The 1970s and 80s: a golden age of music that continues to resonate with listeners today. This era birthed iconic artists who pushed boundaries and redefined genres, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable sounds. From the stadium-filling anthems of rock legends to the innovative pop melodies that dominated airwaves, the music of this period is a testament to creative energy and cultural shifts. We're celebrating this rich tapestry of sound by exploring a list of tracks that capture the essence of the decade’s diverse musical landscape; songs that evoke a sense of nostalgia and remain strikingly relevant. Think of the soaring vocals, the innovative instrumentation, the raw emotion poured into each note – this is the kind of music that stays with you.
This journey through the decades isn’t just a walk down memory lane; it's an invitation to discover – or rediscover – the powerful storytelling, undeniable hooks, and infectious rhythms that made these songs immortal. Whether you remember belting out power ballads in your bedroom or dancing the night away to synth-pop beats, this collection offers a vibrant reminder of the era's impact. The list showcases the breadth of talent, from the infectious energy of one artist's breakout hit to the complex harmonies of another’s legendary performance. Prepare to be transported back in time, and perhaps even discover new favorites among these timeless classics.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Take on Me | a-ha | Hunting High and Low | 2B+ |
| 2. Bohemian Rhapsody | Queen | A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version) | 2B+ |
| 3. Sweet Child O' Mine | Guns N' Roses | Appetite For Destruction | 2B+ |
| 4. Billie Jean | Michael Jackson | Thriller | 2B+ |
| 5. Girls Just Want to Have Fun | Cyndi Lauper | She's So Unusual | 1B+ |
| 6. Every Breath You Take | The Police | Synchronicity (Remastered 2003) | 1B+ |
| 7. Livin' On A Prayer | Bon Jovi | Slippery When Wet | 1B+ |
1. Take on Me (Hunting High and Low)
"Take On Me" a groundbreaking synth-pop track from the Norwegian band a-ha, is a quintessential 80s hit. Released in 1985, it wasn't just a commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching number two in the UK, but also a cultural phenomenon. Its innovative music video, which garnered multiple MTV Video Music Awards, remains iconic for its pioneering use of rotoscoping animation. The song's enduring popularity stems from its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and the emotional resonance it creates with listeners, cementing its place as one of the best songs of the 80s and a staple on any 80s bar playlist.
2. Bohemian Rhapsody (1975)
Emerging from the 1970s rock scene, Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" remains a timeless classic. This six-minute opus, a genre-bending blend of rock, ballad, and opera, defied conventional song structure with its multiple sections, captivating listeners for generations. Its enduring popularity, evident in its continued high streaming numbers and numerous accolades, including a Grammy Hall of Fame induction and a place on Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time," stems from its innovative composition, powerful vocals, and exceptional production quality. The song's complex arrangement showcases a full range of musical instrumentation and vocal styles, solidifying its place as a pinnacle achievement in rock music history.
3. Sweet Child O' Mine (Guns N' Roses - 1987)
Guns N' Roses' "Sweet Child o' Mine" a cornerstone of 80s hard rock, continues to resonate deeply with listeners across generations. Released in 1987 on Appetite for Destruction, the song’s iconic Slash guitar riff instantly cemented its place in rock history, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving global success. Its enduring popularity is evident in its billion-view milestone on YouTube, a testament to its cultural impact and the emotional connections it fosters, as evidenced by countless stories shared by fans online – from joyful celebrations to deeply personal reflections on life and loss. The song's enduring appeal ensures its rightful place in any definitive 80s rock playlist.
4. Billie Jean (Michael Jackson)
From the instantly recognizable bassline, "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson, a pop masterpiece from 1983, captivates listeners. This iconic track from the Thriller album transcends generations, its enduring popularity cemented by its innovative sound and culturally significant music video introducing the legendary Moonwalk. The song's compelling narrative—a woman's persistent claim of paternity—coupled with Jackson's powerful vocals and innovative production, resulted in both critical acclaim and massive commercial success. Its influence on music and dance remains undeniable, solidifying its place as one of the best songs of the 80s.
5. Girls Just Want to Have Fun (Cyndi Lauper)
Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" a vibrant 1980s new wave pop anthem, remains a timeless classic. This infectiously catchy tune, originally written by Robert Hazard and reimagined with a powerful female perspective by Lauper, became a feminist touchstone and a global hit. Its playful energy and empowering message resonated deeply with listeners, leading to critical acclaim, Grammy nominations, and inclusion in prestigious lists like Rolling Stone's "100 Greatest Pop Songs." The song’s enduring popularity stems from its ability to evoke joy and nostalgia, cementing its place as a quintessential 80s track and a testament to Lauper's enduring influence.
6Every Breath You Take
The Police
1983
Synchronicity (Remastered 2003)
7Livin' On A Prayer
Bon Jovi
1986
Slippery When Wet
8Dancing Queen
ABBA
1976
Arrival
9Stayin' Alive
Bee Gees
1978
10Another Day in Paradise
Phil Collins
1989
...But Seriously (Deluxe Edition)
11Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go
Wham!
1984
12Hotel California
Eagles
1976
Hotel California (2013 Remaster)
13Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
Michael Jackson
1979
Off the Wall
14I Want to Know What Love Is
Foreigner
1985
Agent Provocateur
15I'm Still Standing
Elton John
1983
Too Low For Zero
16Superstition
Stevie Wonder
1972
Talking Book
17We Are the World
USA for Africa
1985
18Like a Virgin
Madonna
1985
Like a Virgin
19I Will Survive
Gloria Gaynor
1978
Future Bound
20Islands in the Stream
Kenny Rogers,Dolly Parton
1983
The Gambler
21Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic
The Police
1981
Ghost In The Machine (Remastered 2003)
22Take Me Home
Phil Collins
1985
No Jacket Required (2016 Remaster)
23Dancing in the Street
Martha and the Vandellas
1964
24I Love the Nightlife
Alicia Bridges
1978
25You Light Up My Life
Debby Boone
1978