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 energized the dance floor in the 1980s (1–10)
Wake Me Up Before You Go-GoWham!
Wham!, a pop duo hugely popular in Japan as well, made a big splash in the 1980s and released a string of hit songs.
Among their works, one of the most successful dance tracks is Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.
Released in 1984, the song is categorized as pop music, but it features a bright melody reminiscent of rockabilly and pop rock.
ManeaterDaryl Hall & John Oates
Daryl Hall & John Oates, a duo that represents American blue-eyed soul—better known as Hall & Oates.
They began gaining popularity around 1975, and continued to rack up numerous hits into the 1980s.
One of their classic songs is Maneater, a stylish dance track with a melody reminiscent of Stevie Wonder’s Part-Time Lover.
Flashdance What A FeelingIrene Cara
Singer-songwriter Irene Cara rose to global prominence after appearing in the film Fame.
She is known for a style that infuses R&B into pop rock, soft rock, and adult contemporary, and her music is still widely used across many media today.
One of her signature songs is Flashdance.
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What a Feeling, the theme song for the film Flashdance, which blends high-voltage pop rock with R&B.
[Club Hits] Western Dance Music That Filled the Floor in the 1980s (11–20)
The Tide Is HighBlondie
A tropical and chill track, loved worldwide across generations and often heard in commercials and on TV and radio in Japan.
In fact, it’s a cover by the punk rock band Blondie; the original is a number by the Jamaican reggae band The Paragons.
It’s one of Blondie’s hits that showcased their broad musical range, and getting to know this band more deeply might also help you understand the musical character of that era.
Uptown GirlBilly Joel
Billy Joel is an American singer-songwriter famous for songs like “Piano Man” and “Honesty.” He’s such a well-known artist that even younger people are likely familiar with him.
When it comes to Joel’s upbeat dance tunes, many people probably think of “Uptown Girl.” Released in 1983, this song is crafted as a very up-tempo pop number.
Its straightforward, catchy melody makes it easy to get into the groove, so it’s perfect for getting a crowd excited while soaking in the vibe of the era.
Sweet DreamsEurythmics
Eurythmics, a duo representing the UK, are known for blue-eyed soul, new wave, and synth-pop, and they scored a string of major hits.
Among their works, the dance track that garnered particular popularity is “Sweet Dreams.” It’s a stylish song, with a sophisticated track and a repeatedly sung phrase that leaves a strong impression.
If you enjoy chic and slightly mysterious tunes, be sure to check it out.
Back to LifeSoul II Soul
Soul II Soul, known as a defining presence in UK soul since the late 1980s, is a legendary group that also achieved commercial success and won Grammy Awards.
Their 1989 single “Back to Life,” which topped the UK charts, was included on the soundtrack of the film Black Rain.
As pioneers of the so-called ‘ground beat’ style, they created a classic that is essential for understanding the scene of that era.