The Best '80s Synth Songs, Ranked
1Blue Monday
New OrderReleased in 1983 by British band New Order, "Blue Monday" struck a chord in a generation confronting the industrial decline with its blend of rigid drum machine beats, haunting synthesizers, and somber lyrics. Widely acclaimed as a defining moment of electronic music, the record went on to become the best-selling 12-inch single of all time. Today, it remains a shining example of innovative songwriting and production in popular music.
2Soft CellSoft Cell's dancefloor anthem, "Tainted Love," melds synth-pop sensibilities with the heartache of a tumultuous romance. This compelling 1981 cover of Ed Cobb's 1964 composition garnered widespread acclaim, ensuring the duo's place in the pantheon of iconic 80s artists. Its resonance in contemporary pop culture stands as a testament to the pure emotional intensity that burns within this unforgettable track.
3EurythmicsWith its enigmatic lyrics, hypnotic synth riffs, and seductive chorus, "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" embraced the spirit of the 80s as a transcendent anthem of ambition and empowerment. Eurythmics' masterful combination of electronic pop and soul exposed the world to Annie Lennox's trademark androgynous style. This unforgettable hit confidently stands the test of time as a formative influence in generations of electropop artists.
4Pet Shop BoysThe synth-pop masterpiece by the British duo Pet Shop Boys was released in 1984 and later re-recorded for their debut album Please in 1986. This iconic track, featuring catchy hooks and thought-provoking lyrics about class struggles and urban life, catapulted Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe to international stardom, even earning them the prestigious BRIT Award for Best Single. Today, "West End Girls" continues to be celebrated as an emblematic anthem of the '80s that perfectly encapsulates the decade's music scene while still resonating with listeners who appreciate its timeless appeal.
5Take On Me
a-haThe iconic 1980s synth-pop song by Norwegian band A-ha is a perfect blend of catchy melodies and innovative music video artistry. Released in 1984 as part of their debut album Hunting High and Low, this contagious tune skyrocketed to the top charts worldwide with its unforgettable high-pitched chorus and groundbreaking rotoscope animation in the accompanying music video. Revered as a timeless classic, "Take On Me" still captivates audiences today with its infectious energy that transcends generations - proving that some songs simply never go out of style.
6Don't You Want Me
The Human LeagueThe Human League's "Don't You Want Me" weaves a tale of romantic miscommunication wrapped in irresistibly catchy synths and a vibrant hook. A quintessential element of 1980s party playlists, this classic track clinched the top spot on the UK Singles Chart in 1981. It still inspires celebration and nostalgia from audiences familiar with the infectious energy of the New Romantic scene.
7Depeche ModeBefore achieving widespread fame, Depeche Mode gifted the world with the infectiously catchy, "Just Can't Get Enough." This bright and uplifting track, featured on their debut album Speak & Spell, showcases 80s synth-pop at its finest. By sticking to their electronic roots, this seminal tune placed the band on a path to long-lasting success, still resonating on today’s dancefloors decades later.
8Cars
Gary NumanGary Numan's trailblazing electro-pop anthem, "Cars," signaled the dawn of the synth-driven 1980s era. The single showcases Numan's ingenious songwriting and innovative use of synthesizers, which became the foundation for the British New Wave movement. Its enduring influence remains a constant in contemporary music, inspiring countless artists and continuing to captivate listeners.
9A Flock of SeagullsEnglish New Wave band A Flock of Seagulls delivered their biggest hit with "I Ran (So Far Away)." The song captures the beguiling essence of the 1980s with its glossy synthesizers, addictive chorus, and futuristic guitars. This iconic track now evokes bittersweet nostalgia while appearing in countless retro playlists and TV shows.
10Only You
YazooYazoo's debut single, "Only You," remains a poignant, timeless ballad, with Vince Clarke's melancholic synths and Alison Moyet's powerful vocals merging to form the perfect soundtrack for heartache. The 80s saw the rise of synth-pop duos, and "Only You" exemplified the endless possibilities of this genre. Today, this classic endures in romantic moments, proving the potency of a simple, emotive melody.
11Depeche ModeAn anthem for capitalism's disillusioned children, Depeche Mode's "Everything Counts" pointedly critiqued corporate greed with glistening synths and powerful storytelling. As the lead single from their third album Construction Time Again, the song topped charts and became a beloved classic of 80s synth-pop with its socially conscious vision. This track's poignant messages remain faithfully significant in today's ever-changing global landscape.
12Depeche ModeDepeche Mode's critical eye focused on social and racial injustices in their timeless track, "People Are People." An irresistible fusion of New Wave and synth-pop, this song demonstrates the band's ability to create infectious melodies underscored by poignant subject matter. "People Are People" continues to hold relevance in both its plea for understanding and its indelible sonic legacy.
13Tears for FearsPinpointing the unease and frustration of 1980s youth, Tears for Fears' "Mad World" conveyed a distinct sense of isolation through haunting piano lines and poignant lyrics. The track's evocative soundscape resonated deeply with listeners upon its release, solidifying its place in the annals of New Wave music. In later years, a stripped-down cover by Michael Andrews and Gary Jules introduced this enigmatic classic to new generations.
14Smalltown Boy
Bronski BeatBronski Beat's "Smalltown Boy" resonated with a generation grappling with societal expectations, illuminated by Jimmy Somerville's distinctive falsetto and stirring synthpop backing. A masterful depiction of the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ youth, this groundbreaking track became an anthem for tolerance and acceptance. Years later, the profound impact of "Smalltown Boy" is still felt in popular culture, continuing to inspire many.
15New OrderGuided by the vision of New Order, "Bizarre Love Triangle" mesmerized audiences with its shimmering synthesizers and soaring melodies. Balancing romance and introspection, the song became a staple of 1980s dance floor culture. Its unabated popularity ensures this stunning track is still a mainstay on playlists celebrating the era.
16Orchestral Manoeuvres in the DarkOrchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD) struck a balance between politics and pop with their eerily evocative "Enola Gay." Ignited by a punchy bassline and urgent synths, this thought-provoking hit broached delicate themes and stuck in the minds of countless 80s listeners. Today, the song endures as a vital touchstone of early synth-pop and a daring exploration of difficult subject matter.
17Vienna
UltravoxUltravox's "Vienna" is a haunting masterpiece draped in grandiose synths and melancholic strings, portraying the beauty and disquiet of a bygone Europe. The song's alluring combination of electronic landscapes and classical influences makes it timeless in popular music history. The track's enduring relevance is a testament to Ultravox's talent for crafting evocative and emotionally charged pieces of art.
18DevoDevo's irresistibly catchy "Whip It" is replete with quirky synths and an infectious rhythm that propelled the band into the mainstream. This emblematic 80s new wave hit became synonymous with the decade's peculiar fashions, immortalizing the red "energy dome" hats. "Whip It" remains an enduring homage to the kitschy energy that defines the 80s.
19Frankie Goes to HollywoodInstantly iconic and irresistibly provocative, Frankie Goes to Hollywood's "Relax" fueled the hedonistic pulse of the 1980s. The song's driving beats, daring lyrics, and bold vocals created an inescapable dancefloor classic, but its controversial nature also sparked censorship battles. Despite these challenges, "Relax" endures as a symbol of thrilling rebellion and a reminder of when pop could genuinely shock and awe.
20Situation
YazooCombining sultry electro-funk grooves with Alison Moyet's powerful and emotive voice, Yazoo's "Situation" deftly showcases the duo's undeniable talent. This dancefloor-filling anthem surged in popularity during the 80s and remains an essential inclusion in any classic synth-pop playlist. Today, its addictive hooks and groovy synths continue to captivate and inspire.
21VisageVisage's "Fade to Grey" weaves together a captivating blend of sleek synthesizers, mesmerizing melodies, and melancholic lyrics, epitomizing the very essence of New Romanticism. The song's ethereal atmosphere and enigmatic allure ensconcede it as a defining artwork of 1980s popular music. Its timeless appeal can still be found in numerous playlists and DJ sets, a testament to its enduring impact on the New Romantic movement.
22Shake The Disease
An exploration of emotional turmoil tinged by melancholic synths, Depeche Mode's "Shake the Disease" unveils the vulnerability beneath the band's dance-oriented exterior. This exemplary track stands as the epitome of 80s brooding introspection. As a piece of the soundtrack for alternative youth, it continues to be revered in today’s musical lexicon.
23Kim Wilde, Menudo, Charlotte HatherleyBursting with irrepressible energy and youthful abandon, Kim Wilde's "Kids in America" solidified its place as one of the most enduring hits of the 80s. This pop-punk anthem took the world by storm with its catchy hooks and vibrant spirit, perfectly capturing the essence of teenage revolution. Decades later, "Kids in America" continues to fuel the restless hearts of listeners – a time-honored classic.
24Love Will Tear Us Apart
Joy Division's "Love Will Tear Us Apart" is an enduring monument to the fragility of love and the power of vulnerability, encased in a post-punk tapestry. Sparked by Ian Curtis's haunting vocals and brooding lyrics, this melancholic anthem resonates deeply with listeners and stands as a defining moment for the band. Despite its release in 1980, the song remains a touchstone of alternative music, transcending time and space.
25Pet Shop BoysThe Pet Shop Boys' provocative single, "It's a Sin," remains an iconic representation of the duo's dancefloor-ready synth-pop sound. A defiant exploration of religious guilt and the feel-good anthems of the 80s, this track skyrocketed to fame, solidifying its grip on pop culture. Its vivacity and relevance remain well and alive, as "It's a Sin" proves its worth as one of the most memorable songs of the decade.
26Peter SchillingBy charting an interstellar sonic journey with "Major Tom (Coming Home)," Peter Schilling crafted a pulsing electronic anthem as mesmerizing as the boundless cosmos. This 80s classic pays homage to David Bowie's iconic character and weaves an unforgettable narrative hinged upon cinematic melodies. "Major Tom" endures as an evocative dreamscape, transporting listeners to the vast reaches of both space and time.
27Electricity
Bold, innovative, and brimming with youthful fervor, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark's "Electricity" injects a surge of kinetic energy into the budding 80s synth-pop landscape. The song's novel use of electronic sounds and poignant lyrics carve an indelible spot in the hearts of those who long for raw emotion encased in a synthesized melody. As one of OMD's defining works, "Electricity" remains a landmark contribution to popular music.
28UltravoxUltravox's cinematic ballad, "Dancing with Tears in My Eyes," evokes the beauty of vulnerability amidst chaos with its lush synths and emotional storytelling. The song struck an emotional chord upon its release, becoming a lasting classic among 80s music lovers. Today, the track remains a shining example of emotive synth-pop that transports listeners to a world of reflection and hope.
29Madonna
30Computer Love
KraftwerkA futuristic ballad for the tech-savvy, Kraftwerk's "Computer Love" captures the essence of digital romance within its pulsing electronic textures. The song's innovative use of synthetic vocals and the marriage of heartfelt emotion with technology solidified its standing in the lexicon of electronic music. Today, "Computer Love" resonates as an eerily prophetic anthem in our technology-driven world.
31A Flock of SeagullsWith cascading synths, hypnotic rhythms, and yearning lyrics, A Flock of Seagulls' "Space Age Love Song" captures the romantic side of 80s new wave. The dreamlike tune carved its place in the hearts of fans seeking amorous adventure set to the ethereal sounds of a futuristic landscape. Its endlessly enchanting melody still captivates listeners today, proving that love conquers all, even the space-time continuum.
32Send Me An Angel
Real Life's "Send Me An Angel" melds atmospheric synths with impassioned vocals and yearning lyrics, encapsulating the hope and vulnerability that defined 80s synth-pop. Its captivating sound and dreamlike aura propelled it into the charts, making it a quintessential hit of the era. This classic endures, standing the test of time as a beloved piece of 80s pop history.
33Let Me Go
Heaven 17's stirring synth-pop classic, "Let Me Go," captures the emotional turmoil of unrequited love within its driving electronic beats and anthemic chorus. As one of the prominent bands defining the British New Wave movement, Heaven 17 ensured their enduring relevance with this soulful and poetic track that still holds a special place in the hearts of 80s music lovers.
![Always on My Mind [by The Petshop Boys]](https://imgix.ranker.com/img/app/noImage.svg?fit=crop&q=60&dpr=4&w=90&h=90)
34Always on My Mind [by The Petshop Boys]
35Strangelove
Depeche ModeIn their synth-pop classic "Strangelove," Depeche Mode delves into the dark complexities of love and desire, proving the electrifying potential of the genre for emotional storytelling. "Strangelove" stands as a testament to the band's mastery of crafting seductive melodies encased in a brooding, danceable atmosphere. The song still captures the interest of those who long to explore the darker side of 1980s pop.
36Wouldn't It Be Good
Infused with yearning lyrics and uplifting melodies, Nik Kershaw's "Wouldn't It Be Good" serves as an impassioned plea for understanding. A defining song in the 80s pop canon, it evokes a sense of empathy that endures through the years. The track's persistent appeal ensures it remains beloved in the hearts of those who discovered it - then and now.
37Get the Balance Right
With infectious synth melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, Depeche Mode's "Get the Balance Right" implores listeners to find harmony in life. Released in 1983, this electropop gem from their Construction Time Again album managed to capture the hearts of fans seeking balance during turbulent times. Its place as an everlasting fan-favorite makes it a precious entry in the 80s pop archives.
38AlphavilleAwash in a fusion of synth-pop and new wave, Alphaville's "Big in Japan" captured the imagination of 80s listeners with its enigmatic storytelling and entrancing instrumentals. The song's pop culture impact was both immediate and enduring, solidifying Alphaville's place as a key player in the synth-pop pantheon. This fascinating track remains an iconic ode to both cultural curiosity and the allure of the East.
39Depeche ModeDepeche Mode's introspective anthem, "Never Let Me Down Again," unveils a raw vulnerability through its intricate tapestry of synths and haunting lyrics. A standout track on their Music for the Masses album, this song solidified Depeche Mode's reign as pioneers of electronic music. Its enduring connection with fans cements "Never Let Me Down Again" as a timeless masterpiece.
40The Number One Song in Heaven
Sparks
41New OrderConjuring a sense of exquisite longing, New Order's "The Perfect Kiss" remains an achingly beautiful synthesis of nostalgia, hope, and post-punk sensibilities. Its intricate electronic rhythms and poignant lyrics have rendered it an instant classic upon release. To this day, the distinct melancholic allure of "The Perfect Kiss" ensures its place on playlists celebrating 80s alternative music.
- 42
Down in the Park [Gary Numan]
43Quiet Life
Japan
44Howard JonesBursting onto the scene with unwavering enthusiasm, Howard Jones's debut single, "New Song," illustrates the power of individuality and self-expression. The synth-driven dance-pop anthem found its footing in the 80s, celebrating optimism and perseverance in an era of uncertainty. Jones's infectious energy continues to fuel listeners, making "New Song" a stalwart of the decade's eclectic sounds.
45Chains of Love
ErasureHaunted by echoes of unrequited love, Erasure's "Chains of Love" cleverly weaves a hypnotic mixture of dance beats and poignant sentimentality. Released as part of the duo's breakthrough The Innocents album, this 80s synth-pop gem melds Vince Clarke's electronic prowess with Andy Bell's soaring, emotive vocals. Today, "Chains of Love" remains a timeless heartache remedy and a living testament to Erasure's undeniable influence on modern electronic music.
46See You
Depeche ModeAs an exploration of youthful heartache drenched in rich synths, Depeche Mode's "See You" maintains its status as an emblem of the 80s electro-pop wave. The song's relatable lyrics and upbeat tempo endear it to audiences still connecting with the vulnerability of young love. Its timeless resonance secures "See You" as an emotional touchstone in the hearts of many.
47When In Rome
48Thomas DolbyA memorable fusion of quirky electronic beats and spoken word interludes, Thomas Dolby's "She Blinded Me With Science" remains an unequivocal testament to 80s whimsy and innovation. Through the unforgettable chorus and the incorporation of a scientific lexicon, this iconic song broke new ground while taking pop music to intellectual heights. Decades later, "She Blinded Me With Science" still sparks enthusiasm among fans, proving its lasting impact as a colorful, synaptic stimulant.
49Depeche Mode
50Yello
51Being Boiled
The Human League's enigmatic and trailblazing debut, "Being Boiled," marked the dawning of a new era in electronic music. This avant-garde masterpiece signaled the rise of 80s synth-pop experimentation, making an indelible impression on the popular music landscape. Today, "Being Boiled" still retains its sonic potency and mystique, a haunting reminder of the decade's daring spirit.
52Harold Faltermeyer, Star Inc., Bob Russell
53KraftwerkKraftwerk's "Pocket Calculator" is an early techno-infused tune that meshes whimsical lyrics with addictive bleeps and bloops. This playful homage to technology, released on their Computer World album, embraces the promise of a digital age and astutely predicts the rise of electronic dance music. As the world shifts inevitably toward a tech-dominated future, "Pocket Calculator" endures as a quirky testament to the ingenuity that sparked it all.
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Da Da Da [by Trio]
55Sub-Culture
New OrderNew Order's "Sub-Culture" transports listeners to the underground world of 80s counterculture with its immersive synths and atmospheric beats. This subtle anthem, buried within their Low-Life album, stands as a powerful example of the genius behind the band's music, captivating fans with its evocative soundscapes. While not as widely recognized as their other hits, "Sub-Culture" remains a beloved gem in the alternative 80s scene.
56Erasure
57Victim of Love
Erasure
58Michael JacksonBillie Jean is a musical recording by Michael Jackson.
59Duran Duran- 60Howard Jones
