1986 was a landmark year in music, marked by the release of some of the greatest songs of all time. From pop to rock, from R&B to hip-hop, the music of 1986 was diverse, exciting, and groundbreaking. With the emergence of new artists and the continued success of established musicians, 1986 saw the release of hit after hit, each one leaving its own unique mark on the musical landscape. Some of these songs were upbeat and danceable, while others were introspective and thought-provoking. Many of these songs are still played on the radio today, and are remembered as some of the most iconic tracks of the 20th century. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, R&B, or hip-hop, there’s something for everyone in the list of 20 of the greatest songs from 1986. From classic ballads to uptempo party anthems, these tracks will transport you back in time and remind you of the magic and excitement of that unforgettable year in music.
1. “I’ll Be Over You” by Toto
“I’ll Be Over You” is a power ballad by the American rock band Toto, released as a single from their 1986 album “Fahrenheit”. The song was written by keyboardist Greg Phillinganes and guitarist Steve Lukather, and it features emotive vocals by Lukather. The song’s lyrics express the pain of moving on after a broken relationship, with the narrator acknowledging that they will eventually “be over” the person they once loved. The song’s melody is haunting and memorable, supported by a sweeping keyboard arrangement and a steady beat. “I’ll Be Over You” has become one of Toto’s most popular songs, and its powerful message continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
2. “Walk Like an Egyptian” by Bangles
“Walk Like an Egyptian” is a worldwide hit single by the American all-female band The Bangles, released in 1986. The song was written by Liam Sternberg and became a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song features a catchy, up-tempo beat and an unforgettable chorus, with the lyrics encouraging listeners to “walk like an Egyptian” to escape the problems of the world. The song’s accompanying music video, which features the band members dressed in Egyptian-style costumes, became a staple of 1980s pop culture. Despite its initial success, “Walk Like an Egyptian” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be one of the defining tracks of the 1980s new wave movement.
3. “Friends and Lovers” by Gloria Loring and Carl Anderson
“Friends and Lovers” is a duet between American singer Gloria Loring and actor Carl Anderson, released in 1986. The song was written by Loring and became a hit single, reaching the top of the Adult Contemporary charts. The song’s lyrics express the idea that true love can grow out of a strong friendship, with the singers declaring that they are “friends and lovers, meant to be.” The song features both Loring and Anderson’s powerful vocals, backed by a sweeping instrumental arrangement that includes a piano and strings. “Friends and Lovers” has become a classic love song and continues to be a popular choice for weddings and other romantic events. The song’s message of love growing out of friendship continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
4. “Shake You Down” by Gregory Abbott
“Shake You Down” is a hit single by American R&B singer Gregory Abbott, released in 1986. The song was written by Abbott and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and earning him a Grammy nomination. The song features Abbott’s smooth, soulful vocals, backed by a mid-tempo beat and a funky bassline. The lyrics describe a man trying to convince a woman to give their relationship a chance, with the singer declaring that he will “shake you down” until she gives in to his advances. “Shake You Down” was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it established Abbott as a major talent in the R&B world. Despite its initial success, “Shake You Down” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be a classic of 1980s R&B.
5. “Say You, Say Me” by Lionel Richie
“Say You, Say Me” is a hit single by American singer Lionel Richie, released in 1985. The song was written by Richie and was the lead single from the soundtrack of the film “White Nights.” The song features Richie’s signature smooth, soulful vocals and a sweeping instrumental arrangement that includes a piano, strings, and synthesizers. The lyrics express the idea that true love is about communication and understanding, with the singer declaring that “if we talk we can work it out.” “Say You, Say Me” was a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Richie an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The song remains one of Richie’s signature tracks and continues to be a popular choice for weddings and other romantic events.
6. “C’est La Vie” by Robbie Nevil
“C’est La Vie” is a hit single by French-American singer Robbie Nevil, released in 1986. The song was written by Nevil and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and a memorable chorus, with Nevil declaring that “c’est la vie, that’s life,” in response to the ups and downs of love and relationships. The song’s accompanying music video, which features Nevil performing the song against a backdrop of iconic Parisian landmarks, became a staple of 1980s music television. Despite its initial success, “C’est La Vie” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be a classic of 1980s pop. The song’s message of resilience and acceptance continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
7. “Kiss” by Prince and The Revolution
“Kiss” is a hit single by American musician Prince and his band The Revolution, released in 1986. The song was written by Prince and features his distinctive, soulful vocals, backed by a funky bassline and a driving beat. The lyrics describe a man trying to convince a woman to give him a chance, with the singer declaring that “you don’t have to be rich to be my girl.” “Kiss” was a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Prince a Grammy nomination. The song’s accompanying music video, which features Prince and The Revolution performing the song in a playful, sexually charged setting, became a staple of 1980s music television. Despite its initial success, “Kiss” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be one of Prince’s signature tracks.
8. “The Way It Is” by Bruce Hornsby and the Range
“The Way It Is” is a hit single by American musician Bruce Hornsby and his band The Range, released in 1986. The song was written by Hornsby and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and earning him a Grammy nomination. The song features Hornsby’s distinctive, piano-based sound, backed by a sweeping instrumental arrangement that includes synthesizers and horns. The lyrics address political and social issues, including poverty, race relations, and the state of the American dream. “The Way It Is” was widely praised for its insightful and thought-provoking lyrics, and it established Hornsby as a major talent in the world of popular music. Despite its initial success, “The Way It Is” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be a classic of 1980s pop. The song’s message of hope and progress continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
9. “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi
“Livin’ on a Prayer” is a hit single by American rock band Bon Jovi, released in 1986. The song was written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Desmond Child and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song features a driving beat, a catchy chorus, and Jon Bon Jovi’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe a working-class couple struggling to make ends meet, with the singer declaring that they are “livin’ on a prayer.” “Livin’ on a Prayer” was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it established Bon Jovi as one of the leading rock bands of the 1980s. Despite its initial success, “Livin’ on a Prayer” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be one of the band’s signature tracks. The song’s message of perseverance and hope continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
10. “On My Own” by Patti Labelle and Michael McDonald
“On My Own” is a hit single by American singers Patti LaBelle and Michael McDonald, released in 1986. The song was written by two legendary songwriters, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song features LaBelle’s powerful, soulful vocals and McDonald’s smooth, bluesy delivery, backed by a sweeping instrumental arrangement that includes synthesizers, horns, and strings. The lyrics describe the pain of being alone after a breakup, with the singers declaring that they are “on their own” and searching for love. “On My Own” was widely praised for its emotional power and its powerful performances by LaBelle and McDonald. Despite its initial success, “On My Own” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be a classic of 1980s pop. The song’s message of resilience and hope continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
11. “Everybody Have Fun Tonight” by Wang Chung
“Everybody Have Fun Tonight” is a hit single by the British band Wang Chung, released in 1986. The song was written by Jack Hues and Nick Feldman and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song features a driving beat, a catchy chorus, and Hues’s distinctive, high-pitched vocals. The lyrics encourage listeners to forget their worries and have a good time, with the singer declaring that “everybody have fun tonight.” “Everybody Have Fun Tonight” was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it established Wang Chung as one of the leading pop bands of the 1980s. Despite its initial success, “Everybody Have Fun Tonight” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be one of the band’s signature tracks. The song’s message of fun and celebration continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
12. “Glory of Love” by Peter Cetera
“Glory of Love” is a hit single by American musician Peter Cetera, released in 1986. The song was written by Cetera and David Foster and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song features Cetera’s powerful, soulful vocals, backed by a sweeping instrumental arrangement that includes synthesizers and horns. The lyrics describe the power of love, with the singer declaring that he will do anything to protect the person he loves, including facing danger and battling “the demons of the night.” “Glory of Love” was widely praised for its powerful and emotional performance by Cetera, and it established him as a major talent in the world of popular music. Despite its initial success, “Glory of Love” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be a classic of 1980s pop. The song’s message of love and devotion continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
13. “Don’t Dream It’s Over” by Crowded House
“Don’t Dream It’s Over” is a hit single by the New Zealand-Australian band Crowded House, released in 1986. The song was written by Neil Finn and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song features Finn’s distinctive, melodic voice, backed by a lush instrumental arrangement that includes acoustic guitar, piano, and strings. The lyrics describe the fragility of relationships and the importance of not giving up, with the singer declaring that “Don’t Dream It’s Over.” “Don’t Dream It’s Over” was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it established Crowded House as one of the leading alternative rock bands of the 1980s. Despite its initial success, “Don’t Dream It’s Over” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be one of the band’s signature tracks. The song’s message of hope and resilience continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
14. “The Lady in Red” by Chris de Burgh
“The Lady in Red” is a hit single by British singer-songwriter Chris de Burgh, released in 1986. The song was written by de Burgh and became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song is a love ballad, with the singer describing the way he feels about a woman dressed in red, who has captured his heart. The song features de Burgh’s warm and emotional vocals, backed by a simple instrumental arrangement that includes acoustic guitar, piano, and strings. “The Lady in Red” was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it established de Burgh as a major force in the world of adult contemporary music. Despite its initial success, “The Lady in Red” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be one of de Burgh’s signature tracks. The song’s message of love and devotion continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
15. “Control” by Janet Jackson
“Control” is a groundbreaking single by American pop icon Janet Jackson, released in 1986. The song was written by Jackson, Jimmy Jam, and Terry Lewis and marked a turning point in her career, as she established herself as a creative force in her own right. The song is a declaration of independence, with Jackson declaring that she is in control of her own life and refusing to be controlled by others. The song features Jackson’s powerful and confident vocals, backed by a pulsing instrumental arrangement that includes synths, drums, and horns. “Control” was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish Jackson as a major star in the world of pop music. The song has since been widely regarded as a classic of 1980s pop and a key moment in the career of one of the greatest pop icons of all time. “Control” remains a powerful and influential track to this day.
16. “Notorious” by Duran Duran
“Notorious” is a hit single by the iconic British band Duran Duran, released in 1986. The song was written by the band and was a major commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song features Duran Duran’s signature blend of electronic and rock elements, with a driving beat, soaring synths, and powerful guitar riffs. The lyrics describe the excitement and thrill of living life in the fast lane, with the singer declaring that he is “Notorious”. “Notorious” was well-received by audiences and critics alike and established Duran Duran as one of the leading pop bands of the 1980s. Despite its initial success, “Notorious” has remained popular over the years and is widely considered to be one of the band’s signature tracks. The song’s message of excitement and defiance continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
17. “The Next Time I Fall” by Peter Cetera and Amy Grant
“The Next Time I Fall” is a duet by American singer-songwriters Peter Cetera and Amy Grant, released in 1986. The song was written by Cetera, David Foster, and Paul Gordon and was a major commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song is a love ballad, with the singers expressing their love and devotion to one another. The song features Cetera’s warm and emotional vocals, backed by Grant’s tender and gentle vocals, creating a harmonious and touching duet. The song’s simple and elegant instrumental arrangement, which includes piano, guitar, and strings, provides a beautiful backdrop to the singers’ heartfelt performances. “The Next Time I Fall” was well-received by audiences and critics alike and established Cetera and Grant as one of the most successful duos in the world of pop music. The song’s message of love and devotion continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
18. “There’ll Be Sad Songs (To Make You Cry)” by Billy Ocean
“There’ll Be Sad Songs (To Make You Cry)” is a hit single by British singer-songwriter Billy Ocean, released in 1986. The song was written by Barry Eastmond, Wayne Brathwaite, and Billy Ocean and was a major commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song is a mid-tempo ballad, with Ocean singing about the power of music to evoke emotions and memories. The song features Ocean’s soulful and powerful vocals, backed by a smooth and sophisticated arrangement of synths, keyboards, and strings. The song’s simple yet effective lyrics, which describe the impact of sad songs on the listener, tap into a universal emotion that many can relate to. “There’ll Be Sad Songs (To Make You Cry)” was well-received by audiences and critics alike and established Billy Ocean as one of the most successful R&B artists of the 1980s. The song’s message of the power of music continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
19. “Lean on Me” by Club Nouveau
“Lean on Me” by Club Nouveau is a classic R&B song released in 1987. The song is a powerful ballad that encourages people to support each other in times of need. The lyrics talk about how we can all face difficult situations and hardships in life, but we don’t have to go through them alone. The message of the song is one of unity, friendship, and strength in numbers. The song’s upbeat rhythm and soulful melody make it an uplifting and inspiring listen. The vocals are passionate and deliver the message with sincerity and heart, making this song a timeless anthem of support and encouragement.
20. “Open Your Heart” by Madonna
“Open Your Heart” by Madonna is a pop song that was released in 1986. The upbeat track features a catchy melody and a danceable beat that makes it a popular choice for clubs and dance floors. The song’s lyrics talk about the importance of being open and letting love into your life. The chorus is a powerful declaration of the desire to connect and share love with others. Madonna’s vocals are sultry and confident, bringing a sense of empowerment to the song’s message. “Open Your Heart” is considered a classic Madonna hit and is widely regarded as one of her best dance tracks. The song’s upbeat energy and positive message make it a timeless celebration of love and self-expression.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
