[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 (21–30)
Can’t Take My Eyes Off YouBoys Town Gang
Released in 1982, this popular ’80s disco number was covered in Japan under the title “Kimi no Hitomi ni Koishiteru.” The original, a solo single by Frankie Valli, was rearranged as a disco track and became a massive hit.
Its disco-driven vocals capture the thrill of a romance about to begin and really lift the mood.
It’s a beloved song that has been covered by many artists in Japan.
What A FeelingIrene Cara
Its striking introductory phrase belongs to a classic that almost everyone has heard at least once.
Beginning like a ballad, it unfolds into a quintessentially ’80s tight beat, and the melody—sung with Irene Cara’s soaring vocals over shimmering synth tones—is pleasing no matter when you listen.
Chosen as the theme song for the 1983 film Flashdance, it won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song and the Academy Award for Best Original Song, becoming a worldwide smash hit.
In Japan, it not only topped the charts but was also covered by artists such as Linda Yamamoto and Miki Asakura, and it continues to be loved across generations.
[Definitive Edition] 80s Disco Song Classics and Hits (31–40)
Don’t You Want MeHuman League
What’s included on that tasteful CD jacket is, of course, a likewise tasteful track.
It’s a song by The Human League, the famous British synth-pop band that blazed through the ’80s.
The contrast between the male and female vocals is intriguing, and the character of the synthesizer sounds is fascinating—an ultra-cool techno tune brimming with that unmistakable ’80s disco vibe.
I Heard a RumourBananarama
This track is packed with everything fun about 80s electro music: a four-on-the-floor beat, poppiness, and a high-energy, powerful female vocal.
The layering of the synthesizers feels surprisingly natural, showcasing the trackmaker’s taste.
Above all, don’t overthink it—this is a song you can just dance to and have a blast.
It’s also great that the crowd’s voices are recorded.
Jungle LoveThe Time
A single called “Jungle Love” by the band The Time—one you can’t help but fall for from the very first primal shout.
The track itself is electronic music, but its passion and sticky, humid vibe are pure jungle.
It’s a dance tune I’d love everyone who can’t help but love the jungle to hear.
FameIrene Cara
Alongside Flashdance… What a Feeling, this is one of Irene Cara’s signature songs, known for its striking intro phrase led by guitar and synth.
Used as the theme song for the 1980 film Fame, in which she starred, it won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
While it’s a funky disco tune, it prominently features rock guitar, including a passionate guitar solo in the middle.
The song is famous on its own, of course, but many people remember it as inseparable from the film.
Ai No CorridaQuincy Jones
With a guitar intro that pounds out a heavy, driving rhythm and whispery vocals that give it a truly distinctive flair, this track brims with the excitement that something big is about to happen.
True to that promise, the chorus explodes magnificently, delivering the song’s peak of exhilaration.
It’s a very famous track, so many people have probably heard it at least once.
Let the four-on-the-floor beat take over and have fun dancing.