The 1980s was the golden age of music videos. MTV had just launched, and suddenly, music wasn’t just something you listened to—it was something you watched. Music videos became mini-movies, filled with style, storytelling, and unforgettable imagery that shaped the pop culture of the time. These videos didn’t just promote the songs; they became cultural moments. Let’s take a nostalgic look back at the ‘80s music videos that left a lasting impact on a generation.
1. Michael Jackson – “Thriller” (1983)
No conversation about ‘80s music videos is complete without “Thriller.” Directed by John Landis, this nearly 14-minute video wasn’t just a video—it was an event. With its zombie dance and movie-like narrative, “Thriller” set the standard for what music videos could be. It’s still one of the most iconic pieces of pop culture ever made, and we all tried to learn that zombie dance at some point.
2. A-Ha – “Take on Me” (1985)
The blend of live-action and sketch animation in A-Ha’s “Take on Me” blew everyone’s minds in the mid-80s. The video’s visual style was revolutionary for its time, and the love story at its core made it unforgettable. The innovative animation technique, combined with that catchy synth-pop hook, created a video that’s still beloved to this day.
3. Madonna – “Like a Prayer” (1989)
Madonna was never afraid of controversy, and “Like a Prayer” was her most provocative video yet. With religious imagery, burning crosses, and a storyline that tackled race and faith, this video pushed boundaries. It was both daring and artistic, cementing Madonna’s place as the queen of pop in the ‘80s.
4. Duran Duran – “Hungry Like the Wolf” (1982)
Duran Duran knew how to make stylish videos, and “Hungry Like the Wolf” was an adventure. Shot in the jungles of Sri Lanka, the video had an Indiana Jones feel, with the band members trekking through exotic landscapes. It was pure ‘80s escapism—slick, sexy, and unforgettable.
5. Peter Gabriel – “Sledgehammer” (1986)
This stop-motion masterpiece redefined what a music video could be. The surreal visuals, claymation, and Peter Gabriel’s willingness to transform into all sorts of shapes made “Sledgehammer” a mesmerizing watch. It was as playful as it was artistic, winning nine MTV Video Music Awards and staying in our collective memories for decades.
6. Cyndi Lauper – “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” (1983)
Cyndi Lauper’s breakout hit wasn’t just about the song—it was about the fun, carefree vibe of the video. With bright colors, playful antics, and a message of female empowerment, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” became an anthem for women in the ‘80s. Plus, that wacky fashion and the quirky characters in the video are pure nostalgia gold.
7. Prince – “When Doves Cry” (1984)
Prince was already a pop superstar, but “When Doves Cry” showed his artistry at its peak. The video, with its moody purple hues and minimalistic set, focused entirely on Prince’s magnetic performance. It was sensual, mysterious, and powerful, reflecting the deep emotion of the song. Plus, that bathtub scene? Iconic.
8. Van Halen – “Jump” (1984)
Sometimes, simple is best, and Van Halen’s “Jump” proved that. The entire video was just the band performing in front of a backdrop, but David Lee Roth’s energetic stage presence and those signature high kicks made it unforgettable. You couldn’t help but want to air-guitar along with the band.
9. The Buggles – “Video Killed the Radio Star” (1979/1980)
This was the first music video ever played on MTV, and that alone earns it a spot on the list. The song itself was a reflection on how video was changing the music industry, and the video’s futuristic, slightly surreal look perfectly captured the sentiment. It’s the video that started it all.
10. Billy Idol – “Dancing with Myself” (1981)
Billy Idol’s “Dancing with Myself” perfectly captured the punk rock rebellion of the ‘80s. Set in a dystopian world, with Idol leading a dance revolution, this video was all about attitude. With its catchy chorus and infectious energy, it’s no wonder kids everywhere were imitating Idol’s signature sneer and fist-pump.
11. David Bowie – “Ashes to Ashes” (1980)
David Bowie was always ahead of his time, and the “Ashes to Ashes” video was no different. It featured Bowie in a Pierrot clown costume, wandering through surreal, dreamlike landscapes. The video’s cutting-edge use of visual effects and its bold, avant-garde style made it a classic and showed Bowie’s unparalleled creativity.
12. Michael Jackson – “Billie Jean” (1983)
The video for “Billie Jean” wasn’t just a visual treat—it was a revolution. With its moody atmosphere, glowing sidewalk, and Jackson’s iconic dance moves, “Billie Jean” was the video that solidified Michael Jackson as a music video pioneer. It also introduced his famous moonwalk to the world, and music was never the same again.
These music videos were more than just visuals to go along with a song. They were cultural moments that defined the ‘80s. Whether they were pushing boundaries, telling stories, or just showing off how cool the artist was, each one left an indelible mark on our memories.
