What happens when the soundtrack of the 1980s comes roaring back to life with big vocals, big energy, and a whole lot of heart?
In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul is joined by GenX Book Club co-host Suzanne Mattaboni for a lively conversation with Rob and Lisa of Rubixx, one of the country's premier 80s tribute bands. Together, they dive into what makes 80s music so unforgettable, how Rubixx creates a full-on experience rather than just a performance, and why the songs of that decade still bring people together across generations.
Rob and Lisa share the origin story of the band, how they build their setlists to keep audiences singing and dancing, and the fun behind the costumes, visuals, movie-theme medleys, duets, and onstage chemistry that make a Rubixx show feel like a time machine with amplifiers.
The conversation also explores the magic of MTV, the power of 80s soundtracks, the wide range of genres that defined the decade, and the challenge of performing these iconic songs live while keeping their energy intact. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, and a clear love for the music that shaped a generation.
Whether you were raised on synth-pop, power ballads, movie anthems, freestyle, new wave, or arena rock, this episode is a celebration of the music, memories, and community that still make the 80s hit hard today.
In this episode:
- How Rubixx came together and evolved into the band it is today
- Why 80s music still resonates so deeply with audiences
- The art of creating a full visual and musical experience on stage
- Favorite crowd-pleasers, duets, and movie-theme moments
- The influence of MTV on music, fashion, and identity
- Songs that are tougher to perform than they sound
- Why authenticity, camaraderie, and zero ego matter in a live band
- Upcoming shows and where to find Rubixx online
If you love 80s music, live performance, and stories about people keeping the spirit of a generation alive, this one is for you.
Connect with Rubixx
π₯ TikTok: @RubixxBand
π· Instagram: RubixxBand
π Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rubixxband
πΊ YouTube: @RubixxBand
More from the
GenX Book Club Crew
π Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) πΉ Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com πΉ Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com πΉ Follow Suzanne:
- π· Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s
- π¦ X: @suzmattaboni
- π Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni
ποΈ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) πΉ Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes πΉ Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page
π‘ Connect with
GenX Journeys π Website: GenXJourneys.net π© Email: [email protected] πΊ YouTube: @GenXJourneys π· Instagram: @GenXJourneys π¦ Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s π Facebook: GenX Journeys π₯ TikTok: @GenXJourneys
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π‘ Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes.
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