Part of the 80s Music Chart Challenge archive — 2,800+ curated trivia questions and growing daily.
This September 28, 2026 archive holds 7 chart-history questions pulled from the heart of the 1980s. The difficulty breaks down into 3 moderate, 3 hard, and 1 expert questions. The themes reach into New Wave, Collaborations, and Producers. Names such as The Alan Parsons Project, Yaz, and Patti Austin & James Ingram appear among the featured acts. Stylistically it moves between synth-pop, R&B, and rock. In total the set spans 7 different acts from the decade. Work through it however you like — the reasoning behind every answer is laid out in the notes.
This archive page preserves the daily quiz as published, with answers and explanations included.
Which artist used the Fairlight CMI digital sampler and a brass section from The Police's touring band to create the rhythmic texture of "Big Time"?
Peter Gabriel employed the Fairlight CMI sampler and brass players from The Police’s band for the complex rhythms in "Big Time."
Patti Austin’s duet with James Ingram, “Baby, Come To Me,” is part of Quincy Jones’ adult-R&B production world. Who produced the single?
Quincy Jones was the producer behind "Baby, Come To Me," fitting the adult-R&B polished production style associated with Qwest Records.
Which artist’s mid-1980s recordings, including the hit "Kiss," were closely associated with Minneapolis studio innovation and collaboration with The Revolution?
Prince was central to the Minneapolis sound, innovating studio techniques and collaborating with his band The Revolution during the mid-1980s, including the hit single "Kiss."
The Alan Parsons Project's 1984 song 'Don't Answer Me' appears on which album?
'Don't Answer Me' was featured on 'Ammonia Avenue,' showcasing the band's signature blend of progressive and pop rock.
Which producers are credited for Yaz’s synth-pop single “Situation,” built around sequencers and electronic programming?
Vince Clarke, along with Eric Radcliffe and Daniel Miller, crafted the iconic electronic production that defined Yaz's synth-pop style on “Situation.”
Dire Straits’ “Money for Nothing” features a distinctive guitar tone achieved through what production approach?
Mark Knopfler’s iconic guitar sound on "Money for Nothing" was created using innovative mic placement and digital effects.
Who produced Eddie Money's 1982 single "Think I’m In Love" and who is credited as the writer?
The song was produced by Tom Dowd with Eddie Money himself credited as the sole writer, maintaining creative control.