1983 was a year that saw the release of many iconic and influential songs that have stood the test of time. From rock to pop, R&B to new wave, the year was filled with music that captured the spirit of the times and has continued to resonate with listeners decades later. In this article, we will explore the top 20 greatest songs from 1983.
The songs on this list represent the best of 1983, showcasing the diverse range of music that was popular during that time. Some of the songs on this list were chart-toppers, such as Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” and David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance”. Others were critically acclaimed, such as The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” and U2’s “New Year’s Day”.
The music of 1983 reflected a world in transition, with artists exploring new sounds and themes in response to the changing times. The songs on this list capture the energy and creativity of that moment, and have continued to inspire and influence artists in the decades since their release. Whether you were alive in 1983 or are discovering these songs for the first time, this list is sure to take you on a journey back in time and remind you of the power of music to capture a moment in history.
1. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler
“Total Eclipse of the Heart” is a power ballad by Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler, released in 1983. The song’s epic production, emotional delivery, and memorable chorus have made it an iconic hit of the 1980s. The lyrics describe a sense of loss, longing, and the struggle to find love, with the chorus repeating the memorable line, “Turn around, bright eyes.” The song’s music video, which features a Gothic-inspired love story, has also become a classic of the era. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” was a commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries, and its popularity has continued to endure, making it a favorite among karaoke enthusiasts and nostalgic music fans alike.
2. “Faithfully” by Journey
“Faithfully” is a 1983 power ballad by the American rock band Journey. The song features a slow and emotional melody with a soaring chorus and Steve Perry’s impressive vocals, showcasing the band’s talent for creating heartfelt and anthemic songs. The lyrics express a sense of longing and devotion, with the chorus repeating “I’m forever yours, faithfully.” “Faithfully” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 20 on charts in multiple countries, and the song’s powerful message and emotional delivery have made it a beloved classic of the 80s music scene. It remains a popular choice for romantic playlists and wedding songs.
3. “Mr. Roboto” by Styx
“Mr. Roboto” is a 1983 hit song by the American rock band Styx. The song features a synthesizer-heavy melody with a catchy chorus and the band’s signature harmonies, showcasing their talent for creating catchy and upbeat songs. The lyrics tell the story of a futuristic society where emotions and self-expression are forbidden, and the protagonist discovers a robot named Mr. Roboto, who becomes his confidant and helps him escape. “Mr. Roboto” was a commercial success, reaching the top 5 on charts in multiple countries, and the song’s catchy melody and sci-fi storyline have made it a beloved classic of the 80s music scene, and it remains a popular choice for nostalgic playlists and karaoke nights.
4. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
“Every Breath You Take” is a 1983 hit song by the British rock band The Police. The song features a haunting melody with a distinctive guitar riff, synthesizer, and Sting’s brooding vocals, showcasing the band’s talent for creating moody and atmospheric songs. The lyrics express a possessive and obsessive love, with the chorus repeating “every breath you take, every move you make, I’ll be watching you.” “Every Breath You Take” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of charts in multiple countries and winning the Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 1984. The song’s dark and eerie vibe has made it a beloved classic of the 80s music scene, and it remains a popular choice for romantic and creepy playlists alike.
5. “Straight from the Heart” by Bryan Adams
“Straight from the Heart” is a 1983 hit song by Canadian rock singer Bryan Adams. The song features a classic rock ballad melody with acoustic and electric guitars, drums, and Adams’ signature raspy vocals, showcasing his talent for creating emotional and heartfelt songs. The lyrics express the protagonist’s feelings towards their lover, acknowledging the ups and downs of their relationship, with the chorus proclaiming “I’m gonna give you my heart, straight from the heart.” “Straight from the Heart” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on charts in multiple countries, including the United States and Canada. The song’s sentimental and relatable theme has made it a beloved classic of the 80s music scene, and it remains a popular choice for romantic playlists and slow dances.
6. “Fall in Love with Me” by Earth, Wind & Fire
“Fall in Love with Me” is a 1982 hit song by the American band Earth, Wind & Fire. The song features a funky and energetic melody with horns, keyboards, and Philip Bailey’s soulful vocals, showcasing the band’s talent for creating upbeat and danceable tunes. The lyrics express the protagonist’s romantic feelings towards their lover, promising to sweep them off their feet and make them fall in love. “Fall in Love with Me” was a commercial success, reaching the top of charts in the United States and becoming one of Earth, Wind & Fire’s most popular songs. The song’s fun and upbeat vibe has made it a beloved classic of the 80s music scene, and it remains a popular choice for parties and dancefloors.
7. “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” is a 1983 hit song performed by American singer Cyndi Lauper. The song features an upbeat and catchy pop melody with synthesizers, drums, and Lauper’s distinctive vocals, showcasing her quirky and playful personality. The lyrics express the protagonist’s desire to break free from societal norms and have fun, with the chorus proclaiming “Girls just wanna have fun!” “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the UK. The song’s music video, featuring Lauper and her girlfriends having a wild and colorful party, has become an iconic symbol of 80s pop culture and female empowerment.
8. “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” by Air Supply
“Making Love Out of Nothing at All” is a 1983 power ballad by the Australian soft rock duo Air Supply. The song features a slow-building and dramatic melody with Russell Hitchcock’s emotive vocals and Jim Steinman’s cinematic production. The lyrics express the protagonist’s desperate desire to keep their relationship alive, using grandiose metaphors to describe their feelings, with the chorus proclaiming “I’m making love out of nothing at all.” “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” was a commercial success, reaching the top of charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the UK. The song’s epic and emotional tone has made it a beloved classic of the 80s music scene and a popular choice for karaoke and ballad playlists.
9. “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” by Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack
“Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” is a 1983 romantic duet by the American singers Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack. The song features a slow and sensual melody with the two artists’ soulful and passionate vocals, showcasing their talent for creating timeless love songs. The lyrics express the protagonist’s overwhelming love for their partner, promising to celebrate their love together and cherish every moment. “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” was a commercial success, reaching the top of charts in the United States and becoming one of Bryson and Flack’s most popular songs. The song’s intimate and heartfelt message has made it a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions, and it remains a beloved classic of the 80s music scene.
10. “Flashdance…What A Feeling” by Irene Cara
“Flashdance… What a Feeling” is a 1983 hit song performed by American singer Irene Cara. The song was written for the movie “Flashdance,” and it features a catchy and upbeat pop melody with electrifying synths, percussion, and Cara’s powerful vocals. The lyrics express the protagonist’s determination to achieve her dreams despite the obstacles she faces, with the chorus proclaiming “What a feeling! I am music now, I am rhythm now.” “Flashdance… What a Feeling” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the UK. The song’s iconic music video, featuring Cara dancing in a warehouse and on stage, has become a classic of the 80s pop era.
11. “Islands in the Stream” by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton
“Islands in the Stream” is a 1983 duet by the American country music stars Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. The track features a catchy and upbeat melody with the two artists’ distinctive voices, showcasing their talent for creating memorable harmonies and country-pop hits. The song’s lyrics describe a metaphorical island paradise where the two protagonists can find refuge and love, with the chorus proclaiming “Islands in the stream, that is what we are”. “Islands in the Stream” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the UK. The song’s timeless appeal and uplifting melody have made it a beloved classic of the country and pop music genres.
12. “Never Gonna Let You Go” by Sergio Mendes
“Never Gonna Let You Go” is a 1983 hit song by the Brazilian musician Sergio Mendes, featuring vocals by Joe Pizzulo and Leza Miller. The track features a smooth and romantic melody, showcasing Mendes’s talent for blending Brazilian music with American pop and R&B influences. The song’s lyrics express the protagonist’s unwavering love for their partner, promising to never let go and always be there for them. “Never Gonna Let You Go” was a commercial success, reaching the top of charts in the United States and becoming one of Mendes’s most popular songs. The track’s smooth and relaxing melody has made it a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions, and it remains a beloved classic of the 80s music scene.
13. “Say Say Say” by Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson
“Say Say Say” is a 1983 hit song by the British musician Paul McCartney and the American pop star Michael Jackson. The track features a catchy and upbeat pop melody with the two legends’ distinctive voices, showcasing their talent for creating unforgettable hooks and harmonies. The song’s lyrics explore the theme of communication in relationships, with McCartney and Jackson trading verses about misunderstandings and the need for open communication. “Say Say Say” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of charts in multiple countries, including the United States, the UK, and Canada. The song’s iconic music video, featuring McCartney and Jackson as con artists, has become a classic of the 80s pop era.
14. “I’ve Got a Rock ‘n’ Roll Heart” by Eric Clapton
“I’ve Got a Rock ‘n’ Roll Heart” is a 1983 song by the British guitarist and singer Eric Clapton. The track features a catchy and upbeat rock melody, showcasing Clapton’s signature guitar riffs and bluesy vocals. The lyrics express Clapton’s lifelong love for rock and roll music, with the chorus proclaiming “I’ve got a feeling that I can’t let go, I’ve got a rock and roll heart”. The song was a moderate commercial success, reaching the top 20 on charts in the United States and Canada. “I’ve Got a Rock ‘n’ Roll Heart” remains a favorite of Clapton’s fans, showcasing the artist’s enduring passion for the music that has defined his career.
15. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by The Eurythmics
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” is a 1983 hit song by the British duo The Eurythmics, composed of Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart. The track features a distinctive synth-pop melody with Lennox’s soulful and haunting vocals, accompanied by Stewart’s atmospheric synthesizers and electronic beats. The song’s lyrics explore the themes of dreams and desires, with the chorus posing the question “Sweet dreams are made of this, who am I to disagree?” The track’s avant-garde music video, featuring Lennox with bright orange hair and a mannequin, became an instant classic. “Sweet Dreams” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on charts in multiple countries and earning The Eurythmics a loyal following. The song remains a beloved classic of the 80s music scene.
16. “Cruel Summer” by Bananarama
“Cruel Summer” is a hit song by the British girl group Bananarama, released in 1983. The track features a catchy and upbeat synth-pop melody with a memorable chorus, showcasing the trio’s harmonies and vocal range. The song’s lyrics evoke the sense of isolation and loneliness felt during the summer season, describing a love affair that has ended, leaving the protagonist feeling adrift and alone. “Cruel Summer” became a commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries and cementing Bananarama’s status as one of the most successful girl groups of the 80s. The song’s upbeat and melancholic tone has made it a beloved classic and a staple of 80s music.
17. “She Works Hard for the Money” by Donna Summer
“She Works Hard for the Money” is a 1983 hit song by the American singer Donna Summer. The track features a catchy and energetic synth-pop beat, with Donna’s powerful vocals telling the story of a hard-working woman struggling to make ends meet. The song’s lyrics and music video shed light on the challenges faced by working-class women, emphasizing their strength and resilience. “She Works Hard for the Money” became a massive commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in multiple countries. The song remains a beloved classic and an anthem for hard-working individuals around the world.
18. “Karma Chameleon” by Culture Club
“Karma Chameleon” is a 1983 hit song by the British band Culture Club, led by the charismatic frontman Boy George. The song features a catchy pop melody with a reggae-inspired beat, showcasing Boy George’s distinctive voice and flamboyant style. The lyrics touch on themes of identity and love, with the titular “karma chameleon” representing the changing nature of a relationship. The song was a commercial success, topping charts in several countries and becoming one of Culture Club’s signature hits. “Karma Chameleon” is known for its colorful music video, which features Boy George in a variety of flamboyant costumes and makeup. The song remains a beloved classic of 80s pop music.
19. “Let’s Dance” by David Bowie
“Let’s Dance” is a 1983 hit song by the late English musician David Bowie. The track features a catchy and upbeat pop groove with a guitar riff, saxophone solo, and Bowie’s distinctive vocals. The song’s lyrics explore the theme of escaping societal pressures and enjoying oneself through dancing. Produced by Nile Rodgers, the track incorporates elements of funk and rock, becoming one of Bowie’s most commercially successful songs. The song topped charts in several countries, including the United States and the UK, cementing Bowie’s status as a pop icon. “Let’s Dance” remains a beloved classic and an essential addition to any music lover’s playlist.
20. “I’m Still Standing” by Elton John
“I’m Still Standing” is an upbeat pop-rock song by legendary British musician Elton John, released in 1983. The song is about perseverance and determination in the face of adversity, with the lyrics expressing the message that despite setbacks and challenges, the singer is still standing strong. The song features a catchy, danceable beat and Elton’s trademark piano playing, along with horns and backing vocals. “I’m Still Standing” became a chart-topping hit for Elton John, and its message of resilience has resonated with audiences for decades, making it a timeless classic in his extensive discography.
Jared Parker 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.
