track in the bridge of "Jack And Diane" to emphasize intimacy, adding a memorable dynamic shift to the song.