Editing 1981 in music (section)

===Also in 1981===
* The organ at the famous [[Heinävesi Church]] in Finland is renewed, using locks from the original organ.
* [[Alice Cooper]] drastically changes his appearance, leaving behind his trademark make-up and donning a military uniform.
* [[Synthpop]] enjoys mainstream popularity in the UK, with groups such as [[Ultravox]], [[Depeche Mode]], [[Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark]] and [[The Human League]] releasing hit singles and albums. The Human League's "[[Don't You Want Me]]" and [[Soft Cell]]'s "[[Tainted Love]]" become the years best selling singles in the UK.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.officialcharts.com/chart-news/the-official-top-50-best-selling-songs-of-1981__32604/ |title=The Official Top 50 best-selling songs of 1981 |publisher=Official Charts |date=5 March 2021 }}</ref>
* [[Menudo (band)|Menudo]]'s golden era (1981–1985) begins in Latin America, parts of Europe and Asia.
* [[Brad Whitford]] leaves [[Aerosmith]] and is replaced by [[Rick Dufay]].
* [[Hal Willner]] "invents" the modern [[tribute album]] with ''Amacord Nino Rota''.