Timeless 1980s Hits We Can’t Stop Playing (and Neither Should You)
Call me biased, but as an ’80s kid, I feel that younger generations are seriously missing out on good music. From pop anthems to rock ballads, these are some of the top songs that shaped the 1980s.
Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
When Michael Jackson released “Billie Jean” in 1983, it became an instant hit. The song, with its unforgettable bass line and catchy lyrics, was about a woman who claimed Jackson was the father of her child—a story that added some drama to the music world.
“Billie Jean” made Jackson an even bigger star, and his signature dance move, the moonwalk, became a worldwide sensation after he performed it on TV. This song is still a favorite to this day, and it helped push Jackson’s album “Thriller” to become the best-selling album of all time.
Like a Virgin by Madonna
Madonna was already a big name in the early ’80s, but “Like a Virgin,” released in 1984, took her to the next level. The song’s fun beat and catchy chorus, paired with her bold image and fashion choices, made Madonna a pop icon.
The music video for “Like a Virgin” was also a huge part of its success, with Madonna wearing a wedding dress and breaking boundaries with her performance. The song became a global anthem, and Madonna cemented her place as the “Queen of Pop.”
Take On Me by A-ha
The Norwegian band A-ha made waves with “Take On Me” in 1985. The song was already catchy with its upbeat melody, but what really made it stand out was the music video. It used a mix of live-action and animation to tell a love story, which was super innovative at the time.
“Take On Me” became a global hit and earned A-ha their place in music history as the ‘80s synth-pop kings. You can still hear “Take On Me” at parties and on classic hits radio today.
Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses
“Sweet Child O’ Mine” was released by Guns N’ Roses in 1987 and became a massive hit. The song starts with one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history, and the rest of the track doesn’t disappoint.
Between Axl Rose’s powerful vocals and the band’s energetic guitars, the song became a staple of ’80s rock. Its success helped launch the band into superstardom, and it remains one of their most beloved songs among fans.
Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
“Don’t Stop Believin’” was released by Journey in 1981, but it became one of the most enduring anthems of the decade. With its powerful message of hope and determination, this song spoke to a generation that was facing a lot of challenges.
The song’s catchy chorus, combined with its positive, feel-good vibe, made it a crowd favorite at concerts and on the radio. Luckily for us ’80s kids, journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” remains a recognizable song in pop culture.
Girls Just Want to Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” was released in 1983 and quickly became the anthem of women everywhere. The song, with its upbeat tune and lyrics about having fun and living life, was a great match for the ’80s vibe.
Cyndi Lauper became a symbol of individuality, and the music video for the song was full of bright colors, quirky outfits, and carefree energy that made her stand out from other pop stars.
Every Breath You Take by The Police
Released in 1983, “Every Breath You Take” by The Police was a song that seemed sweet at first but had a much darker meaning. It’s about obsession and surveillance, but the soft melody and Sting’s smooth voice made it a massive radio hit.
The song became one of the most played tracks in the ’80s and, when you’re around the right crowd, still gets a lot of attention today as one of the best pop songs of all time.
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go by Wham!
In 1984, Wham! brought a fresh and fun sound to the airwaves with “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.” With its energetic beat and upbeat lyrics, it became an instant party anthem.
George Michael’s catchy vocals and the song’s playful vibe made it a global hit. The bright, energetic video and colorful fashion choices helped define the pop aesthetic of the ’80s.
Jump by Van Halen
Van Halen’s “Jump” from 1984 was one of the most iconic songs in the rock genre during the ’80s. The song is known for its synthesizer-heavy sound, a departure from the usual guitar-driven rock at the time.
“Jump” became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100, and is still considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time. The upbeat song about seizing the moment and taking risks was perfect for the energy of the 1980s.
Thriller by Michael Jackson
No list of ’80s songs would be complete without “Thriller” by Michael Jackson. Released in 1982, “Thriller” became more than just a song—it became a cultural moment.
With its groundbreaking music video featuring zombies and Michael Jackson’s legendary dance moves, it changed how music videos were made. The song itself, with its spooky vibe and funky beat, became one of Jackson’s signature hits.
I Wanna Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston
In 1987, Whitney Houston released “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” and it instantly became a hit. The song is known for its upbeat rhythm and Houston’s powerful vocals.
It became a staple on dance floors and helped launch Whitney Houston as one of the biggest pop stars of the ’80s. The catchy tune and infectious energy made it a perfect track for dancing and celebrating life.
Under Pressure by Queen and David Bowie
“Under Pressure” is one of the most iconic collaborations of the ’80s. Released in 1981, Queen and David Bowie came together to create this powerful anthem about stress, love, and the pressure of life.
The song’s unique combination of rock and pop, along with its unforgettable bassline, made it a huge success. It continues to be a fan favorite and is considered by many to be one of the best duets in music history.
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