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 (71–80)
WomanJohn Lennon
A timeless, exquisite love song that continues to resonate with people across generations.
The vocals, blending gentleness with strength, deeply permeate the listener’s heart.
Included on the 1980 album Double Fantasy, it was released posthumously as a single in January 1981.
It reached No.
1 in the UK and No.
2 in the US, and entered the top 10 in many other countries, including Canada and New Zealand.
John Lennon created this piece as an expression of love for his wife, and its universal message of love continues to move countless people to this day.
When you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone special, be sure to give it a listen.
FootlooseKenny Loggins
This is also a movie theme song.
It’s a work by Kenny Loggins, who is known as the singer of the theme from the movie Top Gun.
Kenny Loggins is a highly accomplished artist who won a Grammy as a composer in the 1970s.
It’s a song you still often hear these days, including in TV commercials.
Say You Say MeLionel Richie
Released in 1985, this song features Lionel Richie’s warm vocals that seep into the heart, brimming with love and hope.
Its lyrics, which convey the importance of human connection, deeply resonate with listeners.
Used as the theme song for the film White Nights, it reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and won both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe.
In 2008, it ranked 74th on Billboard’s 50th Anniversary Hot 100 list.
It’s a track that gives you courage when you want to reaffirm bonds with friends or when you’re feeling lost in life.
Nostalgic or Fresh? Great Western Pop Masterpieces and Hit Songs of the ’80s (’81–’90)
Billie JeanMichael Jackson
Michael Jackson, the undisputed King of Pop.
His music has left an enormous legacy and continues to be loved around the world.
One of his iconic hits from the 80s, “Billie Jean,” pairs perfectly with the stunning visuals from the era when the concept of the music video was just beginning to take shape, creating an incredible atmosphere.
Blue MondayNew Order
As an innovative track emblematic of the 1980s, this work left a profound mark on the history of dance music.
Its blend of icy electronic sounds and poetic lyrics captivates listeners.
Released in March 1983, it set a record as the best-selling 12-inch single in music history.
With over 3 million copies sold worldwide, its popularity shows no signs of fading.
The lyrics, which address unfaithful relationships and the struggle against socially imposed, cookie-cutter ways of living, resonate with many.
It’s a perfect song both for nights when you want to dance at a club and for moments of solitary introspection.
Play The GameQueen
The girl group Citizen Queen consistently delivers powerful messages centered on women’s empowerment.
In this work, themes focusing on romance and self-expression unfold, conveying positive messages and the importance of self-awareness to listeners.
Released in April 2021, this track further cemented their musical identity.
Drawing on their experience as the opening act for Pentatonix’s world tour, they showcase skills that stand strong on the biggest stages.
It’s a recommended song for anyone who wants to value their individuality or needs a boost of positivity.
I’m in the Mood for DancingThe Nolans
This song is notable for its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm.
Its lively, dance-inducing groove has made it a beloved example of 1980s disco-pop.
Released in 1982, the track reached No.
3 on the UK charts and No.
2 in Ireland.
It was especially a massive hit in Japan, topping the Oricon chart.
The Nolans’ powerful harmonies are a major highlight, making it a track that lifts your spirits just by listening.
It’s perfect as background music for parties or events, and is highly recommended when you want to brighten your mood or refresh yourself.