[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] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco (21–30)
What A FeelingIrene Cara
Its striking introductory phrase belongs to a classic that almost everyone has heard at least once.
Beginning like a ballad, it unfolds into a quintessentially ’80s tight beat, and the melody—sung with Irene Cara’s soaring vocals over shimmering synth tones—is pleasing no matter when you listen.
Chosen as the theme song for the 1983 film Flashdance, it won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song and the Academy Award for Best Original Song, becoming a worldwide smash hit.
In Japan, it not only topped the charts but was also covered by artists such as Linda Yamamoto and Miki Asakura, and it continues to be loved across generations.
1999Prince
An explosive electro-funk anthem emblematic of the ’80s, this shocking track by Prince blends powerful, anti–nuclear proliferation lyrics with the innovative sounds of the Linn LM-1 drum machine to captivating effect.
Released in 1982, it marked a turning point in Prince’s career and earned attention as he became one of the first Black artists to be aired on MTV.
Its dancefloor-igniting groove and melody that evokes hope for the future continue to move listeners to this day.
Can’t Take My Eyes Off YouBoys Town Gang
Released in 1982, this popular ’80s disco number was covered in Japan under the title “Kimi no Hitomi ni Koishiteru.” The original, a solo single by Frankie Valli, was rearranged as a disco track and became a massive hit.
Its disco-driven vocals capture the thrill of a romance about to begin and really lift the mood.
It’s a beloved song that has been covered by many artists in Japan.
I Heard a RumourBananarama
This track is packed with everything fun about 80s electro music: a four-on-the-floor beat, poppiness, and a high-energy, powerful female vocal.
The layering of the synthesizers feels surprisingly natural, showcasing the trackmaker’s taste.
Above all, don’t overthink it—this is a song you can just dance to and have a blast.
It’s also great that the crowd’s voices are recorded.
Dschinghis KhanGenghis Khan
Released in 1979, this track features lyrics and a melody inspired by a Mongolian hero, leaving a strong impression.
The original was released by the West German music group Genghis Khan, but it gained renewed attention in Japan when Morning Musume covered it in 2000.
With an unforgettable, highly original melody, the cover version has been used in several commercials, and the song has remained a popular disco number for many years.
Big LoveFleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac, the British band that made a huge splash worldwide starting in the 1970s.
A standout song from the era when they found success with a pop-oriented sound is the lead single from their classic album Tango in the Night.
Released in March 1987, this track is a highly appealing dance number, woven from an urgent guitar riff and synth textures.
Yet the lyrics present a skeptical view of love, and the contrast with the song’s passionate tone leaves a lingering resonance.
The album containing this track topped the UK charts for five weeks.
Blending rock dynamism with the refined beats characteristic of the ’80s, it’s the perfect song to heat up the dance floor.
Don’t You Want MeHuman League
What’s included on that tasteful CD jacket is, of course, a likewise tasteful track.
It’s a song by The Human League, the famous British synth-pop band that blazed through the ’80s.
The contrast between the male and female vocals is intriguing, and the character of the synthesizer sounds is fascinating—an ultra-cool techno tune brimming with that unmistakable ’80s disco vibe.