Nostalgic or fresh? Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs from the 1980s
The 1980s transformed music history and had a profound impact on later musicians.
Even those who didn’t live through the era can bask in a sense of nostalgia that feels somehow familiar.
Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Whitney Houston, Cyndi Lauper…
We researched pop hits from the West that defined the ’80s.
From those, we carefully selected the most popular tracks based on reliable feedback from music fans who visit our site.
Find a favorite track and dive in!
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Nostalgic? Or fresh? Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s (61–70)
Every Little Thing She Does Is MagicThe Police
This masterpiece gently sings of the bittersweet feelings of a man captivated by unrequited love, its uniquely Police-style, inventive arrangement striking a deep chord.
The melancholic yet romantic lyrical worldview is beautifully balanced with a bold sound that fuses new wave and reggae.
Released in 1981 as a single from the album Ghost in the Machine, it topped the charts in the UK and several other countries, and its forward-thinking use of piano and synthesizers also drew attention.
It’s a perfect choice for conveying pure love—whether as a wedding performance or in a proposal to someone special.
Material GirlMadonna
If Michael Jackson was the defining male artist of the ’80s, then wouldn’t Madonna be the defining diva of the ’80s? Even more than 30 years after her debut, her continued success truly makes her the “Queen of Pop.”
Sunday Bloody SundayU2
U2’s signature song released in 1983 is marked by a powerful drumbeat and an intense, stirring guitar riff.
Set against the backdrop of the Northern Ireland conflict, its lyrics express a heartfelt wish for peace.
Opening the album War, it became a song that symbolizes the band’s political message.
It also holds a key place in their live performances, with their 1987 show in Colorado being especially famous.
Universally conveying fear and revulsion toward the cycle of violence, the track continues to move countless listeners to this day.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who longs for peace.
Old Time Rock & RollBob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band
This commanding, powerful mid-tempo 8-beat! It’s quintessential American rock ’n’ roll—Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s “Old Time Rock and Roll.” Bob Seger’s wild vocals feel absolutely amazing, too.
Put this song on and you’ll be transported straight back to the ’80s!
Hard To Say I’m SorryCHICAGO
This is a power ballad by Chicago, released in May 1982, known for its poignant, heart-tugging melody.
Centered on breakup and reconciliation, it poignantly conveys the difficulty of apologizing and the hope of mending a relationship.
The song spent two consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was nominated for a Grammy.
It earned high praise worldwide, topping the charts in many countries.
Peter Cetera’s crystalline vocals blend beautifully with David Foster’s sophisticated production.
It’s a perfect song for anyone hoping to repair a cherished relationship after a breakup or a fight.
More Than WordsExtreme
This song is known for its beautiful acoustic guitar tone.
Although the band is extremely famous for this track, they’re actually a full-on hard rock band featuring guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, well-known among rock fans.
Paradise CityGuns N’ Roses
It’s a rousing, fan-favorite track from their 1987 debut album Appetite for Destruction that grabs listeners’ hearts and never lets go.
Its catchy guitar riff and powerful drum beat brilliantly capture both the allure of the American Dream and the harshness of reality.
Released as a single in January 1989, it peaked at No.
5 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Often performed to close out their live shows, it sends audiences into a frenzy.
Packed with the essence of Guns N’ Roses, this is one of the defining songs of the ’80s—perfect for getting pumped up on a drive or at a party.