Elevate Your DJ Playlist with the Top 100 80s Songs

Prepare to embark on a musical journey that will take you through the top 100 80s songs from this iconic decade.

The 80s were a time of unparalleled creativity and musical diversity. From pop anthems to soulful ballads, infectious dance beats to pioneering hip-hop tracks, the 80s had it all. As DJs, it’s crucial to understand the cultural significance and timeless appeal of this era’s music, as it continues to influence and inspire artists to this day.

Whether you’re a seasoned DJ looking to refresh your playlist or a newcomer seeking to explore the roots of modern music, this article is tailor-made for you. We’ve meticulously curated a comprehensive list of the top 100 80s songs, bringing together a mix of chart-topping hits, genre-defining tracks, and hidden gems that encapsulate the essence of the decade.

Throughout this article, we’ll delve into each section of the top 100 songs, sharing interesting insights, musical trivia, and practical tips for incorporating these iconic tracks into your DJ sets. So, get ready to dust off your turntables, fire up your DJ software, and let the rhythmic beats of the 80s ignite your creativity.

Without further ado, let’s embark on this sonic journey through the top 100 80s songs, ensuring that you’re armed with the knowledge and inspiration to curate unforgettable DJ sets that will have the dance floor grooving.

Section 1: Top 100 80s Songs – Songs Ranked 100-76

The first section of our journey through the top 100 80s songs introduces us to a range of captivating tracks that set the stage for the musical brilliance of the decade. From catchy pop hits to groundbreaking anthems, these songs have left an indelible mark on the music landscape. Let’s take a closer look at the songs ranked from 100 to 76:

100	“Working for the Weekend” – Loverboy (Get Lucky)
99	“Everybody Have Fun Tonight” – Wang Chung (Mosaic)
98	“My Prerogative” – Bobby Brown (Don’t Be Cruel)
97	“What I Like About You” – The Romantics (The Romantics)
96	“Down Under” – Men at Work (Business as Usual)
95	“Only in My Dreams” – Debbie Gibson (Out of the Blue)
94	“Start Me Up” – The Rolling Stones (Tattoo You)
93	“Cars” – Gary Numan (The Pleasure Principle)
92	“You Got It (The Right Stuff)” – New Kids on the Block (Hangin’ Tough)
91	“Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and the Waves (Walking on Sunshine)
90	“Wild Thing” – Tone-Loc (Loc-ed After Dark)
89	“Brass in Pocket” – The Pretenders (The Pretenders)
88	“Ain’t Nobody” – Chaka Khan (Stompin’ At The Savoy (Live))
87	“Rock Me Amadeus” – Falco (Falco 3)
86	“I Want Candy” – Bow Wow Wow (I Want Candy)
85	“Addicted to Love” – Robert Palmer (Riptide)
84	“All Night Long (All Night)” – Lionel Richie (Can’t Slow Down)
83	“Kiss” – Prince (Parade)
82	“Tempted” – Squeeze (East Side Story)
81	“Word Up!” – Cameo (Word Up!)
80	“It Takes Two” – Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock (It Takes Two)
79	“Don’t You Want Me?” – The Human League (Dare)
78	“Call Me” – Blondie (American Gigolo)
77	“Candy Girl” – New Edition (Candy Girl)
76	“She Blinded Me With Science” – Thomas Dolby (The Golden Age of Wireless)

These songs represent the diverse sounds and styles of the 80s, ranging from new wave and synth-pop to rock, R&B, and dance music. Each track has its own unique charm, ensuring there’s something for every DJ to appreciate and integrate into their sets.

Let’s have a look at some of my favorites from the section:

“Don’t You Want Me?” – The Human League (Dare):
“Don’t You Want Me?” is a classic synth-pop anthem by The Human League from their album “Dare.” Released in 1981, this infectious track tells a captivating story of a fading romance and the power dynamics between two lovers. With its catchy melodies, pulsating synthesizers, and Phil Oakey’s distinctive vocals, the song became a massive hit, topping charts worldwide and solidifying The Human League’s place in music history.

“Kiss” – Prince (Parade):
“Kiss” is a funk-infused pop gem by the legendary Prince from his soundtrack album “Parade.” Released in 1986, this song showcases Prince’s signature blend of soulful vocals, funky guitar riffs, and infectious rhythms. With its playful lyrics and infectious grooves, “Kiss” became one of Prince’s most iconic and successful songs, earning him widespread acclaim and further establishing him as a musical genius.

“Ain’t Nobody” – Chaka Khan (Stompin’ At The Savoy (Live)):
“Ain’t Nobody” is a captivating R&B and funk track by Chaka Khan from her live album “Stompin’ At The Savoy.” Originally released in 1983, this song exudes infectious energy and showcases Chaka Khan’s powerhouse vocals. With its irresistible chorus, groovy basslines, and lively instrumentation, “Ain’t Nobody” became a definitive dancefloor anthem, solidifying Chaka Khan’s status as one of the greatest voices in soul music.

“Down Under” – Men at Work (Business as Usual):
“Down Under” is a catchy pop-rock tune by Men at Work from their album “Business as Usual.” Released in 1981, this iconic Australian anthem tells the story of an Australian traveler encountering various cultural references and stereotypes. With its upbeat melodies, distinctive flute riff, and Colin Hay’s charismatic vocals, “Down Under” became a global sensation, topping charts worldwide and becoming a beloved symbol of Australian music.

Section 2: Top 100 80s Songs – Songs Ranked 75-51

Continuing our exploration of the captivating music of the 80s, we now delve into the next set of memorable tunes that left an indelible mark on the era. From anthems of empowerment to infectious pop hits, these songs represent the diverse sounds that defined the decade. Let’s dive into the songs ranked from 75 to 51:

75	“Round and Round” – Ratt (Out of the Cellar)
74	“You Spin Me Round (Like A Record)” – Dead or Alive (Youthquake)
73	“White Wedding” – Billy Idol (Billy Idol)
72	“Push It” – Salt-N-Pepa (Hot, Cool & Vicious)
71	“I Ran (So Far Away)” – A Flock of Seagulls (A Flock of Seagulls)
70	“Total Eclipse of the Heart” – Bonnie Tyler (Faster Than the Speed of Night)
69	“Mickey” – Toni Basil (Word of Mouth)
68	“Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” – Culture Club (Kissing to Be Clever)
67	“Jack & Diane” – John Mellencamp (American Fool)
66	“Bust a Move” – Young M.C. (Stone Cold Rhymin’)
65	“Mr. Roboto” – Styx (Kilroy Was Here)
64	“Take My Breath Away” – Berlin (Top Gun)
63	“Whip It” – Devo (Freedom of Choice)
62	“Straight Up” – Paula Abdul (Forever Your Girl)
61	“I Want to Know What Love Is” – Foreigner (Agent Provocateur)
60	“Just Can’t Get Enough” – Depeche Mode (Speak & Spell)
59	“Keep On Loving You” – REO Speedwagon (Hi Infidelity)
58	“Fight the Power” – Public Enemy (Fear of a Black Planet)
57	“It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” – R.E.M. (Document)
56	“I Love Rock ‘n Roll” – Joan Jett & The Blackhearts (I Love Rock N’ Roll)
55	“Super Freak” – Rick James (Street Songs)
54	“One Thing Leads to Another” – The Fixx (Reach The Beach)
53	“99 Luftballons” – Nena (99 Luftballons)
52	“Faith” – George Michael (Faith)
51	“Little Red Corvette” – Prince (1999)

As the DJ spins the records and the crowd eagerly awaits the next hit, let’s take a closer look at a few standout tracks from Section 2 of the Top 100 80s Songs countdown. These songs encapsulate the diverse sounds and vibrant energy of the decade. From soulful ballads to infectious dance anthems, each track holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers.

“Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” – Culture Club:
Released in 1982, “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” by Culture Club blends elements of pop, soul, and reggae, creating a unique and captivating sound. The unmistakable vocals of Boy George soar over the melodic instrumentation, making this song a timeless classic. Its introspective lyrics explore themes of love, vulnerability, and acceptance, resonating with listeners across generations.

Read Next: Best Songs for Karaoke: Top 20 Crowd-Pleasing Classics

“Push It” – Salt-N-Pepa:
When “Push It” hit the airwaves in 1986, Salt-N-Pepa introduced a new wave of female empowerment and a fusion of hip-hop and dance music. This infectious track became an instant party anthem, with its catchy hooks and bold lyrics. The confident and spirited delivery of Salt-N-Pepa ignited dancefloors everywhere, solidifying their status as trailblazers in the rap genre.

“Super Freak” – Rick James:
With its funky basslines and groovy rhythms, “Super Freak” by Rick James stormed the charts in 1981. This iconic song showcased James’ larger-than-life persona and his ability to seamlessly blend funk, rock, and soul. Its catchy chorus and infectious energy made “Super Freak” a staple at parties and dance clubs, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene of the 80s.

“Faith” – George Michael:
In 1987, George Michael took the world by storm with his solo hit “Faith.” This song marked a departure from his Wham! days, showcasing his growth as an artist and his soulful vocals. “Faith” is an infectious blend of pop and rock, infused with Michael’s signature charm and swagger. The song’s catchy guitar riff and memorable chorus became a defining moment of the decade and established George Michael as a pop icon.

Section 3: Top 100 80s Songs – Songs Ranked 50-26

As we continue our journey through the iconic songs of the 80s, we find ourselves in the middle of an era that brought us a diverse range of musical gems. From anthems that defined a generation to infectious pop hits that still make us groove today, this section features some of the most memorable tunes from the 80s. Join us as we count down from number 50 to 26, reminiscing about the songs that have stood the test of time and continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

50	“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Eurythmics (Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This))
49	“Fight For Your Right” – Beastie Boys (Licensed To Ill)
48	“Born in the U.S.A.” – Bruce Springsteen (Born in the U.S.A.)
47	“We’re Not Gonna Take It” – Twisted Sister (Stay Hungry)
46	“Every Breath You Take” – The Police (Synchronicity)
45	“Nasty” – Janet Jackson (Control)
44	“Cruel Summer” – Bananarama (Bananarama)
43	“Look of Love” – ABC (The Lexicon Of Love)
42	“London Calling” – The Clash (London Calling)
41	“Dr. Feelgood” – Mötley Crüe (Dr. Feelgood)
40	“Love Shack” – The B-52’s (Cosmic Thing)
39	“I Melt With You” – Modern English (After The Snow)
38	“Pride (In the Name of Love)” – U2 (The Unforgettable Fire)
37	“Janie’s Got a Gun” – Aerosmith (Pump)
36	“867-5309/Jenny” – Tommy Tutone (Tommy Tutone 2)
35	“In the Air Tonight” – Phil Collins (Face Value)
34	“Every Rose Has Its Thorn” – Poison (Open Up And Say… Ahh!)
33	“Tainted Love” – Soft Cell (Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret)
32	“Sister Christian” – Night Ranger (Midnight Madness)
31	“Under Pressure” – Queen and David Bowie (Hot Space)
30	“Love Is a Battlefield” – Pat Benatar (Live from Earth)
29	“Burning Down the House” – Talking Heads (Speaking In Tongues)
28	“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” – Wham! (Make It Big)
27	“Too Shy” – Kajagoogoo (White Feathers)
26	“Welcome to the Jungle” – Guns N’ Roses (Appetite For Destruction)

As we progress later into the 80s evening, let’s delve into a few memorable tracks from Section 3 of the Top 100 80s Songs countdown. These songs are timeless classics that have left an indelible mark on the music landscape, captivating listeners with their distinctive sounds and heartfelt lyrics.

“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Eurythmics:
Released in 1983, “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” introduced the world to the mesmerizing duo of Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart. With its hypnotic synth-pop sound and Lennox’s haunting vocals, the song became an instant anthem. Its enigmatic lyrics and addictive melody created an ethereal atmosphere, captivating the audience and solidifying the Eurythmics’ place in music history.

“Every Breath You Take” – The Police:
In 1983, The Police released “Every Breath You Take,” a haunting and introspective ballad that took the world by storm. The song’s iconic bassline, Sting’s emotive vocals, and the captivating lyrics explored themes of love, obsession, and longing. Its timeless appeal and universal resonance propelled it to become one of the most recognizable and enduring songs of the 80s.

“In the Air Tonight” – Phil Collins:
Phil Collins’ 1981 hit “In the Air Tonight” is a powerful and atmospheric song that continues to captivate audiences. With its iconic drum break, Collins’ emotive vocals, and introspective lyrics, the track evokes a sense of mystery and intensity. Its unforgettable crescendo and Collins’ raw delivery make “In the Air Tonight” a true standout in the 80s music landscape.

“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” – Wham!:
Wham!’s 1984 release “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is a vibrant and infectious pop gem that still gets everyone on their feet. With its energetic tempo, catchy hooks, and George Michael’s exuberant vocals, the song exudes pure joy and fun. Its feel-good lyrics and irresistible rhythm make it a timeless party anthem that continues to bring smiles to faces and get bodies moving.

Section 4: Top 100 80s Songs – Songs Ranked 25-1

Introduction: We’ve reached the final stretch of our journey through the greatest hits of the 80s. In this section, we delve into the cream of the crop, the songs that have become timeless classics and continue to resonate with music lovers of all generations. From powerful ballads to energetic rock anthems, these songs have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. Join us as we count down from number 25 to the ultimate number one spot, celebrating the unforgettable songs that define the essence of the 80s.

25	“Our Lips Are Sealed” – The Go-Go’s (Beauty and the Beat)
24	“Take On Me” – a-ha (Hunting High And Low)
23	“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper (She’s So Unusual)
22	“Just Like Heaven” – The Cure (Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me)
21	“Beat It” – Michael Jackson (Thriller)
20	“Jessie’s Girl” – Rick Springfield (Working Class Dog)
19	“Time After Time” – Cyndi Lauper (She’s So Unusual)
18	“Come On Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners (Too-Rye-Ay)
17	“Here I Go Again” – Whitesnake (Whitesnake)
16	“Need You Tonight” – INXS (Kick)
15	“Jump” – Van Halen (1984)
14	“Walk Like an Egyptian” – The Bangles (Different Light)
13	“With Or Without You” – U2 (The Joshua Tree)
12	“How Will I Know” – Whitney Houston (Whitney Houston)
11	“Don’t Stop Believing” – Journey (Escape)
10	“You Shook Me All Night Long” – AC/DC (Back In Black)
9	“Walk This Way” – Run-D.M.C. (Raising Hell)
8	“Like a Virgin” – Madonna (Like A Virgin)
7	“Sweet Child O’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses (Appetite For Destruction)
6	“I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do)” – Hall & Oates (Private Eyes)
5	“When Doves Cry” – Prince (Purple Rain)
4	“Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson (Thriller)
3	“Hungry Like the Wolf” – Duran Duran (Rio)
2	“Pour Some Sugar On Me” – Def Leppard (Hysteria)
1	“Livin’ on a Prayer” – Bon Jovi (Slippery When Wet)

As the DJ takes center stage, ready to deliver an unforgettable night of 80s hits, let’s look deeper into some of the best from the top 25 in the 80s songs countdown. These iconic tracks have defined the era and continue to captivate audiences with their timeless appeal. From electrifying pop to heartfelt ballads, these songs have become anthems of the 80s, etching their place in music history.

“Beat It” – Michael Jackson:
Released in 1982, “Beat It” showcased Michael Jackson’s unparalleled talent and cemented his status as the King of Pop. With its infectious guitar riff, pulsating rhythm, and powerful vocals, the song blends elements of rock and pop seamlessly. Its message of unity and standing up against violence resonated with listeners worldwide, while Jackson’s electrifying dance moves and mesmerizing stage presence made “Beat It” an unforgettable classic.

“Come On Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners:
In 1982, Dexys Midnight Runners delivered the infectiously upbeat and irresistibly catchy “Come On Eileen.” With its distinctive Celtic folk influences, driving rhythm, and Kevin Rowland’s impassioned vocals, the song quickly became a staple of 80s parties. Its jubilant energy and sing-along chorus invite listeners to let loose and embrace the joyous spirit of the decade.

“How Will I Know” – Whitney Houston:
Whitney Houston’s 1985 release, “How Will I Know,” showcased her incredible vocal range and marked her ascent to superstardom. The song’s buoyant pop sound, catchy hooks, and Houston’s powerhouse vocals perfectly captured the essence of the 80s. Its lyrics about love’s uncertainty struck a chord with listeners, while Houston’s undeniable talent and charisma elevated the track to iconic status.

“Livin’ on a Prayer” – Bon Jovi:
At the pinnacle of the Top 100 80s Songs countdown sits Bon Jovi’s timeless anthem, “Livin’ on a Prayer.” Released in 1986, the song epitomizes the spirit of resilience and determination. With its memorable guitar riff, soaring vocals from Jon Bon Jovi, and an irresistible sing-along chorus, “Livin’ on a Prayer” has become an anthem of hope and perseverance. Its universal appeal and energetic rock sound make it a standout in the 80s music landscape.

FAQs

1. What was the biggest hit of the 1980s?

The biggest hit of the 1980s was “Physical” by Olivia Newton-John. Released in 1981, this catchy and energetic song topped the charts for ten consecutive weeks and became one of the defining hits of the decade. Its infectious pop sound and memorable lyrics made it a favorite among listeners worldwide.

2. What are the 100 greatest songs of all time?

Determining the 100 greatest songs of all time is subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences and opinions. However, several lists have been compiled by music industry professionals, critics, and publications to showcase iconic and influential songs across different genres and eras. Some notable lists include Rolling Stone magazine’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” and Billboard’s “Hot 100 All-Time Top Songs.” These lists provide a comprehensive overview of acclaimed songs that have made a significant impact on popular music.

3. What was the biggest-selling song of the 80s in America?

The biggest-selling song of the 80s in the US was “Physical” by Olivia Newton-John. This infectious pop hit not only dominated the charts but also became a commercial success, selling over two million copies in the United States alone. Its popularity and catchy appeal propelled it to become one of the best-selling singles of the entire decade.

4. What are some iconic dance songs from the 80s?

• “Thriller” by Michael Jackson: This iconic dance track not only had an infectious beat but also introduced innovative choreography that captivated audiences worldwide.
• “Footloose” by Kenny Loggins: Known for its energetic and lively sound, this song from the movie of the same name became a dance anthem and an enduring symbol of the 80s.
• “Funky Town” by Lipps Inc: This disco-infused track with its catchy melody and pulsating rhythm ignited dance floors across the globe, becoming a timeless favorite.
• “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson: With its distinctive bass line and irresistible groove, this song not only became a massive hit but also showcased Michael Jackson’s exceptional dancing skills.

5. What were some significant musical trends of the 80s?

• New Wave: The 80s saw the rise of New Wave music, characterized by its synthesizer-driven sound, unconventional styles, and electronic experimentation. Bands like Depeche Mode, The Cure, and Duran Duran became synonymous with this genre.
• Hair Metal: A subgenre of rock, hair metal gained popularity in the 80s with its flamboyant image, catchy hooks, and guitar-driven sound. Bands like Guns N’ Roses, Bon Jovi, and Def Leppard were at the forefront of this movement.
• Hip-Hop: The 80s marked the emergence of hip-hop as a cultural and musical phenomenon. Artists like Run-D.M.C., LL Cool J, and Public Enemy pioneered the genre, blending rap, beats, and social commentary.
• Synthpop: With the advancement of synthesizers and electronic instruments, synthpop became a dominant force in the 80s. Acts like Pet Shop Boys, A-ha, and Eurythmics utilized these electronic sounds to create catchy and melodic pop hits.

6. What influential albums were released in the 80s?

• “Thriller” by Michael Jackson: Released in 1982, this album became one of the best-selling albums of all time, with its groundbreaking sound, memorable singles, and iconic music videos.
• “The Joshua Tree” by U2: This 1987 release catapulted U2 to international stardom, showcasing their blend of anthemic rock and socially conscious lyrics
• “Purple Rain” by Prince: With its fusion of rock, pop, funk, and R&B, this soundtrack album to the film of the same name became Prince’s most commercially successful and critically acclaimed work.
• “Born in the U.S.A.” by Bruce Springsteen: This 1984 album featured a collection of rock anthems and reflective ballads that resonated with audiences, solidifying Springsteen’s status as a musical icon.