[Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco

(Wish I Could Fly Like) SupermanThe Kinks

The Kinks – (Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman [Official Audio]

When you hear “the most quintessentially British band,” which group comes to mind? The Kinks are a defining act of the UK rock scene, and today we’re spotlighting their distinctive foray into disco rock.

This track is a thrilling number that cheekily answers the record label’s request for “a song that works in clubs,” filtered through the band’s own wit.

Its driving four-on-the-floor beat intertwined with crisp, choppy rock guitar riffs practically forces your hips to move.

Delve into the lyrics and you’ll find the protagonist’s grumblings as he wavers between hero-worship and harsh reality—exactly the kind of irony that showcases Ray Davies at his best.

Released as a single in January 1979, it reached No.

41 on the U.

S.

charts.

It’s perfect for dancing at a party while savoring the deeper message beneath the groove.

Undercover Of The NightThe Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones – Undercover Of The Night – OFFICIAL PROMO (EXPLICIT)

It’s a dance number by the legendary British rock band The Rolling Stones, where tense, urgent percussion intertwines with razor-sharp guitars.

Released in October 1983, it was the lead single from the album Undercover.

Its hard-edged groove, infused with New Wave and funk influences, has the power to set the dance floor ablaze.

Yet the lyrics ride that beat to depict political violence and oppression lurking in the night, lending the song a serious theme that sets it apart from a mere party track and gives it distinctive depth and thrill.

This bold sound, steered by Mick Jagger, almost seems to reflect the internal tensions within the band at the time.

It’s a perfect pick for an intelligent, cool, grown-up party night.

Funky TownLipps Inc

Lipps Inc. – Funkytown (Official Audio)

Formed around Stephen Greenberg, who transitioned from being a wedding DJ, the American studio band Lipps Inc.

released this track as a single from their debut album “Mouth to Mouth” in March 1980.

It became a disco classic, conquering 28 countries worldwide and topping the Billboard chart for four consecutive weeks.

The song expresses a heartfelt desire to escape a dull everyday life and move to an energizing city.

Cynthia Johnson—who was crowned Miss Black Minnesota—delivers a powerful vocal performance that vividly conveys both a longing for the big city and an impatience with the status quo.

Many of you may remember it from its use in the film Shrek 2.

If you want to change your circumstances and take a step into somewhere new, this song will surely give you a push.

1999Prince

Prince – 1999 (Official Music Video)

An explosive electro-funk anthem emblematic of the ’80s, this shocking track by Prince blends powerful, anti–nuclear proliferation lyrics with the innovative sounds of the Linn LM-1 drum machine to captivating effect.

Released in 1982, it marked a turning point in Prince’s career and earned attention as he became one of the first Black artists to be aired on MTV.

Its dancefloor-igniting groove and melody that evokes hope for the future continue to move listeners to this day.

High EnergyEvelyn Thomas

Evelyn Thomas – High Energy

A powerhouse dance number released in April 1984 by Evelyn Thomas, a singer who dominated the American disco scene.

Recorded at London’s Trident Studios, this track brilliantly blends cutting-edge ’80s synthesizer sounds with her commanding four-octave vocals.

At the time, it hit No.

1 on the Billboard Dance Chart, reached No.

5 in the UK, and held No.

1 in Germany for four consecutive weeks.

Celebrated worldwide in clubs as the ultimate Hi-NRG sound that ignites dance floors, this masterpiece—featured on the album High Energy—stands as a shining milestone of success.

Highly recommended for anyone looking to amp up a party or event.

Holding out for a HeroCarl Wave

Holding out for a Hero

This track breathes new life into the disco sound of the ’80s.

The lyrics, which portray the longing for an ideal hero, leave a strong impression, and its powerful vocals and energetic instrumentation are captivating.

Released in November 2014, it is included on the album “Eighties Music School: 80’s Rock & Post Disco Best Songs.” It has been featured in works such as the film Shrek 2 and the TV series Euphoria, earning widespread popularity.

It’s a perfect song for fitness and workouts, and is also recommended when you want to boost your motivation.

Let The Music PlayShannon

Shannon – Let The Music Play (Official Music Video)

A track whose distinctive synth sound jumps out at you the moment you press play.

It’s irresistibly danceable, and it captures the excitement of electronic music while conveying the sense that synth sound design is limitless.

The vocals feel mature yet approachable, making it an addictive listen.