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 (31–40)
Is There Something I Should Know?Duran Duran
Released in 1983, this song became Duran Duran’s first UK number-one hit.
Centered on a troubled romantic relationship, it expresses doubts and anxieties toward a lover.
Nick Rhodes’s distinctive keyboard sound stands out, showcasing the band’s unique blend of pop and rock.
Directed by Russell Mulcahy, the music video juxtaposes surreal color and black-and-white imagery and was hugely popular on MTV in 1983.
During the 1983/84 Seven and the Ragged Tiger tour, it was reportedly performed as the opening song.
It’s a perfect track for anyone grappling with complicated love, and you may discover something new each time you listen.
Tom’s DinerSuzanne Vega
Released in 1987, this song showcases Suzanne Vega’s keen eye for observation.
Its lyrics, depicting everyday life in a New York diner, resonate deeply with listeners.
The original a cappella version is striking for her clear, transparent vocals.
In 1990, a remix by DNA introduced a dance beat, giving birth to a version with a fresh allure.
Sipping morning coffee while observing the people and the city around you—this song reminds us that even in the most ordinary moments, there are instances that move the heart.
It’s a perfect recommendation for those times when, amid the bustle of the city, you feel like pausing to take in your surroundings.
Take My Breath AwayBerlin
This is the award-winning ballad that served as the love theme for the 1986 blockbuster film Top Gun, honored with an Academy Award.
It was performed by the American band Berlin, with the composition handled by disco maestro Giorgio Moroder.
Teri Nunn’s passionate, soulful vocals leave a strong impression.
The bittersweet yet burning emotions of falling in love—so overwhelming you can hardly breathe—resonate warmly alongside the majestic synthesizer tones.
Released in June 1986, the song reached No.
1 on the U.S.
singles chart.
It’s sure to make a romantic evening with someone special even more dramatic.
Crazy for YouMadonna
Madonna, the American singer known as the “Queen of Pop.” This work is a signature ballad that reinvented her image and led her into new territory.
It was the first time the dance-pop star delivered a tender love song, expressing in a straightforward way the uncontrollable, passionate feelings of falling head over heels for someone.
Produced in March 1985 as the theme song for the film Vision Quest, it reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts in May of the same year.
It also became the milestone that earned Madonna her first Grammy nomination.
If you listen to it while experiencing a bittersweet romance, it will surely resonate with your heart.
Its sweet, romantic melody evokes the dazzling nights of the 1980s.
POWER OF LOVEHuey Lewis & The News
It’s the theme song of the smash-hit film “Back to the Future,” and in Japan it’s also well known as the Honda Integra commercial song.
Starting with a slightly earthy verse, it makes a brilliant turn into a synth-tinged, poppy chorus.
Nostalgic? Or fresh? Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s (41–50)
Nothing’s Gonna Stop LoveStarship
It’s their signature song, which became the theme for the comedy film “Mannequin” and reached No.
1 in the U.S.
It’s a slow-tempo rock number, but the build-up from the guitar solo in the latter half through the key change is excellent.
Their other hit song, “San Francisco Is a Rock City,” is also well-known from morning news programs, much like Wham!.
Waiting On A FriendThe Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones are a British rock band that has been active from the 1960s to the present.
This song is included on the 1981 album Tattoo You, and features Mick Jagger delivering a subdued vocal performance.