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Get Your Groove On: The Top 80’s Party Songs for an Epic Throwback

The 1980s. A decade of big hair, neon colors, and undeniably catchy music. If you’re planning a party and want to transport your guests back to this iconic era, you’ve come to the right place. This article will delve into the ultimate playlist of top 80’s party songs, guaranteed to get everyone on the dance floor. From synth-pop anthems to rock ballads, we’ll cover the essential tracks that defined the decade. So, dust off your leg warmers and get ready to boogie to the best top 80’s party songs ever made!

The Undisputed Anthems: Defining the 80s Sound

No 80s party is complete without these iconic tracks. These songs are instantly recognizable and have stood the test of time, becoming staples of any good 80s-themed event.

“Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson: The undisputed king of pop, Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” is a must-have. Its infectious beat and iconic dance moves make it impossible to resist.
“Like a Prayer” – Madonna: Controversial and captivating, Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” is a powerful anthem that showcases her vocal prowess and groundbreaking artistry.
“Livin’ on a Prayer” – Bon Jovi: This rock anthem is a singalong classic. Bon Jovi’s powerful vocals and the song’s catchy chorus make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
“Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses: A softer side of hard rock, “Sweet Child o’ Mine” is a timeless ballad with a memorable guitar riff and Axl Rose’s distinctive vocals.
“Don’t Stop Believin'” – Journey: An anthem of hope and perseverance, “Don’t Stop Believin'” is a karaoke favorite and a guaranteed way to get everyone singing along.

Synth-Pop Sensations: The Electronic Heart of the 80s

The 80s were a golden age for synth-pop, with artists experimenting with synthesizers and creating a futuristic sound that defined the decade. These top 80’s party songs are essential for capturing that electronic vibe.

“Take On Me” – a-ha: With its distinctive synth melody and iconic music video, “Take On Me” is a pure dose of 80s nostalgia.
“Tainted Love” – Soft Cell: A dark and moody synth-pop classic, “Tainted Love” is perfect for setting a slightly more edgy vibe.
“Just Can’t Get Enough” – Depeche Mode: Upbeat and infectious, “Just Can’t Get Enough” is a quintessential synth-pop anthem that will get everyone moving.
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Eurythmics: Annie Lennox’s powerful vocals and the song’s haunting synth melody make “Sweet Dreams” a truly unforgettable track.
“Blue Monday” – New Order: A pioneering electronic track, “Blue Monday” is known for its minimalist sound and influential rhythm.

New Wave Wonders: The Cool and Quirky Side of the 80s

New Wave brought a cooler, more alternative sound to the 80s, with bands experimenting with art-rock influences and creating a unique blend of styles. These top 80’s party songs represent the best of the New Wave movement.

“Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina & The Waves: An undeniably cheerful and upbeat song, “Walking on Sunshine” is guaranteed to lift everyone’s spirits.
“Our House” – Madness: A quirky and charming song about everyday life, “Our House” is a singalong favorite with a distinctive ska influence.
“Come On Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners: With its Celtic-inspired fiddle and energetic vocals, “Come On Eileen” is a unique and unforgettable track.
“Video Killed the Radio Star” – The Buggles: A prophetic song about the rise of music videos, “Video Killed the Radio Star” is a new wave classic with a catchy synth melody.
“Turning Japanese” – The Vapors: A controversial but undeniably catchy song, “Turning Japanese” is a new wave staple with a distinctive guitar riff.

Pop Princesses and Power Ballads: The Heart and Soul of the 80s

The 80s were also a time for powerful female vocalists and emotional ballads. These top 80’s party songs showcase the heart and soul of the decade.

“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper: An anthem of female empowerment, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” is a fun and upbeat song that celebrates female friendship.
“I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” – Whitney Houston: Whitney Houston’s powerful vocals and the song’s infectious beat make “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” a guaranteed dance floor filler.
“Total Eclipse of the Heart” – Bonnie Tyler: A dramatic and over-the-top power ballad, “Total Eclipse of the Heart” is a karaoke favorite and a guaranteed tearjerker.
“Eternal Flame” – The Bangles: A romantic and heartfelt ballad, “Eternal Flame” is a perfect slow dance song for your 80s party.
“Time After Time” – Cyndi Lauper: A beautiful and melancholic ballad, “Time After Time” showcases Cyndi Lauper’s versatility as a vocalist.

Rocking Out: The Harder Edge of the 80s

The 80s also saw the rise of hard rock and glam metal. These top 80’s party songs represent the heavier side of the decade.

“You Give Love a Bad Name” – Bon Jovi: Another Bon Jovi classic, “You Give Love a Bad Name” is a high-energy rock anthem with a catchy chorus.
“Pour Some Sugar on Me” – Def Leppard: A glam metal classic, “Pour Some Sugar on Me” is a high-octane party anthem with a raunchy edge.
“Walk This Way” – Run-DMC ft. Aerosmith: A groundbreaking collaboration that blended rock and hip-hop, “Walk This Way” is a high-energy track that will get everyone jumping.
“The Final Countdown” – Europe: With its iconic keyboard intro and soaring vocals, “The Final Countdown” is a dramatic and unforgettable rock anthem.
“Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor: The theme song from Rocky III, “Eye of the Tiger” is an inspirational and motivational rock anthem that will get everyone pumped up.

One-Hit Wonders: The Forgotten Gems of the 80s

The 80s were full of one-hit wonders, songs that burned brightly for a brief period before fading into obscurity. These top 80’s party songs are a fun way to add some unexpected surprises to your playlist.

“Come On Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners: (Mentioned previously, but worth mentioning again!)
“99 Luftballons” – Nena: A German-language anti-war anthem, “99 Luftballons” is a catchy and thought-provoking song with a distinctive synth melody.
“Mickey” – Toni Basil: A cheerleader-themed pop song, “Mickey” is a fun and energetic track that will get everyone clapping along.
“I’m Too Sexy” – Right Said Fred: A humorous and self-deprecating song, “I’m Too Sexy” is a novelty hit that will get everyone laughing.
“Tainted Love” – Soft Cell: (Also mentioned previously, but a truly defining 80s track.)

The Power of Soundtracks: Movie Magic in Music Form

The 80s produced some of the most memorable movie soundtracks of all time. These top 80’s party songs are directly lifted from the silver screen and bring that cinematic magic to your party.

“Footloose” – Kenny Loggins: The theme song from the movie of the same name, “Footloose” is an upbeat and energetic dance anthem.
“(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” – Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes: The iconic love theme from Dirty Dancing, “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” is a romantic and unforgettable song.
“Ghostbusters” – Ray Parker Jr.: The theme song from the movie Ghostbusters, “Ghostbusters” is a fun and catchy song that will get everyone singing along.
“The Power of Love” – Huey Lewis and the News: The theme song from Back to the Future, “The Power of Love” is a feel-good song that captures the spirit of adventure and romance.
“Danger Zone” – Kenny Loggins: From Top Gun, “Danger Zone” is a high-energy rock anthem that will get everyone’s adrenaline pumping.

Beyond the Hits: Deep Cuts and Hidden Gems

While the above songs are essential for any 80s party, don’t be afraid to explore some deeper cuts and hidden gems. These songs may not be as well-known, but they offer a unique glimpse into the diverse musical landscape of the 80s. Consider adding tracks from artists like The Cure, The Smiths, Echo & the Bunnymen, or The Psychedelic Furs to add some alternative flavor to your playlist.

Creating the Perfect 80s Party Atmosphere

Of course, the music is only one part of creating the perfect 80s party atmosphere. Consider adding some other elements to enhance the experience:

Dress Code: Encourage your guests to dress up in their best 80s attire, complete with neon colors, leg warmers, and big hair.
Decorations: Decorate your party space with 80s-themed decorations, such as posters of popular movies and musicians, Rubik’s Cubes, and cassette tapes.
Food and Drinks: Serve 80s-themed food and drinks, such as pizza rolls, Jell-O molds, and Tab cola.
Games and Activities: Play 80s-themed games and activities, such as trivia, charades, and breakdancing competitions.

Conclusion: Let the 80s Party Begin!

With this ultimate playlist of top 80’s party songs and some creative party planning, you’re sure to throw an epic 80s throwback that your guests will never forget. So, crank up the volume, grab your dancing shoes, and get ready to party like it’s 1985!

[See also: 80s Fashion Trends to Rock Today]

[See also: Best 80s Movies for a Nostalgic Movie Night]