The 1980s: a decade of iconic sounds, groundbreaking artists, and unforgettable melodies. This isn't just a list of songs; it's a journey through the vibrant musical landscape that defined a generation. To truly appreciate the era's impact, one must delve into the innovative soundscapes crafted by artists who pushed boundaries and redefined pop culture. Think of the raw emotion in a power ballad that resonated with millions, the infectious grooves that filled dance floors worldwide, and the deeply personal narratives woven into anthems that became the soundtrack of countless lives. This exploration celebrates the enduring legacy of these musical titans, whose work continues to inspire and move us decades later, showcasing the diverse tapestry of talent that made the 80s so unforgettable. From the unparalleled artistry of one king of pop to the soulful cries of a generation's voice, this list aims to reignite the passion and remind you why these songs remain timeless classics.
This curated selection isn't just a retrospective; it's an invitation to rediscover the magic of the 80s. Whether you lived through the era or are experiencing its music for the first time, you'll find a captivating blend of styles and influences within this collection. The list represents the creative peak of many artists, highlighting not only their commercial success but also their artistic depth and enduring influence. By exploring this list, you’ll not only hear some of the greatest hits of all time but also gain a newfound appreciation for the rich musical tapestry that made the 80s such a revolutionary decade. Prepare to be transported back to a time when music was a powerful force, changing lives and shaping culture, one unforgettable song at a time.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Billie Jean | Michael Jackson | Thriller | 2B+ |
| 2. I Wanna Dance with Somebody | Whitney Houston | Whitney | 461M+ |
| 3. Like a Prayer | Madonna | Faith | 302M+ |
| 4. Purple Rain | Prince | Purple Rain | 252M+ |
| 5. Sexual Healing | Marvin Gaye | 203M+ | |
| 6. Straight Outta Compton | N.W.A. | 183M+ | |
| 7. Just Like Heaven | The Cure | Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me | 127M+ |
1. Billie Jean (1982)
Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" released in 1983, remains a cornerstone of 80s pop culture. Its instantly recognizable bassline and innovative production, a blend of R&B, funk, and pop, cemented its place in musical history. While not explicitly reviewed by Pitchfork, its enduring influence is undeniable, frequently appearing in their retrospectives on the decade's best music. The song's compelling narrative – a man accused of fathering a child – combined with Jackson's unparalleled vocal performance and the groundbreaking "moonwalk" dance, created a cultural phenomenon that transcended generations and continues to resonate deeply with audiences. Its commercial success, topping charts worldwide, further solidifies its status as one of the defining tracks of the 1980s and a testament to Jackson's artistry, aligning perfectly with Pitchfork's appreciation for influential and sonically innovative music.
2. I Wanna Dance with Somebody (1987)
Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)" remains a quintessential 80s anthem. Released in 1987, this infectious track, a vibrant blend of pop and R&B, showcases Houston's unparalleled vocal prowess and irresistible energy. Its soaring melodies and upbeat tempo cemented its place as a chart-topping hit, reaching number one in numerous countries and earning Grammy and Billboard Music Awards. Though not explicitly reviewed by Pitchfork, its enduring popularity and influence on subsequent generations – evident in its continued relevance among younger listeners – suggest its inclusion in any comprehensive “best of” 80s list curated by the publication. The song’s undeniable catchiness, powerful vocals, and positive message align perfectly with Pitchfork's appreciation for both commercial success and artistic merit. Its legacy speaks to a timeless quality that transcends trends, solidifying its position as a landmark achievement in 80s music.
3. Like a Prayer (Faith)
Madonna's "Like a Prayer" unlike her earlier, more purely pop hits, fused gospel and funk with provocative religious imagery, resulting in both unprecedented success and widespread controversy. Its blend of passionate vocals, powerful gospel choir, and evocative lyrics—open to interpretations of both sexual desire and spiritual devotion—secured its place as one of the defining songs of the 1980s. The accompanying music video, with its depiction of interracial romance and controversial religious symbolism, ignited a firestorm of debate, yet ultimately cemented the song's enduring legacy. Its continued popularity, evident in its inclusion on multiple Madonna greatest hits compilations and its enduring presence in cultural conversations, underscores its impact as a bold and groundbreaking artistic statement.
4. Purple Rain (Purple Rain - 1984)
Released in 1984 as the title track of both Prince's album and film, "Purple Rain" transcended its era to become a timeless classic. The power ballad, a fusion of rock, R&B, and gospel, resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying Prince's status as a musical icon. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by continued streams and its inclusion in significant cultural events, such as Prince's memorable Super Bowl XLI halftime performance. The song's emotional depth, as reflected in countless listener testimonials, speaks to its ability to evoke powerful feelings of connection and understanding, cementing its legacy as a masterpiece.
5. Sexual Healing (1982)
Does a song exist that transcends time, effortlessly bridging generations with its emotive power? Marvin Gaye's "Sexual Healing" a 1982 masterpiece, is a prime example. This sultry, synth-infused slow jam, a blend of R&B and sophisticated funk, wasn't directly reviewed by Pitchfork, but its enduring impact is undeniable, earning its place in numerous 'best of' lists celebrating 80s music. Its Grammy-winning success, charting dominance (reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100), and inclusion in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll solidify its significance. Gaye's vulnerable lyrics, combined with innovative production techniques that employed pioneering percussive sounds, resonate deeply, aligning perfectly with Pitchfork's appreciation for artistic merit and genre-bending innovation. The song's timeless appeal continues to captivate listeners, cementing its position as a true 80s classic.
6Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A.
1988
7Just Like Heaven
The Cure
1987
Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me
8When Doves Cry
Prince
1984
9Love Will Tear Us Apart
Joy Division
1980
Give Me the Night
10Into the Groove
Madonna
1985
True Blue
11Kiss
Prince
1986
Parade - Music from the Motion Picture Under the Cherry Moon
12Once in a Lifetime
Talking Heads
1980
Remain in Light (Deluxe Version)
13Blue Monday
New Order
1983
Substance
14Children's Story
Slick Rick
1988
15There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
The Smiths
1986
The Queen Is Dead
16Where Is My Mind?
Pixies
1988
Solo
17Paid in Full
Rakim,Eric B.
1987
18The Message
Grandmaster Flash , The Furious Five
1982
19How Soon Is Now?
The Smiths
1985
The Queen Is Dead
20Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
Michael Jackson
1982
21Temptation
New Order
1982
22I'm Coming Out
Diana Ross
1980
Diana
23Fight The Power
Public Enemy
1989
Fear Of A Black Planet
24Waiting Room
Fugazi
1988
25Shake Your Rump
Beastie Boys
1989
26Bring The Noise
Public Enemy,Anthrax
1988
He Got Game (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
27Love Will Never Do
Janet Jackson
1989
28This Must Be the Place
Talking Heads
1983
Speaking in Tongues (Deluxe Version)
29Teen Age Riot
Sonic Youth
1988