1988 was a year filled with iconic songs that defined the sound and spirit of that era. From the dance-pop tunes that had everyone moving to the power ballads that tugged at the heartstrings, the music of 1988 was diverse, exciting, and memorable. It was a time when new artists emerged, established acts released their most acclaimed works, and various genres merged in unexpected ways. The year’s biggest hits were played on radios, boomboxes, and turntables across the world, and they remain beloved and relevant to this day. To celebrate the 33rd anniversary of this fantastic musical year, this article will highlight the 20 greatest songs of 1988. These are the tracks that captured the essence of the ’80s while offering something timeless and universal that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether you grew up listening to these songs or you are discovering them for the first time, this list will take you on a nostalgic and exciting journey through one of the most influential and beloved musical periods of the 20th century. So put on your favorite pair of acid-washed jeans, grab your Walkman, and let’s dive into the 20 greatest songs of 1988.
1. “One Moment In Time” by Whitney Houston
“One Moment In Time” is a power ballad by Whitney Houston that captures the essence of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence. Released in 1988, the song celebrates the glory of achieving one’s dreams and becoming the best version of oneself. Houston’s soulful voice, combined with the soaring orchestration and choir, conveys a sense of triumph and inspiration. The lyrics, “I will be free, I will be fearless, and I’ll be what I want to be,” encourage listeners to chase their aspirations and reach for their own moment in time.
2. “Smooth Criminal” by Michael Jackson
“Smooth Criminal” is a pop-funk song by Michael Jackson that features his signature vocal style and infectious grooves. Released in 1988, the song tells the story of a smooth criminal who has committed a heinous crime and left no trace behind. The lyrics, “Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie?” add a mysterious twist to the song, inviting listeners to imagine what happened to the victim. The track’s iconic instrumental breaks, including the distinctive horn section and the infamous cello riff, make it an enduring classic that showcases Jackson’s impeccable musicality and showmanship.
3. “Together Forever” by Rick Astley
“Together Forever” is an upbeat pop song by Rick Astley that became a hit in 1988. The song celebrates the power of love and commitment, with Astley’s smooth vocals delivering the catchy chorus “Together forever and never to part, together forever we two.” The song’s synthesizer and guitar hooks, combined with the memorable drumbeat, create an irresistible dance floor anthem that still resonates today.
4. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin
“Don’t Worry, Be Happy” is a feel-good tune by Bobby McFerrin that topped the charts in 1988. The song’s a cappella style, featuring McFerrin’s vocals mimicking different instruments, delivers a simple message of positivity and resilience. The lyrics, “Here’s a little song I wrote, you might want to sing it note for note, don’t worry, be happy,” encourage listeners to let go of their worries and find joy in life’s simple pleasures. The song’s playful melody and catchy whistling chorus have made it a timeless classic.
5. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
“Fast Car” is a poignant ballad by Tracy Chapman that tells the story of a woman trying to escape poverty and build a better life for herself. Released in 1988, the song’s acoustic guitar chords and Chapman’s soulful voice create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The lyrics, “You got a fast car, is it fast enough so we can fly away, we gotta make a decision, leave tonight or live and die this way,” convey the desperation and yearning of the protagonist, who dreams of a better future. The song’s emotional depth and social commentary have made it a beloved classic.
6. “Desire” by U2
“Desire” is a rock song by U2 that features Bono’s soaring vocals and the band’s signature guitar-driven sound. Released in 1988, the song’s urgent rhythms and lyrics, “I wanna reach out and touch the flame, where the streets have no name,” evoke a sense of longing and passion. The track’s high-energy instrumentation, including the driving drums and the wailing guitar solo, make it a rock classic that showcases U2’s innovative sound.
7. “Get Outta My Dreams Get Into My Car” by Billy Ocean
“Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car” is an upbeat dance-pop song by Billy Ocean that became a hit in 1988. The song’s catchy chorus and playful lyrics, “Get outta my dreams, get into my car, get outta my dreams, I’ll drive you home,” make it a fun and lighthearted track that captures the carefree spirit of the era. The song’s bright synths and Ocean’s smooth vocals create an infectious groove that still gets people moving today.
8. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
“Sweet Child O’ Mine” is a rock ballad by Guns N’ Roses that features Slash’s iconic guitar riff and Axl Rose’s soaring vocals. Released in 1988, the song’s heartfelt lyrics, “She’s got a smile that it seems to me, reminds me of childhood memories,” and its memorable guitar solo, make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with rock fans around the world. The song’s blend of power and emotion, along with the band’s explosive live performances, have made it a defining track of the era.
9. “Where Do Broken Hearts Go” by Whitney Houston
“Where Do Broken Hearts Go” is a soulful ballad by Whitney Houston that showcases her vocal range and emotional depth. Released in 1988, the song’s heartrending lyrics, “Where do broken hearts go, can they find their way home, back to the open arms of a love that’s waiting there,” and Houston’s soaring vocals, make it a powerful love song that touches on themes of heartbreak and redemption. The song’s lush orchestration and gospel choir add to its emotional impact, making it one of Houston’s most beloved tracks.
10. “I’ll Always Love You” by Taylor Dayne
“I’ll Always Love You” is a power ballad by Taylor Dayne that became a hit in 1988. The song’s uplifting lyrics, “I’ll always love you, for the rest of my days, you have won my heart and my soul with your sweet, sexy ways,” and Dayne’s powerful vocals, make it a romantic and empowering track that celebrates the power of love. The song’s soaring chorus and catchy melody have made it a favorite of pop fans for decades.
11. “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson
“Man in the Mirror” is a soulful and uplifting song by Michael Jackson that urges listeners to reflect on their actions and strive to make a positive change in the world. Released in 1988, the song’s inspirational lyrics, “I’m starting with the man in the mirror, I’m asking him to change his ways,” and Jackson’s passionate vocals, make it a powerful anthem of hope and self-reflection. The song’s gospel-inspired backing vocals and orchestration, along with its stirring music video, have made it one of Jackson’s most enduring and inspiring tracks.
12. “If We Hold On Together” by Diana Ross
“If We Hold On Together” is a heartfelt ballad by Diana Ross that encourages listeners to remain hopeful and persevere through life’s challenges. The song’s uplifting lyrics, “If we hold on together, I know our dreams will never die, dreams see us through to forever, where clouds roll by,” and Ross’s soulful vocals, make it a moving and inspiring track that celebrates the power of perseverance and hope. The song’s sweeping orchestration and uplifting message have made it a beloved classic of the 80s.
13. “When It’s Love” by Van Halen
“When It’s Love” is a rock ballad by Van Halen that showcases the band’s ability to craft memorable hooks and soaring melodies. Released in 1988, the song’s romantic lyrics, “When it’s love, you’ll feel like flying, you’ll never want to come down,” and Sammy Hagar’s passionate vocals, make it a tender and romantic track that captures the power of love. The song’s rich harmonies and guitar work, along with its catchy chorus, have made it a favorite of rock fans for decades.
14. “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” by New Kids on the Block
“You Got It (The Right Stuff)” is an upbeat and energetic dance-pop track by New Kids on the Block that became a hit in 1988. The song’s catchy hook, “You got it (the right stuff), baby,” and the band’s harmonies and playful energy make it a fun and infectious track that captures the spirit of the era. The song’s upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation, including the pop-infused synthesizers and driving drums, have made it a favorite of pop fans for decades.
15. “Look Away” by Chicago
“Look Away” is a powerful ballad by Chicago that showcases the band’s ability to craft poignant and emotional tracks. Released in 1988, the song’s heartfelt lyrics, “If you see me walking by, and the tears are in my eyes, look away, baby, look away,” and Peter Cetera’s emotive vocals, make it a moving and heartrending track that captures the pain of heartbreak. The song’s soaring chorus and emotional intensity, along with its rich orchestration and harmonies, have made it a timeless classic of the era.
16. “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” by Poison
“Every Rose Has Its Thorn” by Poison is a power ballad about the pain of lost love. It starts with a slow acoustic guitar, then the electric guitars and drums join in, as the lead singer delivers the melancholic lyrics about heartbreak and regret. The song became a huge hit in the late 80s, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remains a classic of the glam metal era, known for its catchy chorus and emotional performance.
17. “Straight Up” by Paula Abdul
“Straight Up” by Paula Abdul is an upbeat dance-pop song with a catchy melody and a strong beat. The song’s lyrics describe a woman’s frustration with a man who is not straightforward about his feelings. The song was a huge commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of the biggest hits of 1989. Its music video, featuring Abdul’s energetic choreography, also became popular and helped establish her as a pop star.
18. “Girl You Know It’s True” by Milli Vanilli
“Girl You Know It’s True” by Milli Vanilli is a catchy dance-pop song that was a huge hit in the late 80s. The song’s lyrics describe a man’s confidence in his relationship, with a chorus that repeats the title phrase. The song’s appeal was enhanced by the charismatic performances of the duo, who were known for their stylish looks and synchronized dance moves. However, it was later revealed that they had not actually sung on the record, leading to a scandal and the revocation of their Grammy Award.
19. “Anything for You” by Gloria Estefan & Miami Sound Machine
“Anything for You” by Gloria Estefan & Miami Sound Machine is a romantic ballad that showcases Estefan’s powerful voice. The song’s lyrics describe the lengths that someone will go to for their beloved, set to a lush arrangement of strings, piano, and percussion. The song became a huge hit in the late 80s, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and helping to establish Estefan as a major pop star. Its Spanish-language version, “Por Amor”, also became popular and helped to expand Estefan’s international appeal.
20. “My Prerogative” by Bobby Brown
“My Prerogative” by Bobby Brown is a funky R&B track that showcases Brown’s confident, assertive personality. The song’s lyrics describe his determination to live life on his own terms, and its catchy chorus became a popular catchphrase. The song was a huge hit in 1989, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of the defining songs of the New Jack Swing era. The song’s music video, featuring Brown’s energetic dancing, also became popular and helped to establish him as a solo artist.
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.
