The 1980s produced some of music’s most memorable hits, including many from artists who briefly shone in the spotlight before fading into obscurity.
These songs dominated radio airwaves and MTV rotations, becoming the soundtrack to countless memories before their creators largely disappeared from the charts.
Let’s revisit these nostalgic gems that still have the power to transport us back to the decade of neon, big hair, and unforgettable melodies.
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1. Obsession
Animotion’s synth-driven 1984 hit with its provocative lyrics and hypnotic beat captured the era’s fascination with dark romantic themes and electronic soundscapes.
2. Break My Stride
Matthew Wilder’s irresistibly bouncy 1983 anthem about overcoming obstacles became a global hit with its distinctive Caribbean-influenced rhythm and optimistic message.
3. Too Shy
Kajagoogoo’s 1983 new wave masterpiece showcased Limahl’s distinctive vocals and a bass line so catchy it propelled the song to number one in the UK despite the band’s short-lived success.
4. One Night in Bangkok
Murray Head’s 1984 theatrical pop oddity from the musical “Chess” blended spoken word verses with a catchy chorus and exotic imagery to create an unlikely worldwide hit.
5. Come On Eileen
Dexys Midnight Runners’ folk-rock 1982 stomper with its distinctive fiddle hook and singalong chorus became a wedding reception staple that continues to unite generations on dance floors.
6. Fantasy
Aldo Nova’s 1982 rock anthem with its iconic synthesizer opening and guitar-driven chorus epitomized the decade’s arena rock sound and music video excess.
7. Under the Milky Way
The Church’s atmospheric 1988 alternative rock ballad with its enigmatic lyrics and haunting bagpipe-like guitar solo created a dreamy soundscape that seemed to exist outside of time.
8. Party All the Time
Eddie Murphy’s surprising 1985 foray into music produced this Rick James-produced funk-pop earworm that reached number two on the Billboard charts despite critics’ skepticism.
9. She’s Like the Wind
Patrick Swayze’s surprisingly soulful 1987 ballad from the “Dirty Dancing” soundtrack revealed the actor’s musical talents and became inextricably linked with the film’s romantic legacy.
10. No Easy Way Out
Robert Tepper’s powerful 1985 rock anthem from “Rocky IV” with its driving beat and inspirational lyrics perfectly captured the film’s themes of determination against impossible odds.
11. Heartbeat
Don Johnson’s 1986 pop hit proved the “Miami Vice” star had musical chops beyond his detective persona, delivering a smooth track that actually reached the Billboard top 5.
12. Puttin’ on the Ritz
Taco’s quirky 1983 electronic reimagining of the 1929 Irving Berlin classic brought Art Deco style into the new wave era with its distinctive synthesizer arrangement and music video.
13. Two of Hearts
Stacey Q’s infectious 1986 dance-pop hit with its electronic beats and breathy vocals became a defining club anthem of the decade and a staple of 80s compilation albums.
14. Let the Music Play
Shannon’s groundbreaking 1983 dance track helped pioneer the freestyle genre with its electronic Latin rhythms and innovative production techniques that influenced dance music for decades.
15. 867-5309/Jenny
Tommy Tutone’s power pop 1981 hit about a mysterious girl’s phone number written on a bathroom wall caused a nationwide phenomenon with people actually calling the number in various area codes.
16. Harden My Heart
Quarterflash’s saxophone-driven 1981 rock hit showcased Rindy Ross’s powerful vocals and became the Portland band’s signature song despite their brief time in the spotlight.
17. Tarzan Boy
Baltimora’s playful 1985 Italo-disco hit with its jungle-inspired yodel-like chorus hook created an instantly recognizable sound that continues to appear in films and commercials.
18. Black Velvet
Alannah Myles’ smoky 1989 rock tribute to Elvis Presley combined blues influences with mainstream appeal to create a timeless song that won her a Grammy award.
19. Toy Soldiers
Martika’s emotionally powerful 1989 pop ballad about addiction reached number one on the charts with its military drum beat and choir-like chorus creating a dramatic impact.
20. I Just Died in Your Arms Tonight
Cutting Crew’s dramatic 1986 power ballad with its soaring chorus and new wave production became a worldwide hit and remains a staple of 80s rock compilations and movie soundtracks.