The 1980s were a transformative era for music, a period of vibrant innovation that permeated every genre, from pop and rock to country, electronica, and hip-hop. The sheer volume of iconic artists and chart-topping songs that emerged from this decade is a testament to its unparalleled artistic energy. Many argue that no decade before or since has witnessed such a profound and widespread musical evolution. The 80s essentially saw the zenith of nearly every popular contemporary music genre. From Michael Jackson’s pop masterpiece, Thriller, to Metallica’s heavy metal landmark, Master of Puppets, the decade delivered an unmatched catalog of genre-defining albums and singles that continue to resonate today.
Top 80s Anthems: A Countdown
This list celebrates 50 songs that not only dominated the 1980s charts but also left an indelible mark on their respective genres and broader pop culture. Encompassing new wave, alternative rock, electronic dance, heavy metal, and pop, these tracks have stood the test of time, solidifying their status as some of the most famous and best 80s songs ever created.
50. “Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire (1981)
While disco and funk largely defined the 70s music scene, Earth, Wind & Fire seamlessly transitioned into the next decade, proving their enduring appeal with “Let’s Groove.” This infectious track exemplifies the band’s ability to evolve while maintaining their signature sound. “Let’s Groove,” much like their 70s hit “September,” remains a staple in pop culture, frequently featured in films, television shows, and across various media platforms, showcasing its timeless funky groove.
49. “Head Like A Hole” by Nine Inch Nails (1989)
Emerging at the close of the 1980s, Nine Inch Nails, led by Trent Reznor, burst onto the scene with Pretty Hate Machine and the groundbreaking single “Head Like A Hole.” While Nine Inch Nails reached peak critical acclaim and mainstream popularity in the 90s and early 2000s, “Head Like A Hole” stands as a massively influential industrial rock song. It’s an early testament to Reznor’s innovative production and songwriting genius, blending raw aggression with electronic textures.
48. “Just Like Heaven” by The Cure (1987)
The 1980s witnessed the flourishing of gothic rock and post-punk, largely propelled by The Cure’s rise to prominence. While The Cure had hits spanning the late 70s, 80s, and early 90s, “Just Like Heaven” has endured as one of their most beloved and famous love songs. This track perfectly encapsulates the band’s signature blend of melancholic beauty and upbeat melodies, solidifying its place as a classic within the goth rock and post-punk genres.
47. “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley (1987)
Despite its later association with the internet phenomenon of ‘Rickrolling,’ Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” remains a genuinely delightful and iconic pop song. While the ‘Rickroll’ meme undoubtedly boosted its contemporary notoriety, the song’s inherent charm lies in its catchy instrumentation and Astley’s powerfully smooth vocals. It’s a quintessential piece of 80s pop perfection. Even as Astley’s only massive hit, its enduring relevance surpasses many of his contemporaries with a single, unforgettable track.
46. “Fight For Your Right” by Beastie Boys (1986)
Beastie Boys revolutionized music with their genre-bending fusion of hip-hop and rock, exploding onto the scene in the late 80s with their debut LP Licensed To Ill. Their single “Fight For Your Right” has become an enduring anthem of rebellion and youthful energy. It’s a quintessential hype track and a powerful entry point into more aggressive music genres, showcasing the Beastie Boys’ innovative and irreverent style.
45. “Raining Blood” by Slayer (1986)
Metal as we know it wouldn’t be the same without Slayer, especially their seminal 1986 album Reign In Blood. The album’s title track, “Raining Blood,” has become synonymous with thrash metal and the band itself. It stands as the definitive song of Slayer and a cornerstone of the extreme metal genre, embodying its intensity, speed, and dark lyrical themes.
44. “How Soon Is Now?” by The Smiths (1984)
The indie and alternative rock landscape owes a significant debt to The Smiths, and while they produced numerous hits throughout the 80s, “How Soon Is Now?” uniquely captures their sophisticated and introspective essence. From the iconic tremolo guitar riff to Morrissey’s hauntingly vulnerable vocal delivery, “How Soon Is Now?” showcases The Smiths at their most sonically brilliant and emotionally resonant.
43. “Where Is My Mind?” by Pixies (1988)
Pixies’ unique blend of quirky, dark, and melodic sounds was remarkably ahead of its time in 1988. Their hit single “Where Is My Mind?” perfectly encapsulates this innovative approach. Despite its seemingly simple instrumentation, “Where Is My Mind?” achieves a profound impact. Its continued relevance across generations proves the band’s singular sonic brilliance and lasting influence on alternative music.
42. “Uptown Girl” by Billy Joel (1983)
This multi-platinum single remains Billy Joel’s most recognizable and successful hit over four decades later. More than just a chart-topper, “Uptown Girl” has captivated audiences with its irresistibly joyful and anthemic qualities. It’s a signature example of Joel’s distinctive songwriting style, blending classic pop sensibilities with storytelling and infectious energy.
41. “Hysteria” by Def Leppard (1987)
This power ballad from hard rock icons Def Leppard remains as captivating today as it was upon its 1987 release. Built around a riff that has since been emulated and reimagined by countless rock bands, “Hysteria” demonstrated Def Leppard’s versatility and depth, proving they were more than just a hard rock act capable of crafting emotionally resonant and enduring songs.
40. “Down Under” by Men At Work (1981)
Australian new wave rock band Men At Work unleashed the global phenomenon “Down Under” in the early 80s, and it has since become one of the decade’s most recognizable and beloved songs. While it remains their most famous hit by a considerable margin, Men At Work significantly contributed to the sonic landscape of the 80s, influences that continue to permeate modern music.
39. “Tainted Love” by Soft Cell (1981)
Soft Cell achieved a string of noteworthy hits in the 80s, but none rivaled their electrifying rendition of Ed Cobb’s “Tainted Love.” Though arguably a one-hit wonder in comparison to their broader discography, “Tainted Love”’s enduring popularity throughout the decade and beyond has secured its place as one of the most iconic and recognizable songs of the 80s synth-pop movement.
38. “Danger Zone” by Kenny Loggins (1986)
Building on the success of his theme song for the 1984 film Footloose, Kenny Loggins amplified the intensity with “Danger Zone” for the Top Gun soundtrack. Fueled by the recent resurgence of Top Gun with Top Gun: Maverick, “Danger Zone” has solidified its status as Loggins’ signature song and another timeless classic anthem from the 80s, synonymous with high-octane action.
37. “Back In Black” by AC/DC (1980)
There are numerous reasons why AC/DC’s Back In Black is celebrated as one of the greatest rock albums of all time, and the title track is undoubtedly central to its legendary status. Introducing Brian Johnson as the band’s new vocalist, “Back In Black” seamlessly integrated him into AC/DC’s sound and aesthetic. This song is a quintessential rock anthem, driven by Angus Young’s undeniably infectious guitar riffs.
36. “Blue Monday” by New Order (1983)
Considered a seminal electronic-pop song, New Order’s “Blue Monday” not only set new benchmarks for electronic music in the 80s but has also transcended decades, solidifying its position as an all-time classic. While New Order boasts a catalog of other notable hits, “Blue Monday”’s impact on contemporary music remains unmatched, influencing countless artists and genres.
35. “Walk This Way (feat. Aerosmith)” by RUN D.M.C. (1986)
Breaking down musical barriers by merging hip-hop and rock, Run D.M.C.’s collaboration with Aerosmith on “Walk This Way” revitalized Aerosmith’s classic and opened up unprecedented sonic possibilities. Largely due to their success throughout the 80s, and particularly with this groundbreaking track, RUN D.M.C. are consistently recognized as pioneers and one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history.
34. “Ace of Spades” by Motörhead (1980)
Motörhead, led by the iconic Lemmy Kilmister, remain one of the most influential rock bands from the late 70s and early 80s. “Ace Of Spades,” the title track from their 1980 album, is their most highly acclaimed and famous song. It encapsulates the raw energy, speed, and rebellious spirit that defined Motörhead and cemented Lemmy’s legendary status.
33. “Hungry Like The Wolf” by Duran Duran (1982)
British new wave icons Duran Duran became a global sensation in the 80s thanks to hits like “Hungry Like The Wolf.” The band’s signature blend of quirky pop sensibilities and infectious grooves heavily shaped the sound of the decade and continues to influence modern pop music. “Hungry Like The Wolf” propelled Duran Duran to international fame, establishing them as one of Britain’s most celebrated acts of the 80s.
32. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics (1983)
Few songs grab your attention instantly like Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This).” The pulsating synth riff and Annie Lennox’s haunting vocals have made it the duo’s most recognizable piece and a cornerstone of 80s pop. It has become one of the most enduring and influential pop songs ever written, instantly recognizable and endlessly captivating.
31. “The Number of the Beast” by Iron Maiden (1982)
Iron Maiden’s signature sound, characterized by epic twin guitar harmonies and sing-along choruses, has had a profound influence on metal. “The Number Of The Beast,” is the pivotal track that launched them into superstardom. It remains a defining song in their extensive catalog and cemented their status as one of metal’s most revered and legendary bands.
30. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler (1983)
Bonnie Tyler’s dramatic power ballad “Total Eclipse of the Heart” is instantly recognizable, from its somber opening to its soaring, anthemic chorus. While Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler had further hits in the 80s, none have matched the monumental success of “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” It remains her signature song and a quintessential 80s power ballad.
29. “Breaking the Law” by Judas Priest (1980)
The searing guitar riffs and Rob Halford’s piercing vocals of heavy metal pioneers Judas Priest have profoundly influenced generations of metal bands. Judas Priest’s classic “Breaking the Law” remains one of their most famous tracks and a rare instance where they broke through into mainstream recognition with their unapologetic heavy metal sound.
28. “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash (1981)
As pioneers of the first wave of British punk, The Clash’s impact on contemporary punk rock is immense, especially compared to many of their contemporaries. The band’s undeniable knack for hooks is what has made them stand out over time. Their multi-platinum single “Should I Stay or Should I Go” is a prime example of their ability to craft incredibly catchy and enduring punk anthems.
27. “Straight Outta Compton” by N.W.A. (1988)
N.W.A. revolutionized rap music and paved the way for the gangsta rap genre with their groundbreaking debut, Straight Outta Compton. The title track still resonates with the same raw attitude and intensity that the group delivered decades ago. It remains celebrated and influential to this day, embodying the rebellious spirit and social commentary that defined N.W.A.’s impact.
26. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” by Tina Turner (1984)
The “Queen of Rock,” Tina Turner, reached her zenith in the 80s with a string of pop-rock hits and electrifying live performances. However, her single “What’s Love Got to Do with It” stands as her most iconic work and the song that cemented her status as a household name in pop culture. It showcases her powerful vocals and resilient spirit, defining her 80s comeback.
25. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds (1985)
After gaining fame from its inclusion in the iconic coming-of-age film The Breakfast Club, Simple Minds’ “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” became the band’s most popular and beloved song. The song’s soaring instrumentation and infectious performance highlight why Simple Minds became one of the most successful UK bands of the 80s. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” is a definitive anthem of the decade, forever linked to the spirit of 80s cinema and music.
24. “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)” – Kate Bush (1985)
Kate Bush’s already successful career experienced a phenomenal resurgence thanks to Netflix’s Stranger Things featuring her hit single “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God).” The show introduced a new generation to the British pop icon, embedding her as a significant part of the 80s’ sonic appeal for a whole new audience. The song’s timeless quality and emotional depth resonated deeply with new listeners, reaffirming its status as a classic.
23. “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne (1980)
The Prince of Darkness, Ozzy Osbourne, made one of the most impactful solo debuts in rock history with the international sensation “Crazy Train.” While Osbourne’s distinctive personality and vocal melodies propelled the song, the true hero of this hard rock anthem is guitarist Randy Rhoads. His virtuosic musicianship and performance on “Crazy Train” remain highly revered and influential to this day.
22. “In The Air Tonight” by Phil Collins (1981)
Boasting arguably the most famous drum fill of all time, Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight” has repeatedly established itself as a pop-rock standard. The song marked the launch of Collins’ successful solo career after leaving Genesis. “In The Air Tonight” remains his signature track, known for its atmospheric tension and explosive release.
21. “Panama” by Van Halen (1984)
While “Jump” is Van Halen’s most commercially successful hit, “Panama” arguably better represents the band’s raw rock prowess. As one of their catchiest and most famous tracks, “Panama” is consistently played and hailed as one of the greatest rock anthems ever written. It’s a quintessential Van Halen song, showcasing their energy, virtuosity, and party-rock spirit.
20. “Dancing In the Dark” by Bruce Springsteen (1984)
“The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen, achieved massive international success with his 1984 album, Born In the USA. The album spawned numerous hits, but “Dancing In the Dark” stands out as Springsteen’s songwriting pinnacle of the decade. Its enduring popularity underscores the timeless quality Springsteen captured, blending personal reflection with universal themes.
19. “Free Fallin’” by Tom Petty (1989)
Tom Petty’s solo album debut received widespread critical acclaim upon its late 80s release, and with good reason, given the album’s wealth of incredible songs. “Free Fallin’” has become his most famous song from that solo effort and is arguably his best song of the decade, and possibly of his entire career. Its heartfelt lyrics and laid-back melody resonate deeply with listeners.
18. “Just Can’t Get Enough” by Depeche Mode (1981)
Despite Depeche Mode’s magnum opus being their 1990 LP Violator, the band was highly influential throughout the 1980s, producing numerous hits, including “Just Can’t Get Enough.” The song radiates 80s nostalgia with its iconic synth melodies and joyful chorus. While Depeche Mode created many remarkable songs in the decade, “Just Can’t Get Enough” remains one of their most famous and a defining track of the 1980s synth-pop era.
17. “Rebel Yell” by Billy Idol (1983)
Billy Idol sonically embodied much of what was exciting about the 80s: hard-hitting rock, energetic pop choruses, and innovative synthesizer use, all present in his anthemic hit “Rebel Yell.” This song, along with many of Idol’s hits, continues to be enjoyed by multiple generations. He remains a prominent figure of 80s rock, known for his rebellious image and catchy, high-energy songs.
16. “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper (1983)
Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” has remained an absolute classic since its release. Its continued widespread popularity confirms the song’s profound impact on numerous generations and countless artists, particularly throughout the 1980s. It’s an empowering anthem of female joy and independence, instantly recognizable and endlessly uplifting.
15. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston (1987)
Few solo artists have achieved the multi-decade success of Whitney Houston. While her career reached its peak in the 90s with The Bodyguard soundtrack, her 1987 single “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” cemented her status as one of the 80s’ most revered vocalists and rising pop stars. It’s a celebratory anthem of love and joy, showcasing her unparalleled vocal talent and charisma.
14. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police (1983)
From the very first snap of the snare drum, listeners instantly recognize The Police’s legendary single, “Every Breath You Take.” Few songs possess such immediate recognizability, highlighting the song’s achievements and mesmerizing qualities, not to mention The Police’s exceptional musicianship. Despite its often misinterpreted lyrical content, it remains one of the most famous and beloved songs of the 80s.
13. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses (1987)
The sonic brilliance of the 1980s would be incomplete without Guns N’ Roses’ masterpiece debut, Appetite For Destruction. As one of the best-selling and most acclaimed rock albums, choosing the best GNR song is challenging, but “Sweet Child O’ Mine” has been universally adored since its release, making it a fitting choice. Nearly every element of the band shines on this track, illustrating why Guns N’ Roses have remained iconic for decades.
12. “With Or Without You” by U2 (1987)
Irish alternative rock pioneers U2 paved the way for many modern rock and pop artists, and their 1987 album The Joshua Tree significantly contributed to their widespread popularity. “With Or Without You” remains the album’s most famous single and the band’s most recognizable hit. At its release, it became their first No. 1 hit on the U.S. Billboard charts, marking a major breakthrough for U2.
11. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey (1981)
Few contemporary songs ignite sing-alongs and pure joy like Journey’s global hit, “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Despite Journey’s numerous hits and multi-platinum albums, “Don’t Stop Believin’” has remained their most famous and viral song by a considerable margin, experiencing a massive resurgence in popularity in the 21st century. It’s an anthem of hope and perseverance that transcends generations.
10. “Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi (1986)
Bon Jovi’s hits are synonymous with anthemic appeal, and among 80s rock bands, Bon Jovi arguably crafted the most crowd-pleasing rock anthems, with “Livin’ On A Prayer” as their ultimate example. The sheer number of hits from their 1986 LP Slippery When Wet is astounding, but the enduring recognition of “Livin’ On A Prayer” solidifies it as their best. It’s a quintessential 80s rock anthem of working-class dreams and aspirations.
9. “Like A Virgin” by Madonna (1984)
Madonna’s provocative and alluring persona was groundbreaking in the 80s and significantly contributed to her massive success. “Like A Virgin” perfectly encapsulates these qualities. While controversial upon release, it has become one of her defining tracks and a true gem of the decade, symbolizing Madonna’s boundary-pushing artistry and cultural impact.
8. “Take On Me” by a-ha (1985)
The synthesizer is undeniably a defining element of 80s music, often paired with exceptional vocal melodies, which a-ha expertly combined in their global sensation, “Take On Me.” With a soaring chorus that compels listeners to sing along, often attempting the iconic falsetto, “Take On Me” is a one-hit wonder that few artists have come close to replicating. Its innovative music video also played a significant role in its iconic status.
7. “Under Pressure” by Queen And David Bowie (1981)
While both Queen and David Bowie had celebrated solo careers with numerous hits throughout the 80s, their collaboration on “Under Pressure” ranks among their greatest works. Queen and David Bowie captured magic with “Under Pressure.” Its poignant and heartfelt themes have resonated across decades, cementing it as an all-time classic. The song’s powerful message and iconic bassline make it instantly recognizable and deeply moving.
6. “Careless Whisper” by Wham! (1984)
Featuring arguably the greatest saxophone line in pop music history, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley’s “Careless Whisper” is the epitome of musical sensuality and sophistication. Though credited to Wham! on their second album, “Careless Whisper” is largely seen as George Michael’s creation and was released under his name in the UK and Europe. Despite George Michael’s successful solo career, “Careless Whisper” remains his biggest hit, covered by numerous artists and solidifying its timeless appeal.
5. “Master of Puppets” by Metallica (1986)
As the world’s most famous metal band, Metallica’s rise in pop culture has been steadily exponential since their 1981 formation. In recent years, their already iconic heavy metal track “Master Of Puppets” transcended its metal genre roots to become one of the most famous songs of the 1980s. This surge in popularity is partly due to a new generation discovering the classic song through the Netflix series Stranger Things. It’s a thrash metal masterpiece that has now reached a global mainstream audience.
4. “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears For Fears (1985)
Tears For Fears contributed several universally acclaimed and beloved songs to the 80s, but “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” defines their career and legacy. The song’s Cold War themes remain relevant, and its broader message and Tears For Fears’ unique arrangement make this masterpiece timeless. It’s a sophisticated and thought-provoking pop song with enduring appeal.
3. “Africa” by TOTO (1982)
The sheer number of phenomenal hits TOTO wrote and contributed to as session musicians is immense. As a band, however, “Africa” remains their most accessible and significant piece to date. Its wholesome and mesmerizing qualities, along with its undeniably catchy groove, have made it a global phenomenon. “Africa”’s enduring popularity is a testament to its unique blend of pop, rock, and world music influences.
2. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson (1982)
The 80s musical renaissance would be unimaginable without the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Given his numerous hits throughout the decade, choosing his best is challenging, but “Thriller” showcases Jackson at his absolute best. From the iconic dance moves in the groundbreaking music video to his mesmerizing and dynamic vocal performance, “Thriller” is a pop culture phenomenon. The Thriller album remains the best-selling album of all time.
1. “Purple Rain” by Prince (1984)
Prince’s masterpiece Purple Rain cemented his status as one of the greatest songwriters and producers in contemporary music, and the album’s title track encapsulates much of his genius. “Purple Rain” is one of the most powerful ballads ever written in rock and pop. To this day, Prince continues to captivate listeners with this near nine-minute opus, a remarkable achievement in itself. It’s a song of love, loss, and transcendence, embodying Prince’s unique musical vision.
Timeless 80s Music: A Lasting Legacy
These 50 songs have profoundly impacted millions of listeners and the contemporary music genres they inhabit. More importantly, these tracks continue to be played and celebrated for their artistic brilliance, solidifying their place as timeless works of art from some of the most famous 80s bands and artists. They represent the innovation, creativity, and sheer musicality that defined the unforgettable decade of the 1980s.
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