Top 10 Songs of the 1980s

The 1980s was a decade of great musical innovation and creativity. New genres emerged, such as synth-pop, new wave, and heavy metal, while established genres like rock and pop continued to evolve. The decade also saw the rise of music videos, which helped to popularize many of the songs of the era. Billboard magazine has ranked the top 10 songs of the 1980s, and we’ve included them below.

1. Physical by Olivia Newton-John (1981)

Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical” was released in 1981 and quickly became a massive hit. The song spent ten weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified platinum. In addition to its catchy tune, it was known for its controversial music video that featured scantily clad men and women exercising together. “Physical” remains a classic song of the 1980s and is still played today.

2. Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) by Eurythmics (1983)

Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” was released in 1983 and became an instant hit. The song peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and helped propel the band to international stardom. Its iconic synthesizer riff and Annie Lennox’s distinctive vocals make it an unforgettable song of the 1980s.

3. Caribbean Queen (No More Love on the Run) by Billy Ocean (1984)

Billy Ocean’s “Caribbean Queen (No More Love on the Run)” was released in 1984 and became his first number-one hit in the United States. The song also won Ocean a Grammy Award for Best Male RB Vocal Performance. Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a memorable song of the 1980s.

4. I Just Called to Say I Love You by Stevie Wonder (1984)

Stevie Wonder’s “I Just Called to Say I Love You” was released in 1984 and became one of his most popular songs. It spent three weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score. Its simple lyrics and melody make it a timeless love song of the 1980s.

5. Like a Prayer by Madonna (1989)

Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” was released in 1989 and became one of her biggest hits. The song topped the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Its controversial music video, which featured burning crosses and stigmata, generated considerable controversy at the time. Today, “Like a Prayer” is considered a classic song of the 1980s.

6. Billie Jean by Michael Jackson (1983)

“Billie Jean” was released in 1983 and became one of Michael Jackson’s most popular songs. The song’s iconic bassline and memorable lyrics helped make it an instant classic. It topped the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, and its music video helped establish Jackson as a superstar of the decade.

7. We Built This City by Starship (1985)

Starship’s “We Built This City” was released in 1985 and became their biggest hit. The song topped the charts in the United States and several other countries and remains a popular song of the 1980s. Its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it an ideal song for dancing and singing along.

8. Video Killed the Radio Star by The Buggles (1979)

Although “Video Killed the Radio Star” was released in 1979, it had a lasting impact on the music of the 1980s. The song’s lyrics, which lamented the rise of music videos and the decline of radio, captured the zeitgeist of the time. Its catchy melody and memorable chorus make it an enduring song of the 1980s.

9. Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey (1981)

Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” was released in 1981 and has since become a classic rock anthem. The song’s inspirational lyrics and memorable chorus have made it a perennial favorite at sporting events and graduation ceremonies. It remains one of the most recognizable songs of the 1980s.

10. Living on a Prayer by Bon Jovi (1986)

Bon Jovi’s “Living on a Prayer” was released in 1986 and became one of their biggest hits. The song’s uplifting lyrics and catchy chorus helped make it an instant classic. It topped the charts in several countries and remains a popular song of the 1980s.

Conclusion

These top 10 songs of the 1980s are all classics that have stood the test of time and continue to be popular today. They represent the diversity and creativity of the music of the era, as well as the cultural and social changes that were taking place at the time.

However, these top 10 songs are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the great music of the 1980s. There were many other fantastic songs and artists that deserve recognition. Here are a few more of my personal favorites:

Jump by Van Halen (1984)

Van Halen’s “Jump” was released in 1984 and became one of their most popular songs. The song’s catchy synth riff and David Lee Roth’s high-pitched vocals make it an unforgettable song of the 1980s.

99 Red Balloons by Nena (1983)

Nena’s “99 Red Balloons” was originally released in German as “99 Luftballons” in 1983, but the English-language version became a hit in several countries, including the United States. The song’s anti-war lyrics and catchy melody make it a memorable song of the 1980s.

Dancing Queen by ABBA (1976)

Although “Dancing Queen” was released in 1976, it remained popular throughout the 1980s and remains a classic disco anthem. Its infectious beat and sing-along chorus make it an ideal song for dancing and parties.

The Final Countdown by Europe (1986)

Europe’s “The Final Countdown” was released in 1986 and became an instant classic. Its iconic keyboard riff and soaring vocals helped make it one of the most recognizable songs of the 1980s.

Let’s Go Crazy by Prince (1984)

Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy” was released in 1984 and is considered one of his signature songs. Its upbeat tempo and guitar solo make it a perfect song for getting pumped up and energized.

Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses (1987)

Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child o’ Mine” was released in 1987 and became their first number-one hit. Its iconic guitar riff and Axl Rose’s powerful vocals make it an unforgettable song of the 1980s.

Run-DMC by Run-DMC (1986)

Run-DMC’s self-titled album, released in 1986, helped popularize hip hop music and culture in the mainstream. The album’s fusion of rock and rap, as well as its iconic cover art, make it a landmark release of the 1980s.

Like a Virgin by Madonna (1984)

Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” was released in 1984 and became one of her biggest hits. Its controversial lyrics and provocative imagery helped establish Madonna as a cultural icon of the decade.

Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler (1983)

Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart” was released in 1983 and became one of the most popular power ballads of the 1980s. Its dramatic chorus and emotional lyrics make it a timeless love song of the era.

In conclusion, the music of the 1980s was characterized by innovation, creativity, and diversity. These top 10 songs, as well as the additional favorites listed above, represent just a small sampling of the great music that came out of the decade. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, or hip hop, there’s something for everyone in the music of the 1980s. So turn up the volume and enjoy!