The 1980s—a decade that gave birth to countless masterpieces.
Many of the hit songs from that era were incredibly impactful and are still used across various media today.
This time, we’re introducing works that became mega-hits in the ’80s!
We’ve picked selections from a wide range of genres—R&B, rock, pop, and more—so you’re sure to find a favorite.
Even if you didn’t grow up in the ’80s, there are plenty of songs you’ll recognize, especially if you’re in your teens or twenties.
Young listeners, be sure to check them out!
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- 1980s: Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Classic and Hit Songs
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- Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists of the 1980s [2026]
- Love songs in Western music: world classics and recommended popular tracks
- [2026] Best Western R&B Love Songs and Romance Songs Compilation
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 1980s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
Love songs in Western music that were hits in the 1980s. World-famous classics and popular songs (1–10)
Open ArmsJourney
Journey, the band that was hugely successful in the 1980s, continues to perform today with several lineup changes, but wasn’t their most popular era the 1980s when Steve Perry was the lead vocalist? They produced many hit songs, and among them, Open Arms is a ballad that garnered especially strong popularity.
Its emotional sound resonated widely and was used in media across many countries, so even younger generations may find it familiar.
Time After TimeCyndi Lauper
Singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper, who gained popularity for her distinctive high-pitched voice.
She is also extremely popular in Japan.
Although she had been active in bands since the late 1970s, she did not achieve commercial success at the time.
After making her solo debut in the 1980s, she quickly rose to fame and gained worldwide recognition.
“Time After Time” is one of her hit songs that became especially popular, and it remains a classic that many artists continue to cover today.
Part Time LoverStevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder is a highly skilled soul musician who helped fuel the New Soul boom of the 1970s.
Despite the challenge of being blind, he possesses exceptionally advanced piano technique, and his singing-and-playing performances are renowned worldwide for their high caliber.
“Part-Time Lover” is one of his hit songs, crafted into a distinctive work that blends the trending sounds of the 1980s with New Soul.
Every Breath You TakeThe Police
The legendary rock band, The Police.
Hailing from the UK, they were hugely active from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s, gaining popularity with a distinctive sound that blended reggae elements into the then-mainstream punk rock.
Although they eventually disbanded, they remain a band that continues to influence many artists today.
One of their well-known hit songs, Every Breath You Take, was released in 1983.
Its city-evoking sound and crisp, refreshing vocals garnered widespread popularity.
Can’t Fight This FeelingREO Speed Wagon
REO Speedwagon is a band that gained popularity in the 1980s with catchy lyrics and emotionally stirring sounds.
Although they debuted in 1971, they went nearly a decade without major success.
That changed with the 1980 release of the album Hi Infidelity, which brought them worldwide fame.
Can’t Fight This Feeling was released after that breakthrough, and became a hit thanks to its catchy melody and heartfelt, pure lyrics.