The word “love” is synonymous with weddings. It’s the emotion that fuels the celebration, making it the most cherished day in many people’s lives. If you’re just discovering our blog, welcome! We’re a leading resource for wedding DJ insights on Google, and we’re passionate about music. Recently, a request for an 80s-themed 40th birthday party sparked an idea. While weddings are our main focus, we can’t resist celebrating the greatest decade of music – the 80s! Inspired by the popularity of our 90s love song playlist, we decided to dive into the romantic side of the 80s. Just like our 90s playlist resonates with modern couples planning their wedding music, we know 80s love songs hold a special place in many hearts. 80s music is a genre we deeply understand and love. Our previous 80s music posts are consistently among our most popular, proving the decade’s enduring appeal. However, one area we haven’t fully explored is the realm of 80s love songs. So, get ready to discover some of the most beautiful and iconic 80s love songs that would be perfect additions to your wedding playlist.
The 1980s were a golden age for music, especially when it came to love songs. You might recall our popular posts on 80s and 90s Power Ballads and Best 80s Soft Rock Songs Volume 1. The positive response to those led us to create a Volume 2 of Best Soft Rock Songs Of The 80s. These articles are some of the most visited on our blog, highlighting the continued love for 80s music even in 2023. Knowing this, creating an 80s love song playlist was a natural choice. Growing up in the 80s and hearing these songs on the radio was an unforgettable experience. Interestingly, many of our wedding clients in their 20s, who weren’t even born in the 80s, still request these timeless tracks on their wedding playlists.
Stream the 80s Love Songs Playlist on Spotify Now
Modern couples seek convenient and contemporary ways to curate their wedding music. While we offer personalized playlist portals for our clients, many prefer the ease of Spotify. With over 100 playlists designed to inspire your wedding soundtrack, our Spotify profile is a growing resource for couples. Explore it now or check out our handpicked 80s love song playlist below.
The Bangles Eternal Flame 80s Love Song for Weddings
Before serenading the world with this tender ballad, The Bangles covered Prince’s “Manic Monday.” “Eternal Flame,” released in January 1989, became a chart-topping sensation, reaching #1 on the Hot 100 and the adult contemporary charts. This 80s love song, with its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, is perfect for creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere at your wedding.
Madonna Crazy For You Romantic 80s Song
Fans of classic 80s coming-of-age films will recognize “Crazy For You” from the movie Vision Quest. Produced by Jellybean Benitez, this iconic Madonna track was released in March 1985 and soared to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Crazy For You” captures the exhilarating feeling of new love, making it a wonderful choice for a first dance or a slow dance during your wedding reception. For more Madonna hits perfect for weddings, check out our post on Most Popular Madonna Songs For Your Wedding Playlist.
“You’re The Best Thing” | The Style Council
The Style Council You're The Best Thing 80s wedding song
While many wedding DJs stick to mainstream hits, we pride ourselves on digging deeper to find musical gems. The Style Council, a British pop band, released their debut album in 1984, and “You’re The Best Thing” was the second single. While it didn’t make waves on American charts, it reached #5 in the UK. This upbeat and soulful track is a fantastic alternative to typical wedding songs, adding a touch of cool sophistication to your celebration.
“Time After Time” | Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper Time After Time 80s Love Ballad
Following up her anthem “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” “Time After Time” is a quintessential 80s soft rock love song. It’s a go-to choice for dinner music for many of our clients seeking a relaxed and romantic ambiance. Released in January 1984, “Time After Time” climbed to Number 1 on both the Hot 100 and adult contemporary charts. Its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics about enduring love make it a perfect addition to any wedding playlist.
“Endless Love” | Lionel Richie and Diana Ross
Lionel Richie and Diana Ross Endless Love Romantic Duet 80s
The 1981 film Endless Love gave us this iconic duet. Later covered by Luther Vandross and Mariah Carey in the 90s, the original “Endless Love” dominated the charts in 1981, spending nine weeks at the top of the Hot 100. This powerful and passionate ballad, featuring the legendary voices of Lionel Richie and Diana Ross, is a classic choice for a wedding first dance, symbolizing everlasting love.
Spandau Ballet True 80s Wedding First Dance Song
Imagine a British new wave band channeling Marvin Gaye and Al Green – the result is “True” by Spandau Ballet. This 1983 hit reached #1 on the adult contemporary charts and is featured in the iconic 80s movie Sixteen Candles. “True” offers a smooth, soulful vibe, perfect for a sophisticated and romantic moment during your wedding. It’s a great song to share with your fiancé while planning your special day!
“Saving All My Love For You” | Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston Saving All My Love For You Iconic 80s Ballad
Even years after her passing, Whitney Houston’s incredible voice continues to resonate. 1985 was her breakthrough year, marked by the release of “Saving All My Love For You” in the summer. This powerful ballad topped the Hot 100 on October 26, 1985. Whitney’s unmatched vocal performance and the song’s theme of devoted love make it a timeless and emotionally charged choice for a wedding ceremony or reception.
Bryan Adams Heaven 80s Anthem Wedding Song
Proving the younger generation’s love for 80s music, we recently used an unplugged version of “Heaven” at a wedding this year. Released in spring 1985 as the third single from Reckless, “Heaven” eventually reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Bryan Adams’ raspy vocals and the song’s soaring chorus make it an uplifting and celebratory love song, ideal for creating a joyful atmosphere at your wedding. For more 1985 hits, check out The Top Songs From 1985 For Your Wedding Playlist.
“I Want To Know What Love Is” | Foreigner
Foreigner I Want To Know What Love Is 80s Power Ballad
Could a song this beautiful harm a band’s career? For Foreigner, known for their 70s rock anthems, releasing “I Want To Know What Love Is” in November 1984 might have surprised some fans. However, this powerful ballad resonated deeply, becoming their only #1 hit on the Hot 100. With its gospel choir and heartfelt plea, “I Want To Know What Love Is” is a dramatic and emotional choice for a wedding, perfect for a moment of reflection and connection.
Wham Careless Whisper 80s Saxophone Wedding Song
In 1984, Wham! released Make It Big, and they certainly did. “Careless Whisper,” released that summer, topped both the Hot 100 and AC charts before George Michael embarked on his successful solo career. The iconic saxophone riff and melancholic yet romantic lyrics make “Careless Whisper” a memorable and slightly bittersweet love song, suitable for a sophisticated and perhaps slightly nostalgic wedding moment.
“Biggest Part Of Me” | Ambrosia
Ambrosia Biggest Part Of Me Yacht Rock 80s Love Song
Ambrosia is featured on our Top Yacht Rock Songs For Cocktail Hour playlist, and you might be surprised how many couples love yacht rock. “You’re The Biggest Part Of Me” reached #3 on both the Hot 100 and AC charts in 1980. This smooth, mellow, and undeniably romantic track is perfect for cocktail hour or a relaxed dance moment during your wedding.
“Baby Come To Me” | Patti Austin & James Ingram
Patti Austin and James Ingram Baby Come To Me Romantic 80s Duet
Patti Austin’s 1981 album Every Home Should Have One featured this popular and romantic duet with the late James Ingram. “Baby Come To Me” became a massive hit in 1982, reaching #1 on both the Hot 100 and AC charts. This soulful and tender duet is a beautiful choice for a wedding, celebrating partnership and affection.
“Have I Told You Lately” | Van Morrison
Van Morrison Have I Told You Lately Timeless 80s Love Song
As a wedding DJ, I admit to getting emotional during weddings, especially when a truly great love song plays. “Have I Told You Lately,” released in 1989 from Avalon Sunset, is one of those songs. It reached #12 on the AC chart and is considered one of the greatest love songs ever written. Van Morrison’s soulful voice and the song’s simple yet profound lyrics make it an incredibly moving and sincere choice for a wedding ceremony or first dance.
Journey Open Arms 80s Power Ballad Wedding Song
“Open Arms,” released in 1982 as a follow-up to “Don’t Stop Believin’,” peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. This powerful power ballad, with Steve Perry’s soaring vocals and heartfelt lyrics about vulnerability and love, is a classic 80s wedding song, perfect for a dramatic and emotional moment. Imagine slow dancing to this timeless track.
“Say You Say Me” | Lionel Richie
Lionel Richie Say You Say Me 80s Romantic Ballad
Lionel Richie’s solo career in the 80s was unstoppable. “Say You Say Me,” from his album Can’t Slow Down, was released in October 1985 and topped the Hot 100, AC, and R&B charts. This smooth, romantic ballad is another Lionel Richie classic, perfect for creating a warm and loving atmosphere at your wedding reception.
Atlantic Starr Always 80s R&B Love Song
Atlantic Starr was a prominent R&B group in the mid-80s and early 90s. “Always,” released in spring 1987, became a summer anthem. This smooth R&B ballad, with its tender vocals and romantic melody, is a great choice for adding a touch of soulful romance to your wedding playlist.
“Lost In Your Eyes” | Debbie Gibson
Debbie Gibson Lost In Your Eyes Teen Pop 80s Love Song
Debbie Gibson, who recently toured with New Kids On The Block and re-recorded “Lost In Your Eyes” with Joey McIntyre, originally released this song during my freshman year of high school. “Lost In Your Eyes,” from her Electric Youth album, topped the Hot 100 chart. This sweet and innocent love song, perfect for couples who grew up in the 80s, brings a touch of youthful romance to your wedding celebration.
“Listen To Your Heart” | Roxette
Roxette Listen To Your Heart 80s Rock Ballad Wedding
Originally released in Sweden in 1988, “Listen To Your Heart” became a global hit in 1989, reaching #1 in November. DHT covered it in 2005, scoring another Top 10 hit. Roxette’s power ballad, with its soaring vocals and passionate lyrics about following your heart, is a dramatic and powerful choice for a wedding, especially for couples who love a bit of 80s rock.
“Father Figure” | George Michael
George Michael Father Figure Sensual 80s Love Song
George Michael’s Faith album, released in 1987, was a massive success. “Father Figure,” the fourth single, was released at the end of 1987 and reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. This sensual and soulful track, with George Michael’s smooth vocals and romantic lyrics, adds a touch of sophistication and intimacy to your wedding playlist. For more George Michael wedding songs, explore Best George Michael Songs For Your Wedding Playlist.
“Waiting For A Girl Like You” | Foreigner
Foreigner Waiting For A Girl Like You 80s Romantic Rock
Foreigner’s album 4 in 1981 brought them a new audience on adult contemporary radio. “Waiting For A Girl Like You” reached #5 on the AC chart and #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. This classic rock ballad, with its powerful vocals and longing lyrics, is a timeless 80s love song, perfect for couples who appreciate a touch of rock romance.
“The Search Is Over” | Survivor
Survivor The Search Is Over 80s Rock Ballad Wedding
For couples who love the best of 80s music, “The Search Is Over” by Survivor is a must-add. It was their second Top 10 hit in 1985 from the album Vital Signs. This uplifting and anthemic rock ballad, with its message of finding true love, is a powerful and celebratory choice for a wedding reception.
“Up Where We Belong” | Jennifer Warnes & Joe Cocker
Jennifer Warnes and Joe Cocker Up Where We Belong 80s Duet Wedding Song
“Up Where We Belong” was written for the 1982 movie An Officer And A Gentleman. Released in July 1982, it reached #1 on the Hot 100 and #3 on the AC chart. This powerful duet, with the distinct voices of Jennifer Warnes and Joe Cocker, is an emotionally charged and iconic 80s love song, perfect for a wedding ceremony or a dramatic first dance.
“Total Eclipse Of The Heart” | Bonnie Tyler
Bonnie Tyler Total Eclipse Of The Heart Epic 80s Ballad
Jim Steinman, known for writing songs for Meatloaf, penned this epic ballad for Bonnie Tyler. “Total Eclipse Of The Heart” became a massive hit in 1983, topping the Hot 100 chart. While the extended version might be too long for a wedding, the radio edit is perfect. This dramatic and powerful power ballad, with Bonnie Tyler’s distinctive voice, is an unforgettable 80s love song for a grand wedding moment.
Kool and The Gang Cherish 80s Soulful Love Song
“Cherish” marked a departure from Kool & The Gang’s funkier R&B sound. Released from their album Emergency, it reached #1 on the AC chart. This smooth, soulful, and undeniably romantic track is a perfect choice for a relaxed and intimate moment during your wedding, perhaps during cocktail hour or a slow dance.
U2 With Or Without You 80s Rock Anthem Wedding Song
The Joshua Tree, released in 1987, became one of U2’s signature albums. “With Or Without You,” the first single, topped the Hot 100 chart. This iconic rock anthem, with its soaring melody and emotionally complex lyrics about love and longing, can be a powerful and dramatic choice for a wedding, especially for couples who are U2 fans.
“Take My Breath Away” | Berlin
Berlin Take My Breath Away 80s Movie Soundtrack Love Song
The 1986 film Top Gun gave us this iconic love song. “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin topped the Hot 100 chart. This synth-driven, atmospheric ballad, with Terri Nunn’s captivating vocals, is synonymous with 80s romance and movie magic, perfect for creating a dreamy and passionate atmosphere at your wedding. Consider watching Top Gun with your fiancé and get inspired!
“For Your Eyes Only” | Sheena Easton
Sheena Easton For Your Eyes Only 80s Bond Theme Wedding Song
“For Your Eyes Only,” the theme song for the 1981 James Bond film of the same name, was performed by Sheena Easton and reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100. This elegant and sophisticated Bond theme, with Sheena Easton’s powerful vocals, adds a touch of glamour and classic romance to your wedding playlist.
“Making Love Out Of Nothing At All” | Air Supply
Air Supply Making Love Out Of Nothing At All 80s Soft Rock Ballad
Air Supply dominated early 80s radio with their soft rock hits. “Making Love Out Of Nothing At All,” released in summer 1983, reached #2 on both the Hot 100 and AC charts. This quintessential 80s power ballad, with its soaring vocals and passionate lyrics about devotion, is a classic choice for a wedding first dance or a romantic moment.
Tiffany All This Time 80s Teen Pop Love Song
Tiffany, the mall pop sensation, showed a more sentimental side on her second album, Hold An Old Friend’s Hand, released in fall 1988. “All This Time” reached #6 on the Hot 100 chart. This heartfelt and sincere love song, perfect for couples who appreciate a touch of 80s teen pop nostalgia, is a sweet and charming addition to your wedding playlist.
“Baby I Love Your Way” / Freebird | Will To Power
Will To Power Baby I Love Your Way Freebird Medley 80s Cover Wedding Song
While Peter Frampton’s original “Baby, I Love Your Way” is a classic, Will To Power’s 1989 cover medley with Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Freebird” brought a unique romantic vibe. It reached #1 in 1989. This unexpected and creative cover, blending romance with a rock edge, is a fun and memorable choice for a wedding, especially for couples who love 80s mashups.
“Somewhere Out There” | Linda Ronstadt & James Ingram
Linda Ronstadt and James Ingram Somewhere Out There 80s Animated Movie Song
Remembering James Ingram, this beautiful duet with Linda Ronstadt was featured in the 1986 animated movie An American Tail. “Somewhere Out There” reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. This heartwarming and nostalgic ballad, perfect for couples who appreciate animated movie soundtracks, adds a touch of childhood sweetness and enduring love to your wedding.
Madonna Cherish 80s Pop Love Song Wedding
1989 was a huge year for Madonna, with the release of Like A Prayer. “Cherish,” released in the fall, became a radio and MTV staple, reaching #1 on the AC chart and #2 on the Hot 100. This upbeat and playful pop love song, with its iconic music video, is a fun and energetic choice for a wedding reception, especially for Madonna fans. Brides-to-be, watch the video and get inspired!
“Was It Nothing At All” | Michael Damian
Michael Damian Was It Nothing At All 80s Pop Ballad
Michael Damian’s 1989 album Where Do We Go From Here featured a cover of David Essex’s “Rock On.” “Was It Nothing At All” was released as a follow-up single and reached #7 on the AC chart. This smooth and gentle pop ballad, with its reflective lyrics about lost love, is a softer and more melancholic choice, perhaps suitable for a moment of quiet contemplation during your wedding.
“(I Just) Died In Your Arms” | Cutting Crew
Cutting Crew (I Just) Died In Your Arms 80s New Wave Love Song
Cutting Crew’s debut album in fall 1986 featured “(I Just) Died In Your Arms,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100. This new wave love song, with its dramatic synth intro and passionate vocals, is a slightly edgier and more intense choice for a wedding, perfect for couples who want to add a touch of 80s new wave cool.
“Baby Can I Hold You” | Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman Baby Can I Hold You 80s Folk Ballad Wedding
1988 introduced us to Tracy Chapman. “Baby Can I Hold You,” released in October 1988, reached #19 on the Adult Contemporary chart. This simple yet powerful acoustic ballad, with Tracy Chapman’s soulful voice and heartfelt plea for intimacy, is a deeply moving and sincere choice for a wedding ceremony or a quiet moment of connection.
“I’ll Be Loving You (Forever)” | New Kids On The Block
New Kids On The Block Ill Be Loving You Forever 80s Boyband Ballad
Confession time: We love New Kids On The Block! “I’ll Be Loving You (Forever),” from their Hangin’ Tough album, was released in spring 1989 and topped the Billboard Hot 100. This quintessential 80s boyband ballad, with its sweet harmonies and promise of eternal love, is a fun and nostalgic choice, especially for couples who were NKOTB fans back in the day.
“Glory Of Love” | Peter Cetera
Peter Cetera Glory Of Love 80s Movie Soundtrack Wedding Song
Peter Cetera co-wrote “Glory Of Love” for Karate Kid Part 2. It became a huge hit in summer 1986, topping the Hot 100 in August. This uplifting and anthemic ballad, with Peter Cetera’s powerful vocals and lyrics about overcoming challenges for love, is a triumphant and celebratory choice for a wedding, perfect for a grand entrance or a moment of shared joy.
“Stuck With You” | Huey Lewis & The News
Huey Lewis and The News Stuck With You Upbeat 80s Love Song
Love songs don’t have to be ballads! “Stuck With You” by Huey Lewis & The News, released in summer 1986, topped both the Hot 100 and AC charts. This upbeat and fun track, with its playful lyrics and catchy melody, is a great choice for couples who want to inject some energy and lightheartedness into their wedding playlist. Check out the video for some fun 80s vibes! For more 1986 hits, see Best Songs From 1986 For Your Wedding Playlist.
“Right Here Waiting” | Richard Marx
Richard Marx Right Here Waiting Iconic 80s Ballad Wedding
No 80s love song list is complete without Richard Marx. “Right Here Waiting,” released in summer 1989 from Repeat Offender, became his signature song, reaching #1 on the Hot 100. This iconic power ballad, with Richard Marx’s passionate vocals and heartfelt lyrics about long-distance love, is a timeless and deeply romantic choice for a wedding first dance or a moment of intimacy.
Lionel Richie Hello Classic 80s Ballad Wedding Song
Released just before Valentine’s Day 1984, Lionel Richie’s “Hello” set the romantic mood. From the album Can’t Slow Down, it topped both the Hot 100 and AC charts. This classic ballad, with Lionel Richie’s smooth vocals and tender lyrics, is a quintessential 80s love song, perfect for creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere at your wedding.
“Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love For You” | Glenn Medeiros
Glenn Medeiros Nothing's Gonna Change My Love For You 80s Teen Ballad
Originally recorded by George Benson in 1985, Glenn Medeiros’ 1987 version of “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love For You” reached #4 on the adult contemporary chart. This sweet and sincere ballad, with Glenn Medeiros’ youthful vocals and unwavering declaration of love, is a charming and heartfelt choice for a wedding, especially for couples who appreciate a touch of 80s teen romance.
“The Power Of Love” | Jennifer Rush
Jennifer Rush The Power Of Love Original 80s Version
While Celine Dion’s cover is famous, Jennifer Rush originally released “The Power Of Love” in 1984. While it wasn’t a US hit for her, it topped the UK charts and has been covered by Air Supply and Laura Branigan. Jennifer Rush’s powerful original, with its soaring vocals and dramatic arrangement, is a powerful and emotive choice for a wedding ceremony or a moment of grand romance.
Kenny Rogers Lady 80s Country Crossover Love Song
Kenny Rogers dominated radio in the late 70s and early 80s, crossing over from country to pop charts. “Lady,” released in September 1980, topped the country, AC, and Hot 100 charts. This smooth country-pop ballad, with Kenny Rogers’ warm vocals and tender lyrics, is a classic and timeless choice for a wedding, especially for couples who love a touch of country romance.
Sade The Sweetest Taboo 80s Sexy Smooth Love Song
Sade is known for creating some of the sexiest music ever. “The Sweetest Taboo,” released in October 1985 from Promise, reached #1 on the adult contemporary chart. This smooth, sensual, and sophisticated track is perfect for adding a touch of grown-up romance and intimacy to your wedding reception. For more Sade, check out Sexy Songs From Sade.
“I Get Weak” | Belinda Carlisle
Belinda Carlisle I Get Weak 80s Pop Ballad Wedding Song
Belinda Carlisle, hopefully soon to be a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer with The Go-Go’s, followed up “Heaven Is A Place On Earth” with “I Get Weak,” which reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. This powerful pop ballad, with Belinda Carlisle’s strong vocals and passionate lyrics about being overwhelmed by love, is a dramatic and romantic choice for a wedding, especially for couples who love 80s pop with an edge.
Kenny Loggins Forever 80s Soft Rock Love Song
Kenny Loggins’ 1985 album Vox Humana included “Forever,” which reached #5 on the Adult Contemporary chart. This smooth soft rock ballad, with Kenny Loggins’ signature vocals and tender lyrics about lasting love, is a classic and timeless choice for a wedding, perfect for a romantic slow dance or a moment of heartfelt connection.
“Can You Stand The Rain” | New Edition
New Edition Can You Stand The Rain 80s R&B Wedding Song
Released at the end of 1988, “Can You Stand The Rain” became New Edition’s 4th R&B chart-topper. This soulful and reassuring R&B ballad, with its message of weathering life’s storms together, is a meaningful and heartfelt choice for engaged couples, symbolizing commitment and enduring love.
“Sign Your Name” | Sananda Maitreya (Terence Trent D’Arby)
Sananda Maitreya Sign Your Name 80s Soulful Ballad
Terence Trent D’Arby, now Sananda Maitreya, was all over the radio in the late 80s. “Sign Your Name” reached #2 on both the Hot 100 and Hot Black Singles chart. This smooth and sensual soul ballad, with Sananda Maitreya’s distinctive vocals and romantic lyrics, is a sophisticated and intimate choice for a wedding, perfect for a slow dance or a moment of close connection.
Billy Ocean Suddenly 80s Pop Soul Wedding Song
“Suddenly,” from Billy Ocean’s self-titled 1984 album, was the third single and reached #4 on the Hot 100 chart. This uplifting and romantic pop-soul ballad, with Billy Ocean’s smooth vocals and positive message of finding love, is a joyful and celebratory choice for a wedding, perfect for a first dance or a moment of happiness.
Ready To Speak To Mike Bills About Being Your Wedding DJ?
Wow, that’s quite a collection of incredible 80s love songs! And this is just Volume 1 – stay tuned for more! Thank you for exploring this playlist with us. If you’ve reached the end, you must appreciate our passion for music. As a dedicated music lover, and experienced wedding DJ, I’m committed to making your wedding soundtrack perfect. I’d love to chat with you about your wedding plans. Let’s schedule a call! Just click the contact form and share a few details. Thanks again for visiting, and I look forward to connecting with you!
One More Thing!
