[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] 80s Disco Song Classics and Hits (31–40)
ParadiseChange
This single, which became a massive hit in 80s disco, is fascinating for the interplay between drums, bass, and piano, with its especially groovy bass leaving a strong impression.
The vocals feature beautiful choral work, perfectly matching the danceable performance with a wistful yet beautiful delivery.
It’s a track that naturally makes your body sway to its black, tricky rhythms.
RelaxFrankie Goes To Hollywood
If you really listen to the wildness of the opening vocals, that even wilder melody suddenly hits you.
This is another song that represents the ’80s, and I bet you still hear its chorus melody often on radio and TV.
With a laid-back tempo, wild rhythms and vocals, it’s a dance number that’s guaranteed to get you moving passionately.
It’s Raining MenThe Weather Girls
It starts by startling you with a sudden, mysterious lightning-like sound effect, but that’s part of the fun—this staple ’80s disco tune pairs perfectly with its thrilling intro in a strangely satisfying way.
The duo is also famous for having Martha Wash—who would later provide uncredited vocals on several dance music hits—as a member.
The striking 12-inch single jacket featuring the two of them holding rainbow-colored umbrellas is something you really should see in person at least once.
The Japanese title, Hallelujah Hurricane, which interprets the original title from a different angle, is delightfully and quintessentially ’80s!
Rhythm NationJanet Jackson
You can’t talk about 80s disco songs without mentioning her—her music was, of course, at the forefront of that world.
Among them, Rhythm Nation was arguably the track that made it clear to the world that she was a true superstar.
Her vocals and flawless dancing also had a huge influence on Japanese R&B artists and dancers, didn’t they?
Pefect KissNew Order
This is a song by the band New Order, whose distinctive, hard-edged synthesizer sound and strong electro flavor make it fascinating.
The tightly pulsing arpeggiated synths and the various effects that come in like sonic wildcards are quintessentially ’80s, suggesting the use of cutting-edge sounds of the time and evoking the era.
And yet, the way those sounds layer remains fresh no matter when you listen.
[Definitive Edition] Classic and Hit 80s Disco Songs (41–50)
Rock the CasbahThe Clash
A highly innovative track that uses piano and bongos.
Their way of life as a punk band and the messages they conveyed had a wide-ranging influence on later generations.
This song exemplifies that: despite its friendly melody and straightforward band sound, it carries a profound, message-rich depth that also reflects its historical background.
Undercover Of The NightThe Rolling Stones
It’s a dance number by the legendary British rock band The Rolling Stones, where tense, urgent percussion intertwines with razor-sharp guitars.
Released in October 1983, it was the lead single from the album Undercover.
Its hard-edged groove, infused with New Wave and funk influences, has the power to set the dance floor ablaze.
Yet the lyrics ride that beat to depict political violence and oppression lurking in the night, lending the song a serious theme that sets it apart from a mere party track and gives it distinctive depth and thrill.
This bold sound, steered by Mick Jagger, almost seems to reflect the internal tensions within the band at the time.
It’s a perfect pick for an intelligent, cool, grown-up party night.