17 Best Songs of the Late 80s: A Nostalgic Journey Back in Time

Updated at: 17/03/2025

The late 1980s were a pivotal era in music, a melting pot of genres that birthed iconic sounds still reverberating today. This period saw the rise of power ballads that dominated airwaves, alongside the explosive energy of burgeoning rock and the innovative sounds of pop. To celebrate this rich musical landscape and introduce these unforgettable tracks to a new generation (and perhaps rekindle fond memories for others), we've compiled a list of the best songs from this era. Think anthemic choruses that perfectly capture the youthful exuberance of the time, alongside more introspective tracks demonstrating a surprising depth of emotion. From the instantly recognizable guitar riff of one band to the smooth vocals of another, this collection represents the diversity and enduring quality of late 80s music.

This list isn't just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it's a testament to the songwriting prowess and innovative production that defined the decade. You'll find a captivating mix of styles—upbeat tracks guaranteed to get you moving and soulful ballads that resonate with timeless emotional power. Whether you lived through the era or are just discovering the magic of late 80s music, this selection promises an unforgettable listening experience, showcasing the incredible artistry that cemented this decade's place in musical history. Prepare to be transported back to a time of big hair, vibrant fashion, and unforgettable melodies.

  • Take on Me
    1

    Take on Me

    a-ha

    1984

    Hunting High and Low

  • Sweet Child O' Mine
    2

    Sweet Child O' Mine

    Guns N' Roses

    1987

    Appetite For Destruction

  • Billie Jean
    3

    Billie Jean

    Michael Jackson

    1982

    Thriller

  • Every Breath You Take
    4

    Every Breath You Take

    The Police

    1983

    Synchronicity (Remastered 2003)

  • Livin' On A Prayer
    5

    Livin' On A Prayer

    Bon Jovi

    1986

    Slippery When Wet

  • Another Day in Paradise
    6

    Another Day in Paradise

    Phil Collins

    1989

    ...But Seriously (Deluxe Edition)

  • Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go
    7

    Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go

    Wham!

    1984

  • I Wanna Dance with Somebody
    8

    I Wanna Dance with Somebody

    Whitney Houston

    1987

    Whitney

  • Don't Stop Believin'
    9

    Don't Stop Believin'

    Journey

    1981

    Escape (2022 Remaster)

  • Like a Prayer
    10

    Like a Prayer

    Madonna

    1989

    Faith

  • With Or Without You
    11

    With Or Without You

    U2

    1987

    The Joshua Tree (Super Deluxe)

  • When Doves Cry
    12

    When Doves Cry

    Prince

    1984

  • Heaven Is a Place on Earth
    13

    Heaven Is a Place on Earth

    Belinda Carlisle

    1987

  • Every Rose Has Its Thorn
    14

    Every Rose Has Its Thorn

    Poison

    1988

  • Kiss
    15

    Kiss

    Prince

    1986

    Parade - Music from the Motion Picture Under the Cherry Moon

  • I Drove All Night
    16

    I Drove All Night

    Cyndi Lauper

    1989

  • I Love Rock 'n' Roll
    17

    I Love Rock 'n' Roll

    Joan Jett , the Blackhearts

    1981