[1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80’s Best Hit Songs
The 1980s brought changes to music history and had a huge influence on later musicians.
Cyndi Lauper, Culture Club, Madonna, Earth, Wind & Fire…
Even those who didn’t live through the era can sink into a sense of nostalgia that feels familiar somehow.
Compared to modern songs, the classics of the ’80s often boast purer song quality and stronger musical structure—or, seen another way, the larger market meant bigger budgets, letting you enjoy luxuriously produced sounds.
Find a favorite track and really dive into it!
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[1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80’s Best Hit Songs (91–100)
Straight Outta ComptonN.W.A
A landmark track by the American hip-hop group N.W.A that delivered a scathing critique of the police and laid bare the realities of the streets, shocking society.
Opening the classic 1988 album Straight Outta Compton, this song features powerful lyrics that pierce the heart, declaring pride in their roots and a tough way of life.
Its content was so provocative that the FBI even sent a warning letter—pure defiance against injustice.
It later became known for playing a key role as the theme song of their biographical film Straight Outta Compton.
If you’re feeling stifled by society, listening to this might give you the strength to stand firm in the face of any adversity.
Darlin’ IVanessa Williams
Vanessa Williams, a former Miss America who continues to thrive as a model, actress, and singer.
This is a classic on par with her huge ’80s hit “Save The Best For Last.” An R&B ballad with an air of mature allure, included on the album “The Right Stuff.”
[1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80’s Best Hit Songs (101–110)
Gimme All Your Lovin’ZZ Top
The American blues-rock band ZZ Top, active since the ’70s, struck gold in the ’80s with their “techno boogie” direction.
This album became a legendary smash hit in the United States, selling 10 million copies.
Today, they’re regarded as a nationally beloved Southern rock band.
Rock With YouMichael Jackson
Michael Jackson wasn’t just an artist emblematic of the ’80s—he was someone beloved across every era.
This song was released in the late ’70s and was widely listened to throughout the ’80s.
He would go on to release the massive hit Thriller and become a globally renowned artist, but this track captivates with his free, expansive vocals—something that stays with us in our memories forever.
ImagineQueen
A smash hit that sings of humanity’s peace.
Its melody alone brings a sense of calm, and the more you read the lyrics, the deeper they feel—one reason it has been beloved around the world for so long.
You’ve probably heard this song in many contexts, from films to TV dramas.
I’m Coming OutDiana Ross
Producer Nile Rodgers, upon learning that Diana Ross was hugely popular with gay audiences, thought it would be interesting to incorporate language familiar to the gay community into the lyrics, and created this song.
Although Diana Ross initially disliked the track, it ultimately became a big hit, and she eventually made it a staple to perform at the opening of her shows.
Under PressureQueen
It’s said that while Freddie, Queen’s vocalist, handled the lyrics, the song was created amid various discussions, arguments, and quarrels as the other members weighed in.
It’s also famous as a collaboration with David Bowie, and although the original title was supposed to be “People on the Street,” at David’s strong request it was changed to “Under Pressure.”