[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] Classic and Hit Disco Songs of the ’80s (11–20)
SuperstitionStevie Wonder
This is one of Stevie Wonder’s signature songs, where a funky groove meets lyrics with deep meaning.
The track warns of the dangers of superstition and underscores the importance of self-belief, and it was released in October 1972.
In January 1973, it reached No.
1 on both the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100 and the Soul Singles chart.
One of its charms is that Wonder himself plays most of the instruments, including drums and clavinet.
Blending funk, rock, and soul, its distinctive sound is perfect for lighting up the dance floor.
It’s a highly recommended song for anyone who wants to break free from superstition and believe in themselves.
Give Me the NightGeorge Benson
It can be called a song that symbolizes the disco heyday of the 1980s.
It’s a signature work from George Benson, who made his name as a jazz guitarist before moving into pop.
Its captivating sound—woven from smooth vocals and a sprightly rhythm—beautifully captures the freedom and sense of release of the night.
Included on the album Give Me the Night, released in August 1980, it climbed high on the Billboard charts and even won a Grammy.
Still beloved as a track that lights up the dance floor, it’s a song I highly recommend to anyone looking to relieve stress or lift their mood.
CongaGloria Estefan & Miami Sound Machine
Delivered by Miami Sound Machine, a group of Cuban-American musicians, this track is a passionate dance tune that fuses Latin music with pop.
It’s a song from the album Primitive Love, released in August 1985.
The energetic percussion and brass section weave a rhythm that creates an exceptional groove perfect for igniting the dance floor.
The track has been featured in films such as The Birdcage and The Heartbreak Kid, captivating many listeners over the years.
It’s an ideal song for pumping up a party or event, or for giving yourself an energy boost in everyday life.
Billie JeanMichael Jackson
Released in 1983 and included on the album Thriller, this song became Michael Jackson’s biggest hit.
Its lyrics sparked speculation that they were inspired by an experience with a stalker.
The enigmatic words drew widespread attention and fueled various rumors at the time of its release.
This was also the song during which he first showcased the moonwalk in a dance performance, and it remains popular today.
I’m a WandererMisabella
This track has a vibe that’s quintessentially 80s disco, with synth tones that really stand out.
The synth gives a sense of spaciousness, while the solid, resonant rhythm emphasizes a danceable atmosphere.
Because the arrangement is simple—just vocals, rhythm, and synth—you can focus on each element and feel the fun of the song with your whole body.
The rhythm can feel a bit hurried compared to the tempo of the synth and vocals, so I recommend tuning into the sound through the vocals and synth.
Never Ending StoryLimahl
This song depicts a fantastical worldview, exploring themes such as the boundary between dreams and reality, the conflict between light and darkness, and the importance of self-belief.
Produced as the English-language theme for the 1984 film The NeverEnding Story, it became a timeless classic thanks to Limahl’s vocals and Giorgio Moroder’s production.
The song topped the charts in more than 17 countries worldwide, drawing major acclaim, including reaching number one in Spain and Sweden.
Its dreamy melody and magical atmosphere invite listeners on an adventure fueled by imagination.
It’s a perfect track for those pursuing their dreams or wishing to immerse themselves in a world of fantasy.
[Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco (21–30)
Big LoveFleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac, the British band that made a huge splash worldwide starting in the 1970s.
A standout song from the era when they found success with a pop-oriented sound is the lead single from their classic album Tango in the Night.
Released in March 1987, this track is a highly appealing dance number, woven from an urgent guitar riff and synth textures.
Yet the lyrics present a skeptical view of love, and the contrast with the song’s passionate tone leaves a lingering resonance.
The album containing this track topped the UK charts for five weeks.
Blending rock dynamism with the refined beats characteristic of the ’80s, it’s the perfect song to heat up the dance floor.