[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 (41–50)
Funky TownLipps Inc
Formed around Stephen Greenberg, who transitioned from being a wedding DJ, the American studio band Lipps Inc.
released this track as a single from their debut album “Mouth to Mouth” in March 1980.
It became a disco classic, conquering 28 countries worldwide and topping the Billboard chart for four consecutive weeks.
The song expresses a heartfelt desire to escape a dull everyday life and move to an energizing city.
Cynthia Johnson—who was crowned Miss Black Minnesota—delivers a powerful vocal performance that vividly conveys both a longing for the big city and an impatience with the status quo.
Many of you may remember it from its use in the film Shrek 2.
If you want to change your circumstances and take a step into somewhere new, this song will surely give you a push.
[Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco (51–60)
Brother LouieModern Talking
This song features catchy melodies and memorable sounds emblematic of the ’80s.
Centered on a love triangle, it conveys the protagonist’s bittersweet feelings.
Released in 1986, it became a massive hit across Europe, topping the charts in many countries including West Germany and Finland, and reaching an impressive No.
4 in the UK.
As one of Modern Talking’s signature tracks, it has long been beloved as a dance-floor staple.
The lyrics strikingly capture the complexities of romance and the competitive spirit of love.
It’s a perfect pick for disco parties or anyone who wants to revel in the ’80s vibe.
Never Gonna Give You UpRick Astley
This track features a fresh, synth-bass timbre and a solid low end from the kick and bass that really gets you dancing.
Both the masculine lead vocal and the beautiful female chorus are highly compelling, making it not only great for dancing as a piece of dance music but also a delight to the ears as a listener.
It’s a signature song by Rick Astley, one of the iconic singer-songwriters of the 1980s.
Give It To Me BabyRick James
If you search by the title alone, you’ll first get The Offspring’s smash hit, but this one is the 1980s dance-classic masterpiece by funk musician Rick James, who’s globally renowned and notorious for his larger-than-life persona.
Released in 1981, it reached No.
1 on the U.S.
dance chart.
From the roaring funky bass line in the intro to the deftly muted guitar and the flamboyant horn section, every element is impeccable.
It’s said that Michael Jackson’s signature track “Thriller” was heavily inspired by the cutting-edge style of this song.
Owner of a Lonely HeartYES
This song by a quintessential British band of the ’80s became hugely popular and sparked a major craze on the disco scene.
Its catchy, upbeat pop sound made it a classic not only in the world of disco music but across the board.
Having won numerous Grammy Awards and been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, it can be called one of Yes’s signature tracks!
I Should Be So LuckyKYLIE MINOGUE
This is the debut single by Kylie Minogue, who burst onto the ’80s disco scene like a comet.
With its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, it’s a track that lifts your spirits just by listening.
The lyrics, singing of hope and optimism in finding love, highlight Minogue’s youthful, innocent charm.
Released in the UK in December 1987 and in Australia the following year, it topped charts in many countries and catapulted Minogue to stardom.
This song remains a shining example of ’80s pop that hasn’t lost its luster.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to have a blast on the dance floor.
She Works Hard For The Money – Single VersionDonna Summer
When it comes to disco numbers from the ’80s, the “Queen of Disco,” Donna Summer, naturally tops the list.
The song we’re featuring today was produced by Michael Omartian, written and composed by Summer herself, and released in 1983 as a hit single.
Also known in Japan by the title “Tales of Passion,” it became one of Summer’s signature songs.
Led by a mechanical bass line and that distinctly ’80s snare sound, the track brilliantly blends pop and rock elements with a catchy melody.
Her overwhelming vocal prowess needs no explanation.
Be sure to take a look at the lyrics as well—they’re rooted in Summer’s own experiences.