1. “Take On Me” – A-ha
It’s hard to imagine Take On Me ever being considered a one-hit wonder. A-ha’s iconic synth-pop anthem exploded onto the scene in 1985, and it was everywhere. The song’s unforgettable melody and groundbreaking music video helped make it an instant classic, but some were skeptical about the band’s staying power. Despite initial doubts, the song’s infectious energy has kept it alive in pop culture, and it’s still a mainstay on ‘80s playlists today.
Its iconic “take on me, take me on” chorus never fails to get stuck in your head. A-ha may not have repeated the success of this hit, but the song is an enduring symbol of ’80s pop culture. It continues to grace radio stations, movies, and commercials decades after its release. A testament to the staying power of a great tune, Take On Me proves that sometimes, one hit is all it takes to last forever.
2. “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell
“Tainted Love” was originally a hit for Gloria Jones in the ’60s, but it was Soft Cell’s ’80s synth-heavy version that made it a global sensation. The song’s haunting, dark energy paired with an addictive melody made it impossible to ignore. Initially, many believed it would be a flash-in-the-pan success, but Tainted Love continues to resonate today. Its appeal transcends time, often found on playlists that span multiple generations.
The blend of soul and synth created something wholly unique. And even though Soft Cell’s follow-up singles didn’t live up to its success, this song remains their signature. Its presence in pop culture is undeniable, thanks in part to its countless uses in TV shows, films, and commercials. Its unforgettable hook is still widely recognized and loved, proving it was more than a one-hit wonder.
3. “99 Luftballons” – Nena
Nena’s 99 Luftballons became a surprising success in both its German and English versions, topping the charts across Europe. The song, with its catchy melody and poignant anti-war message, resonated with listeners worldwide, becoming an anthem of the ’80s. The original German version remained a favorite, and the English version, though a bit of a departure from the original, still managed to chart. At the time, some wondered if Nena would fade away with this one-hit success.
But decades later, 99 Luftballons is still a beloved track that gets frequent airplay. Its catchy chorus and politically charged lyrics make it stand out among other pop songs from the era. Even today, the song’s energetic sound remains an irresistible call to nostalgia. What was once a potential one-hit wonder is now a timeless classic.
4. “Come On Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners
Dexys Midnight Runners’ Come On Eileen became a surprise smash in 1982. The song’s blend of Celtic influences, pop, and soul created a unique sound that listeners couldn’t get enough of. Despite being their biggest hit, many believed Dexys Midnight Runners would fade into obscurity after this success. Yet Come On Eileen remains a beloved track on ‘80s playlists.
Its chorus is still guaranteed to fill any dance floor, and the song’s infectious energy has made it a mainstay in pop culture. What makes it so enduring is how the song captures the essence of its time while still feeling fresh and vibrant. Even now, it’s hard to hear the song and not feel the urge to sing along. This one-hit wonder may not have been followed by more hits, but Come On Eileen has left an indelible mark on the ’80s music scene.
5. “Electric Avenue” – Eddy Grant
Electric Avenue burst onto the charts in 1983 with its infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics. The song, with its reggae-influenced pop sound, was a refreshing departure from other songs dominating the charts at the time. Eddy Grant’s signature blend of social commentary and danceable beats gave the song staying power. It quickly became an anthem of the era, resonating with fans in both the U.S. and U.K.
While Grant’s other singles didn’t achieve the same success, Electric Avenue continues to be a favorite on ‘80s stations. The song’s undeniable groove and memorable hook make it impossible to forget. Even decades later, its politically charged message and infectious rhythm still resonate. Electric Avenue may have seemed like a one-hit wonder at the time, but its enduring popularity proves otherwise.
6. “I Want Candy” – Bow Wow Wow
When Bow Wow Wow released I Want Candy in 1982, it became an instant classic. The song’s bouncy, playful rhythm and catchy chorus made it a hit with young audiences. Despite being a punk-inspired pop song, its infectious sound helped it cross over into mainstream success. At the time, many thought it would be the band’s only big hit.
However, I Want Candy has proven to be one of the most memorable songs of the ’80s. It’s still regularly featured in nostalgic playlists and films. The song’s quirky lyrics and fun energy have helped it endure far beyond its initial release. Even now, I Want Candy remains a go-to track for a burst of nostalgic fun.
7. “She Blinded Me with Science” – Thomas Dolby
She Blinded Me with Science is one of the most recognizable songs from the ’80s, with its catchy hook and quirky synth-driven melody. Thomas Dolby’s quirky sense of humor and love for technology made him an unlikely star in the pop scene. Despite being considered a one-hit wonder by many, this song has remained a staple of ‘80s nostalgia. The track’s catchy chorus, paired with Dolby’s distinctive voice, made it stand out.
Over time, it has become an anthem of ‘80s fun, often used in films and TV shows to evoke a sense of playful retro charm. Even Dolby’s subsequent releases didn’t achieve the same level of success, but She Blinded Me with Science remains beloved. The track’s blend of science and pop culture makes it both timeless and totally ’80s. As a one-hit wonder, it definitely exceeded expectations.
8. “The Safety Dance” – Men Without Hats
Men Without Hats’ The Safety Dance was a song that many believed would be a one-off success, but it still gets plenty of airplay today. Its quirky, new wave sound and the iconic “We can dance if we want to” line became unforgettable. While the band’s other songs didn’t reach the same heights, The Safety Dance proved to be their signature track.
Its blend of catchy beats and unusual lyrics captured the spirit of the ’80s, making it an enduring favorite. The song’s memorable music video and upbeat tone have made it a nostalgic gem. Even now, it continues to be played in retro clubs and on ’80s-themed playlists. The song remains a cultural touchstone, proving that Men Without Hats were more than just one-hit wonders. It’s a song that continues to bring a smile to fans of all ages.
9. “We Don’t Talk Anymore” – Cliff Richard
Cliff Richard, a British pop legend, had a string of hits throughout the ’60s and ’70s, but We Don’t Talk Anymore became his unexpected comeback in 1979. With its infectious melody and relatable lyrics about a broken relationship, it captured the hearts of listeners everywhere. At the time, some thought the song would be Richard’s last big hit, but its success continued well into the ’80s.
Decades later, We Don’t Talk Anymore remains a classic on ’80s retro stations. Its catchy melody and relatable theme of lost love make it a timeless track. Despite Richard’s long career, this song is still one of his most memorable hits. It continues to be played on classic pop stations, proving that sometimes, a one-hit wonder can have staying power.
10. “I Ran” – A Flock of Seagulls
A Flock of Seagulls’ I Ran is a quintessential ‘80s anthem that many thought would be their only hit. The song’s synth-driven sound and quirky lyrics became an instant hit. Despite A Flock of Seagulls not matching the success of I Ran with subsequent singles, this song has endured. Its unmistakable sound and the iconic music video continue to make it a nostalgic favorite.
Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus ensure it’s still a mainstay on ‘80s radio stations. Even in movies and commercials, I Ran has remained a go-to track for evoking ‘80s vibes. It’s the epitome of a one-hit wonder that has outlasted its initial moment in the spotlight. Today, the song is beloved by fans of the decade and new generations alike.
11. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” – Simple Minds
Released in 1985, Don’t You (Forget About Me) became a defining track of the ’80s. Written for the movie The Breakfast Club, the song’s powerful chorus captured the emotional core of the film, making it an anthem for a generation. Though Simple Minds had other hits, none reached the iconic status of this track. Decades later, Don’t You (Forget About Me) remains synonymous with ‘80s teen culture.
It’s regularly played on pop culture playlists and still featured in nostalgic settings. Its inclusion in The Breakfast Club only cemented its place in history. Even if Simple Minds’ career didn’t follow the same trajectory, this song has stayed relevant. Don’t You (Forget About Me) is more than just a one-hit wonder; it’s an enduring anthem.
12. “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” – Joan Jett & The Blackhearts
Joan Jett & The Blackhearts’ I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll was a game-changing hit in 1981. The cover of the 1975 Alan Merrill song became a defining track for Jett, capturing the rebellious spirit of the era. Despite being a cover, it became a massive hit, and for many, it defined Jett’s legacy. While her career had other successes, I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll remains the most iconic.
The song’s anthemic chorus and Jett’s powerhouse performance helped it become an enduring classic. It still gets played at sports events, bars, and parties to this day. The song’s energetic vibe and powerful lyrics make it an unforgettable part of the ’80s music scene. What started as a potential one-hit wonder has evolved into an iconic anthem for generations.
13. “Funky Town” – Lipps Inc.
Funky Town was the perfect dance track for 1980. Its funky beats and catchy lyrics made it an instant club hit, and it became one of the most popular songs of the early ’80s. Despite Lipps Inc.’s brief moment in the spotlight, Funky Town remains their only notable hit. Its vibrant energy continues to echo through dance floors and pop culture.
The song’s funky beat and infectious chorus keep it alive in playlists to this day. Even though Lipps Inc. didn’t have any other major hits, this track proved to be a timeless classic. Funky Town has cemented its place as an essential part of ’80s dance music. Decades later, it still gets people moving whenever it’s played.
14. “Mickey” – Toni Basil
Toni Basil’s Mickey was an undeniable ‘80s smash hit. Its catchy “Oh Mickey, you’re so fine” chant became an instant classic, and it quickly became a staple of pop culture. Despite being her only chart-topping hit, Mickey remains one of the most memorable tracks of the era. Its infectious energy, paired with its fun music video, made it an iconic moment in ’80s music.
Basil’s cheerleader persona and the song’s upbeat vibe made it unforgettable. The song is still a favorite at parties and sporting events, bringing a dose of retro fun wherever it’s played. Despite Toni Basil’s lack of other major hits, Mickey has endured, proving it was far more than a one-hit wonder. It remains a favorite for fans of ’80s music and pop culture alike.
15. “I Can’t Tell You Why” – Eagles
While the Eagles are known for their long list of hits, I Can’t Tell You Why stood out as their one surprise hit in 1980. The song’s smooth, soulful feel was a departure from the band’s usual sound. Though the Eagles continued to release music, this track remains one of their most memorable. Its smooth groove and heartfelt lyrics have made it a timeless classic.
I Can’t Tell You Why is still a frequent presence on ’70s and ’80s soft rock playlists. Its success proved that the Eagles were more versatile than anyone realized, and it remains a favorite of fans old and new. This song, though not a part of the Eagles’ usual chart-topping successes, continues to be an unforgettable gem. It’s a prime example of how sometimes, even a one-off hit can define a career.
16. “Push It” – Salt-N-Pepa
Push It became an instant classic in 1987. Its infectious beat and empowering lyrics made Salt-N-Pepa household names. Though they went on to have more hits, this song was their breakthrough moment. Its blend of hip-hop and pop was ahead of its time, and it remains one of the most iconic tracks of the era.
Push It continues to be featured on dance floors and nostalgic playlists, ensuring that Salt-N-Pepa’s influence is still felt today. The song’s catchphrase “Push it real good” has become a cultural touchstone. Despite its status as a one-hit wonder for many, Push It cemented Salt-N-Pepa’s legacy in music history. It remains a staple of ’80s hip-hop and pop.
17. “Private Dancer” – Tina Turner
Tina Turner’s Private Dancer may have been one of her more unexpected hits, but its success remains undeniable. The song’s sultry vibe and Turner’s powerhouse vocals made it a standout in 1984. While Turner had a long career before this, Private Dancer was the song that truly brought her back into the mainstream. Its blend of pop, rock, and soul captivated listeners worldwide.
Even now, Private Dancer remains one of Turner’s most iconic songs, still often played on ’80s playlists. It perfectly captures Turner’s resilience and talent. Despite not being followed by other similar hits, the song’s impact continues to be felt today. Private Dancer cemented Turner’s place as one of the greatest female vocalists of all time.
18. “We Are the World” – USA for Africa
Though We Are the World may have been more of a charity single than a traditional hit, it became an iconic part of the ‘80s. Written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, the song brought together dozens of the biggest stars of the era for a good cause. The track became a massive hit in 1985, raising millions for famine relief in Africa. It has since been remade several times, but the original version remains a nostalgic anthem.
The song’s universal message of hope and unity has kept it relevant long after its initial release. It continues to be associated with the charity efforts that made it such a pivotal moment in music history. Though it may not have been a commercial single from a typical artist, We Are the World proved that a one-hit wonder could transcend music and become a moment of cultural significance.
