These Iconic Songs of the 1980s Will Have You Dancing

While there is nothing wrong with music evolving over time, sometimes you just miss the old songs of our time. If you are just like me and are overfilled with nostalgia lately and miss the joy of that period, I definitely do not blame you. If that is you and you are looking for a trip down memory lane, I have got you covered with some of the most iconic songs of the 1980s! Here is a list of my favorite tunes.

10. Culture Club – Karma Chameleon

Yes, you know that song you used to sing the lyrics wrong to? The Camel Camelia one? Well, it is actually called “Karma Chameleon”! The colorful and flamboyant style of the band played a major factor in their iconic status. The song became catchy as “Karma Chameleon” is fun to sing along to due to its upbeat tempo and memorable chorus. The playful lyrics make it a song that people enjoy dancing to and singing along with friends!

9. Stevie Wonder – I Just Called to Say I Love You

This is that one song that got mixed with “I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas”. Why? Who knows! What we do know is that this song is definitely one that everyone and their mothers know.

Stevie Wonder is a legendary artist, and this song is iconic because of his incredible vocal talent and heartfelt lyrics. The song’s sweet and romantic message makes it a favorite for weddings and special occasions. Its timeless quality and Stevie Wonder’s soulful delivery make it fun to listen to and sing along with.

8. Simple Minds – Don’t You Forget About Me

Ah, “The Breakfast Club”. You, me, even your parents know it! No matter how you see it, this song is forever associated with the classic ’80s film. It represents the spirit of the era and captures the essence of teenage angst and rebellion. The song sounds like an anthem and that quality together with the emotional connection it has with a generation of moviegoers make it a fun and nostalgic track to sing and dance to.

7. A-Ha – Take on Me

Not only is this song iconic for having one of the biggest heartthrobs as their singer (*cough* ) but it also is iconic for its groundbreaking music video, which combined live-action and animation. It is also considered catchy due to its synth-pop sound. The song’s high-energy melody and memorable chorus, along with its visually stunning music video, make it a fun and enjoyable song to experience.

6. Wham! – Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go

It even recently made its rounds on TikTok, with a sound that stops the music after the “Wake Me Up” line, followed by an eerie atmosphere. Wham! was a prominent ’80s pop duo, and this song is iconic for its catchy hooks and the vibrant personality of George Michael. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is known for its infectious energy and upbeat rhythm, making it perfect for dancing and singing along at parties and events.

4. Rick Astley – Never Gonna Give You Up

This song became iconic due to the internet phenomenon known as “Rickrolling,” where people are tricked into clicking on a hyperlink that leads to the music video. And there is definitely no chance that you have never been “Rick Rolled” at least once in your life! The unexpected and humorous nature of “Rickrolling” has made the song a pop culture sensation, and it’s often used as a playful prank.

3. Queen and David Bowie – Under Pressure

What do you get when you mix Freddie Mercury and David Bowie? Well, it is this masterpiece! This collaboration between two legendary artists, Freddie Mercury, and David Bowie, resulted in a song with powerful vocals and a memorable bassline. The dynamic interplay between Mercury and Bowie’s voices and the song’s intense build-up creates a thrilling and enjoyable listening experience.

2. Michael Jackson – Thriller

Speaking of thrilling experiences, how could I not add “Thriller” to the list? “Thriller” is iconic for its groundbreaking music video, which is a mini-movie filled with horror elements and iconic dance moves. The song’s infectious rhythm, eerie sound effects, and Michael Jackson’s legendary dance performance make it a Halloween favorite and a fun song to dance to year-round. People were genuinely dancing like zombies all the time!

1. Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance With Somebody

Whitney Houston’s powerful and soulful voice, combined with the catchy ’80s pop sound, makes this song iconic. The singer is also considered “THE Voice” for a reason! The song’s title and lyrics invite people to let loose and dance, and its upbeat tempo and joyful melody make it a go-to track for parties and celebrations.

Which song is your favorite and did I manage to mention your favorite artist in the list? Let me know below!