Ah, the ’80s. Who doesn’t love that era? It was a time when Michael Jackson was (relatively) normal-lookin’, big hair and acid-washed jeans were “”in”” and, of course, the music was great. No one can deny that the ’80’s produced some of the best music around — New Order, The Cure, Culture Club, Depeche Mode; the list goes on and on. Eighties music provides some of the best dance around, and everyone should experience it at least once. Tainted Love is the party that the DJs and Vinylphiles Club will be hosting at the Stage at Porter’s Pub on Feb. 21.

For those who don’t know, the DJs and Vinylphiles Club was created as a resource for those on campus interested in electronic music and the forms of expression that come with it. The members deejay for other events and organizations on campus to help raise money for the club and its events.

So, why an ’80s event? What is it about songs like “”Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”” that make you just want to get up and dance?

A lot of the appeal of ’80s music comes from the nostalgia. The ’80s remind many of their childhood — it’s the music you would always hear playing on the radio when you were growing up. The beats make it easy to dance to and no matter what the lyrics may be, the music comes across as happy and upbeat. Overall, it’s an enjoyable genre. Tainted Love will feature ’80s music, as well as trance and techno remixes of it. In addition, there will be the familiar dance genres including house, techno, happy hardcore and electro, among others.

But music is only part of the equation. Along with the dancing, there will also be a costume party — a chance for everyone to bust out the super tight mini’s, lacy gloves with no fingers, and pile the hair spray on till your hair stands 5 feet tall. So don’t think looking like a fool will go in vain — prizes will be awarded to those with the best costumes. Gift certificates and old ’80s vinyl will be among the prizes.

So feather your hair and dust off the Elton John glasses you know you have hidden in the back of your closet, and be sure to make it to Tainted Love, the ’80s party hosted by the DVC on Feb. 21 from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. There’s no cover charge for UCSD students with a school ID.