[Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco
What kind of sound comes to mind when you think of disco?
Motown, perhaps?
This time, I researched the music that was popular in discos in the 1980s.
In the 1970s, disco was mostly dominated by funk and soul, but once the ’80s arrived, the rise of synthesizers led to a new wave of sounds becoming popular.
From among those, I carefully selected the tracks that were especially popular.
If you’re thinking, “I want to dig deep into disco music from here on out!” be sure to use this as a reference.
It’s come full circle—listening now, it feels fresh and incredibly cool.
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[Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco (1–10)
Private EyesDaryl Hall & John Oates
A signature song by the duo Daryl Hall & John Oates, its chorus melody is a classic that has even been used in commercials in Japan.
Among the tracks from the disco boom of the ’80s, it stands out for its distorted electric guitar tone and memorable guitar solo.
Above all, it’s the powerful, unforgettable chorus that makes this a truly cool song.
Let’s DanceDavid Bowie
David Bowie, the legendary artist born in the UK, created music throughout his long career that defied being confined to a single genre, but even for longtime fans, his 1980s period tends to be divisive.
Released in 1983 amid the disco boom, this song became a major hit that made Bowie’s name widely popular.
With Chic’s guitarist Nile Rodgers as producer, it was crafted into a breezy dance tune.
The fact that the guitar was played by Stevie Ray Vaughan—who was unknown at the time—also speaks volumes about Bowie’s remarkable eye for talent.
Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)Eurythmics
A British duo consisting of Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart.
With their sophisticated electropop sound, they produced many hits, especially throughout the 1980s.
This song was a massive success, reaching No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts, and many people likely remember Annie’s striking look with her very short, orange-dyed hair.
The melodies carried by her powerful vocals exude an unmistakably refined atmosphere, with not a hint of frivolity.
As a popular track, it has been covered by many bands and artists, but Marilyn Manson’s slinky, viscous rendition stands out as particularly unique.
Be sure to listen to it alongside the original and compare!
[Definitive Edition] Classic and Hit Disco Songs of the ’80s (11–20)
Karma ChameleonCulture Club
This is Culture Club’s huge hit, also famous in Japan under the nice title “Karma Is Capricious.” It reached number one on the charts not only in their home country of the UK but also in the United States.
It was a hit in Japan as well, and it’s said that even young children at the time would hum that memorable chorus line.
Boy George’s eccentric persona as the vocalist went on to influence later Japanese visual-kei bands.
Although they’re sometimes treated as a bit of a novelty act, their outstanding pop sensibilities and George’s soulful, beautiful voice clearly showcase their genuine musical talent.
VenusBananarama
Shining as a monumental pillar of 1980s pop music, this track elevated Bananarama, the British girl group, into perfectly evolved dance-pop.
Transforming a classic rock original into a Hi-NRG arrangement, its dazzling disco sound—driven by synthesizers and electronic textures—pairs seamlessly with captivating female vocals.
Released in May 1986, it reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100 in September of the same year, making them the first British girl group to top the chart in America.
It hit the top of the charts worldwide, and its music video made a major splash on MTV.
With rhythm that ignites the dance floor and sleek production, it remains a beloved party staple to this day.
I Feel for YouChaka Khan
Released in October 1984 by American singer Chaka Khan, this track blends gleaming synthesizers with a masterful rap by Grandmaster Melle Mel.
It transforms Prince’s original into a vibrant mix of R&B, funk, and hip-hop, reaching No.
3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No.
1 on both the R&B and Dance charts.
Issued as the lead single from the album “I Feel for You,” it became one of the defining songs of her solo career.
Featuring Stevie Wonder’s distinctive chromatic harmonica, it’s a perfect choice for heating up the dance floor or indulging in classic ’80s disco sounds.
Material GirlMadonna
One of the defining songs of the 1980s, it is known as an iconic track by Madonna.
Characterized by its synthesizer arrangement and powerful beat, it features striking lyrics centered on materialism.
Released in January 1985 as the second single from the album Like a Virgin, it reached No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The music video drew attention as an homage to Marilyn Monroe.
This song is recommended for those who want to enjoy the disco sound of the ’80s or listen to one of Madonna’s signature tracks.
Its socially satirical lyrics are also compelling, and it remains a popular floor-filler.