1984 was a ground-breaking year in music, with some of the biggest and most iconic songs being released that year. From pop to rock, R&B to new wave, the music of 1984 has left a lasting impact on the industry and continues to be celebrated by fans around the world. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the top 20 songs of 1984, examining their influence, impact, and why they continue to be beloved by fans to this day. Whether you were around to experience the magic of these songs when they first hit the charts or you’ve discovered them more recently, there’s no denying their lasting impact and timeless appeal. So, let’s take a journey back to 1984 and revisit some of the greatest songs of all time!
1. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham!
“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is a lively, upbeat song by the British pop duo Wham! released in 1984. The song features George Michael’s playful vocals and a catchy, synthesized beat. The lyrics describe a lover asking to be awakened before their significant other leaves in the morning, with a cheerful chorus of “Wake me up before you go-go”. The song was a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in numerous countries and becoming one of the defining tracks of the 80s pop music scene. Its upbeat energy and memorable chorus make it a timeless classic that is still widely played and enjoyed to this day.
2. “When Doves Cry” by Prince and The Revolution
“When Doves Cry” is a classic pop and R&B song from Prince and The Revolution. Released in 1984, the song was the lead single from Prince’s sixth studio album, “Purple Rain”. With its memorable synth hook, driving beat and haunting vocals, “When Doves Cry” remains one of Prince’s most iconic songs. The song’s lyrics, which explore themes of love, loss, and heartache, have become the subject of much interpretation over the years. Despite its somewhat cryptic lyrics, the song’s combination of upbeat music and introspective lyrics has helped it to become one of the most beloved songs of the 80s, and continues to be a staple of classic pop and R&B playlists to this day.
3. “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr.
“Ghostbusters” is a classic hit song by Ray Parker Jr., released in 1984. With its upbeat and catchy melody, this song became a staple of pop culture and is still widely recognized and beloved today. The lyrics talk about the ghostbusters, who are a group of ghost hunters, and their mission to save the world from paranormal activity. The song’s upbeat energy and quirky humor make it a fun and memorable listen, and its memorable hook and catchy chorus have ensured its place in the annals of popular music. Whether you’re a fan of the classic movie or simply enjoy upbeat pop songs, “Ghostbusters” is sure to bring a smile to your face.
4. “Missing You” by John Waite
“Missing You” is a classic ballad from 1984 by British singer-songwriter John Waite. The song features Waite’s soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, which express the pain of missing a lost love. With its melancholic melody and wistful lyrics, “Missing You” has become one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s and continues to be beloved by fans around the world. The song’s popularity was helped by its memorable music video, which features Waite singing the song in a dimly lit room with a single spotlight, emphasizing the song’s emotional intensity. Overall, “Missing You” is a classic song of heartache and longing that remains a timeless example of the power of love and loss.
5. “What’s Love Got to Do With It” by Tina Turner
“What’s Love Got to Do With It” is a 1984 hit song by Tina Turner. The song is a soulful ballad that explores the complex nature of love and relationships. It is a story about a woman who is tired of being in a love-hate relationship and is struggling to come to terms with the emotional turmoil it has caused. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm, combined with Turner’s powerful vocals, make it an instant classic. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming Turner’s biggest hit to date. It remains one of the most popular songs of the 1980s and continues to be a staple of pop radio and karaoke playlists today.
6. “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” by Deniece Williams
“Let’s Hear It for the Boy” is a dance-pop song by American singer Deniece Williams. Released in 1984, the song was a hit single from the soundtrack of the film “Footloose.” With upbeat and energetic music, the song showcases Williams’ powerful vocals as she sings about a boy who is different from the others, but she still loves him. The chorus is catchy and upbeat, encouraging listeners to “Let’s hear it for the boy!” With its upbeat tempo, cheerful lyrics and infectious melody, “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” became a staple of 1980s pop music and remains a popular song to this day.
7. “I Just Called to Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder
“I Just Called to Say I Love You” is a soulful love ballad by the legendary Stevie Wonder. The song was released in 1984 and became an instant classic, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The upbeat melody and positive lyrics are paired with Stevie’s signature harmonica and keyboard playing, creating a joyful and romantic vibe. The song was written as a tribute to love and is often played at weddings and romantic events. Its timeless message of love and devotion has made it one of the most iconic love songs of all time and a staple of the 80s pop music era.
8. “Dancing in the Dark” by Bruce Springsteen
“Dancing in the Dark” by Bruce Springsteen is a upbeat rock anthem released in 1984. The song expresses a feeling of frustration and disillusionment with life, with Springsteen singing about feeling trapped and searching for something more. The fast-paced, energetic instrumentals accompany Springsteen’s powerful vocals as he encourages listeners to take a chance and break free from their everyday routines. With its memorable hook and upbeat tempo, “Dancing in the Dark” quickly became a fan favorite and remains one of Springsteen’s most popular tracks to this day.
9. “Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell
“Somebody’s Watching Me” is a pop and R&B song written and performed by Rockwell. Released in 1984, the song features a smooth and upbeat melody with a strong bassline. Rockwell sings about feeling like someone is constantly watching him and he is unsure of who it is. He conveys the idea of paranoia and feeling uneasy with the repetition of the refrain, “I’m just imagination, running away with me.” The song is accompanied by a catchy synth-pop beat, making it a standout track of the 1980s. Despite its dark lyrics, “Somebody’s Watching Me” became a popular hit, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries, including the United States.
10. “Self Control” by Laura Branigan
“Self Control” is a hit song by American singer Laura Branigan, released in 1984. The song is an upbeat pop track that features a catchy synthesizer hook and Branigan’s powerful vocals. The lyrics describe a person struggling to resist the temptation of love, even though they know it’s not the right thing to do. Branigan sings about the internal struggle of trying to remain in control and not giving in to emotions. The song became a hit in several countries, reaching the top 10 in several European countries and charting well in the United States. “Self Control” remains one of Branigan’s most memorable songs and is considered a classic pop tune from the 1980s.
11. “I Can Dream About You” by Dan Hartman
“I Can Dream About You” is a upbeat pop-rock song by American musician Dan Hartman. The track was released in 1984 and appeared on the soundtrack of the film “Streets of Fire.” The song features Hartman’s soulful and energetic vocals over a driving beat and lively instrumentation. The lyrics of the song describe a person’s love and longing for someone, even when they are apart. “I Can Dream About You” is a lively, upbeat tune that showcases Hartman’s exceptional musical talent and remains an enduring classic of the 1980s.
12. “Like A Virgin” by Madonna
“Like A Virgin” is a song recorded by Madonna, released in 1984. It is a pop song with elements of electronic dance music and was written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries including the United States. The lyrics of the song deal with themes of love and innocence, with Madonna singing about feeling like a virgin again in a new relationship. The song’s iconic hook, “Like a virgin, touched for the very first time,” has become one of the most recognizable lyrics in pop music history. The music video for the song features Madonna performing in a wedding dress, further emphasizing the themes of love and innocence. “Like A Virgin” is considered one of Madonna’s signature songs and helped solidify her status as a pop icon in the 1980s.
13. “Oh Sherrie” by Steve Perry
“Oh Sherrie” is a popular song by American musician Steve Perry. It was released in 1984 as a single from his debut solo album, “Street Talk.” The upbeat and energetic track is a love song that reflects the feelings of a man who is deeply in love with a woman named Sherrie. The upbeat melody, catchy lyrics, and Perry’s powerful vocals make it a memorable and beloved classic from the 80s. With its blend of rock, pop, and R&B influences, “Oh Sherrie” remains a popular song among fans of 80s music and has stood the test of time as a classic love ballad.
14. “I Want to Break Free” by Queen
“I Want to Break Free” is a classic rock song by the legendary band Queen. Released in 1984, this upbeat track features Freddie Mercury’s powerful vocals, a catchy guitar riff, and a driving beat. The song is about feeling trapped and longing for freedom, both physically and emotionally. It’s a celebration of individuality and the desire to break free from the constraints of society. With its upbeat energy and memorable chorus, “I Want to Break Free” remains a staple of Queen’s discography and a beloved track for fans of the band.
15. “Hello” by Lionel Richie
“Hello” is a classic love ballad by Lionel Richie, released in 1984. The song showcases Richie’s soulful voice as he sings about longing to reconnect with a lost love. The emotional lyrics and melody are backed by a soft piano and strings, creating a timeless and tender atmosphere. The chorus is upbeat and catchy, with the memorable line “Hello, is it me you’re looking for?” echoing the narrator’s hope for a reunion. This song is widely considered one of the greatest love songs of all time, and its enduring popularity speaks to its powerful message and timeless appeal.
16. “Better Be Good to Me” by Tina Turner
“Better Be Good to Me” is a hit song by Tina Turner, released in 1984. This electrifying track features a powerful vocal performance by Turner, who delivers a fierce and confident message to her lover. With its upbeat rock rhythm and driving beat, the song encourages listeners to take control of their relationships and demand respect. Turner’s voice is dynamic and commanding, with soaring notes and a raw energy that make the song a timeless classic. The song became one of Turner’s biggest hits, reaching the top 10 on charts in multiple countries and solidifying her status as one of the greatest female vocalists of all time.
17. “Careless Whisper” by George Michael
“Careless Whisper” is a classic love song released in 1984 by George Michael. The song features Michael’s smooth and soulful voice over a soft and sultry saxophone melody. Lyrically, the song reflects on a past relationship gone wrong, as Michael sings about regret and the consequences of a careless affair. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on charts across the world and solidifying George Michael’s place as one of the biggest pop stars of the 80s. The song has since become a staple of 80s pop music, known for its unforgettable saxophone intro and Michael’s emotive vocal performance.
18. “Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon is a classic power ballad from the 1980s. This upbeat and romantic song is characterized by its soaring vocals, pulsing drums, and soaring guitar solos. The lyrics talk about a love that is undeniable and how it is impossible to resist its power. The song’s catchy chorus of “Can’t fight this feeling / Any longer” has become a staple of the 80s pop music era, and it continues to be a beloved and enduring classic. With its infectious melody and uplifting message, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” is a testament to the power of love and the way it can bring people together.
19. “I Feel for You” by Chaka Khan
“I Feel for You” is a funky and soulful R&B track released in 1984 by legendary singer Chaka Khan. The song was written by Prince and features harmonica solos by Stevie Wonder. The upbeat rhythm and catchy melody are accentuated by Chaka Khan’s powerful and soulful voice, making the song a perfect blend of funk, R&B and soul. The lyrics express the singer’s emotional connection to someone and her desire to be there for them. “I Feel for You” was a huge commercial success and became Chaka Khan’s biggest hit at the time, reaching the top 10 on the US R&B charts and solidifying her status as one of the greatest R&B singers of all time. The song remains a popular classic, loved by fans of soul, funk and R&B music.
20. “Footloose” by Kenny Loggins
“Footloose” is a classic upbeat pop/rock song by Kenny Loggins, released in 1984. It is a song about freedom, dance and having fun. The song was written for the movie “Footloose,” and the lyrics express a longing for release from the constraints of a conservative town that has banned dancing. The catchy melody and upbeat beat make “Footloose” a popular dance song to this day, and it has become an iconic representation of 80s music. The song’s upbeat energy and empowering message of breaking free and dancing have made it a staple of dance floors and karaoke nights.
Erica Henderson 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.
