[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.
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[Definitive Edition] Classic and Hit 80s Disco Songs (61–70)
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.
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.
Wake Me up Before You Go-GoWham!
The sense of Japanese titles in the ’80s is full of delightful examples, and Wham!’s 1984 smash hit “Ukiuki Wake Me Up” is one of them.
You might think they didn’t need to add “Ukiuki” (bubbly/excited), but it really is a song that makes you feel giddy, so it doesn’t feel wrong at all.
From the finger-snap intro and George Michael’s refreshing, beautiful vocals to the catchy melody, every element has the quality of a surefire hit.
Be sure to pay attention to George Michael’s assured songwriting, as he handled both lyrics and composition.
Burn Rubber On MeGap Band
The Gap Band, an American group that established a sound influencing everything from funk and R&B to modern hip-hop.
Their signature hit, which lit up the disco scene of the ’80s, is a masterpiece that expresses the sorrow of a man betrayed by his lover through an uptempo funk groove.
Featured on the album The Gap Band III, the track is marked by an exquisite groove driven by Charlie Wilson’s Minimoog synthesizer bassline.
It topped the U.S.
R&B chart in 1980 and earned the band their first platinum record.
It’s a song that shines not only on the dance floor but also for cruising and party scenes, and was even included on the soundtrack of the racing game DiRT 3.
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.
Tarzan BoyBaltimora
As a song that epitomizes the disco scene of the 1980s, it captured the hearts of many and became a classic.
Through the figure of a protagonist who dreams of a free life in the jungle, it expresses the joy of being liberated from the constraints of everyday life.
With its catchy melody and memorable refrain, it lifts the listener’s spirits.
Released in January 1985, it became a worldwide hit, reaching number one on the charts in the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
The track has been featured in films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a pop culture icon.
It’s a song that can give you courage when your desire for freedom grows stronger or when you’re ready to embark on a new adventure.
Lady (You Bring Me Up)Commodores
It’s a soulfully charming, heart-stirring song.
With a warm vocal delivery, it portrays how life regains its shine through meeting a loved one.
Released in January 1981, the track was included on the album “In the Pocket” and reached a high position on the Billboard charts.
It’s a work that reflects the Commodores’ musical shift, symbolizing their transition from funk to ballads.
It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to when you want to lift your spirits or express gratitude to someone special.