Nostalgic or fresh? Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs from the 1980s
The 1980s transformed music history and had a profound impact on later musicians.
Even those who didn’t live through the era can bask in a sense of nostalgia that feels somehow familiar.
Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Whitney Houston, Cyndi Lauper.
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We researched pop hits from the West that defined the ’80s.
From those, we carefully selected the most popular tracks based on reliable feedback from music fans who visit our site.
Find a favorite track and dive in!
Nostalgic, or fresh? Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs from the 80s (1–10)
Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)Eurythmics
When it comes to Eurythmics, this is the song that comes to mind first! Released in 1983, it became a huge hit.
The distinctive intro, the interlude that hits you right in the chest, and above all, the androgynous allure conveyed through Annie Lennox’s low-register vocals—everything about it offered a new kind of appeal that captivated everyone.
It has also been covered by many artists.
Love In The First DegreeBananarama
When it comes to Eurobeat in the ’80s, it’s got to be them! Bananarama’s cute vocals captivated everyone.
While “Venus” became a global hit, this song was also catchy and popular as an adorable dance number.
They had many fans in Japan, and their songs were playing everywhere.
There Must Be An AngelEurythmics
It’s a song that completely changed from Eurythmics’ previous style and surprised everyone.
It opens with Annie Lennox’s beautiful falsetto, overflowing with clarity and bringing happiness to listeners.
It’s an artistic work.
I’ve heard the harmonica in the song is played by Stevie Wonder.
Smooth CriminalMichael Jackson
Rather than calling him an artist representative of the ’80s, it’s better to say he’s one of the greats of the global music industry.
There’s probably no one who doesn’t know his name.
This song is from his monumental, smash-hit album “BAD.” It consistently ranks near the top in fan polls.
This track also features one of his signature dance poses.
Down UnderMen At Work
A legendary band that burst onto the scene from Australia in ’82 like a comet, scoring back-to-back No.
1 hits in the U.
S.
Perhaps the sudden success became a burden, as they disbanded in ’85 after just three years of activity, but they treated us to a rare live performance at the 2004 Sydney Olympics closing ceremony.
AfricaTOTO
A signature song by TOTO released in 1982.
It has a sound that seems to epitomize the 1980s.
The quietly emerging intro has a charm that naturally spreads through the listener’s heart.
It’s a classic that captivated everyone with its majestic sound—like the vast land of Africa—clearing away the clouds of the heart.
Take On Mea-ha
It’s a song with a unique intro and an impressive long falsetto note.
Although the artist is from Norway, this track reached number one on charts across the United States and around the world.
The music video was also highly acclaimed, winning six categories at the MTV Music Awards.