"If I Could Turn Back Time"

Performance DBQs:

1. What emotions or feelings is Cher expressing in the song's narrative? For what and for whom?

2. Many critics at the time claimed that the music video was too sexual or inappropriate. How did Cher's stylistic choices (such as fashion, movement, and visuals) in the music video clash with the conservatism of the 1980s? 

3. Pulling from this music video only, how did Cher reinvent herself as a musician in the 1980s, compared to the music she released in the 1970s, such as "Half-Breed" and "Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves?"

Excerpt DBQs:

1. At the time of the release of "If I Could Turn Back Time," Cher had 20 years of experience in the music industry. Why did Cher transition into rock music for her "third comeback?"

2. What did Cher pursue outside of music in the early 1980s? Why did people criticize her for pursuing it?

3. Cher felt compelled to reinvent herself during this era of American music. Do you find that female musicians still do that today? Why or why not?

Article DBQs:

1.  What does the article's author claim was the goal of the tour? Did the author believe this goal was accomplished?

2. Why does the author reference John Mellencamp when discussing Cher and her career? To what does this claim allude about female musicians?

3. Even in her 70s, Cher continues to take risks to stay relevant in the industry. Does the author believe that Cher's nostalgia tour (or eras tour, in other words) was a good risk to take? Why or why not?