American Idol (people in their 30's need not apply)

Tonight's "American Idol" was a reminder of several things, among them the fact that one of the qualities we appreciate in our Idols is their youth. All of this year's Idol top 8 finalists were born in the 80's save one -- who was born in the 90's.

So what were these mysterious 80's that gave birth to all these Idol contestants? The answer is complicated, but if you had to explain the 80's to someone who had never been there -- a time traveller from medieval France, say, or a member of the Dani tribe -- you would do well to begin at the top: the hair. See? Here. And here.

pictured: Singer Adam Lambert (born 1982) and singer Robert Smith (born 1959, but pictured circa 1982)