The music industry relies heavily on image and advertising, in the 80's it wasnt such a singular focus, the rub is that people may enjoy one song and then love the musician reguardless of further songs they release, that was always in effect, a single hit is what can fill the seats at a concert; the music industry needs a better buisness model, or the internet will squash it.
I agree, I like the bands of the 80-70's better, I find most of the music I listen to is composed by lessor known writers/singers, or is older, ask any kid if he heard of "Men without Hats" and feel the huh?.