Iconic tracks that shaped a decade

The best songs of the 80s are based on the styles of 1950s, 1960sAnd 1970s Music that mixes different genres to create timeless hits.

This era saw the emergence of cult artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna and Bon Jovi, who set new standards in the music industry.

1. Michael Jackson – “Billie Jean” (1982)

One of the most outstanding tracks from Michael Jackson’s album thriller“Billie Jean”, contains a catchy bass line and Jackson’s typical vocal dropouts.

The song’s narrative about a fan’s false paternity claim and its revolutionary music video helped make the song a cultural phenomenon.

2. Madonna – “Like a Prayer” (1989)

With “Like a Prayer,” Madonna crossed boundaries both musically and visually.

The controversial music video for the song, which contained religious imagery, sparked debates and cemented Madonna’s status as a pop icon​.

3. Cyndi Lauper – “Time After Time” (1983)

Cyndi Lauper’s soulful ballad “Time After Time” became an anthem of the 80s.

It is emotional lyrics and Lauper’s unmistakable voice helped the song become a timeless classic and showed 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 passionate performancepaired with the song’s stirring arrangement, captured the dramatic flair of the decade and left a lasting impression on listeners.

5. Queen – “Another One Bites the Dust” (1980)

Queen opened the decade with this funky, bass-heavy track.

“Another One Bites the Dust” presents the band’s ability to mix rock with other genreswhich led to one of their biggest hits.

6. Bon Jovi – “Livin’ on a Prayer” (1986)

With its iconic talkbox intro and the 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 made the song a rock classic.

7. Eurythmics – “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This Stuff)” (1983)

Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart of Eurythmics created one of the most famous 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 impression.

8. A-Ha – “Take On Me” (1984)

Known for his groundbreaking rotoscoping animation music video“Take On Me” by A-Ha combines catchy synth melodies with a powerful vocal performance.

The video helped the song achieve worldwide success and remains a popular piece of 80s nostalgia.

9. Depeche Mode – “Just Can’t Get Enough” (1981)

This early hit by Depeche Mode is a typical synthpop track that is characterized by its fast tempo and rousing 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 song in the development of hip-hop. It addressed social problems and urban struggles with an authentic and honest perspectiveand his influence is still felt in the genre today.

11. Salt-N-Pepa – “Push It” (1987)

This energetic and catchy track brought female rap into 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 powerful vocals and the rousing dance beat of the song 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 – “A Pact with God” (1985)

Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” shows her unique talent for combining profound ideas with easy-to-listen music. The song was originally called “A Deal with God,” but that title caused some problems at first.

It has recently become popular again after used in the Netflix series Stranger Things, and help new fans discover it.

14. Prince – “Purple Rain” (1984)

Princes Purple Rain Album title is an epic ballad that shows his incredible musicality and emotional depth.

The live performances of the song, especially at the Super Bowl, are legendary.

15. The Cure – “Close to Me” (1985)

With its melancholic lyrics and optimistic 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-52s – “Love Shack” (1989)

“Love Shack” is a quirky, funny song that immediately became a party anthem.

With the song’s catchy beat and playful lyrics, the B-52s created a timeless hit and ensure it continues to be popular at gatherings and events.

17. Rick James – “Super Freak” (1981)

Known for his funky groove and catchy chorus“Super Freak” by Rick James became a cult song of the 80s.

Its influence spanned the decade and was famously sampled by MC Hammer in “U Can’t Touch This.”

18. Chaka Khan – “Ain’t Nobody” (1983)

This R&B classic features Chaka Khan’s powerful vocals and the gentle, catchy rhythm of the song. “Ain’t Nobody” remains a popular song, often covered and sampled by other artists. Its timeless appeal and Khan’s dynamic performance have secured it a place as one of the most outstanding songs of the 1980s.

19. Tears for Fears – “Everyone wants to rule the world” (1985)

This synthpop anthem from Tears for Fears captures the essence of 80s music with its thoughtful lyrics and catchy melody.

The songs introspective contemplation of power and control and its catchy hooks made it a worldwide hit.

20. George Michael – “Faith” (1987)

“Believe” marked George Michael’s transition to solo artist with its iconic guitar riff and rousing beat.

The mix of rock and pop elements as well as Michael’s charismatic performance cemented the song’s status as a typical 80s song.

Relive the best music of the 80s!

The 1980s gave us some of the most unforgettable and influential songs in music history 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 nostalgia party or just want to relive the magic of the 80s, this curated playlist will take you back in time, Marty McFly style!

Immerse yourself in the rhythms, stories and emotions of an era that changed music forever. Create your ultimate 80s playlist and be inspired and entertained by the music of the decade.