The Now That’s What I Call Music! franchise needs no introduction. For over four decades, the iconic series has been the benchmark for pop culture compilations. While the main numbered series marches forward, the label has consistently returned to the motherlode: .
The 1980s was a decade that redefined popular music, characterized by synthesized pop, energetic dance anthems, and the rise of the "12-inch single." While radio edit versions were popular, the extended remix was king in clubs and music enthusiasts' homes. captures this vibrant era, offering a 4CD compilation dedicated specifically to these extended, remixed, and dance-floor-ready versions from the 1980s.
In 2021, NOW Music expanded its legendary compilation series by diving deep into the golden era of the 12-inch single. Released across two separate four-CD volumes—the self-titled (April 2021) and NOW That’s What I Call 12" 80s: Extended (August 2021)—these collections celebrate the decade when the extended mix became an essential art form. A Collector’s Treasure Trove
Previous "Now" compilations have always focused on the 7" radio versions. is the first time the curators have fully committed to the club experience. For audiophiles and DJs, this is the Holy Grail. VA - Now That-s What I Call 12-- 80s -4CD- -202...
Older 12-inch vinyl conversions found on the internet often suffer from inner-groove distortion, clicks, and pops. The NOW Music Archive relies on pristine original master tapes, delivering crystal-clear bass and crisp high-hat transients.
Released on August 27, 2021, this was the debut 4CD set in the specialized series.
The 4CD box set is split into curated themes, tracing the lineage from cinematic synth-pop to massive US club crossovers. The Now That’s What I Call Music
To understand the importance of these compilations, one must first appreciate the cultural significance of the 12-inch single. While the 7-inch was the standard for radio, the 12-inch was the canvas for the artist and the producer.
Producers utilized the extra runtime to manipulate master tapes, construct dramatic dynamic breakdowns, and extend percussion intros. This technological playground gave rise to legendary remixers like Shep Pettibone, John "Jellybean" Benitez, and Arthur Baker. The format allowed pop acts to bridge the gap between Top 40 radio and Underground club subcultures. Disc-by-Disc Breakdown of the Compilation
: Collects pop and soundtrack hits such as Ray Parker Jr.'s "Ghostbusters (Extended Version)" and Nik Kershaw's "The Riddle". 2. Now That's What I Call 12" 80s: Remixed (February 2022) While the main numbered series marches forward, the
If you are a child of the 80s, this set is your time machine. If you are a younger listener discovering or Depeche Mode for the first time, this serves as a perfect textbook of melody and experimentation.
The first two discs focus on the British electronic avant-garde and mainstream synth-pop.