51 Songs From The '80s That Are Still Bangers

The 1980s were nothing short of iconic. It seems like the ‘80s was a decade of excess if you really think about it - the huge hair, aggressively large shoulder pads, and some pretty big egos too.

And the music from that period has made a lasting impact 40 years later. It was a transformational time for the music industry!

MTV launched, and was actually dedicated to MUSIC and music videos. And they helped introduce the idea that music videos are an art form in and of itself.

Many different types of music genres thrived during this time, pop, rap, and hip hop especially. And I’d be remiss not to mention the use of synthesizers and other digital sounds that were made popular within mainstream music.

So many of today's artists have the ‘80s to thank for the music they’re able to make today. With the advancement of technology mixed with the curiosity, genius, and drive of the artists during that time, genres began to mix and some were even transformed.

To honor the artists and music that were popular in the 1980s, we created a list of the 51 best songs from that decade. And it really runs the gamut of musical genres.

From quintessential party jams, dreamy love songs, and dance club hits, to iconic hip hop and rap tracks, there’s something for everyone. And for as much variety as there is, these songs all work well together as a go-to ‘80s playlist.

Turn up your volume and start scrolling to see and listen to the top 51 songs from the 1980s.

1. “Super Trouper” by ABBA (1980)

ABBA is just a fun and enjoyable band overall, and this song is no exception.

2. “Master Blaster (Jammin’)” by Stevie Wonder (1980)

The song is an ode to reggae legend Bob Marley, and it is reflected in its very reggae-heavy beat. The song has a similar feel to Marley's song "Jamming" with Wonder's iconic vocals.

3. “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” by Hall & Oates (1981)

Hall & Oates was a pop-rock duo that dominated the music scene, and this song is a great example of why.

4. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey (1981)

While this has become sort of an ironically loved song, this power ballad is impossible not to sing along to.

5. “Square Biz” by Teena Marie (1981)

This song is guaranteed to fix any bad mood.

6. “I Love Rock ’n Roll” by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts (1981)

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts I Love Rock 'n Roll is one of those iconic '80s rock earworms that won't leave your head.

7. “Edge of Seventeen” by Stevie Nicks (1981)

Stevie Nicks's witchy voice is everything and mixed with the fast-paced guitar intro and harmonies, this song is a classic.

8. “Valerie” by Steve Winwood (1982)

Winwood has a surprisingly smooth voice and there's something addicting about it, while Valerie isn't his only hit, it's definitely worth a listen.

9. “Forget Me Nots” by Patrice Rushen (1982)

I dare you to listen to this song and not move your body. It's impossible.

10. “Come On Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners (1982)

This song is so catchy and fun, it's one of those songs that can hype up any crowd, especially ones that have been drinking.

11. “A Night to Remember” by Shalamar (1982)

This song has some versatility to it. It's fun and sweet enough to dance with your friends and family, or slow it down to dance with your crush.

12. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics, Annie Lennox, Dave Stewart (1983)

The opening notes are instantly recognizable, and Annie Lennox is perfection.

13. “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper (1983)

I really don't think this deserves any explanation, it is a universally fun song to enjoy with your female friends.

14. “All Night Long (All Night)” by Lionel Richie (1983)

Arguably, this is one of Richie's most iconic songs of his career.

15. “This Must Be the Place” by Talking Heads (1983)

The unique and fun wiggly sounds in this song with David Byrne's vocals make this song feel very much of its time, but also could fit in today.

16. “Let’s Dance” by David Bowie (1983)

PUT. ON. YOUR. RED. SHOES. AND. DANCE. THE. BLUES.

Bowie was a powerhouse artist during his career, and this is definitely one of his top songs.

17. “Uptown Girl” by Billy Joel (1983)

Who doesn't love the romantic dynamic between two folks from vastly different class backgrounds? And the beat makes you want to boogie.

18. “The Glamorous Life” by Sheila E. (1984)

Her sweet voice backed up by some rocking drums makes this song even more enjoyable. And watching her sing while playing drums in the music video is AWESOME.

19. “I Would Die 4 U” by Prince (1984)

This may not be as flashy or well-remembered as Let's Go Crazy or Purple Rain, but this song is incredible and captures the sexy charm of Prince.

20. “Since Yesterday” by Strawberry Switchblade (1984)

Strawberry Switcheblade may have just one full album, but they are one of the quintessential goth-pop artists.

21. “Material Girl” by Madonna (1984)

Madonna is a great artist, and this song is a great example of her talent AND genius. Material Girl manages to be a promotion of the '80s excess and a parody of it.

22. “When Doves Cry” by Prince (1984)

When Doves Cry was Prince's first Billboard Hot 100 #1 hit, and it's no wonder why. It was and still is a banger.

23. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” by Tina Turner (1984)

An evocative '80s song with the slow-burn synth pop. This is considered to be Turner's comeback song after her marriage to the infamously abusive ex-huband Ike, and it's success makes it even better.

24. “Shake the Disease” by Depeche Mode (1985)

Depeche Mode seems like one of those bands that everyone knows about. This is an example of excellent songwriting, and it's about literally something everyone has felt.

25. “Take On Me” by A-ha (1985)

Take On Me is one of those songs that has continued to thrive well after it's time in 1985. Apparently, the hook to this song was written by a 15-year-old Furuholmen, and it's a beloved song ever since it's made its debut.

26. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds (1985)

While many Gen X and older Millenials may picture John Bender raising his fist in the air at the end of The Breakfast Club, this song continues to prove how far reaching the legacy of '80s culture and movies have stretched.

27. “I Can’t Wait” by Nu Shooz (1985)

The music video for this jam is almost as great as the song is.

28. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears (1985)

Another one of those songs that is impossible not to sing along and dance to.

29. “When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going” by Billy Ocean (1985)

A fantastic anthem to help motivate you through a rough time, or to help pick up a lousy mood.

30. “Open Your Heart” by Madonna (1986)

Madonna was the Queen of Pop in the '80s, with the release of four chart-topping albums, she made great music and history at the same time. Open Your Heart is a classic hit about wanting to love and be loved that still rules today.

31. “Ask” by The Smiths (1986)

Morrissey has one of those voices that is easy to recognize and mimic. This song is such a fun jam that makes you want to dance around the room.

32. “Kiss” by Prince (1986)

There's something about Prince's staccato falsetto that helps make this song iconic.

33. “Bizarre Love Triangle” by New Order (1986)

With all the synth, this is like pure '80s music at its best.

34. “Walk This Way” by Run-D.M.C. featuring Aerosmith (1986)

Run-D.M.C were considered ground-breaking with their blended genre hip-hop cover of Aerosmith's rock song.

35. “Nasty” by Janet Jackson (1986)

Control is arguably an essential listening album for everyone. Janet tells us the only thing she likes is "Nasty" grooves, and this song DELIVERS.

36. “Take Me Home Tonight” by Eddie Money (1986)

One of the top 80's romance pop songs!

37. “Just Like Heaven” by The Cure (1987)

Just Like Heaven flawlessly captures the feeling of falling in love, even if it was written and performed by one of the most popular Goth bands.

38. “Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes” by Paul Simon (1987)

The rhythm and harmony on this track were only made even better with Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

39. “The Pleasure Principle” by Janet Jackson (1987)

Janet Jackson was a pop music force outside of her brother, and The Pleasure Principle does not let down.

40. “Tell It to My Heart” by Taylor Dayne (1987)

Not only a great karaoke song, Tell It to My Heart is impossible not to dance to.

41. “Birthday” by The Sugarcubes (1987)

This song blends Björk's quirky singing style with a fun and upbeat pop track.

42. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston (1987)

While this song came out in 1987, it is truly timeless. No matter your age, everyone knows that feeling of "I Wann Dance With Somebody."

43. “(I’ve Had) the Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes (1987)

Dirty Dancing made this song so iconic that multiple generations picture Johnny and Frances (Baby) dancing at the Catskills summer resort's last big dance.

44. “Everywhere” by Fleetwood Mac (1987)

Fleetwood Mac may be renowned for Stevie Nicks lead vocals, but this dreamy pop song written and sung by Christine McVie is a hit.

45. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman (1988)

There's something about Chapman's energy and voice that draws you in. Fast Car is one of those songs you would listen to on repeat without tiring.

46. “Waiting for a Star to Fall” by Boy Meets Girl (1988)

This is one of those carefree pop songs about falling in love that is easy to enjoy.

47. “Bust a Move” by Young MC (1989)

Young MC had massive commercial success with the release of his debut album Stone Cold Rhymin' in the late '80s. Bust a Move was the album's biggest hit, which received a Grammy Award for best rap performance.

48. “Express Yourself” by Madonna (1989)

Madonna's famous hit Like a Prayer can make it easy to forget that Madonna had other great songs released in 1989. Specifically, the feminist manifesto that is Express Yourself where Madonna tells her female fans: “Don’t go for second best, baby.”

49. “Get on Your Feet” by Gloria Estefan (1989)

This up-tempo song was a perfect anthem as the world transitioned into the '90s. It's hard to just sit and listen to this track when it really moves you to get up and take action.

50. “Like a Prayer” by Madonna (1989)

This song catapulted Madonna from a pop-hit maker to a cultural icon. It mixes the pop-song concept of having a catchy earworm, with bold and provocative imagery that stunned everyone.

Madonna changed what pop music could sound like and look like with Like a Prayer. And pop music hasn't been the same since.

51. “If I Could Turn Back Time” by Cher (1989)

This song is as iconic as the fishnet body stocking Cher wears in the music video.

There’s something about the synthy sounds that help make music from the ‘80s so iconic. It’s impossible to hear synthesizers and NOT think “1980s.”

What are some of your favorite songs from the ‘80s, did they make the cut on our list? Let us know in the comments section below, and be sure to share this with your friends.

Who knows, maybe this can be the playlist for your next '80s-themed party. There’s plenty of variety to appeal to everyone.