Best 1980s Pop Songs

1. 1
   MJ
   ▶

   Billie Jean

   Michael Jackson · from Thriller (1982)

   The bassline, the beat, the moonwalk.

   Listen → Watch →
2. 2
   CL
   ▶

   Time After Time

   Cyndi Lauper · from She's So Unusual (1983)

   A tender, timeless ballad.

   Listen → Watch →
3. 3
   PR
   ▶

   When Doves Cry

   Prince · from Purple Rain (1984)

   A number one with no bassline.

   Listen → Watch →
4. 4
   KB
   ▶

   Running Up That Hill

   Kate Bush · from Hounds of Love (1985)

   Art-pop that found a vast new audience.

   Listen → Watch →
5. 5
   TF
   ▶

   Everybody Wants to Rule the World

   Tears for Fears · from Songs from the Big Chair (1985)

   Effortless, melancholy synth-pop.

   Listen → Watch →
6. 6
   WH
   ▶

   How Will I Know

   Whitney Houston · from Whitney Houston (1985)

   Joyful, big-voiced 80s pop.

   Listen → Watch →
7. 7
   PR
   ▶

   Kiss

   Prince · from Parade (1986)

   Minimalist funk and a famous falsetto.

   Listen → Watch →
8. 8
   MA
   ▶

   Like a Prayer

   Madonna · from Like a Prayer (1989)

   Gospel choir and a giant hook.

   Listen → Watch →

Tap the artwork or "Listen" to find the track on Amazon Music; "Watch" opens a YouTube search; the song title opens its album page. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases and sign-ups.