100 popular pop songs from the 1980s
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Writer AndyKim
Hit 2,543 Hits
Date 25-02-05 20:34
Content
Below is a comprehensive list of 100 popular pop songs from the 1980s. Each entry includes the song title, the performing artist, the approximate release year, and a brief note on its significance or distinctive qualities. This list spans the decade’s many styles—from new wave and synth-pop to rock‑infused pop and dance anthems.
---
1. **"Billie Jean" – Michael Jackson (1982)**
*A signature pop and R&B hit known for its distinctive bass line and groundbreaking music video.*
2. **"Like a Virgin" – Madonna (1984)**
*An iconic track that launched Madonna’s career, blending provocative imagery with catchy pop hooks.*
3. **"Every Breath You Take" – The Police (1983)**
*A deceptively mellow ballad with a memorable riff that became one of the decade’s most enduring hits.*
4. **"Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" – Eurythmics (1983)**
*A synth-pop classic noted for its hypnotic beat and Annie Lennox’s unique vocal style.*
5. **"Girls Just Want to Have Fun" – Cyndi Lauper (1983)**
*An upbeat, feminist anthem with an infectious melody that captured the fun-loving spirit of the 80s.*
6. **"Beat It" – Michael Jackson (1982)**
*Featuring a famous guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, this rock‑infused pop hit became a crossover success.*
7. **"Take On Me" – a-ha (1985)**
*Celebrated for its soaring vocals and innovative rotoscoped animation in the music video.*
8. **"Thriller" – Michael Jackson (1982)**
*A pop masterpiece that redefined the music video format with its cinematic storytelling and dance routines.*
9. **"I Wanna Dance with Somebody" – Whitney Houston (1987)**
*A high-energy dance-pop anthem that showcased Houston’s powerful vocals and became a party staple.*
10. **"With or Without You" – U2 (1987)**
*An atmospheric rock ballad noted for its emotional depth and the band’s signature sound.*
11. **"Faith" – George Michael (1987)**
*A catchy, upbeat track blending pop, rock, and R&B influences that solidified Michael’s solo success.*
12. **"Like a Prayer" – Madonna (1989)**
*A controversial yet critically acclaimed song that mixed pop with gospel elements and personal themes.*
13. **"Walk Like an Egyptian" – The Bangles (1986)**
*A playful, quirky pop hit that became synonymous with the mid‑80s sound and style.*
14. **"Eye of the Tiger" – Survivor (1982)**
*A driving, motivational anthem best known as the theme for the film *Rocky III*.*
15. **"Livin' on a Prayer" – Bon Jovi (1986)**
*An anthemic rock‑pop song with a soaring chorus that remains a stadium favorite.*
16. **"Don't Stop Believin'" – Journey (1981)**
*A timeless sing-along track that has grown in popularity over the decades, inspiring hope and unity.*
17. **"Another One Bites the Dust" – Queen (1980)**
*A funky, bass‑driven hit that demonstrated Queen’s versatility and appeal across genres.*
18. **"Crazy Little Thing Called Love" – Queen (1980)**
*A rockabilly‑inspired tune that showcased Queen’s playful side and became an enduring crowd‑pleaser.*
19. **"Tainted Love" – Soft Cell (1981)**
*A synth‑pop cover that transformed a soul classic into an 80s dance hit with a distinctive electronic beat.*
20. **"Come On Eileen" – Dexys Midnight Runners (1982)**
*A spirited, fiddle‑infused pop hit known for its infectious energy and memorable chorus.*
21. **"Under Pressure" – Queen & David Bowie (1981)**
*A collaborative classic featuring a compelling bass line and a fusion of rock and pop sensibilities.*
22. **"Material Girl" – Madonna (1984)**
*A catchy pop number that cemented Madonna’s image as a style icon and social commentator.*
23. **"Jump" – Van Halen (1984)**
*A high‑energy track featuring an iconic synthesizer riff that crossed over from hard rock to pop charts.*
24. **"Uptown Girl" – Billy Joel (1983)**
*A retro‑inspired pop tune with a catchy melody and storytelling lyrics about romance and class.*
25. **"In the Air Tonight" – Phil Collins (1981)**
*Famous for its atmospheric build‑up and dramatic drum break, this track has become a pop‑culture staple.*
26. **"Let's Dance" – David Bowie (1983)**
*A dance‑oriented track that introduced Bowie’s foray into mainstream pop and new wave influences.*
27. **"Pour Some Sugar on Me" – Def Leppard (1987)**
*A hard‑rock anthem with a danceable groove and catchy chorus that dominated 80s airwaves.*
28. **"Faithfully" – Journey (1983)**
*A heartfelt ballad with soaring melodies that underscores the power of commitment and resilience.*
29. **"Maniac" – Michael Sembello (1983)**
*An energetic pop‑rock track that gained fame from the film *Flashdance*, known for its driving rhythm.*
30. **"Footloose" – Kenny Loggins (1984)**
*A high‑spirited anthem from the film *Footloose*, inspiring listeners to hit the dance floor.*
31. **"Flashdance... What a Feeling" – Irene Cara (1983)**
*A motivational dance‑pop hit that won acclaim for its uplifting message and dynamic production.*
32. **"We Got the Beat" – The Go-Go's (1981)**
*An exuberant new wave‑pop song that became an enduring symbol of 80s girl power and energy.*
33. **"Modern Love" – David Bowie (1983)**
*An energetic fusion of rock and pop that reflects Bowie’s innovative spirit during the 80s.*
34. **"Karma Chameleon" – Culture Club (1983)**
*A catchy, colorful pop hit that blended reggae‑influenced rhythms with soulful vocals by Boy George.*
35. **"Red Red Wine" – UB40 (1983)**
*A smooth, reggae‑inflected pop rendition that brought a laid‑back groove to mainstream audiences.*
36. **"Time After Time" – Cyndi Lauper (1984)**
*A gentle, timeless ballad known for its emotive lyrics and Lauper’s distinctive vocal delivery.*
37. **"I Just Called to Say I Love You" – Stevie Wonder (1984)**
*A heartfelt, simple pop classic that won hearts with its sincere message and melodic charm.*
38. **"When Doves Cry" – Prince (1984)**
*An innovative track featuring experimental production and emotional intensity that redefined pop music.*
39. **"Purple Rain" – Prince (1984)**
*A sprawling, epic ballad that blends rock and pop, marked by its emotional guitar solos and anthemic quality.*
40. **"Let's Hear It for the Boy" – Deniece Williams (1984)**
*An upbeat, celebratory tune with a joyful vibe that captured the spirit of 80s pop.*
41. **"I Want to Know What Love Is" – Foreigner (1984)**
*A soulful power ballad with grand production that resonated as an anthem of heartfelt emotion.*
42. **"Total Eclipse of the Heart" – Bonnie Tyler (1983)**
*A dramatic, soaring ballad noted for its powerful vocals and cinematic atmosphere.*
43. **"Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" – Wham! (1984)**
*A bubbly, energetic pop hit that showcased the infectious charisma of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley.*
44. **"Do You Really Want to Hurt Me" – Culture Club (1982)**
*A soulful, introspective track that combines reggae‑influenced rhythms with poignant lyrics.*
45. **"If You Love Somebody Set Them Free" – Sting (1985)**
*An upbeat, liberating track with a catchy groove that marked Sting’s move toward a solo career.*
46. **"Sledgehammer" – Peter Gabriel (1986)**
*A funk‑infused pop hit known for its innovative music video and dynamic brass‑laden production.*
47. **"Every Rose Has Its Thorn" – Poison (1988)**
*A soft rock ballad with memorable acoustic guitar work and a reflective take on love and loss.*
48. **"Hungry Like the Wolf" – Duran Duran (1982)**
*An energetic, new wave hit with a driving beat and catchy chorus that became a club favorite.*
49. **"Rio" – Duran Duran (1982)**
*A colorful, upbeat track with a distinctive tropical vibe and sleek production values.*
50. **"Girls on Film" – Duran Duran (1981)**
*A stylish, provocative pop song that showcased the band’s flair for visual storytelling and catchy hooks.*
51. **"Walking on Sunshine" – Katrina and the Waves (1983)**
*An exuberant, feel‑good anthem with a buoyant melody that continues to brighten playlists.*
52. **"Let's Go Crazy" – Prince (1984)**
*A high‑energy track blending rock and pop with an electrifying call to live life to the fullest.*
53. **"I Melt with You" – Modern English (1982)**
*A breezy, upbeat new wave pop tune with an infectious chorus that remains a nostalgic favorite.*
54. **"Voices Carry" – 'Til Tuesday (1985)**
*A moody, atmospheric track marked by haunting vocals and a memorable, minimalist arrangement.*
55. **"Do They Know It's Christmas?" – Band Aid (1984)**
*A star‑studded charity single that united artists to raise awareness and funds during the holiday season.*
56. **"I Want Candy" – Bow Wow Wow (1982)**
*A raucous, energetic pop track driven by a distinctive rhythm and a youthful, rebellious edge.*
57. **"The Power of Love" – Huey Lewis and the News (1985)**
*A feel‑good, upbeat anthem with an infectious groove that captured hearts on radio and in movies.*
58. **"Addicted to Love" – Robert Palmer (1986)**
*A slick, stylish track featuring a driving beat and an iconic music video that epitomized 80s cool.*
59. **"Simply the Best" – Tina Turner (1989)**
*A powerhouse pop‑anthem known for its uplifting message and Turner's dynamic vocal performance.*
60. **"We Don't Need Another Hero" – Tina Turner (1985)**
*A dramatic, anthemic track with a cinematic feel, featured in the film *Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome*.*
61. **"I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)" – Hall & Oates (1981)**
*A smooth, sophisticated pop‑R&B hit with a memorable groove and slick production.*
62. **"Maneater" – Hall & Oates (1982)**
*A catchy, edgy track with a blend of pop and soul that became one of the duo’s signature songs.*
63. **"Out of Touch" – Hall & Oates (1984)**
*A light‑hearted, danceable pop tune featuring infectious hooks and polished vocal harmonies.*
64. **"Kiss" – Prince (1986)**
*A minimalist, funk‑infused pop song known for its playful energy and innovative production.*
65. **"Relax" – Frankie Goes to Hollywood (1983)**
*A provocative, high‑energy track with a pulsating beat that became emblematic of the 80s dance scene.*
66. **"Two Tribes" – Frankie Goes to Hollywood (1984)**
*A bold, politically charged pop hit with dramatic production and a driving beat.*
67. **"The Safety Dance" – Men Without Hats (1982)**
*An offbeat, quirky new wave anthem with a catchy hook that invites listeners to dance freely.*
68. **"Take Me Home" – Phil Collins (1985)**
*A heartfelt, radio‑friendly pop tune with smooth production and Collins’ signature vocal style.*
69. **"Sussudio" – Phil Collins (1985)**
*A funky, upbeat track known for its infectious rhythm and memorable, nonsensical lyrics.*
70. **"Invisible Touch" – Genesis (1986)**
*A slick, modern pop‑rock hit characterized by its catchy chorus and polished production.*
71. **"Land of Confusion" – Genesis (1986)**
*A socially aware track with a distinctive synth‑driven sound and a memorable, satirical music video.*
72. **"I Just Can't Stop Loving You" – Michael Jackson & Siedah Garrett (1987)**
*A tender duet ballad that pairs Jackson’s smooth vocals with heartfelt lyrics about enduring love.*
73. **"Dirty Diana" – Michael Jackson (1988)**
*A hard‑hitting rock‑inflected pop track noted for its aggressive guitar riffs and edgy narrative.*
74. **"Bad" – Michael Jackson (1987)**
*A powerful, assertive pop anthem with a driving beat and iconic choreography that redefined pop performance.*
75. **"The Way You Make Me Feel" – Michael Jackson (1987)**
*A rhythmic, feel‑good pop track that blends infectious energy with Jackson’s signature vocal style.*
76. **"Man in the Mirror" – Michael Jackson (1988)**
*An introspective, inspirational ballad calling for personal change and global betterment.*
77. **"Control" – Janet Jackson (1986)**
*A groundbreaking pop‑R&B track that established Janet as a force in music with its assertive message.*
78. **"Nasty" – Janet Jackson (1986)**
*A bold, funk‑infused track marked by its edgy production and powerful vocal delivery.*
79. **"Rhythm Nation" – Janet Jackson (1989)**
*An anthem of unity and empowerment, featuring innovative production and a memorable marching beat.*
80. **"When I Think of You" – Janet Jackson (1986)**
*A breezy, upbeat pop track with smooth grooves and an infectious melody.*
81. **"Word Up!" – Cameo (1986)**
*A funk‑driven pop hit with a distinctive chant and infectious groove that made it a dance floor staple.*
82. **"Never Gonna Give You Up" – Rick Astley (1987)**
*A quintessential 80s dance‑pop track known for its catchy melody and later internet‑fueled revival.*
83. **"Together Forever" – Rick Astley (1988)**
*A joyful, upbeat pop tune that builds on Astley’s signature sound with an irresistibly catchy chorus.*
84. **"Dangerous" – Roxette (1989)**
*A high‑energy pop-rock track with dynamic vocals and a driving beat that captured the duo’s international appeal.*
85. **"The Look" – Roxette (1989)**
*An infectious, rock‑inflected pop hit characterized by its irresistible hook and polished production.*
86. **"Listen to Your Heart" – Roxette (1989)**
*A tender, melodic ballad with a sweeping arrangement that resonated with audiences worldwide.*
87. **"It Must Have Been Love" – Roxette (1987)**
*A poignant, romantic ballad that gained international fame after its inclusion in the film *Pretty Woman*.*
88. **"I Want to Break Free" – Queen (1984)**
*A defiant, catchy pop-rock anthem celebrated for its relatable lyrics and quirky, memorable video.*
89. **"Radio Ga Ga" – Queen (1984)**
*A pop‑oriented track that pays tribute to radio’s influence, featuring sing‑along choruses and a nostalgic vibe.*
90. **"Everybody Wants to Rule the World" – Tears for Fears (1985)**
*A smooth, reflective anthem with a catchy melody that became a defining track of 80s pop.*
91. **"Shout" – Tears for Fears (1985)**
*A powerful, cathartic track with an anthemic chorus that resonated with listeners on an emotional level.*
92. **"Head Over Heels" – Tears for Fears (1985)**
*A buoyant, melodic pop song with lush production and a memorable, romantic refrain.*
93. **"Sowing the Seeds of Love" – Tears for Fears (1989)**
*An intricately arranged track that blends pop with 60s psychedelia and politically tinged lyrics.*
94. **"Just Can't Get Enough" – Depeche Mode (1981)**
*An upbeat, synth‑driven pop gem that helped define the early sound of electronic pop.*
95. **"Personal Jesus" – Depeche Mode (1989)**
*A dark, moody track with a driving beat and memorable guitar riff that pushed the boundaries of pop and rock.*
96. **"West End Girls" – Pet Shop Boys (1984)**
*A sleek, atmospheric synth-pop hit with socially observant lyrics and a distinctive, minimalist production.*
97. **"Don't You Want Me" – The Human League (1981)**
*An iconic new wave hit marked by catchy hooks and a narrative style that captivated a wide audience.*
98. **"Bizarre Love Triangle" – New Order (1986)**
*A pulsating, synth-driven pop tune with infectious melodies and danceable beats that became an underground classic.*
99. **"Fade to Grey" – Visage (1980)**
*A pioneering track of the New Romantic movement, known for its moody synth textures and stylish aesthetic.*
100. **"Blue Monday" – New Order (1983)**
*A seminal electronic dance track with a distinctive beat and innovative production that influenced pop and club music for years to come.*
---
### Final Thoughts
These 100 tracks capture the creative diversity of 1980s pop—an era defined by its innovative use of synthesizers, memorable hooks, and a bold fusion of genres. Whether you’re drawn to high‑energy dance anthems, introspective ballads, or quirky new wave hits, this list provides a snapshot of the songs that defined a decade and continue to resonate with audiences today.
---
1. **"Billie Jean" – Michael Jackson (1982)**
*A signature pop and R&B hit known for its distinctive bass line and groundbreaking music video.*
2. **"Like a Virgin" – Madonna (1984)**
*An iconic track that launched Madonna’s career, blending provocative imagery with catchy pop hooks.*
3. **"Every Breath You Take" – The Police (1983)**
*A deceptively mellow ballad with a memorable riff that became one of the decade’s most enduring hits.*
4. **"Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" – Eurythmics (1983)**
*A synth-pop classic noted for its hypnotic beat and Annie Lennox’s unique vocal style.*
5. **"Girls Just Want to Have Fun" – Cyndi Lauper (1983)**
*An upbeat, feminist anthem with an infectious melody that captured the fun-loving spirit of the 80s.*
6. **"Beat It" – Michael Jackson (1982)**
*Featuring a famous guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, this rock‑infused pop hit became a crossover success.*
7. **"Take On Me" – a-ha (1985)**
*Celebrated for its soaring vocals and innovative rotoscoped animation in the music video.*
8. **"Thriller" – Michael Jackson (1982)**
*A pop masterpiece that redefined the music video format with its cinematic storytelling and dance routines.*
9. **"I Wanna Dance with Somebody" – Whitney Houston (1987)**
*A high-energy dance-pop anthem that showcased Houston’s powerful vocals and became a party staple.*
10. **"With or Without You" – U2 (1987)**
*An atmospheric rock ballad noted for its emotional depth and the band’s signature sound.*
11. **"Faith" – George Michael (1987)**
*A catchy, upbeat track blending pop, rock, and R&B influences that solidified Michael’s solo success.*
12. **"Like a Prayer" – Madonna (1989)**
*A controversial yet critically acclaimed song that mixed pop with gospel elements and personal themes.*
13. **"Walk Like an Egyptian" – The Bangles (1986)**
*A playful, quirky pop hit that became synonymous with the mid‑80s sound and style.*
14. **"Eye of the Tiger" – Survivor (1982)**
*A driving, motivational anthem best known as the theme for the film *Rocky III*.*
15. **"Livin' on a Prayer" – Bon Jovi (1986)**
*An anthemic rock‑pop song with a soaring chorus that remains a stadium favorite.*
16. **"Don't Stop Believin'" – Journey (1981)**
*A timeless sing-along track that has grown in popularity over the decades, inspiring hope and unity.*
17. **"Another One Bites the Dust" – Queen (1980)**
*A funky, bass‑driven hit that demonstrated Queen’s versatility and appeal across genres.*
18. **"Crazy Little Thing Called Love" – Queen (1980)**
*A rockabilly‑inspired tune that showcased Queen’s playful side and became an enduring crowd‑pleaser.*
19. **"Tainted Love" – Soft Cell (1981)**
*A synth‑pop cover that transformed a soul classic into an 80s dance hit with a distinctive electronic beat.*
20. **"Come On Eileen" – Dexys Midnight Runners (1982)**
*A spirited, fiddle‑infused pop hit known for its infectious energy and memorable chorus.*
21. **"Under Pressure" – Queen & David Bowie (1981)**
*A collaborative classic featuring a compelling bass line and a fusion of rock and pop sensibilities.*
22. **"Material Girl" – Madonna (1984)**
*A catchy pop number that cemented Madonna’s image as a style icon and social commentator.*
23. **"Jump" – Van Halen (1984)**
*A high‑energy track featuring an iconic synthesizer riff that crossed over from hard rock to pop charts.*
24. **"Uptown Girl" – Billy Joel (1983)**
*A retro‑inspired pop tune with a catchy melody and storytelling lyrics about romance and class.*
25. **"In the Air Tonight" – Phil Collins (1981)**
*Famous for its atmospheric build‑up and dramatic drum break, this track has become a pop‑culture staple.*
26. **"Let's Dance" – David Bowie (1983)**
*A dance‑oriented track that introduced Bowie’s foray into mainstream pop and new wave influences.*
27. **"Pour Some Sugar on Me" – Def Leppard (1987)**
*A hard‑rock anthem with a danceable groove and catchy chorus that dominated 80s airwaves.*
28. **"Faithfully" – Journey (1983)**
*A heartfelt ballad with soaring melodies that underscores the power of commitment and resilience.*
29. **"Maniac" – Michael Sembello (1983)**
*An energetic pop‑rock track that gained fame from the film *Flashdance*, known for its driving rhythm.*
30. **"Footloose" – Kenny Loggins (1984)**
*A high‑spirited anthem from the film *Footloose*, inspiring listeners to hit the dance floor.*
31. **"Flashdance... What a Feeling" – Irene Cara (1983)**
*A motivational dance‑pop hit that won acclaim for its uplifting message and dynamic production.*
32. **"We Got the Beat" – The Go-Go's (1981)**
*An exuberant new wave‑pop song that became an enduring symbol of 80s girl power and energy.*
33. **"Modern Love" – David Bowie (1983)**
*An energetic fusion of rock and pop that reflects Bowie’s innovative spirit during the 80s.*
34. **"Karma Chameleon" – Culture Club (1983)**
*A catchy, colorful pop hit that blended reggae‑influenced rhythms with soulful vocals by Boy George.*
35. **"Red Red Wine" – UB40 (1983)**
*A smooth, reggae‑inflected pop rendition that brought a laid‑back groove to mainstream audiences.*
36. **"Time After Time" – Cyndi Lauper (1984)**
*A gentle, timeless ballad known for its emotive lyrics and Lauper’s distinctive vocal delivery.*
37. **"I Just Called to Say I Love You" – Stevie Wonder (1984)**
*A heartfelt, simple pop classic that won hearts with its sincere message and melodic charm.*
38. **"When Doves Cry" – Prince (1984)**
*An innovative track featuring experimental production and emotional intensity that redefined pop music.*
39. **"Purple Rain" – Prince (1984)**
*A sprawling, epic ballad that blends rock and pop, marked by its emotional guitar solos and anthemic quality.*
40. **"Let's Hear It for the Boy" – Deniece Williams (1984)**
*An upbeat, celebratory tune with a joyful vibe that captured the spirit of 80s pop.*
41. **"I Want to Know What Love Is" – Foreigner (1984)**
*A soulful power ballad with grand production that resonated as an anthem of heartfelt emotion.*
42. **"Total Eclipse of the Heart" – Bonnie Tyler (1983)**
*A dramatic, soaring ballad noted for its powerful vocals and cinematic atmosphere.*
43. **"Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" – Wham! (1984)**
*A bubbly, energetic pop hit that showcased the infectious charisma of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley.*
44. **"Do You Really Want to Hurt Me" – Culture Club (1982)**
*A soulful, introspective track that combines reggae‑influenced rhythms with poignant lyrics.*
45. **"If You Love Somebody Set Them Free" – Sting (1985)**
*An upbeat, liberating track with a catchy groove that marked Sting’s move toward a solo career.*
46. **"Sledgehammer" – Peter Gabriel (1986)**
*A funk‑infused pop hit known for its innovative music video and dynamic brass‑laden production.*
47. **"Every Rose Has Its Thorn" – Poison (1988)**
*A soft rock ballad with memorable acoustic guitar work and a reflective take on love and loss.*
48. **"Hungry Like the Wolf" – Duran Duran (1982)**
*An energetic, new wave hit with a driving beat and catchy chorus that became a club favorite.*
49. **"Rio" – Duran Duran (1982)**
*A colorful, upbeat track with a distinctive tropical vibe and sleek production values.*
50. **"Girls on Film" – Duran Duran (1981)**
*A stylish, provocative pop song that showcased the band’s flair for visual storytelling and catchy hooks.*
51. **"Walking on Sunshine" – Katrina and the Waves (1983)**
*An exuberant, feel‑good anthem with a buoyant melody that continues to brighten playlists.*
52. **"Let's Go Crazy" – Prince (1984)**
*A high‑energy track blending rock and pop with an electrifying call to live life to the fullest.*
53. **"I Melt with You" – Modern English (1982)**
*A breezy, upbeat new wave pop tune with an infectious chorus that remains a nostalgic favorite.*
54. **"Voices Carry" – 'Til Tuesday (1985)**
*A moody, atmospheric track marked by haunting vocals and a memorable, minimalist arrangement.*
55. **"Do They Know It's Christmas?" – Band Aid (1984)**
*A star‑studded charity single that united artists to raise awareness and funds during the holiday season.*
56. **"I Want Candy" – Bow Wow Wow (1982)**
*A raucous, energetic pop track driven by a distinctive rhythm and a youthful, rebellious edge.*
57. **"The Power of Love" – Huey Lewis and the News (1985)**
*A feel‑good, upbeat anthem with an infectious groove that captured hearts on radio and in movies.*
58. **"Addicted to Love" – Robert Palmer (1986)**
*A slick, stylish track featuring a driving beat and an iconic music video that epitomized 80s cool.*
59. **"Simply the Best" – Tina Turner (1989)**
*A powerhouse pop‑anthem known for its uplifting message and Turner's dynamic vocal performance.*
60. **"We Don't Need Another Hero" – Tina Turner (1985)**
*A dramatic, anthemic track with a cinematic feel, featured in the film *Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome*.*
61. **"I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)" – Hall & Oates (1981)**
*A smooth, sophisticated pop‑R&B hit with a memorable groove and slick production.*
62. **"Maneater" – Hall & Oates (1982)**
*A catchy, edgy track with a blend of pop and soul that became one of the duo’s signature songs.*
63. **"Out of Touch" – Hall & Oates (1984)**
*A light‑hearted, danceable pop tune featuring infectious hooks and polished vocal harmonies.*
64. **"Kiss" – Prince (1986)**
*A minimalist, funk‑infused pop song known for its playful energy and innovative production.*
65. **"Relax" – Frankie Goes to Hollywood (1983)**
*A provocative, high‑energy track with a pulsating beat that became emblematic of the 80s dance scene.*
66. **"Two Tribes" – Frankie Goes to Hollywood (1984)**
*A bold, politically charged pop hit with dramatic production and a driving beat.*
67. **"The Safety Dance" – Men Without Hats (1982)**
*An offbeat, quirky new wave anthem with a catchy hook that invites listeners to dance freely.*
68. **"Take Me Home" – Phil Collins (1985)**
*A heartfelt, radio‑friendly pop tune with smooth production and Collins’ signature vocal style.*
69. **"Sussudio" – Phil Collins (1985)**
*A funky, upbeat track known for its infectious rhythm and memorable, nonsensical lyrics.*
70. **"Invisible Touch" – Genesis (1986)**
*A slick, modern pop‑rock hit characterized by its catchy chorus and polished production.*
71. **"Land of Confusion" – Genesis (1986)**
*A socially aware track with a distinctive synth‑driven sound and a memorable, satirical music video.*
72. **"I Just Can't Stop Loving You" – Michael Jackson & Siedah Garrett (1987)**
*A tender duet ballad that pairs Jackson’s smooth vocals with heartfelt lyrics about enduring love.*
73. **"Dirty Diana" – Michael Jackson (1988)**
*A hard‑hitting rock‑inflected pop track noted for its aggressive guitar riffs and edgy narrative.*
74. **"Bad" – Michael Jackson (1987)**
*A powerful, assertive pop anthem with a driving beat and iconic choreography that redefined pop performance.*
75. **"The Way You Make Me Feel" – Michael Jackson (1987)**
*A rhythmic, feel‑good pop track that blends infectious energy with Jackson’s signature vocal style.*
76. **"Man in the Mirror" – Michael Jackson (1988)**
*An introspective, inspirational ballad calling for personal change and global betterment.*
77. **"Control" – Janet Jackson (1986)**
*A groundbreaking pop‑R&B track that established Janet as a force in music with its assertive message.*
78. **"Nasty" – Janet Jackson (1986)**
*A bold, funk‑infused track marked by its edgy production and powerful vocal delivery.*
79. **"Rhythm Nation" – Janet Jackson (1989)**
*An anthem of unity and empowerment, featuring innovative production and a memorable marching beat.*
80. **"When I Think of You" – Janet Jackson (1986)**
*A breezy, upbeat pop track with smooth grooves and an infectious melody.*
81. **"Word Up!" – Cameo (1986)**
*A funk‑driven pop hit with a distinctive chant and infectious groove that made it a dance floor staple.*
82. **"Never Gonna Give You Up" – Rick Astley (1987)**
*A quintessential 80s dance‑pop track known for its catchy melody and later internet‑fueled revival.*
83. **"Together Forever" – Rick Astley (1988)**
*A joyful, upbeat pop tune that builds on Astley’s signature sound with an irresistibly catchy chorus.*
84. **"Dangerous" – Roxette (1989)**
*A high‑energy pop-rock track with dynamic vocals and a driving beat that captured the duo’s international appeal.*
85. **"The Look" – Roxette (1989)**
*An infectious, rock‑inflected pop hit characterized by its irresistible hook and polished production.*
86. **"Listen to Your Heart" – Roxette (1989)**
*A tender, melodic ballad with a sweeping arrangement that resonated with audiences worldwide.*
87. **"It Must Have Been Love" – Roxette (1987)**
*A poignant, romantic ballad that gained international fame after its inclusion in the film *Pretty Woman*.*
88. **"I Want to Break Free" – Queen (1984)**
*A defiant, catchy pop-rock anthem celebrated for its relatable lyrics and quirky, memorable video.*
89. **"Radio Ga Ga" – Queen (1984)**
*A pop‑oriented track that pays tribute to radio’s influence, featuring sing‑along choruses and a nostalgic vibe.*
90. **"Everybody Wants to Rule the World" – Tears for Fears (1985)**
*A smooth, reflective anthem with a catchy melody that became a defining track of 80s pop.*
91. **"Shout" – Tears for Fears (1985)**
*A powerful, cathartic track with an anthemic chorus that resonated with listeners on an emotional level.*
92. **"Head Over Heels" – Tears for Fears (1985)**
*A buoyant, melodic pop song with lush production and a memorable, romantic refrain.*
93. **"Sowing the Seeds of Love" – Tears for Fears (1989)**
*An intricately arranged track that blends pop with 60s psychedelia and politically tinged lyrics.*
94. **"Just Can't Get Enough" – Depeche Mode (1981)**
*An upbeat, synth‑driven pop gem that helped define the early sound of electronic pop.*
95. **"Personal Jesus" – Depeche Mode (1989)**
*A dark, moody track with a driving beat and memorable guitar riff that pushed the boundaries of pop and rock.*
96. **"West End Girls" – Pet Shop Boys (1984)**
*A sleek, atmospheric synth-pop hit with socially observant lyrics and a distinctive, minimalist production.*
97. **"Don't You Want Me" – The Human League (1981)**
*An iconic new wave hit marked by catchy hooks and a narrative style that captivated a wide audience.*
98. **"Bizarre Love Triangle" – New Order (1986)**
*A pulsating, synth-driven pop tune with infectious melodies and danceable beats that became an underground classic.*
99. **"Fade to Grey" – Visage (1980)**
*A pioneering track of the New Romantic movement, known for its moody synth textures and stylish aesthetic.*
100. **"Blue Monday" – New Order (1983)**
*A seminal electronic dance track with a distinctive beat and innovative production that influenced pop and club music for years to come.*
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### Final Thoughts
These 100 tracks capture the creative diversity of 1980s pop—an era defined by its innovative use of synthesizers, memorable hooks, and a bold fusion of genres. Whether you’re drawn to high‑energy dance anthems, introspective ballads, or quirky new wave hits, this list provides a snapshot of the songs that defined a decade and continue to resonate with audiences today.