The best 80s songs are built on the styles from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s music, blending various genres to create timeless hits.
This era saw the rise of iconic artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Bon Jovi, who set new standards in the music industry.
Key Takeaways
- The 1980s was a diverse decade for music, blending various genres like pop, rock, and hip-hop.
- Iconic songs from the 80s continue to influence today's music scene and resonate with listeners.
- Key artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince set new standards in music and performance.
1. Michael Jackson – “Billie Jean” (1982)
One of the standout tracks from Michael Jackson’s album Thriller, “Billie Jean,” features a memorable bassline and Jackson’s signature vocal hiccups.
The song’s narrative about a fan’s false paternity claim and its revolutionary music video helped it become a cultural phenomenon​.
2. Madonna – “Like a Prayer” (1989)
Madonna pushed boundaries with “Like a Prayer,” both musically and visually.
The song’s controversial music video, which featured religious imagery, sparked debates and cemented Madonna’s status as a pop icon​.
3. Cyndi Lauper – “Time After Time” (1983)
Cyndi Lauper’s heartfelt ballad “Time After Time” became an anthem of the ’80s.
Its emotional lyrics and Lauper’s distinctive voice helped it become a timeless classic, showcasing her versatility beyond playful hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.”​
4. Bonnie Tyler – “Total Eclipse of the Heart” (1983)
With its powerful vocals and haunting melody, this dramatic ballad became a worldwide hit.
Tyler’s throaty and impassioned performance, coupled with the song’s sweeping arrangement, captured the dramatic flair of the decade and left a lasting impression on listeners.
5. Queen – “Another One Bites the Dust” (1980)
Queen kicked off the decade with this funky, bass-driven track.
“Another One Bites the Dust” showcases the band’s ability to blend rock with other genres, resulting in one of their biggest hits.
6. Bon Jovi – “Livin’ on a Prayer” (1986)
With its iconic talk box intro and anthemic chorus, “Livin’ on a Prayer” became Bon Jovi’s signature song.
The story of Tommy and Gina, two working-class heroes, resonated with listeners and turned the song into a rock staple​.
7. Eurythmics – “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” (1983)
Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart of Eurythmics created one of the most recognizable synthpop tracks of the ’80s with “Sweet Dreams.”
The song’s innovative use of synthesizers and Lennox’s striking androgynous image in the music video left a lasting impact​.
8. A-Ha – “Take On Me” (1984)
Known for its groundbreaking rotoscope animation music video, “Take On Me” by A-Ha combined catchy synth melodies with a powerful vocal performance.
The video helped the song achieve global success and remains a beloved piece of ’80s nostalgia.
9. Depeche Mode – “Just Can’t Get Enough” (1981)
This early hit from Depeche Mode is a quintessential synthpop track characterized by its upbeat tempo and infectious melody.
It marked the beginning of the band’s long and influential career​​.
10. Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five – “The Message” (1982)
“The Message” was a groundbreaking track in the evolution of hip-hop. It addressed social issues and urban struggles with a raw and honest perspective, and its influence can still be felt in the genre today​.
11. Salt-N-Pepa – “Push It” (1987)
This energetic and catchy track brought female rap to the mainstream. “Push It” became an international hit and is still a favorite at parties and dance floors​.
12. Whitney Houston – “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” (1987)
Whitney Houston’s powerhouse vocals and the song’s infectious dance beat made “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” one of the biggest hits of the ’80s.
It remains a feel-good anthem and a highlight of Houston’s illustrious career.
13. Kate Bush – “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” (1985)
Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” shows her unique talent and how she mixes profound ideas with easy-to-listen music. The song was first called “A Deal with God,” but this title caused some issues at the start.
It’s become popular again recently after being used in the Netflix series Stranger Things, helping new fans discover it.Â
14. Prince – “Purple Rain” (1984)
Prince’s Purple Rain album title track is an epic ballad that showcases his incredible musicianship and emotional depth.
The song’s live performances, especially at the Super Bowl, have become legendary.
15. The Cure – “Close to Me” (1985)
With its melancholy lyrics and upbeat brass riffs, “Close to Me” is one of The Cure’s standout tracks.
The song’s unique sound and Robert Smith’s introspective lyrics made it a defining moment for the band.
16. B-52’s – “Love Shack” (1989)
“Love Shack” is a quirky, fun track that became an instant party anthem.
The B-52s created a timeless hit with the song’s infectious beat and playful lyrics, ensuring it remains a favorite at gatherings and events.
17. Rick James – “Super Freak” (1981)
Known for its funky groove and memorable chorus, “Super Freak” by Rick James became an iconic ’80s track.
Its influence extended beyond the decade, famously sampled by MC Hammer in “U Can’t Touch This.”
18. Chaka Khan – “Ain’t Nobody” (1983)
This R&B classic showcases Chaka Khan’s powerful vocals and the song’s smooth, catchy rhythm. “Ain’t Nobody” remains a beloved track, often covered and sampled by other artists. Its timeless appeal and Khan’s dynamic performance have ensured its place as one of the standout songs of the 1980s.
19. Tears for Fears – “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” (1985)
This synthpop anthem by Tears for Fears captures the essence of ’80s music with its thoughtful lyrics and catchy melody.
The song’s introspective take on power and control and its memorable hooks made it a global hit.
20. George Michael – “Faith” (1987)
“Faith” marked George Michael’s transition to a solo artist with its iconic guitar riff and infectious beat.
The song’s blend of rock and pop elements, along with Michael’s charismatic performance, cemented its place as a quintessential ’80s track.
Relive the Best of ’80s Music!
The 1980s gifted us with some of music history’s most memorable and influential songs that continue to influence artists to this day.
Why not take a trip down memory lane and rediscover these classics? Whether you’re planning a nostalgic party or simply want to experience the magic of the ’80s again, this curated playlist will transport you back in time Marty McFly style!
Embrace the rhythms, stories, and emotions of an era that changed music forever. Create your ultimate ’80s playlist and let the decade’s music inspire and entertain you.
