[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 (51–60)
Upside DownDiana Ross
A track by the indispensable R&B singer in Black music, Diana Ross.
It’s a super danceable song, with songwriting that layers rhythmic words over instruments played with plenty of groove.
The funky guitar and Diana Ross’s one-of-a-kind voice delivering light, danceable vocals make this an outstanding track.
(Wish I Could Fly Like) SupermanThe Kinks
When you hear “the most quintessentially British band,” which group comes to mind? The Kinks are a defining act of the UK rock scene, and today we’re spotlighting their distinctive foray into disco rock.
This track is a thrilling number that cheekily answers the record label’s request for “a song that works in clubs,” filtered through the band’s own wit.
Its driving four-on-the-floor beat intertwined with crisp, choppy rock guitar riffs practically forces your hips to move.
Delve into the lyrics and you’ll find the protagonist’s grumblings as he wavers between hero-worship and harsh reality—exactly the kind of irony that showcases Ray Davies at his best.
Released as a single in January 1979, it reached No.
41 on the U.S.
charts.
It’s perfect for dancing at a party while savoring the deeper message beneath the groove.
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.
Call MeBlondie
A classic by Blondie, a female band that epitomizes new wave, with their one-of-a-kind sound and super cool, edgy vocals.
They’re an electro band known for their groundbreaking sound that shattered the norms and conventions of the time.
It’s a new wave rock number with fans around the world, the kind you’ll occasionally feel like revisiting—never losing its luster no matter how much time passes.
[Definitive Edition] Classic and Hit 80s Disco Songs (61–70)
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.
All Night Long (All Night)Lionel Richie
When it comes to musicians from the ’80s, many people might think of Lionel Richie.
His arrangements are striking, layering Latin-like percussion with expansive synthesizer sounds.
His smooth, soaring vocals beautifully match the track.
The chorus brings a powerful lift, and the African-inspired arrangement section also takes the excitement to the next level—it’s an absolutely thrilling song.
It’s a SinBetty Bitter
This track is striking for its expansive, synth-centered sound and the gentle-feeling vocals that ride on top.
There are parts where the synths move in unison with the vocals, lending a near-futuristic touch that heightens the danceable vibe.
The rhythm resonates solidly as well, which is a key point—its body-thumping pulse supports the other timbres.
Overall it gives off a cool impression, so rather than a fun, party-like disco, it evokes an image of someone looking sharp and stylish on the floor.
