The ’80s was a time of invention, exploration, and self-discovery. The atomic bomb had just been dropped two decades prior, the first black man walked on the moon in 1969 and people were still recovering from disco fever. Needless to say, it was an exciting time to be alive.
Technological advances ushered in new possibilities for communication via telephone (finally!), televisions (the ones that hung on walls), and video games (they came with joysticks!). Everything seemed possible back then; since there were no rules yet, you could do what you wanted to do.
As cheesy as that sounds, life really is about having fun and living in the moment. There was no greater time for this mantra to be practiced than in the 1980s.
The ’80s spawned some of the biggest artists of all time, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Whitney Houston, and Prince just to name a few. Their music reflected the times – lively with an infectious beat that would get your feet moving when played at high volume on gigantic speakers.
If you enjoyed dancing or just simply bringing back memories from another era with songs that were popular in America then check out these groovy ’80s tracks below:
Madonna – Like A Virgin
It doesn’t get more classic than this song by Queen of Pop Madonna! The almost hypnotic rhythm will have you hooked in seconds while its lyrics will send you back to 1984.
Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force – Planet Rock
Say hello to the song that sparked the entire electro genre. “Planet Rock” is arguably one of the most influential songs in history, so much so that every hip-hop dead-end artist would be on some kind of planet rocking for another decade or so! From Run DMC to Sugarhill Gang to LL Cool J, everyone went into outer space after this masterpiece of a track by Afrika Bambaataa.
Whitney Houston – How Will I Know
One thing about groovy ’80s tracks was how great it was at crafting slow jams (and not just dancing music). Whitney Houston didn’t need Auto-Tune or other enhancements to make her beautiful vocals heard, but you can’t think of the ’80s without thinking about this track. If it’s groovy 80s tracks that you’re after then “How Will I Know” is a must-have on your phone!
The Clash – Rock The Casbah
If you like anthems then boy do we have the song for you (hold on for this one). The Clash were pioneers of punk rock and their variety of songs are simply too many to list here. But if there was one song that captures what they were all about, this would be it. It will bring out the rebel in anyone who listens to it
Michael Jackson – Beat It
As much as we love him, MJ had his fair share of clunkers (see: “Earth Song”). But don’t let that stop you from listening to this masterpiece by the King of Pop. This song was an inspiration for anyone who felt like they were stuck in a dead-end job or gang-related activity.
Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance With Somebody
If you’re searching for a mixture of classic R&B and pop music then look no further than Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”. Relive the early days of the ’80s with this much-beloved track that will leave you dancing all night long!
Iron Maiden – The Number Of The Beast
There wasn’t anyone band, singer, or style more definitive to heavy metal than Iron Maiden. “The Number Of The Beast” was a milestone for the band and metal music as a whole. If you’re looking to expand your musical horizons but don’t have any clue where to start, try checking out Iron Maiden’s discography! You won’t be disappointed.
Tina Turner – What’s Love Got To Do With It
One of the absolute classics groovy ’80s tracks, Tina Turner is truly one of a kind. In this hit, she explores themes that are still relevant today such as being independent and not letting anybody stop you from doing what you want to do. This song will empower everyone who listens to it!
Madonna – Vogue
This song is just as iconic as “Like A Virgin”. Whether you like Madonna or not (hate to break it to ya, but she’s kind of unavoidable), you’ll enjoy this dance track with its infectious beat and timeless lyrics.
A-Ha – Take On Me
One of the most beloved songs from the ’80s period. This synthpop anthem will take you back (way back) into time with its unforgettable chorus and music video that featured scoring animation which was cutting-edge at the time.
Tears For Fears – Everybody Wants To Rule The World
It’s impossible to listen to this song and keep still. The upbeat rhythm mixed with the memorable lyrics make for one of the best ’80s dance hits around! If you’re having a bad day, just put this track on and let it carry you away, it’ll brighten up your day in no time!
Queen – Radio Gaga
Queen is another band where there are too many good songs to include here. But “Radio Gaga” stands out for its incredible vocals by Freddie Mercury. This track will never get old! It’s perfect for when you need that extra boost to continue fighting or working hard.
Motley Crue – Shout At The Devil
Motley Crue was originally known for its hop dead metal but changed the game in 1983 with this darker sound. “Shout At The Devil” is a staple song of heavy metal and was one of Motley Crue’s biggest hits. Not bad for a band whose members would eventually go on to become addicted to drugs!
New Order – Blue Monday
This synthpop anthem will have you dancing everywhere you go! Released in 1983, it became an international sensation and has been remixed by countless artists since then. If it isn’t already on your phone, add it now! It’ll lift your spirits whenever you’re feeling down.
Mötley Crüe – Too Fast For Love
A great song by Mötley Crüe featuring everything that makes them awesome – aggressive vocals, loud guitars, and a bass line that you can dance to. If that isn’t enough then just take one look at the music video. Just try not to bang your head along with it!
Belinda Carlisle – Heaven Is A Place On Earth
“Heaven Is A Place On Earth” is my personal favorite groovy ’80s track classic about believing in yourself and following your dreams. Even if what you want seems impossible, sometimes all it takes is faith to make those dreams come true! Relive 1987 with this awesome hit!
The Bangles – Walk Like An Egyptian
Before The Bangles were famous for their hit “Manic Monday”, they released this funky track that was inspired by ancient Egypt. It’s a unique one you won’t find anywhere else, and if it isn’t your cup of tea then give it to a friend who you think will enjoy it!
Spandau Ballet – To Cut A Long Story Short
This synthpop anthem is perfect for when you’re feeling sad or blue. “To Cut A Long Story Short” is an optimistic song about not giving up on yourself, even in the face of adversity. Who doesn’t need more positivity? This song has what you’re looking for!
The Outfield – Your Love
“Your Love” by The Outfield is the ballad you’ve been looking for. This uplifting anthem will have you crooning along and probably replaying it on your phone.”Your Love” was the band’s most successful song and really got them noticed back in 1986. Take a trip back when life wasn’t so complicated with this awesome ’80s classic!
Talk Talk – Such A Shame
If you’re looking for some more synthpop then “Such A Shame” is perfect. Talk Talk really knew how to create some memorable tunes, and this one is an anthem that will never get old!
U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday
Not many songs are as fun yet meaningful as “Sunday Bloody Sunday”. The upbeat rhythm mixed with outstanding vocals makes for an unbeatable combination! You can’t help but sing along and dance to this one.
Wham! – Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go
Wham!’s most famous hit mixed great vocals with an unforgettable beat! This ’80s classic is a must for your workout playlist. You’ll be singing this in no time. It’s fun, it’s catchy and it’s the perfect pick me up when you’re feeling down!
Jet – Are You Gonna Be My Girl
“Are You Gonna Be My Girl” by Jet has everything you love about rock and roll and more. The heavy guitar and pounding drums make for a loud track that will get you moving around the room all night long! If ever there was a song that would get you moving then this is it!
Blondie – Call Me
You can’t have an ’80s playlist without including the amazing Blondie. This upbeat track was a huge hit and got people all over the world singing along. If you’re ever feeling down or low then play “Call Me” to remind yourself that there are always good times around the corner.
Modern English – I Melt With You
Another pop song from The ’80s, “I Melt With You” by Modern English will get you up and dancing in no time at all. It created a dance trend that is still going strong today! Even if you don’t want to dance, enjoy the catchy tune and uplifting lyrics.
Conclusion:
The 1980s have been called the decade that made us who we are today. And when you’re looking for songs to represent this era, this is the best platform to get the ’80s Playlist! From Whitney Houston and The Banglesits to Blondie and U2, these hits will take you back in time with their catchy tunes and uplifting lyrics.
So what are waiting for? Get your playlist ready because it won’t be long before one of these classics becomes your new favorite song!
