The Timeless Classics: Notable Songs Originally Made in the 80s

The 1980s was a vibrant decade for music, producing numerous iconic songs across various genres. From pop and rock to new wave and hip-hop, the 80s shaped the music landscape significantly. Let's dive into some of the most notable songs that came into being during this era.

Pop

The 80s pop music scene was dominated by hits like:

Michael Jackson, “Thriller” (1982) – Jackson's most infamous and enduring pop track. Madonna, “Like a Virgin” (1984) – A defining song that showcased Madonna's unique style and global appeal. Wham!, “Last Christmas” (1984) – A classic that has been covered by numerous artists and remains popular to this day. Cyndi Lauper, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” (1983) – A feminist anthem that defined Lauper's work and solidified her place in music history.

Rock

The rock genre was not left out in the 80s, with a number of influential songs like:

Bon Jovi, “Living on a Prayer” (1986) – An enduring anthem that has become a cultural phenomenon. Guns N' Roses, “Sweet Child o' Mine” (1987) – One of the most recognizable power ballads of the decade. Survivor, “Eye of the Tiger” (1982) – A rousing anthem made famous by the Rocky IV soundtrack. Journey, “Don't Stop Believin'” (1981) – A timeless favorite that remains a concert favorite even today.

New Wave/Synthpop

The new wave and synthpop genres of the 80s produced memorable tracks such as:

a-ha, “Take On Me” (1984) – Known for its innovative music video that blended animation with live action. Billy Idol, “White Wedding” (1981) – A memorable instrumental that still captures the essence of the 80s. Depeche Mode, “Enjoy the Silence” (1981) – A defining song that remains one of Depeche Mode's most popular tracks.

Hip-Hop/Rap

Although hip-hop has its roots in the late 70s, the 80s saw the rise of influential artists such as:

The Sugarhill Gang, “Rapper's Delight” (1979) – This track is often credited with launching the hip-hop music industry, although it was influential in the 80s and beyond. Public Enemy, “Fight the Power” (1989) – Although its chart performance was limited, this politically charged song significantly impacted the genre.

RB/Soul

RB and soul music also flourished in the 80s, with hits like:

Prince, “Kiss” (1986) – A passionate and iconic love song that solidified Prince's status as a music icon. Rick James, “Super Freak” (1981) – A classic that has remained popular for decades, with its catchy chorus and distinctive style.

Other Notable Tracks

Several other tracks from the 80s have become timeless classics, including:

Whitney Houston, “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” (1987) – A dancefloor favorite and one of Houston's most memorable hits. Queen and David Bowie, “Under Pressure” (1981) – A collaboration that remains a defining track from the 80s.

Audio Engineering and Recording Studios

The 80s also saw the rise of iconic recording studios and audio engineering. The documentary 'Sound City' offers a fascinating look into this era with the studio's studio in Los Angeles, which has attracted a plethora of artists and producers. The studio's allure is rooted in its analog sound quality, discussed at length by legendary musicians like Neil Young. It's a must-watch for music enthusiasts, audiophiles, and techies alike!

For those interested, the film can often be found for free on platforms like IMDb's streaming app. A revisit to this film will undoubtedly enhance your appreciation for the music and recording processes of the 80s. So, turn it up and enjoy a trip into the golden era of music recording!