1985 was a seminal year in the history of popular music, as the industry was in a state of transition, with new genres emerging and established artists pushing the boundaries of what was possible. This was the year that saw the birth of many classic songs that would go on to become timeless hits, cementing their place in the annals of music history. The songs of 1985 were diverse, ranging from upbeat pop tracks to introspective ballads, and from dancefloor fillers to alternative anthems. With so many iconic songs to choose from, it’s hard to narrow it down to just 20, but these tracks represent the very best of what 1985 had to offer. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, soul, pop, or hip hop, these songs are sure to evoke memories of the 80s and transport you back to a simpler time. From power ballads to classic rock tracks, these songs are a testament to the creativity and innovation of the artists who wrote and performed them. So join us as we take a trip down memory lane and revisit 20 of the greatest songs from 1985.
1. “Crazy for You” by Madonna
“Crazy for You” by Madonna is a classic 80’s pop ballad that showcases the singer’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery. The song was a hit for Madonna, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of her most iconic tracks. The lyrics express the singer’s deep desire for love and her willingness to do anything for the person she loves, even if it means going crazy. The upbeat synth-pop instrumentals and catchy chorus make “Crazy for You” a danceable and upbeat love song that still resonates with audiences today.
2. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears For Fears
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears For Fears is a classic 80’s new wave hit that features a powerful blend of synthesizer, guitar, and percussion. The song’s lyrics are a commentary on the human desire for power and control, and the chorus repeats the phrase “Everybody wants to rule the world.” The song’s upbeat instrumentals and driving beat make it a timeless anthem for those seeking to make a change and claim their place in the world. The song’s powerful message and memorable chorus have made it a popular choice for movie and TV soundtracks, solidifying its status as a classic hit.
3. “That’s What Friends Are For” by Dionne Warwick, Elton John, and Gladys Knight
“That’s What Friends Are For” by Dionne Warwick, Elton John, and Gladys Knight is a beautiful ballad that celebrates the power of friendship. The song features smooth harmonies and a tender piano melody, with lyrics that express the gratitude and love felt between friends. With its touching message and memorable chorus, “That’s What Friends Are For” has become an enduring classic, reminding listeners of the importance of having friends who support and uplift them.
4. “Take On Me” by A-Ha
“Take On Me” by A-Ha is an iconic 80’s pop hit that blends catchy synth-pop beats with soaring vocals. The song’s memorable video, featuring a pencil-sketch animation, added to its popularity and helped it become one of the most recognizable pop songs of the decade. The lyrics express a sense of longing and the desire to escape from reality, and the chorus repeats the memorable phrase “Take on me.” With its upbeat instrumentals and catchy chorus, “Take On Me” remains a beloved classic that still brings a smile to listeners’ faces today.
5. “Broken Wings” by Mr. Mister
“Broken Wings” by Mr. Mister is a powerful 80’s ballad that explores the pain of lost love and the struggle to pick up the pieces. The song’s tender piano melody and soaring vocals express the sense of heartbreak and longing felt after a relationship ends, while the lyrics encourage listeners to keep moving forward and finding hope in the aftermath. With its touching message and memorable chorus, “Broken Wings” has become an enduring classic that resonates with listeners and continues to be a staple on radio and in popular culture.
6. “How Will I Know” by Whitney Houston
“How Will I Know” by Whitney Houston is a classic 80’s pop ballad that showcases the singer’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus, along with its relatable lyrics about the uncertainty of love, made it a huge hit and cemented Whitney Houston’s status as a pop icon. The song’s upbeat instrumentals and catchy chorus make “How Will I Know” a danceable and upbeat love song that still resonates with audiences today.
7. “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits
“Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits is a classic 80’s rock hit that features a memorable guitar riff and sardonic lyrics. The song is a commentary on the world of rock and roll, with the lyrics sung from the perspective of a blue-collar worker who sees musicians “getting money for nothing.” The song’s powerful instrumentals and driving beat make it a timeless anthem for those seeking to critique the excesses of popular culture. The song’s memorable lyrics and catchy guitar riff have made it a popular choice for classic rock playlists, solidifying its status as a classic hit.
8. “Party All the Time” by Eddie Murphy
“Party All the Time” by Eddie Murphy is a classic 80’s pop/R&B hit that features the comedian’s smooth vocals and upbeat instrumentals. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat melody make it a perfect party anthem, encouraging listeners to let loose and have a good time. With its upbeat vibe and memorable chorus, “Party All the Time” remains a beloved classic that still gets audiences dancing and singing along. Despite its lighthearted subject matter, the song’s tight instrumentals and smooth vocals make it a standout track in Eddie Murphy’s music career.
9. “We Built This City” by Starship
“We Built This City” by Starship is a classic 80’s pop/rock hit that features a powerful chorus and upbeat instrumentals. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a city built on the dreams and hard work of its citizens, and its memorable chorus has become an anthem for those who believe in the power of community and teamwork. Despite its positive message, the song has received criticism over the years for its perceived overproduction and cheesy lyrics. Nevertheless, “We Built This City” remains a beloved classic that still gets audiences singing and dancing along.
10. “Secret Lovers” by Atlantic Starr
“Secret Lovers” by Atlantic Starr is a classic 80’s R&B ballad that showcases the group’s smooth vocals and emotional delivery. The song’s tender piano melody and soaring harmonies convey the sense of longing and desire felt by two people who have a secret love affair. With its touching message and memorable chorus, “Secret Lovers” has become an enduring classic that still resonates with audiences today, and its message of forbidden love continues to captivate listeners.
11. “The Power of Love” by Huey Lewis and The News
“The Power of Love” by Huey Lewis and The News is a classic 80’s rock/pop hit that features a powerful chorus and upbeat instrumentals. The song’s catchy chorus, “The power of love is a curious thing/ Make a one man weep, make another man sing,” highlights the song’s theme of the transformative power of love. With its upbeat instrumentals and memorable chorus, “The Power of Love” has become a staple on classic rock playlists and remains a beloved classic that still gets audiences singing and dancing along.
12. “Alive and Kicking” by Simple Minds
“Alive and Kicking” by Simple Minds is a classic 80’s pop/rock hit that features a powerful chorus and driving rhythm. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to embrace life and make the most of each moment, and its upbeat instrumentals and memorable chorus have made it a staple on classic rock playlists. With its optimistic message and upbeat energy, “Alive and Kicking” continues to be a beloved classic that still inspires audiences to dance and sing along.
13. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds
“Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds is a classic 80’s pop/rock hit that features a powerful chorus and driving rhythm. The song’s memorable chorus and catchy melody have made it a staple on classic rock playlists, and its lyrics tell the story of someone who is trying to make a lasting impression on someone they care about. With its upbeat energy and powerful chorus, “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” remains a beloved classic that still inspires audiences to sing and dance along.
14. “Never” by Heart
“Never” by Heart is a classic 80’s rock/pop ballad that features the powerful vocals of Ann Wilson and emotional delivery. The song’s tender piano melody and soaring harmonies convey the sense of heartbreak and loss felt by someone who has been left behind, and its memorable chorus, “Never, never, never gonna fall in love again,” highlights the song’s theme of moving on from a failed relationship. With its touching message and powerful vocals, “Never” remains an enduring classic that still resonates with audiences today.
15. “We Are the World” by U.S.A. For Africa
“We Are the World” by U.S.A. For Africa is a classic 80’s charity single that was written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie to raise awareness and funds for famine relief in Africa. Featuring an all-star lineup of some of the biggest names in music at the time, the song’s message of unity and compassion is as powerful today as it was when it was first released. With its unforgettable chorus, “We are the world, we are the children,” and its touching lyrics, “We are the ones who make a brighter day, so let’s start giving,” “We Are the World” remains an iconic song that still inspires audiences to come together for a common cause.
16. “Holding Back the Years” by Simply Red
“Holding Back the Years” by Simply Red is a classic 80’s pop/soul hit that features a soulful performance by lead singer Mick Hucknall. The song’s lyrics describe the pain of lost love and the desire to move on from a past relationship, and its memorable chorus and soulful instrumentals have made it a staple on classic pop playlists. With its powerful vocals and touching message, “Holding Back the Years” remains a beloved classic that still inspires audiences to connect with its emotional themes.
17. “Burning Heart” by Survivor
“Burning Heart” by Survivor is a classic 80’s rock hit that features a driving rhythm and memorable chorus. The song’s lyrics describe the determination and resilience of someone who refuses to give up in the face of adversity, and its upbeat instrumentals and powerful vocals have made it a staple on classic rock playlists. With its upbeat energy and inspiring message, “Burning Heart” remains a beloved classic that still inspires audiences to never give up and fight for their dreams.
18. “Sara” by Starship
“Sara” by Starship is a classic power ballad that tells a story of heartbreak and regret. With soaring vocals and a haunting melody, this song has become a staple of 80s radio and continues to touch listeners with its emotional power. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s longing for a lost love, as they remember the good times they shared and regret letting her go. With its powerful delivery and timeless message, “Sara” remains one of the defining songs of the 80s.
19. “Freeway of Love” by Aretha Franklin
“Freeway of Love” by Aretha Franklin is a lively and upbeat track that celebrates the joys of life on the road. With its funky beat and catchy chorus, this song encourages listeners to hit the highway and dance their way to freedom. The lyrics are full of optimism and freedom, as Aretha sings about the open road and the freedom it brings. With its upbeat energy and positive message, “Freeway of Love” is a timeless classic that will get anyone out of their seat and dancing.
20. “These Dreams” by Heart
“These Dreams” by Heart is a haunting ballad that explores the emotional turmoil of lost love. With its powerful vocals and sweeping melody, this song has become a classic of 80s radio and continues to touch listeners with its emotional intensity. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s longing for a lost love and the dreams that keep them company in their lonely nights. With its passionate delivery and heartbreaking message, “These Dreams” remains one of Heart’s most powerful and enduring songs.
Samuel Moore 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.
