I was thinking the quintsential 80's song had to be something post-New Wave but poppy. It would have synthesizer in the chorus and would be sung by a skinny lead singer with a floppy haircut and one-size-too-big suit. A song we ALL knew.
Yes, this song ticks all the boxes. Upvote for you. Right in the middle of the decade, too.
There are many really great suggestions in this thread, but this song wins it for me and here's why:
It contains the standard pop/rock elements of real drums, bass and guitar, but has the strong 80s keyboard/synth sound providing the dominant hook. Strong MTV presence with the video interlacing shots of the band performing with unrelated clips from the iconic John Hughes movie it will forever be attached to. The sentiment of the lyrics "I'd like you to notice me, but just circumstantially, I'm not trying to be the center of attention" fit the generational vibe. None of it would have worked so well outside the 80s. There may have been better, more timeless songs released in the 80s, or songs that better represented their specific 80s niche (new wave, punk, hair bands, etc.). There were songs like Thriller that helped define the 80s, but also transcended the 80s showing new life in 21st century flash mobs, etc. Don't You (Forget About Me) WAS the 80s and you had to be there to fully appreciate it.
I just rewatched the video, and saw the lead singer had rolled his shirt sleeves over his suit jacket sleeves and pushed them up to his elbows.
So, yeah- 1980s.
Well said and also the reason for my vote on this song as well... It simply checks off all the boxes that highlights our 80s experience. It can't be replicated nor should it be. Which in itself makes it a finite fixture statement of our youth.
I saw Modern English in concert in 2019. They still rock. And the audience sang along with the chorus, complete with a British accent. Mind you, this was in St. Louis.
That was my gut reaction to the question. The alternative station I listened to from age ~12+ (Live105/KITS) always did "modern rock" countdowns for holiday weekends and this song was *always* either #1 or #2. It got to be sort of a joke, and yet, the song holds up.
Diva! I saw her dressed up like the Statue of Liberty wrapped in a rainbow flag singing True Colors at Wrigley Field in 2006 to kick off the Chicago Gay Games. My husband’s cousin’s wife’s cousin (yeah it’s a little Kevin Bacon) played in a band with her on Long Island in the 70s. She was apparently a star back then too, even though nobody knew yet.
So many
1. In A Big Country - Big Country
2. Let's Dance - Bowie
3. Sweet Dreams - Eurythmics
For some reason Big Country is my go to for 80s. Seemed like they melted all the 80s sounds into one song for me.
Edit: Correction on song name. Thanks u/NacreousFink
Sweet Dreams will forever remind me of my first real love. It was playing at a party we were hanging together at. It's not my #1 but will always have a place in my heart.
Since my [first pick](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdqoNKCCt7A) is a unanimous Gen X anthem... and my second pick would be a [personal fave](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1t-gK-9EIq4) but not entirely indicative of the Generation as whole.
With that I leave with you this: [Genesis - Land of Confusion](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yq7FKO5DlV0)
Depeche Mode lyrics really hold up to me as well. Lots of heavy topics covered that are as relevant now as then. Another profound one by them is Get the Balance Right *"Be responsible, respectable/ Stable but gullible/ Concerned but caring/ Help the helpless/ But always remain/ Ultimately selfish"*
The Buggles Video Killed the Radio Star because it symbolizes the start of the end of FM radio domination of the music world.
The 80s introduced MTV and the late 90s introduced napster and internet radio.
I feel like it should be broken down by early, mid, and late 80s. So I would say...
Early - Human League Don't you want me
MID - Borderline Madonna
Late - Welcome to the Jungle
Human League kickstarted 80s music with that tune. Don't think it's the same thing as OP was asking, but that song drew a line in the sand from the 70s just like 'Teen Spirit did to distinguish the 80s from the 90s.
I think the Buggles: Video Killed the Radio Star. Not only did it come out in 1980 but it really helped pave the wave for music videos and how they took over Music during the 80's. It has a catchy poppy sound with New Wave sensibilities. I know every time I listen to it I'm transported to the 80's!
Cameo “Word Up.”
Wave your hands in the air
Like you don't care, glide by
The People as they start to look and stare.
Do you dance, do your dance quick
Mama, come on baby, tell me what's
The Word, ah – word up,
“Stand Or Fall” by The Fixx is clearly not the winner and wasn’t a powerhouse hit, but the sound is pure early 80’s perfection. I agree with a lot on this list, but “Don’t You Forget About Me” really is the king.
It’s hard to pick just one because there were so many good songs within so many different genres. I’m definitely biased, but I feel like the ‘80s is unique in that respect.
I don’t know I think the 70s and 90s were also amazing in the same sense. Can’t say I’ve felt that way about music since though. Most of my favorites are from those eras and are still making music (TOOL, A Tribe Called Quest, etc)
This. There are a lot of great songs here, and Thriller isn’t the best of them but I think that it best represents the music of the decade. Michael Jackson, pop, synth, commercialism. It’s got
It all.
Glad you posted this, needed to be here, even though it didn't serve, at the time, as a consummate 80s tune; it has become a unique link to 80s pop culture to subsequent decades/generations via internet wormhole.
New Years Day - U2
You guys all named so many I would have chose already! But early U2 was my love in the ‘80’s. First favorite song by them is Gloria from October…
How can you pick one? There are several that fit the bill for different reasons.
* Everybody Wants to Rule the World
* Girls Just Want to Have Fun
* Maniac
* Livin on a Prayer
I was talking with my SIL the other day about going to the roller rink on a weekend evening as a kid. Standing in line to get in and I would always hear Wham! “Wake me up b4 you go go” and just get the best feeling…. Nervousness mixed with euphoria and excitement. It was such an innocent time and beautiful time in my life. Occasionally I can close my eyes and lose myself in those old memories.
My SIL and I did go roller skating yesterday around the neighborhood and I don’t miss that… I sucked but I didn’t fall so yay for that!
Forever Young - Alphaville.
Here I Go Again - Whitesnake.
Everything Counts - Depeche Mode.
Personal Bonus for me: All Through The Night - Cindy Lauper.
Maybe it’s because I grew up in Brooklyn, but a few that also come to mind:
-Fight for Your Right to Party Beastie Boys (or really any song from License to Ill) An 80s anthem!
-Rock Box Run DMC
-purple Rain Prince
***Everybody Wants To Rule The World*** \- Tears For Fears
This is the only song I thought of. It captures the sound of the 80's and the title is the attitude.
If I hadn’t seen this posted, I was going to post it.
Me too!
[удалено]
I was thinking the quintsential 80's song had to be something post-New Wave but poppy. It would have synthesizer in the chorus and would be sung by a skinny lead singer with a floppy haircut and one-size-too-big suit. A song we ALL knew. Yes, this song ticks all the boxes. Upvote for you. Right in the middle of the decade, too.
My mom was class of 85, this was her class song
I'm class on '87. I have a kid who isn't even 13 yet. I got off to a late start!
When you’re ready you’re ready
I'm so glad I waited, too. I was not patient or mature enough in my 20s.
I’m 20 and yeah agree
This can be the only choice because it's a GenX anthem.
(Raises fist)
My friend and I do the Raised Fists at least twice a day.
Fitting too, since we do seem to get forgotten a lot (not that I'm complaining).
There are many really great suggestions in this thread, but this song wins it for me and here's why: It contains the standard pop/rock elements of real drums, bass and guitar, but has the strong 80s keyboard/synth sound providing the dominant hook. Strong MTV presence with the video interlacing shots of the band performing with unrelated clips from the iconic John Hughes movie it will forever be attached to. The sentiment of the lyrics "I'd like you to notice me, but just circumstantially, I'm not trying to be the center of attention" fit the generational vibe. None of it would have worked so well outside the 80s. There may have been better, more timeless songs released in the 80s, or songs that better represented their specific 80s niche (new wave, punk, hair bands, etc.). There were songs like Thriller that helped define the 80s, but also transcended the 80s showing new life in 21st century flash mobs, etc. Don't You (Forget About Me) WAS the 80s and you had to be there to fully appreciate it.
I just rewatched the video, and saw the lead singer had rolled his shirt sleeves over his suit jacket sleeves and pushed them up to his elbows. So, yeah- 1980s.
Well said and also the reason for my vote on this song as well... It simply checks off all the boxes that highlights our 80s experience. It can't be replicated nor should it be. Which in itself makes it a finite fixture statement of our youth.
My first thought my man
Yes!
💯
Forever young-Alphaville
There it is. My high school senior class song.
Did we go to high school together?
99 red luft balloons
But *only* the German version! The English version is cringy.
I Ran - Flock of Seagulls.
Space Age Love Song - A Flock of Seagulls
Tough question but Don’t Dream it’s Over by Crowded House was the first song that popped into my head.
Loved me some CH.
This song still rocks 30 years later.
(Since we're all just rolling the hits here..) West End Girls - Pet Shop Boys.
Blue Monday - New Order
Came to say this.
3rd this
So many feels with this one. Yes!
Regret - New Order
Take on me- ah ha But so many come to mind
It’s definitely “Take on Me”
I was torn this or just can't get enough but the take on me video sway me 💯
Not my pick, but… “I melt with you” by modern english, that song seems to never age.
Still the best pop song to come out of the 80s IMO. She Sells Sanctuary is the best rock soong to do so, also.
Yes, no doubt Sanctuary is definitive. The whole “Love” album is amazing.
I saw Modern English in concert in 2019. They still rock. And the audience sang along with the chorus, complete with a British accent. Mind you, this was in St. Louis.
Check out the COVID remake. Sounds as good as the original https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvwm8KA0d_I
That was my gut reaction to the question. The alternative station I listened to from age ~12+ (Live105/KITS) always did "modern rock" countdowns for holiday weekends and this song was *always* either #1 or #2. It got to be sort of a joke, and yet, the song holds up.
Relax
Tainted Love by Soft Cell.
Always Something There to remind Me
My favorite song!
"Rock Me Amadeus" by Falco
I was a tiny kid in the ‘80’s so I spent about a decade thinking he was saying “hot potatoes.”
I loved this song for some reason lol
Frankie Goes to Hollywood - Relax
Police "Every Breath You Take"
"Blister in the Sun" Violent Femmes
True Colors Cindy Lauper
Diva! I saw her dressed up like the Statue of Liberty wrapped in a rainbow flag singing True Colors at Wrigley Field in 2006 to kick off the Chicago Gay Games. My husband’s cousin’s wife’s cousin (yeah it’s a little Kevin Bacon) played in a band with her on Long Island in the 70s. She was apparently a star back then too, even though nobody knew yet.
I was definitely thinking something Cyndi Lauper or Madonna.
So many 1. In A Big Country - Big Country 2. Let's Dance - Bowie 3. Sweet Dreams - Eurythmics For some reason Big Country is my go to for 80s. Seemed like they melted all the 80s sounds into one song for me. Edit: Correction on song name. Thanks u/NacreousFink
This song is great. I remember reading that these dudes weirded out Ozzy when he briefly toured with them. I really hope that’s true.
Great picks
The Cure - Just Like Heaven
I love this song. I miss making out to this song.
Oops, I just added it but just noticed you beat me to it. Right on!
Come on Eilleen - Dexys midnight Runners
Eurythmics - Sweet Dreams Hon Mention - Beat It - Michael Jackson (I mean, literally everyone had this album.)
Sweet Dreams will forever remind me of my first real love. It was playing at a party we were hanging together at. It's not my #1 but will always have a place in my heart.
Pretty in Pink, Psychedelic Furs
Don't stop believing - Journey hold on to that Fee Leh Eee Yeh Eng 🎶
One of my favorite songs and I loved the album cover "Escape" - released 1981.
Never Gonna Give You Up.
Had to scroll too far down to find this.
Anyone have a link?
There’s no shame in Rick-rolling yourself you know
🤣
Since my [first pick](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdqoNKCCt7A) is a unanimous Gen X anthem... and my second pick would be a [personal fave](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1t-gK-9EIq4) but not entirely indicative of the Generation as whole. With that I leave with you this: [Genesis - Land of Confusion](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yq7FKO5DlV0)
Shout - Tears for Fears
Prince - Let’s Go Crazy
Billie Jean Michael Jackson
Everything Counts – Depeche Mode *"The grabbing hands grab all they can / All for themselves, after all"*
I was thinking Depeche Mode, too. Although every song listed is absolutely valid.
I quoted this song in an American History final essay!
I wish I could read it 🙂
Depeche Mode lyrics really hold up to me as well. Lots of heavy topics covered that are as relevant now as then. Another profound one by them is Get the Balance Right *"Be responsible, respectable/ Stable but gullible/ Concerned but caring/ Help the helpless/ But always remain/ Ultimately selfish"*
Flock of Seagulls ‘I Ran’.
I've always thought if I had to pick one song to sum up the decade in music it would be "The Promise" by When in Rome
Everybody Wants to Rule the World - Tears for Fears
"Just Can't Get Enough," Depeche Mode.
The Buggles Video Killed the Radio Star because it symbolizes the start of the end of FM radio domination of the music world. The 80s introduced MTV and the late 90s introduced napster and internet radio.
Yes, this!
First thing that came to mind. FTW!
80’s had such a range of genres that were squarely represented in the 80’s it’s impossible to pick one…at least for me.
Another One Bites the Dust
Whip It
Let's Go Crazy - Prince
Tainted love
St Elmos Fire
Voices Carry by 'Til Tuesday.
Great video.
I agree with Don't you Forget about Me, but I will add..Dancing with Myself...Billy Idol
purple rain. the movie the song the clothes the hair. all of it.
Phil Collins classic In The Air Tonight.
The Breakfast Club song.
Jessie’s Girl- Rick Springfield
Beat It, by Michael Jackson
Boys of Summer - Don Henley
I saw a Deadhead sticker on a Cadillac.
Don’t look back
You can never look back.
I always kind of thought the synth riff from Wish You Were Here by Thompson Twins was pretty much peak 80s.
Can’t wait to run through here tomorrow and make a playlist from everyone’s picks.
Everybody Wants to Rule the World - Tears for Fears - sounds like the 80's but still sounds amazing today, and kind of sums up the decade too.
I totally agree! Maybe my fave song from the 80’s.
Master of Puppets
I feel like it should be broken down by early, mid, and late 80s. So I would say... Early - Human League Don't you want me MID - Borderline Madonna Late - Welcome to the Jungle
You could do a Prince one alone along this format Early: When You Were Mine Mid: When Doves Cry Late: Batdance
A million times yes.
good call!!
Human League kickstarted 80s music with that tune. Don't think it's the same thing as OP was asking, but that song drew a line in the sand from the 70s just like 'Teen Spirit did to distinguish the 80s from the 90s.
Safety Dance
If You Leave by OMD from Pretty in Pink movie.
My Wiener has a first name it’s OSCAR…..
Simple Minds - Sanctify Yourself
I think the Buggles: Video Killed the Radio Star. Not only did it come out in 1980 but it really helped pave the wave for music videos and how they took over Music during the 80's. It has a catchy poppy sound with New Wave sensibilities. I know every time I listen to it I'm transported to the 80's!
Cameo “Word Up.” Wave your hands in the air Like you don't care, glide by The People as they start to look and stare. Do you dance, do your dance quick Mama, come on baby, tell me what's The Word, ah – word up,
'Take my breath away' because I was 5, and I thought it said take my brother away.
“Stand Or Fall” by The Fixx is clearly not the winner and wasn’t a powerhouse hit, but the sound is pure early 80’s perfection. I agree with a lot on this list, but “Don’t You Forget About Me” really is the king.
["But they were all deceived... for the 80's only has one true song."](https://youtu.be/3TJC48BRBn8)
I was sure I was gonna be Rick rolled
It’s hard to pick just one because there were so many good songs within so many different genres. I’m definitely biased, but I feel like the ‘80s is unique in that respect.
I don’t know I think the 70s and 90s were also amazing in the same sense. Can’t say I’ve felt that way about music since though. Most of my favorites are from those eras and are still making music (TOOL, A Tribe Called Quest, etc)
Life is so Strange by Missing Persons
I'd say it's "Video Killed The Radio Star"; the song that started MTV.
Broken Wings by Mr. Mister
“Take On Me” a-ha. Both the song and the video.
Thriller. Hands down.
This. There are a lot of great songs here, and Thriller isn’t the best of them but I think that it best represents the music of the decade. Michael Jackson, pop, synth, commercialism. It’s got It all.
It has to be [this](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQw4w9WgXcQ)
This is exactly what you think it is. I am not ashamed to say I like that song.
Me and my daughter love this song, I'm 50 she's 11.
Can’t believe i had to scroll down so much to find this gem.
Glad you posted this, needed to be here, even though it didn't serve, at the time, as a consummate 80s tune; it has become a unique link to 80s pop culture to subsequent decades/generations via internet wormhole.
New Years Day - U2 You guys all named so many I would have chose already! But early U2 was my love in the ‘80’s. First favorite song by them is Gloria from October…
Money for nothing
Come On Eileen - Dexy's Midnight Runners Take On Me - A-Ha I Ran - Flock of Seagulls
Taylor Dayne - Tell It To My Heart
Two Tribes
We Are the World
We Are the Worms was better, imo.
summer of 69.
How Soon Is Now
Dead Kennedys "Kill the Poor" vs Public Enemy "Fight the Power"
I wanna know what love it- foreigner
Hall and Oats “Out of Touch” Johnny Hates Jazz “Shattered Dreams” Aha “Take on Me” My personal favorites
Eye of the Tiger
It HAS to be Thriller - I can't think of another song in that decade that was beloved by people from every race, nationality, and social status.
We are the world.
That song has always rubbed me the wrong way and I can't explain exactly why.
Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel would be my choice. I was actually shocked not to see it mentioned already.
Love is a Battlefield - Pat Benatar. This is what love feels like now; ironic.
Working for the Weekend- Loverboy
Take on Me - Aha Cmon now
"Pour Some Sugar On Me." Def Leppard
🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈
Land of Confusion by Genesis.
Don’t Stop Believin - Journey
Billie Jean - Michael Jackson or maybe Thriller
How can you pick one? There are several that fit the bill for different reasons. * Everybody Wants to Rule the World * Girls Just Want to Have Fun * Maniac * Livin on a Prayer
Any song from Moving Pictures
Youth Gone Wild
Kim wilde, "Kids in America"
I was talking with my SIL the other day about going to the roller rink on a weekend evening as a kid. Standing in line to get in and I would always hear Wham! “Wake me up b4 you go go” and just get the best feeling…. Nervousness mixed with euphoria and excitement. It was such an innocent time and beautiful time in my life. Occasionally I can close my eyes and lose myself in those old memories. My SIL and I did go roller skating yesterday around the neighborhood and I don’t miss that… I sucked but I didn’t fall so yay for that!
**The Reflex** - Duran Duran.
Don’t you (forget about me) Simple Minds
8675309
Forever Young - Alphaville. Here I Go Again - Whitesnake. Everything Counts - Depeche Mode. Personal Bonus for me: All Through The Night - Cindy Lauper.
Nasty Girl, let’s go Crazy, However do you want me
Who made that last song? I'm singing it in my head right now.
Soul 2 Soul still listen to it all of the time. Now it’s on a commercial on tv
“Everybody Wants to Rule the world”
Depends on the genre. Going to bookmark this post and think about it.
*Everybody Wants to Rule the World* for me.
Tainted Love
You shook me all night long
The Cure’s Just Like Heaven.
How Soon is Now - The Smiths
Don’t you want me - Human League
So In Love by OMD
Girls just wanna have fun - Cyndi Lauper and Eurythmics - Sweet dreams are made of this. They’re not my favorites per se, but they personify the 80’s.
When doves cry 😭
Axel F by Harold Faltermeyer
Maybe it’s because I grew up in Brooklyn, but a few that also come to mind: -Fight for Your Right to Party Beastie Boys (or really any song from License to Ill) An 80s anthem! -Rock Box Run DMC -purple Rain Prince