Club Hits: Dance music from Western artists that energized the dance floors in the 1980s
80s music is back in the spotlight amid the current revival boom.
The 1980s were a whirlwind of genres, but I can confidently say that dance music best represents the decade’s character.
This time, we’ve selected Western hits from the 80s that lit up disco dance floors.
Unlike today, rock was also popular as a form of dance music back then, and there are plenty of tracks that crank up the voltage.
If you want to boost your mood with nostalgic tunes, please enjoy to the very end.
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[Club Hits] Western Dance Music That Rocked the Floor in the 1980s (61–70)
Tarzan BoyBaltimora
As the title suggests, it’s an impactful track that suddenly kicks off with Tarzan’s voice right from the intro.
Despite being known for a Tarzan-themed song, they’re a rare group from Italy.
It was a massive hit especially in Europe, but in their home country of Italy it only charted as high as number 6.
Let’s Hear It For the BoyDeniece Williams
This song, used in the movie Footloose, reached No.
1 in the United States and No.
2 in the United Kingdom in 1984.
Since she debuted in 1968, that means she scored a major hit 16 years later.
The 1980s saw many collaborations between films and musicians, and this track is one of them.
And We DancedThe Hooters
They’re a rock band, but this is the track that always fires up the dance floor.
They’re distinctive artists who found success by using acoustic instruments and incorporating a wide range of sounds.
Rob Hyman, one of the members, is the co-writer of Cyndi Lauper’s classic “Time After Time.”
FunkytownLipps Inc
This is the song “Funky Town” by the American music group Lipps, Inc, who were active in the early 1980s.
Many people in Japan have probably heard it in commercials and elsewhere.
Once you hear it, the melody sticks in your head.
Its slightly laid-back vibe is addictive.
The soulful vocals match unexpectedly well and make it really cool.
Private EyesDaryl Hall & John Oates
Here lies a masterpiece that electrified dance floors in the 1980s.
The opening handclaps are catchy, and the rhythmic groove that grabs the audience and won’t let go is the very essence of ’80s pop.
The lyrics explore trust and doubt in romance, skillfully using the metaphor of a detective.
Featured on Daryl Hall & John Oates’ tenth studio album and released in September 1981, the track spent two consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It was frequently aired on MTV and became one of their signature songs.
Perfect for anyone feeling nostalgic or looking to rediscover the charm of ’80s music.
Fire in My HeartMadleen Kane
This track feels fresh with its brisk tempo and steadily ticking eighth-note synths.
The male-female unison vocals are striking, but it’s the unique sound design that really shines—its ideas and sound choices cleverly embody the electro and techno movements of the 1980s.
At the same time, the classic four-on-the-floor beat makes it a highly danceable number you can really move to.
Raspberry BeretPrince & The Revolution
One of the standout songs that added color to the glorious ’80s dance music scene, this track showcases Prince’s unique artistic vision to the fullest.
It captures the bittersweet memories of first love with a pop sound infused with psychedelic elements, leaving a vivid impression on listeners.
Released in May 1985, the song sparked a major reaction, reaching No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
As a single from the album “Around the World in a Day,” it drew significant attention and came to symbolize Prince’s new musical challenges.
It’s a perfect pick for those who want to relive nostalgic youth or are looking for a heartwarming love song.