15 hit songs from the 80s

The 1980s were a time of great cultural effervescence, especially on the music scene. It was a decade marked by an explosion of musical genres, from pop to rock, new wave and hip-hop. Many of the songs released at that time became true anthems and continue to be remembered and appreciated to this day.

Remember the hit songs of the 80s

In the 1980s, music became an unstoppable cultural force, shaping the soundscape of a generation and beyond. It was a decade of experimentation, diversity and innovation, where artists from different genres left their indelible mark on music history. 

From vibrant pop to pulsating rock, immersive electronica to romantic ballads, the 80s offered a variety of sounds that still resonate today.

1. Billie Jean - Michael Jackson (1983)

"Billie Jean" is more than just a song from the 80s; it's a milestone in the history of pop music and one of Michael Jackson's most iconic songs. Released as the second single from the album "Thriller" in 1983, the track immediately captivated audiences with its catchy beat, infectious rhythm and intriguing lyrics.

The synth riff that opens the song is instantly recognizable, setting the stage for the unmistakable entrance of Louis Johnson's bass, which has become one of the most iconic in music history. The mesmerizing melody is complemented by Jackson's smooth, powerful voice, which conveys an irresistible mix of confidence and mystery as he interprets the story of a man confronted with the claim of a woman named Billie Jean that he is the father of her child.

2. Sweet Child o' Mine - Guns N' Roses (1987)

"Sweet Child o' Mine" is one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s and undoubtedly one of the biggest hits by the hard rock band Guns N' Roses. Released as the third single from the band's debut album, "Appetite for Destruction", in 1987, the song immediately captivated audiences with its unique combination of power, melody and emotion.

The unmistakable guitar riff, created by Slash, is one of the most recognizable and memorable introductions in rock history. Its mesmerizing melody is instantly captivating, setting the scene for the striking entrance of Steven Adler's drums and Duff McKagan's pulsating bass. When Axl Rose starts to sing, his emotive and powerful voice takes the song to a new level, conveying an irresistible mix of passion and vulnerability.

3. Like a Virgin - Madonna (1984)

"Like a Virgin" is one of the most iconic and controversial songs of the 1980s, released by the indomitable queen of pop, Madonna. It marked a turning point in Madonna's career and in popular culture as a whole. Released as the first single from the album of the same name in 1984, "Like a Virgin" immediately caught the world's attention with its provocative lyrics, pulsating rhythm and Madonna's daring attitude.

The song begins with a catchy guitar riff and a drum beat that quickly turns into an infectious pop melody. Madonna's bold, confident voice echoes over the chords as she sings about the intense feelings of new love, likening the experience to being "like a virgin" - pure and untouched. The lyrics, written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, are skillfully interpreted by Madonna, who infuses the song with an irresistible blend of innocence and seduction.

4. Every Breath You Take - The Police (1983)

"Every Breath You Take" is one of the most iconic and influential ballads of the 1980s, released by the British band The Police in 1983. Composed by Sting, the band's leader, the song quickly became one of the group's biggest hits and one of the most recognizable romantic anthems of the decade.

The song is driven by a distinctive bass line and a soft drum beat, creating a melancholic and enveloping atmosphere from the start. Sting's soft, emotive voice guides the melody, as he sings about the complex feelings of love and obsession. The lyrics, although seemingly romantic, reveal a sense of possessiveness and control, with the lyrical self expressing a desire to monitor his lover's every move.

5. Take On Me - a-ha (1985)

"Take On Me" is one of the most iconic songs of the 80s, released by the Norwegian band a-ha in 1985. With its unique combination of synthpop, new wave and rock, the song quickly became one of the biggest hits of the decade and an anthem for an entire generation.

The striking keyboard intro, followed by the catchy synth riff, immediately captures the listener's attention, setting the scene for the distinctive entrance of Morten Harket's voice. His distinctive and powerful voice lifts the song to new heights, conveying a mixture of emotion and intensity that resonates from the first note to the last chord.

6. Girls Just Want to Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper (1983)

"Girls Just Want to Have Fun" is an iconic song from the 1980s, released by the talented Cyndi Lauper in 1983. This song became an anthem for female independence and the celebration of individuality, gaining worldwide recognition and a special place in the hearts of many listeners.

From the first synthesizer chords to the pulsating, infectious rhythm, "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" instantly captivates listeners, inviting them to a party of self-expression and joy. Cyndi Lauper's unique and powerful voice brings the song to life, conveying a message of empowerment and freedom for women everywhere.

7. Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi (1986)

"Livin' on a Prayer" is one of the most iconic and recognizable songs of the 1980s, released by the rock band Bon Jovi in 1986. This song not only became one of the band's biggest hits, but also an enduring anthem for perseverance, hope and determination.

From the opening guitar chords to the powerful chorus that resonates in listeners' ears, "Livin' on a Prayer" is an explosion of energy and emotion. Jon Bon Jovi's distinctive voice, combined with Richie Sambora's guitar riffs and the band's pulsating beat, creates a catchy tune that is impossible to ignore.

8. Thriller - Michael Jackson (1982)

"Thriller" is much more than just a song; it's a pop culture icon and a masterpiece that transcends generations. Released by Michael Jackson in 1982 as the title track of his breakthrough album, "Thriller", this song not only set a new standard for pop music, but also established new parameters for the production of music videos and live performances.

From Vincent Price's eerie first chords to Michael Jackson's iconic dance moves, "Thriller" is an immersive experience that captivates listeners from the very first moment. The infectious melody and hypnotic rhythm combine elements of funk, pop and rock, creating a musical symphony that is both innovative and timeless.

9. Don't You (Forget About Me) - Simple Minds (1985)

"Don't You (Forget About Me)" is one of the most iconic songs of the 80s, released by Scottish band Simple Minds in 1985. This song became a true anthem of the decade, being remembered not only for its catchy melody, but also for its emotional connection with the pop culture of the time.

From the first keyboard chords to the powerful chorus, "Don't You (Forget About Me)" immediately captures the listeners' attention, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia and emotion. Jim Kerr's distinctive voice guides the melody, conveying a mixture of passion and vulnerability that resonates with the audience.

10. Walk Like an Egyptian - The Bangles (1986)

"Walk Like an Egyptian" is one of the most iconic and fun songs of the 80s, released by the girl band The Bangles in 1986. This song became a smash hit in the charts all over the world and a cultural anthem of the decade.

From the opening guitar chords to the infectious rhythm, "Walk Like an Egyptian" immediately captivates listeners, inviting them on a journey of fun and dancing. The catchy melody and energetic vocals of the band members create a lively and engaging atmosphere that is impossible to resist.

11. Material Girl - Madonna (1984)

"Material Girl" is one of the most iconic and emblematic songs of the 1980s, released by Madonna in 1984 as part of her album "Like a Virgin". This song not only solidified Madonna's position as one of pop music's biggest stars, but also became an anthem for an era of excess and material ambitions.

From the first guitar chords to the unforgettable chorus, "Material Girl" is an explosion of energy and attitude. Madonna's confident and provocative voice guides the melody, conveying a mixture of humor and irony that resonates with the audience. The song is driven by an infectious beat and a pulsating rhythm, which invites listeners to dance and sing along with Madonna.

12. I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) - Whitney Houston (1987)

"I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)" is one of the most vibrant and catchy songs of the 80s, released by the legendary Whitney Houston in 1987. This song is a true anthem of the decade, with its infectious energy, catchy melody and Houston's incomparable voice.

From the first synthesizer chords to the powerful chorus, "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" is an explosion of joy and celebration. Whitney Houston's powerful, soulful voice guides the melody, conveying a sense of optimism and excitement that is impossible to ignore. The song is driven by a pulsating beat and an infectious rhythm, which invites listeners to dance and sing along with Houston.

13. Tainted Love - Soft Cell (1981)

"Tainted Love" is one of the most iconic and influential songs of the 80s, released by British duo Soft Cell in 1981. This song not only set a new standard for the decade's synthpop, but also became an anthem for a generation, with its catchy melody and engaging lyrics.

From the first synth chords to the pulsating beat, "Tainted Love" is an explosion of energy and emotion. Marc Almond's distinctive voice guides the melody, conveying a mixture of desperation and passion that resonates with the audience. The song is driven by an infectious electronic beat and an addictive synth riff, which makes it instantly recognizable.

14. Another One Bites the Dust - Queen (1980)

"Another One Bites the Dust" is one of the most iconic songs by British rock band Queen, released in 1980 as part of the album "The Game". This track not only solidified Queen's place in the rock pantheon, but also became one of the band's biggest commercial successes and a cultural anthem of the 1980s.

From the first bass chords to the irresistible rhythm, "Another One Bites the Dust" is an explosion of energy and groove. The unmistakable bass line, created by John Deacon, is the beating heart of the song, while Roger Taylor's drums and Brian May's guitar riffs complete the catchy melody. Freddie Mercury's powerful and charismatic voice takes the song to new heights, conveying a mixture of confidence and rebellion.

15. Don't Stop Believin' - Journey (1981)

"Don't Stop Believin'" is one of the most iconic and iconic songs of the 80s, released by the American rock band Journey in 1981. This song not only became one of the band's biggest commercial successes, but also an anthem of hope and determination that continues to resonate with people of all ages.

From the first keyboard chords to the powerful chorus, "Don't Stop Believin'" is an explosion of emotion and optimism. Steve Perry's distinctive voice guides the melody, conveying a mixture of passion and confidence that resonates with the audience. The song is driven by an infectious beat and an unforgettable guitar riff, which makes it instantly recognizable.

The success that continues

These are just a few of the many hit songs from the 80s that continue to enchant and move people of all ages. The decade was truly a golden age for music, and these songs are just a small sample of the legacy left by this incredible era.

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March 29, 2024