The Best '80s Pop Songs, Ranked
Michael Jackson's invigorating anthem, "Beat It," combines a driving beat, blistering guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, and empowering lyrics to create an unstoppable force in 80s pop culture. As a stand-out track from the unprecedentedly successful album Thriller, "Beat It" transcended musical boundaries, uniting pop and rock listeners alike. Today, this electrifying song remains a testament to the King of Pop's undeniable impact on music history.
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Michael Jackson's legendary opus, "Thriller," enthralls listeners with its ominous synth lines, infectious dance beats, and masterful storytelling. Culminating in an iconic music video forever etched into pop culture, this quintessential 80s track exemplifies creative innovation and unparalleled artistic vision. Decades later, "Thriller" continues to lure new generations into its spine-chilling world, proving to be an unyielding masterpiece.
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3Take On Me
"Take On Me," the iconic 1980s synth-pop anthem by Norwegian band A-ha, is a high-energy love song that captures the essence of youthful passion and adventure. Propelled to international stardom with its groundbreaking rotoscope-animated music video, this catchy tune still resonates today as an emblematic representation of the decade's distinctive sound and visual style. With Morten Harket's soaring falsetto, infectious melodies, and an unforgettable chorus that begs for sing-alongs, "Take On Me" remains a beloved classic in both the hearts of nostalgic fans and new generations discovering its timeless charm.
Journey's anthemic power ballad, "Don't Stop Believin'," emboldens listeners with its soaring vocals, unforgettable guitar riffs, and a message of resilience. An undeniable staple of the 80s, the song resonated with audiences seeking inspiration and hope amidst life's uncertainties. Today, "Don't Stop Believin'" persists as a cultural touchstone, instilling tenacity and optimism in the hearts of millions.
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With its irresistible melody and thought-provoking lyrics, Tears for Fears' "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" captures the zeitgeist of a generation grappling with power and ambition. Released during an era of rapid change and global tension, this 80s classic endures as a reminder of humanity's collective aspirations. The song's message still resonates, making it a timeless favorite as we navigate an increasingly complex world.
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6Africa
Toto's "Africa" envelops listeners in a lush, evocative soundscape, masterfully fusing ethereal harmonies and earthy rhythms. As an enigmatic tribute to a distant continent, the song quickly became an irresistible 80s favorite. Its resurgence in contemporary pop culture further cements "Africa" as a timeless treasure cherished by fans across generations.
Queen's pulsating groove and indomitable energy in "Another One Bites the Dust" introduced a timeless anthem to the world, blending rock and funk elements. The track's unforgettable bassline, catchy chorus, and Freddie Mercury's mesmerizing vocals propelled the song to the top of the charts. Today, "Another One Bites The Dust" remains a beloved classic, evoking nostalgia and demonstrating Queen's enduring impact on popular music.
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"Time After Time" is a timeless classic from the 1980s, beautifully crafted by the talented Cyndi Lauper and Rob Hyman. With its poignant lyrics, heartfelt melody, and Lauper's distinctively emotive voice, it captivated listeners upon release in 1984 and still resonates with audiences today. This enchanting ballad propelled her album She's So Unusual to multi-platinum status and solidified Cyndi Lauper as one of the most iconic artists of that era.
Bon Jovi's soaring anthem, "Livin' On A Prayer," delivers an electrifying mix of hard rock and heartfelt storytelling, chronicling the struggles and dreams of a young couple. This iconic 80s track became synonymous with the power ballad genre, cementing Bon Jovi's place in rock history. Decades later, "Livin' On A Prayer" continues to energize audiences, inspiring hope and perseverance in the face of life's challenges.
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Simple Minds' signature tune, "Don't You (Forget About Me)," stands tall as an unforgettable anthem for 80s youth, transcending both time and genre. Best known for its association with the iconic film The Breakfast Club, this stirring song has become an enduring emblem of teenage rebellion and unity. Its timeless resonance inspires fans old and new, granting "Don't You (Forget About Me)" a permanent place in the pop canon.
"Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" is a hypnotic, synth-driven anthem that defined the electrifying sound of the 1980s. Released in 1983 by British duo Eurythmics, this iconic track features Annie Lennox's haunting vocals and Dave Stewart's pulsating synths, creating an irresistible earworm that still resonates with audiences today. As one of the most memorable tracks from their breakthrough album of the same name, "Sweet Dreams" catapulted Eurythmics into international stardom and remains a timeless classic in both pop culture and music history.
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12Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
As a vibrant declaration of independence and joy, Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" heralded the arrival of a pop icon, and a rallying cry for women everywhere. This jubilant tune became a defining hit of the decade, encapsulating the unbridled spirit and style of the 80s. Today, this timeless anthem resonates with generations of fans who cherish its message of self-expression and empowerment.
13Every Breath You Take
At once haunting and tender, The Police's "Every Breath You Take" captivated listeners with its alluring melody, poetic lyrics, and iconic guitar riff. As one of the best-selling singles of the 80s, this mesmerizing ballad solidified the band's status as new wave legends. To this day, "Every Breath You Take" retains its power as both a beautifully crafted love song and a cautionary tale.
The enigmatic opening drum beat and haunting vocals of Phil Collins' "In the Air Tonight" drew listeners into its mysterious confessional. As a seminal 80s hit, this song's evocative lyrics and atmospheric synths continue to enthrall fans, making it a standout track in Collins' expansive catalog. Its lasting impact is evident in its embrace by contemporary musicians, perpetuating its status as a timeless classic.
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"Tainted Love," the pulsating 1980s synth-pop hit by British duo Soft Cell, captured hearts with its infectious rhythm and relatable tale of unrequited love. The song's hypnotic beat and Marc Almond's impassioned vocals propelled it to become one of the defining tracks of the era, transcending time as a dance floor staple even today. A testament to its enduring appeal, "Tainted Love" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but none can quite match the magnetic charm of Soft Cell's iconic rendition.
16Careless Whisper
Laced with heartache and delivered with sultry passion, George Michael's "Careless Whisper" solidified its enduring appeal with its sweeping saxophone melody and intimate storytelling. Released as a solo single, this 80s ballad demonstrated Michael's ability to captivate audiences with his unique blend of pop and soul. Decades on, "Careless Whisper" maintains its status as a quintessential love song revered by generations of romantics.
Survivor's rousing anthem, "Eye of the Tiger," is an iconic powerhouse reminiscent of 80s movie montages and undefeatable underdogs. The driving guitar riffs and invincible lyrics inspired a generation when it was featured in the film Rocky III making it synonymous with fighting spirit. Its enduring appeal keeps listeners motivated even today, proving that the eye of the tiger remains an indomitable force.
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18Total Eclipse of the Heart
Bonnie Tyler's spellbinding power ballad, "Total Eclipse of the Heart," stands as an unforgettable testament to the emotional intensity of 80s pop. The song's epic composition, bolstered by Jim Steinman's signature theatricality and Tyler's vigorous vocals, takes listeners on an emotional rollercoaster. To this day, "Total Eclipse of the Heart" resonates with fans who cherish its unabashed romanticism.
As the brainchild of musical geniuses David Bowie and Queen, "Under Pressure" is a transcendent collision of diverse styles and powerful vocals. This anthemic collaboration of the 80s implored society to consider the consequences of inequality and strife, making it a cultural touchstone. "Under Pressure" continues to instill a sense of urgency and hope in listeners, proving that even the heaviest of burdens can inspire a melding of creative forces.
20Sweet Child o' Mine
Guns N' Roses' "Sweet Child o' Mine" reigns as an undisputed anthem of 80s rock, featuring Slash's timeless guitar intro and a powerhouse vocal performance from Axl Rose. This legendary track showcases the raw energy and virtuosity that defined the band's unmistakable sound. Its enduring status as a rock classic continues to captivate and thrill fans worldwide.
21When Doves Cry
Introducing the world to an indelible fusion of rock, funk, and pop, Prince's hypnotic masterpiece "When Doves Cry" redefined musical standards. The track's innovative arrangements, emotionally-charged lyrics, and genre-defying synths transformed Prince into a symbol of the 80s. Today, "When Doves Cry" remains an emblem of artistic ingenuity, still resonating with fans and continuing to inspire generations of artists.
Boasting a seductive bassline, soaring guitar riffs, and enigmatic lyrics, Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf" redefined the new wave genre in the 1980s. The song's chart success and iconic music video presence solidified the band as one of the most influential groups of the era. Today, "Hungry Like the Wolf" prevails as a thrilling, animalistic anthem that transports listeners back to the energetic pulse of the 80s.
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23Come On Eileen
With its infectious blend of pop, Celtic folk, and new wave, Dexys Midnight Runners' "Come On Eileen" became an instant classic in the 80s. The song's upbeat melody and joyous refrains won over audiences, making it a chart-topping hit and etching it into pop culture memory. Today, "Come On Eileen" remains a beloved tune, offering an irresistible dose of nostalgia and revelry.
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24Down Under
"Down Under" is an iconic, quirky tune infused with delightfully Australiana vibes, penned by the Australian band Men at Work. Setting a new global standard for the '80s sound in 1981, the catchy melodies and amusing lyrics depicting Australian landscapes and culture captured the hearts of listeners worldwide. The song's enduring charm and offbeat humor keep it beloved both Down Under and across the globe.
Rick Astley's 1987 chart-topping hit "Never Gonna Give You Up" exudes irresistible charm and dance floor energy, epitomizing the upbeat sound of 80s pop. With its catchy lyrics and distinctive synthesized beats, the song not only became a classic of its era but captured the imagination of internet users decades later. "Never Gonna Give You Up" remains a timeless piece of music history, entertaining generations past, present, and future.
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"I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" is a vibrant, euphoric anthem by Whitney Houston with an infectious chorus and exhilarating beat, perfect for any dance floor. Released in 1987, it captured the hearts of fans globally, soaring to the top of various charts, and has since been regarded as an undeniable classic of the decade. Today, it remains a staple of nostalgic playlists, encapsulating the energy and color of the '80s.
27Jessie's Girl
"Jessie's Girl" is a rock-infused pop hit full of intense emotion, crafted by the talented musician Rick Springfield. Exploring themes of unrequited love and desire, this 1981 song is universally relatable, striking a chord in the hearts of audiences everywhere. With its combination of memorable hooks and passionate vocals, "Jessie's Girl" is a timeless classic that continues to resonate long after its release.
"I Love Rock 'n' Roll" is an electrifying rock anthem showcasing Joan Jett & The Blackhearts' rebellious spirits, putting a new generation of the genre firmly on the map in 1982. The powerful guitar riff and gritty vocals established the song as a pulsating rallying cry for rock lovers. The indomitable spirit of this iconic track keeps on rocking, ensuring its place in modern playlists alongside timeless heavyweights.
29Don't You Want Me
"Don't You Want Me" is a compelling synth pop gem, curiously exploring a tale of romantic entanglement, dished out by the British group Human League in 1981. The iconic duet format, engaging melody, and innovative use of synthesizers established the song as a touchstone of '80s music. The catchy chorus and compelling narrative keep fans today pulling this classic out for another spin as they explore the complexities of desire.
30What's Love Got to Do With It
"What's Love Got to Do With It" by the queen of rock and soul, Tina Turner, is a sensual track exploring the complexities of love and desire. Released in 1984, this smooth, sultry anthem wrapped in Turner's soulful voice was an instant hit that revitalized her career. Its striking take on love's complications resonates even today, proving its enduring emotional impact.
