1. “Gloria” by Laura Branigan
Everyone remembers Laura Branigan’s powerhouse voice, but “Gloria” sometimes gets overshadowed by later hits from other artists. Released in 1982, her version of the Italian pop song became an anthem in clubs and at sporting events. Its pounding rhythm and soaring vocals made it impossible not to sing along.
Listening today, it still hits like a burst of adrenaline. Branigan’s delivery is passionate and commanding, and the beat feels just as fresh now as it did then. While she had several other charting singles, “Gloria” is the one that best captures the spirit of ’80s pop power. It’s surprising it doesn’t get played as often as it should.
2. “If This Is It” by Huey Lewis and the News
Huey Lewis and the News were everywhere in the ’80s, but this tender ballad is often left out of the conversation. Released in 1984, “If This Is It” showed a softer, more emotional side to the band best known for upbeat tracks like “The Power of Love.” The doo-wop inspired harmonies gave it a timeless quality.
Hearing it now, you realize just how versatile the group really was. It’s sweet, soulful, and heartfelt, and it deserves more recognition than it gets. For a band often remembered for their high energy, this slower track still manages to feel powerful in a very different way.
3. “Shattered Dreams” by Johnny Hates Jazz
This song was everywhere in 1987 but has since slipped out of most playlists. “Shattered Dreams” had a sleek, sophisticated production that made it stand out from the rest of the pack. Its bittersweet lyrics gave it an emotional weight that was easy to relate to.
It may have been tied to its moment, but the craftsmanship makes it timeless. The melody still feels smooth, and the chorus is instantly memorable. It’s a reminder that some of the best songs of the decade came from artists who only had one or two big hits.
4. “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” by Hall & Oates
Hall & Oates are known for a long string of hits, but this one is sometimes forgotten in favor of “Maneater” or “Rich Girl.” Released in 1981, it showed off their funkier side, with a groove so strong that even Michael Jackson admitted it inspired “Billie Jean.”
It still sounds incredibly modern. The bass line is irresistible, and the smooth vocals are endlessly replayable. While Hall & Oates had plenty of radio staples, this one might actually be their coolest. It’s the kind of track that deserves rediscovery.
5. “All Out of Love” by Air Supply
Air Supply were synonymous with soft rock, but “All Out of Love” has more staying power than people might think. Released in 1980, it was a slow, heartfelt ballad that practically demanded a lighter wave in the crowd. Their harmonies and dramatic delivery made it unforgettable.
Even now, the song still tugs at the heart. Its sincerity is what makes it work, and it doesn’t feel dated in the same way some other big ballads do. It’s the kind of song you might roll your eyes at but secretly love when it comes on.
6. “One Thing Leads to Another” by The Fixx
This was one of The Fixx’s biggest hits, but it doesn’t get nearly enough recognition today. Released in 1983, it had a punchy rhythm and clever lyrics that gave it a little more bite than most radio fare. The song became a staple of MTV and firmly established the band’s identity.
Listening now, it feels just as sharp. The hooks are tight, and the production is surprisingly clean for the era. It has the kind of energy that makes you want to turn the volume up in the car. It may not be as well-remembered as other ’80s rock-pop hybrids, but it should be.
7. “Dancing with Myself” by Billy Idol
Billy Idol had massive hits like “White Wedding” and “Rebel Yell,” but “Dancing with Myself” deserves just as much attention. Originally released with his band Generation X and re-recorded for his solo career, it was pure ’80s rebellion. With its pounding beat and sneering vocals, it was impossible to ignore.
What makes it timeless is its sheer energy. It’s a perfect blend of punk roots and pop sensibility. Idol’s swagger still feels magnetic, and the song remains just as fun today as it was when first blasting through speakers in 1981.
8. “Maniac” by Michael Sembello
If you’ve seen Flashdance, you know this song. Released in 1983, it became instantly iconic thanks to the film’s famous dance sequence. Its driving beat and urgent lyrics made it one of the ultimate workout and dance anthems of the decade.
Even outside the movie, it’s still thrilling to listen to. The energy doesn’t fade, and it works just as well in a gym playlist today. While Sembello never had another song on that scale, this one has cemented itself as timeless.
9. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears
Tears for Fears had several chart-topping singles, but “Shout” usually overshadows this one. Released in 1985, it had a more thoughtful, reflective tone while still being incredibly catchy. Its lyrics about power and control remain just as relevant today.
Musically, it still sounds pristine. The jangly guitars and smooth harmonies give it a richness that stands the test of time. It’s easy to forget how good it is until you hear it again, and then you’re reminded why Tears for Fears were such a big deal.
10. “Take Me Home Tonight” by Eddie Money
Eddie Money had a long list of hits, but this duet with Ronnie Spector feels especially timeless. Released in 1986, it cleverly nodded to Spector’s “Be My Baby” while giving it a modern twist. The song became an anthem of longing and nostalgia all rolled into one.
It holds up beautifully today. Ronnie Spector’s guest vocals give it a sense of history, while Money’s delivery keeps it rooted in the ’80s. Together, it’s a magical combination that feels both classic and fresh.
11. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” by Yes
Yes were known as a prog rock band, but in 1983 they shocked everyone with this sleek, radio-friendly track. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” brought them into the MTV era with a bang. Its funky guitar riff and experimental sound effects made it unlike anything else on the charts.
Even decades later, it feels adventurous. The mix of rock, funk, and new wave influences gives it a timeless edge. For a band that could easily have been stuck in the ’70s, this song proved they could reinvent themselves and stay relevant.
12. “Rock This Town” by Stray Cats
The Stray Cats brought rockabilly back into the mainstream in the early ’80s, and “Rock This Town” was their biggest moment. Released in 1981, it combined retro style with modern pop appeal. Brian Setzer’s guitar work gave it a fiery edge that still impresses.
It’s a song that feels timeless because it was already retro when it came out. The energy is infectious, and it still makes you want to get up and dance. It may not get the same airplay as some of the bigger ’80s hits, but it’s a classic in its own right.
13. “Voices Carry” by ’Til Tuesday
Aimee Mann’s band ’Til Tuesday had a huge hit with “Voices Carry” in 1985, but it doesn’t get remembered nearly enough now. The song had a haunting quality, and the music video became a staple on MTV. Mann’s distinctive voice gave it an emotional punch that stuck with listeners.
Hearing it today, it’s striking how modern it feels. The lyrics about being silenced in a relationship still resonate deeply. It’s one of those songs that you rediscover and wonder why it isn’t talked about more often.
14. “Glory Days” by Bruce Springsteen
Springsteen had no shortage of hits, but “Glory Days” often gets overshadowed by “Born in the U.S.A.” Released in 1985, it was a nostalgic look at how quickly time passes and how people hang on to their younger years. Its upbeat delivery made it easy to sing along with, even if the message was bittersweet.
It’s one of those tracks that gets more meaningful as you get older. The storytelling feels just as sharp now as it did then, and the chorus is impossible not to belt out. While The Boss has plenty of anthems, this one quietly remains one of his most relatable.
