Prince captivating the audience in Los Angeles during a 1985 concert, highlighting the energy of 80s live music.
The 1980s was a transformative decade for music. Across pop, rock, country, electronica, and hip-hop, a creative explosion led to a wave of iconic artists and enduring hits. This era witnessed unprecedented innovation across genres, arguably unmatched by any decade since. From Michael Jackson’s pop masterpiece Thriller to Metallica’s metal benchmark Master of Puppets, the sheer volume of genre-defining albums and singles released in the 80s remains unparalleled. It was a time when nearly every contemporary music genre reached a creative zenith.
This list celebrates 80 Songs that not only dominated the charts but also shaped the cultural landscape of the 1980s and beyond. Spanning new wave, alt-rock, electronic dance, heavy metal, and pop, these tracks represent the diverse and dynamic sound of a generation. These aren’t just songs; they are cultural touchstones that continue to resonate, proving their timeless appeal and solidifying their place among the best songs of the 80s.
Iconic Anthems of the Eighties: Songs 50-41
50. “Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire (1981)
Transcending the disco and funk era of the 70s, Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Let’s Groove” is a testament to their enduring appeal. This feel-good anthem, alongside their 70s hit “September,” remains a pop-culture staple, frequently featured in films and TV, and celebrated across media platforms.
49. “Head Like A Hole” by Nine Inch Nails (1989)
Emerging at the close of the decade, Nine Inch Nails’ “Head Like A Hole” from Pretty Hate Machine marked a powerful debut. While Trent Reznor’s project achieved greater fame in the 90s, this track remains a highly influential industrial rock song and a showcase of Reznor’s innovative production and songwriting.
48. “Just Like Heaven” by The Cure (1987)
The Cure were central to the gothic rock and post-punk boom of the 1980s. While their hits spanned decades, “Just Like Heaven” stands out as one of their most beloved songs, a classic love song within the goth and post-punk scenes.
47. “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley (1987)
Beyond its “Rickroll” meme association, Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” is genuinely iconic. “Rickrolling” amplified its fame, but the song’s infectious melody and Astley’s distinctive voice cemented it as an 80s pop classic. Despite being his biggest hit, its lasting relevance is undeniable.
46. “Fight For Your Right” by Beastie Boys (1986)
Beastie Boys revolutionized music by blending hip-hop and rock on their debut Licensed To Ill. “Fight For Your Right” became a definitive anthem, a gateway into aggressive music genres and a party staple.
45. “Raining Blood” by Slayer (1986)
Slayer’s Reign In Blood album and its title track “Raining Blood” were pivotal in shaping metal. This song is synonymous with thrash metal and extreme metal, defining Slayer’s aggressive sound and influence.
44. “How Soon Is Now?” by The Smiths (1984)
The Smiths were foundational to indie and alternative rock. “How Soon Is Now?” with its tremolo guitar and Morrissey’s vocals, perfectly captures their unique blend of elegance and melancholy.
43. “Where Is My Mind?” by Pixies (1988)
Pixies’ “Where Is My Mind?” was ahead of its time with its quirky and melancholic vibe. Its minimalist instrumentation achieves a powerful impact, ensuring its relevance across generations and proving the band’s unique sonic vision.
42. “Uptown Girl” by Billy Joel (1983)
“Uptown Girl,” Billy Joel’s multi-platinum hit, remains his most recognized song over four decades later. Its joyful and anthemic qualities, signature to Joel’s songwriting, have captivated audiences worldwide.
41. “Hysteria” by Def Leppard (1987)
Def Leppard’s power ballad “Hysteria” is still captivating. Its iconic riff has been widely emulated, proving Def Leppard’s versatility beyond hard rock.
80s Music Chart-Toppers: Songs 40-31
40. “Down Under” by Men At Work (1981)
Men At Work’s “Down Under” became a global sensation, an 80s anthem from the Australian new wave scene. While their biggest hit, it highlighted their significant contribution to the decade’s sonic landscape and modern music.
39. “Tainted Love” by Soft Cell (1981)
Soft Cell’s version of “Tainted Love” overshadowed their other hits, becoming an iconic one-hit wonder. Its enduring popularity secured its place as one of the decade’s most recognizable songs.
38. “Danger Zone” by Kenny Loggins (1986)
Following his Footloose theme success, Kenny Loggins intensified his cinematic impact with “Danger Zone” from Top Gun. The resurgence of Top Gun Maverick further cemented “Danger Zone” as his signature song and an 80s classic.
37. “Back In Black” by AC/DC (1980)
AC/DC’s Back In Black is a rock masterpiece, and its title track is legendary. Brian Johnson’s seamless integration as the new singer and Angus Young’s unforgettable riffs made it a definitive rock anthem.
36. “Blue Monday” by New Order (1983)
New Order’s “Blue Monday” is a seminal electronic-pop track. It set new standards for electronic music in the 80s and transcended decades, becoming an all-time classic and their most impactful song.
35. “Walk This Way (feat. Aerosmith)” by RUN D.M.C. (1986)
RUN D.M.C. broke ground by merging hip-hop and rock with their version of Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way.” This collaboration opened new musical avenues, establishing RUN D.M.C. as hip-hop pioneers.
34. “Ace of Spades” by Motörhead (1980)
Motörhead, led by Lemmy Kilmister, remained hugely influential. “Ace Of Spades,” the title track, epitomizes the band and Lemmy’s captivating essence, remaining their most popular song.
33. “Hungry Like The Wolf” by Duran Duran (1982)
Duran Duran’s “Hungry Like The Wolf” fueled their 80s sensation. Their pop sensibilities and grooves heavily influenced the decade’s sound and modern pop, establishing them as British music icons.
32. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics (1983)
Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” is instantly recognizable. Its synth hook and Annie Lennox’s vocals made it their signature song and a pop masterpiece.
31. “The Number of the Beast” by Iron Maiden (1982)
Iron Maiden’s epic style, defined by dueling guitars and sing-along choruses, is unmatched. “The Number Of The Beast” propelled them to legendary status in metal, marking a pivotal moment in their career.
Timeless 80s Hits: Songs 30-21
30. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler (1983)
Bonnie Tyler’s dramatic “Total Eclipse of the Heart” is unmistakable. Its emotional journey, from somber verses to a powerful chorus, made it her defining hit of the decade.
29. “Breaking the Law” by Judas Priest (1980)
Judas Priest, heavy metal pioneers, influenced countless bands. “Breaking the Law” is a classic, showcasing their raw metal edge while achieving mainstream crossover appeal.
28. “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash (1981)
The Clash, from the first wave of British punk, profoundly influenced punk rock. “Should I Stay or Should I Go,” with its infectious hooks, exemplifies their enduring songwriting and broad appeal.
27. “Straight Outta Compton” by N.W.A. (1988)
N.W.A.’s Straight Outta Compton revolutionized rap and launched gangsta rap. The title track remains potent and influential, reflecting the group’s raw intensity and impact.
26. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” by Tina Turner (1984)
Tina Turner, the “Queen of Rock,” peaked in the 80s. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” is her signature song, cementing her pop-culture icon status and showcasing her powerful voice.
25. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds (1985)
Featured in The Breakfast Club, Simple Minds’ “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” became their defining song. Its anthemic quality highlighted their success and made it an 80s classic.
24. “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)” – Kate Bush (1985)
Netflix’s Stranger Things revitalized Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)”. It introduced her to a new generation, enhancing her 80s legacy and appeal.
23. “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne (1980)
Ozzy Osbourne’s solo debut with “Crazy Train” was sensational. Randy Rhoads’ guitar work, combined with Osbourne’s persona, made it a hard rock anthem.
22. “In The Air Tonight” by Phil Collins (1981)
Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight,” famous for its drum fill, is a pop-rock staple. It launched his solo career after Genesis, becoming his signature and most successful track.
21. “Panama” by Van Halen (1984)
While “Jump” was commercially bigger, “Panama” better represented Van Halen’s rock essence. Catchy and energetic, it remains a rock anthem and a testament to their prowess.
80s Music Hall of Fame: Songs 20-11
20. “Dancing In the Dark” by Bruce Springsteen (1984)
Bruce Springsteen’s Born In the USA was hugely successful, but “Dancing In the Dark” is arguably his songwriting peak of the decade. Its timeless quality ensures its enduring popularity.
19. “Free Fallin’” by Tom Petty (1989)
Tom Petty’s solo album and “Free Fallin’” were critically acclaimed and commercially successful. “Free Fallin’” is his most popular solo song and possibly his best overall.
18. “Just Can’t Get Enough” by Depeche Mode (1981)
Though Depeche Mode’s Violator came later, “Just Can’t Get Enough” defines their 80s synth-pop era. Its nostalgic synth leads and joyful chorus made it a defining 80s track.
17. “Rebel Yell” by Billy Idol (1983)
Billy Idol embodied 80s rock with “Rebel Yell.” Blending hard rock, pop hooks, and synths, it remains a classic and cemented his 80s icon status.
16. “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper (1983)
Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” is a timeless anthem. Its continued popularity underscores its impact across generations and on 80s pop culture.
15. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston (1987)
Whitney Houston’s multi-decade success began in the 80s. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” cemented her as an 80s vocal powerhouse and pop superstar, preceding her 90s peak.
14. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police (1983)
The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” is instantly recognizable from its opening snare. Its unique sound and musicianship made it a legendary and enduring hit.
13. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses (1987)
Guns N’ Roses’ Appetite For Destruction defined 80s rock. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” is universally loved, showcasing all band elements and solidifying their iconic status.
12. “With Or Without You” by U2 (1987)
U2’s The Joshua Tree propelled them to global fame. “With Or Without You” remains their most recognizable hit, earning them their first U.S. No.1 and defining their sound.
11. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey (1981)
Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” is a global sing-along anthem. Despite numerous hits, it remains their most famous song, transcending generations with its uplifting message.
Top 10 Songs of the 1980s: The Decade’s Finest
10. “Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi (1986)
Bon Jovi’s anthemic rock hits defined the 80s, and “Livin’ On A Prayer” is their ultimate crowd-pleaser. From Slippery When Wet, it remains their signature song, embodying 80s rock energy.
9. “Like A Virgin” by Madonna (1984)
Madonna’s provocative persona and music were groundbreaking. “Like A Virgin” best exemplifies this, sparking controversy and becoming a defining and iconic 80s hit.
8. “Take On Me” by a-ha (1985)
a-ha’s “Take On Me” is the quintessential 80s synth-pop one-hit wonder. Its soaring chorus and iconic music video made it a global sensation.
7. “Under Pressure” by Queen And David Bowie (1981)
Queen and David Bowie’s collaboration “Under Pressure” is a masterpiece. Their combined genius created a poignant and timeless classic, resonating across decades with its emotional depth.
6. “Careless Whisper” by Wham! (1984)
Wham!’s “Careless Whisper,” primarily George Michael’s creation, features the most iconic saxophone riff ever. Its smooth and sensual vibe made it a timeless hit, covered by many artists.
5. “Master of Puppets” by Metallica (1986)
Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” has surged beyond metal to pop-culture prominence, partly due to Stranger Things. It’s a metal opus and one of the 80s’ most recognized songs, showcasing Metallica’s enduring influence.
4. “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears For Fears (1985)
Tears For Fears’ “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” defined their career. Its Cold War themes and unique arrangement made it a timeless masterpiece with lasting relevance.
3. “Africa” by TOTO (1982)
TOTO’s “Africa” is their most accessible and significant song. Its wholesome and mesmerizing qualities, combined with a catchy groove, made it a global phenomenon.
2. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson (1982)
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, defined the 80s. “Thriller” showcases his best elements, from iconic dance moves in the groundbreaking music video to his electrifying vocal performance.
1. “Purple Rain” by Prince (1984)
Prince’s Purple Rain album and title track solidified his genius. “Purple Rain” is a rock and pop ballad masterpiece, captivating listeners with its emotional depth and Prince’s unparalleled artistry, even in its near nine-minute length.
Concluding the Decade of Decadence: 80 Songs, Endless Impact
These 80 songs represent just a fraction of the incredible music that emerged from the 1980s, yet each one has left an indelible mark on music history and popular culture. They are more than just songs; they are anthems, love letters, and rebellious cries that continue to inspire and entertain. From the rise of MTV to the explosion of new genres, the 80s were a unique and unforgettable era for music, and these 80 songs are its enduring soundtrack. They remain timeless works of art, continuously celebrated for their virtuosity and the profound impact they’ve had on millions of listeners and the genres they helped to define. The 80s music scene was truly special, and these songs ensure its legacy lives on.
