My best 80s songs

The 1980s was a decade of transition. It was a time when the world was changing and so was the music. The sounds of the 80s were a reflection of the mood of the times – and they continue to hold a special place in my heart.

In this blog post, I’m sharing my 10 favorite 80s songs that bring back fond memories. From catchy pop songs to heart-wrenching ballads, these tunes are sure to take you on a trip down memory lane. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey

: Ask anyone who was part of the 90s generation and they’ll tell you that the anthem of their teenage years was Journey’s hit single “Don’t Stop Believin’”. The epic power ballad was released as the lead single from Journey’s seventh studio album, ‘Escape’, in 1981 and soon became one of the best-selling singles of the decade. The song’s message of hope and resilience gave us all the courage we needed to make it through our tough times. With its inspiring lyrics and the band’s passionate performance, it’s no wonder that “Don’t Stop Believin’” remains to be an absolute classic.

I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) by Whitney Houston

: Released in 1987, “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is undoubtedly Whitney Houston’s signature song. The irresistibly catchy pop tune peaked at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and the UK Singles Chart, and went on to become one of the biggest hits of the decade. The song’s bopping choreography, soulful vocals and fun music video made it a worldwide sensation. Staying true to its title, the song serves as an invitation for us to shake off our sorrows, put on our dancing shoes, and have a good time.

Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi

: Bon Jovi’s signature song “Livin’ on a Prayer” provided the soundtrack for many of our teenage years. Released in 1986, the single was the second hit from their album ‘Slippery when Wet’ and quickly turned into a stadium anthem. Lyrically, the song is about the long, arduous journey of two friends from humble beginnings to success, and their struggles on their way up. Through its powerful lyrics and rousing chorus, “Livin’ on a Prayer” gives us a much-needed dose of hope and courage when the going gets tough.

I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

: Joan Jett & The Blackhearts’ rock anthem “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” was an instant hit when it was released in 1981. The song eventually spent seven weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and was named Billboard’s Top Rock Song of the 80s. With its simple but catchy guitar riff and sing-along chorus, the track quickly became an all-time classic. Its empowering lyrics, which boast of the power that music has to bring people together, continues to inspire us all until today.

Footloose by Kenny Loggins

:“Footloose” is most famously known as the title song for the 1984 movie of the same name. But before it became a classic movie song, it was already a hit single by singer-songwriter Kenny Loggins. Released in 1984, the song followed in the same footsteps as Loggins’ previous hit and topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. With its catchy chorus and upbeat lyrics, the song captures the roller-coaster ride of teenage life with its highs and lows, and reminds us to make the most out of every moment.

Every Breath You Take by The Police

: One of the most iconic songs of the 80s has to be The Police’s “Every Breath You Take”. First released in 1983, the track has gone on to become one of the most successful singles in the world and was even inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2020. It was written as a love song about devotion and commitment, but many interpreted its lyrics in a darker light. Still, its gentle acoustic guitar and soothing vocals touched the hearts of many and make it one of the defining songs of the decade.

Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now) by Phil Collins

: Phil Collins’ “Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)” was an instant hit when it was released in 1984. The emotive ballad gave us all the feels and eventually climbed to the top of the UK Singles Chart. The song was written as the theme song for the movie of the same name and has gone on to become one of Collins’ most popular singles. Its haunting melodies and heartbreaking lyrics provide a heart-wrenching reminder that hope and love can endure against all odds.

(Everything I Do) I Do It for You by Bryan Adams

: Released in 1991, “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” is an epic love song written by Bryan Adams and Michael Kamen. The ballad became a global chart-topper, spending an astonishing 16 weeks at number one in the UK and seven weeks at number one in the US. Its sweeping instrumentation and powerful lyrics about devotion went on to make it one of the defining songs of the decade. To this day, it embodies the essence of a great 80s ballad and continues to move listeners with its tender words.

You Shook Me All Night Long by AC/DC

: AC/DC’s “You Shook Me All Night Long” became an instant classic when it was released in1980. The single quickly raced to the top of the pop music charts and remained there for several weeks. With its pounding bass line and rambunctious lyrics, the song encapsulates the rebellious spirit of the times. But beyond its hard-edged energy and fun-lovin’ vibe, it’s a song about unbridled joy – and one that we can all dance to.