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 hits of the 80s (21–30)
Open ArmsJourney
This song was chosen as the theme for the movie “Umizaru” and has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years.
Journey is one of the quintessential bands of the 1980s, alongside U2 and Toto.
The album “Escape,” which includes this song, has sold 10 million copies worldwide.
Everybody Wants To Rule The WorldTears for Fears
Tears for Fears is a British duo, and besides this song they’re also known for their hit “Shout.” Many of their songs have delicate melodies and lyrics that are calming to listen to.
The featured “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” is also notable for its refreshing intro.
Nostalgic or Fresh? Great Western Pop Masterpieces and Hits of the 80s (31–40)
Just Like HeavenThe Cure
A song like a love spell, with a catchy melody and dreamy sound that grabs your heart.
Released in 1987, this track became The Cure’s breakthrough in America and captivated countless listeners.
Robert Smith has even called it “the best pop song The Cure has ever made,” a testament to its irresistible charm.
The lyrics portray the dizzying moment of falling in love and the mystery of love itself—universal themes anyone can relate to.
Lauded with numerous accolades, including a spot on Rolling Stone’s ‘500 Greatest Songs of All Time,’ this piece is sure to resonate with those troubled by love and those elated by it alike.
Uptown GirlBilly Joel
This song features a lively melody strongly influenced by 1960s doo-wop.
Billy Joel skillfully portrays a universal love story in which a working-class young man falls in love with a woman from high society.
Set to a bright, cheerful tune, the piece depicts a romance that transcends social class and was released as a single from the album An Innocent Man in September 1983.
It reached No.
1 in the UK and became a major hit, selling approximately 975,000 copies.
In 1984, it was nominated for an MTV Video Music Award and received high praise as a sophisticated pop tune.
Its upbeat rhythm and hopeful message encourage a positive outlook on love.
Every Breath You TakeThe Police
Starting quietly, this song draws you in with a sudden mid-song lift an octave higher.
As the title suggests, the lyrics mean “I want to watch your every single move.” The vocalist, Sting, has also had hits as a solo artist, such as “Englishman in New York.”
Careless WhisperWham!
When it comes to iconic songs of the ’80s, this one is indispensable! It’s a bittersweet love song about an affair, said to be written by George Michael based on an experience he had at 16.
Upon its 1984 release, it hit number one in both the UK and the US, and topped the charts in over 25 countries—a massive hit.
The memorable saxophone melody and guilt-laden lyrics really resonate.
The regret of betraying a lover is strikingly expressed through the metaphor of feet that can no longer dance.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to immerse yourself in memories of a bittersweet romance.
CenterfoldThe J. Geils Band
The song released in 1981 marked a major turning point in the J.
Geils Band’s career.
It spent six consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the band’s first big hit.
It can be considered one of the defining tracks of the ’80s, standing alongside artists like Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson.
Its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm are striking and will lift your spirits the moment you hear it.
It was also used in a Suzuki “ALTO” commercial, so many people may recognize it.
It’s a perfect track for a drive and a great pick when you want a change of pace.