The 1980s was a vibrant decade filled with unique music, trends, and unforgettable moments. Many artists found sudden fame with songs that captured the spirit of the time, creating a lasting impact on pop culture.
This article explores 20 memorable one-hit wonders from the ’80s that left their mark on music history.
From catchy tunes that still get played at parties to artists who vanished after their brief moment in the spotlight, these hits defined a generation.
Readers will enjoy a nostalgic journey through the music that made the ’80s so special.
1. “Come On Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners
“Come On Eileen” was released in 1982. It quickly became a massive hit.
The song topped charts in the UK and around the world.
Dexys Midnight Runners, an English band, performed the song. Kevin Rowland was the lead singer.
Its catchy tune and relatable lyrics made it popular.
Despite being a hit, the band had more chart successes. They are not a typical one-hit wonder. Their songs still resonate with fans today.
2. “Take On Me” by A-ha
“Take On Me” is a classic song by the Norwegian band A-ha. Released in 1984, it features catchy synth sounds.
The music video is famous for its unique animation style. It helped boost the song’s popularity in the 1980s.
This track is often remembered as a one-hit wonder. Still, A-ha has a successful catalog beyond this hit.
3. “Mickey” by Toni Basil
“Mickey” is a catchy pop song by Toni Basil. Released in 1982, it became a huge hit.
The song features the famous chant, “Oh Mickey, you’re so fine.” It helped define the music of the early ’80s.
Basil recorded “Mickey” for her debut album, Word of Mouth. The song was originally called “Kitty.”
It quickly climbed the charts and reached number one worldwide. Many remember it as a classic one-hit wonder.
4. “99 Luftballons” by Nena
“99 Luftballons” is a classic song by the German band Nena, released in 1983. It tells a story about balloons causing a military panic.
This catchy tune became a huge hit worldwide. Many remember it as one of the best songs of the 1980s.
5. “867-5309/Jenny” by Tommy Tutone
“867-5309/Jenny” is a classic 1980s song. Released in 1981, it became a huge hit for Tommy Tutone.
The song tells a story about a guy who finds a phone number. He calls it, hoping to reach a girl named Jenny.
This catchy tune is known for its memorable chorus. Many people still sing along to it today.
6. “I Ran (So Far Away)” by A Flock of Seagulls
“I Ran (So Far Away)” is a hit song by A Flock of Seagulls. Released in 1982, it became very popular. The song features catchy melodies and memorable lyrics.
Its synth-driven sound defined the new wave style of the time. Today, it is still recognized as a classic from the ’80s. Fans often remember it for its unique vibe and energy.
7. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina & the Waves
“Walking on Sunshine” is a catchy song by Katrina & the Waves. Released in 1985, it became a huge hit.
The song is known for its upbeat vibe and positive lyrics. It still gets played at parties and events today.
Katrina & the Waves enjoyed this song’s success early in their career. It remains their most recognizable track.
8. “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles
“Video Killed the Radio Star” is a classic song by The Buggles. It was released in 1979 and became a huge hit.
The song talks about how technology changed music. It was the first video played on MTV in 1981. This made it stand out in music history.
9. “Whip It” by Devo
“Whip It” is a catchy song from the band Devo. It was released in 1980 as part of their album Freedom of Choice. The song became a big hit and is known for its unique sound and quirky lyrics.
Many consider it one of the top one-hit wonders of the 1980s. Devo’s style blends new wave and synth-pop elements, making it memorable. The song’s message encourages people to “whip it good,” which adds to its fun appeal.
10. “The Safety Dance” by Men Without Hats
“The Safety Dance” is a catchy tune by Men Without Hats, released in 1982. It became a major hit and is still popular today.
The song features a fun beat and memorable lyrics. It talks about dancing safely and enjoying life.
Men Without Hats is a Canadian band known for their new wave sound. “The Safety Dance” was their most famous song.
11. “She Blinded Me With Science” by Thomas Dolby
“She Blinded Me With Science” is a catchy song by Thomas Dolby. It came out in 1982 and became a huge hit.
The song is known for its fun, quirky lyrics and electronic sound. It mixes science themes with a pop vibe, making it memorable.
Dolby’s track remains a classic from the 80s and is often featured in nostalgia playlists. It showcases his creative style and unique approach to music.
12. “Tainted Love” by Soft Cell
“Tainted Love” is a classic 1980s song by the band Soft Cell. It was released in 1981 and became a huge hit.
The song is known for its catchy synth-pop sound. It features memorable lyrics about a troubled relationship.
Soft Cell’s version helped revive a song originally recorded by Gloria Jones in 1964. The music video adds to its iconic status. You can watch it on YouTube.
13. “Pass the Dutchie” by Musical Youth
“Pass the Dutchie” is a catchy song by Musical Youth. Released in 1982, it became a huge hit. The song sold over 5 million copies worldwide.
The lyrics talk about sharing and community. Many people still enjoy it today. It features a fun reggae sound that appeals to all ages.
14. “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Taco
“Puttin’ on the Ritz” is a popular song by Taco, released in the 1980s. The catchy tune became a hit and is still remembered today.
The song features a fun melody and energetic vibes. Taco’s performance and style made the track memorable for many fans. It captures the lively spirit of the era.
15. “Turning Japanese” by The Vapors
“Turning Japanese” is a hit song by the English band The Vapors. Released in 1980, it became popular worldwide.
The song features catchy melodies and memorable lyrics. It is often seen as a classic one-hit wonder from the 1980s.
Many remember it as a fun, upbeat track that captures the spirit of the era. The Vapors gained most of their fame from this song.
16. “The Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades” by Timbuk3
“The Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades” is a catchy tune by Timbuk3. It came out in 1986 and became a hit.
The song features an upbeat sound and memorable lyrics. Many people remember it as a fun anthem of the ’80s.
It reached the Billboard Hot 100, making a mark in music history.
17. “Rock Me Amadeus” by Falco
“Rock Me Amadeus” is a catchy song by Falco. Released in 1985, it became a huge hit.
The song blends pop, hip-hop, and electronic sounds. It pays tribute to composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Falco was an Austrian artist, and this track is his most famous. It showcased his unique style and was widely played.
18. “The Final Countdown” by Europe
“The Final Countdown” is a popular song by the Swedish rock band Europe. Released in 1986, it became a massive hit.
The catchy keyboard riff was written by lead singer Joey Tempest. It grabbed listeners’ attention immediately and remains a defining anthem of the 1980s.
19. “In a Big Country” by Big Country
“In a Big Country” is a notable song by the band Big Country. It was released in 1983 and became a hit in the U.S.
The song features a catchy guitar riff and upbeat melody. It reflects themes of hope and adventure.
Big Country gained popularity during the 1980s with this track. It remains a classic from that era.
20. “Too Shy” by Kajagoogoo
“Too Shy” is a hit song by the British band Kajagoogoo. It was released in January 1983. The song comes from their debut album, White Feathers.
This catchy track quickly topped the charts in several countries. It’s known for its memorable hook and upbeat sound. Kajagoogoo is often remembered as a one-hit wonder in the U.S.