[Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco
What kind of sound comes to mind when you think of disco?
Motown, perhaps?
This time, I researched the music that was popular in discos in the 1980s.
In the 1970s, disco was mostly dominated by funk and soul, but once the ’80s arrived, the rise of synthesizers led to a new wave of sounds becoming popular.
From among those, I carefully selected the tracks that were especially popular.
If you’re thinking, “I want to dig deep into disco music from here on out!” be sure to use this as a reference.
It’s come full circle—listening now, it feels fresh and incredibly cool.
- Club Hits: Dance music from Western artists that energized the dance floors in the 1980s
- Why Classic Disco Music Is Still Loved Today
- Get in the Groove with Classic Albums: The World's Eurobeat – Recommended Popular Tracks
- [1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80's Best Hit Songs
- 1980s: Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Classic and Hit Songs
- For seniors in their 80s: Stay healthy while having fun. Introducing dance songs that make you want to move!
- Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers of 1980s Western Music
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces of 70s Disco Music
- Revival among the youth? Japanese dance music that was a hit in the 1980s. Showa-era dance tracks.
- Dance music in Japanese (J-pop) that people in their 50s used to listen to. Nostalgic classic hits.
- [Western Music] Classic disco tracks that were hits in the ’90s
- Dance music from Western artists that was a hit in the 1970s. World-famous and popular songs.
- Legends of soul music: its history and allure revisited through classic songs
[Definitive Edition] Classic and Hit 80s Disco Songs (61–70)
PassionTHE FLIRTS
With a sophisticated hi-NRG sound woven from synthesizers and drum machines, The Flirts made a striking debut on the American dance music scene in 1982.
The first single from their album “10¢ a Dance” is a superb track with an energetic yet catchy melody that brought them success in Europe.
It reached the top 10 in Germany and Switzerland, and also made waves on the Dutch charts, while peaking at No.
21 on the U.S.
Billboard Dance Chart.
Producer Bobby Orlando’s exceptional sensibilities blend seamlessly with Andrea Del Conte’s powerful vocals.
It’s the perfect track for anyone who wants to relive the golden era of disco and club music.
Give It UpKC and The Sunshine Band
It’s one of the quintessential disco tracks of the ’80s, notable for its straightforward expression of romantic feelings.
With its simple yet catchy melody and lyrics, and a powerful beat that lights up the dance floor, it’s irresistibly appealing.
It was included on the 1982 album “All in a Night’s Work” and released as a single the following year.
It has continued to be loved over the years, featuring in works like the film “Kingsman: The Secret Service.” Known as one of KC & The Sunshine Band’s signature songs, it’s a perfect choice for moments when you want to get the crowd going, such as disco parties or wedding receptions.
Come On EileenDexys Midnight Runners
This is a masterpiece that epitomizes 80s pop at its peak.
It’s packed with a unique charm born from the fusion of Celtic folk and soul.
The song expresses the hopes of young people who won’t be defeated by poverty, through a cheerful rhythm and memorable melody.
Released in July 1982, it became the best-selling single of the year in the UK and a massive hit that topped charts around the world.
As Dexys Midnight Runners’ signature song, it still shines with undimmed brilliance.
Perfect for when you want to feel bright and positive, and highly recommended for anyone who wants to savor the atmosphere of the 80s.
Here I AmDynasty
A superb modern disco tune woven from multiple layers of sound and lustrous vocals.
Hailing from Los Angeles, the disco group Dynasty released this track in 1981 from their classic album “The Second Adventure.” Produced by Leon Sylvers III, a key architect of the SOLAR sound, it showcases a perfect balance of a funky bassline and sophisticated synthesizers.
Brimming with dance-floor energy and an irresistibly catchy melody, the song features gorgeous harmonies between male and female vocals, crafting a chic, urban atmosphere.
It’s a quintessential piece of disco music—ideal for a drive or whenever you need a refreshing change of mood.
A Night To RememberShalamar
This is a landmark of post-disco sound created in January 1982 by Shalamar, one of America’s leading R&B groups.
Its catchy melody line and groove-laden rhythm made it an iconic track that electrified dance floors.
Released as a single from the album “Friends,” it reached No.
44 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No.
5 in the UK.
The song was also used in a commercial for the Harvester restaurant chain and featured in the TV series “Girlfriends.” With its shimmering blend of synthesizers and a funky bassline, it offers the full thrill of 80s disco.
Whether you love dance music or need a guaranteed party-pleaser, this track won’t disappoint.
Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)ABBA
This is a hit song by ABBA, memorable for its catchy synth phrase in the intro, danceable sound arrangement, and soulful melody.
Released as a single from the 1979 compilation album “GREATEST HITS Vol.
2,” it became a hit not only in Europe but also in Japan.
In 2008, Madonna’s “Hung Up,” which sampled this track, became a global smash.
Considering that ABBA very rarely grants permission to sample their songs, there may be people who don’t realize that sampling was used in Madonna’s track.
Take your time (Do it right)The SOS Band
A quintessential disco sound of the 1980s from America’s representative R&B group, the S.O.S.
Band.
Its sophisticated arrangement—woven from a groovy bassline and synthesizers—and Mary Davis’s powerful, soulful vocals are irresistibly compelling.
Released in March 1980, their debut single spent five consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the U.S.
R&B chart and became a platinum-certified smash hit.
As the lead single from the album “S.O.S.,” it brilliantly fused disco, funk, and soul into an innovative sound.
Its danceable beat and smooth melody make it perfect as background music for parties or a drive.