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 (41–50)
Purple RainPrince
Following the release of the album Purple Rain, the eponymous film that marked Prince’s acting debut also drew major attention, winning both an Academy Award and a Grammy.
He achieved the remarkable feat of reaching number one simultaneously with a single, an album, and a film—the first time since The Beatles.
Nostalgic? Or Fresh? Great Western Pop Masterpieces and Hit Songs of the 80s (51–60)
You Give Love A Bad NameBon Jovi
Released in 1986, this track became Bon Jovi’s first No.
1 hit in the United States.
Jon Bon Jovi’s powerful vocals and the catchy chorus are especially memorable.
The lyrics, centering on betrayal in love and emotional scars, resonated with many listeners.
As the lead single from the album “Slippery When Wet,” it propelled the band to international superstardom.
Its energetic sound is packed with elements that epitomize the rock scene of the ’80s.
With a universal message that speaks to anyone who has experienced heartbreak or betrayal, it’s perfect for a drive or whenever you want to lift your mood.
Time After TimeCyndi Lauper
It’s a song that has become a standard number, having been covered by numerous artists and used repeatedly in commercials.
Cyndi Lauper, who is also known as a great admirer of Japan, has even appeared on the NHK New Year’s Eve music show, Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
FlashQueen
A signature song by Queen that changed the history of rock ’n’ roll.
The majestic soundscape created for the film Flash Gordon still moves listeners to this day.
Released on December 8, 1980—the same day the sad news of John Lennon’s death broke—this track was followed by a performance of Imagine at the next day’s concert as a tribute to Lennon.
Its vast sonic world, woven from synthesizers and guitar, gives the sensation of racing through outer space.
Also used as the theme for F1 broadcasts, it’s the perfect song to boost the excitement of watching sports or to fire yourself up.
Eye Of The TigerSurvivor
Many people probably feel like running when they hear this song, don’t they? In addition to being used as the theme song for the Sylvester Stallone film Rocky III, it also served as the entrance theme for the famous professional wrestler Hulk Hogan.
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.
Let’s Go CrazyPrince
He created a unique world of his own as “Prince” that couldn’t be fully expressed within any single genre, and he had a profound influence on later artists.
Although he is an extremely renowned artist, he was once ranked No.
1 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 25 Most Underrated Guitarists in History.