“80’s Kind of Sad”: A Tears Are Just Glitter Song That Brings Retro Feelings With a Wink
I love it when artists takes us back in time and let us experience those beautiful memories and moments we used to have, unlike these days. Well that doesn’t mean those vibes are gone. Tears Are Just Glitter is not your normal pop act. It’s two of Sweden’s biggest songwriters teaming up with a cartoon character named Gary, who somehow manages to look better than all of us even though he isn’t real. The duo behind the project, Gustav Jonsson and Fredrik Berger, have written hits for stars like Zara Larsson, Charli XCX, Icona Pop, Hayley Kiyoko and a long list of names that make most playlists look boring.
Their new single, “80’s Kind of Sad“, is a bright, fun pop track that mixes nostalgic feelings with a good dose of humor. The idea is simple: being sad in the 80s came with ice cream in bed, colorful outfits, and dramatic singing in front of a window. According to Gary, the best part of living a shallow life is that heartbreak doesn’t hit that hard. Honestly, that might be the most relatable quote of the year.
The song leans into everything people loved about retro pop—big melodies, catchy hooks, and feelings that don’t take themselves too seriously. It’s sadness, but with glitter on top. It’s heartbreak, but with a synth that makes you want to dance while you cry. Basically, it’s the emotional version of wearing sunglasses indoors.
The story behind the project is just as entertaining. Gustav and Fredrik were in their Stockholm studio when Gary “appeared” on their screen. They decided he was perfect for their songs because he has the youth and the toned body they joke about not having anymore. So they let him be the face of the project, while they remain the brains behind it. Think of it like Gorillaz, but specifically for people who own at least one vintage windbreaker.
Everything about “80’s Kind of Sad” feels personal for them, even though it arrives through a cartoon figure. The track reflects a time when heartbreak was dramatic but somehow fun, when the radio felt like therapy, and when eating a full tub of ice cream counted as emotional work.
The single marks the start of the Tears Are Just Glitter project, and if this first release is anything to go by, Gary’s fake life is about to get very real attention. The song is catchy, colorful, and strangely comforting, even if your biggest 80s experience was watching your parents’ old VHS tapes. If you enjoy pop with personality, humor, and a touch of retro drama, “80’s Kind of Sad” is a great start. And if you’ve recently cried over someone, at least now you have a soundtrack—plus an excuse to buy ice cream.
Enjoy More From Tears Are Just Glitter here;
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