The BRITs 1988

The last BPI Awards show (as they had become known) took place at the Albert Hall and was the first prime-time TV event. Live performances came from the Bee Gees and Bananarama (together with an unforgettable troupe of scantily clad male dancers) while the “special” duet concept was introduced when The Pet Shop Boys stepped out with Dusty Springfield. Winners included George Michael, Sting, U2 and new sensation Rick Astley who collected the Best British Single award, a moment missed by TV viewers as it was cut from the show to allow Outstanding Contribution winners The Who to finish their set.