The 11 Best 80s Songs Ever, Ranked

Album: Thriller

Release Year: 1983

Kicking off our list is Michael Jackson's iconic hit, "Billie Jean." With its irresistible groove and captivating lyrics, this song became an instant anthem of the 80s. Jackson's electrifying performance and the song's innovative production solidified its place in music hist

Album: Appetite for Destruction

Release Year: 1987

Next up, we have Guns N' Roses' "Sweet Child o' Mine." Released in 1987, this rock ballad swept airwaves with its soulful melody and powerful guitar riffs. A staple of the 80s rock scene, it remains a favorite among fans of the genre.

Album: Like A Prayer

Release Year: 1989

Madonna's "Like a Prayer" earns its spot on our list with its bold lyrics and infectious chorus. Released in 1989, this pop masterpiece pushed boundaries and sparked controversy, solidifying Madonna's status as the Queen of Pop.

Album: Synchronicity

Release Year: 1983

At number eight, we have The Police's haunting ballad, "Every Breath You Take." Released in 1983, this song's mesmerizing melody and Sting's potent vocals captivated audiences worldwide, making it a timeless classic of the 80s.

Album: Slippery When Wet

Release Year: 1986

Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer" secures its place on our list with its anthemic chorus and infectious energy. Released in 1986, this rock anthem became synonymous with the spirit of the 80s, earning it a spot among the decade's best songs.

Album: Whitney

Release Year: 1987

Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" lights up our list with its upbeat tempo and powerhouse vocals. Released in 1987, this dance-pop gem captured the essence of 80s nightlife, earning it a permanent place on dancefloors around the world.

Album: The Joshua Tree

Release Year: 1987

U2's "With or Without You" earns its spot among the best 80s songs with its heartfelt lyrics and ethereal melody. Released in 1987, this rock ballad struck a chord with audiences, cementing U2's status as one of the decade's most influential bands.

Album: Thriller

Release Year: 1983

Returning to the list is Michael Jackson with his electrifying anthem, "Beat It." Released in 1983, this song's infectious rhythm and Eddie Van Halen's iconic guitar solo made it a cultural phenomenon, solidifying its place as one of the best songs of the 80s.

Album: Rio

Release Year: 1982

Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf" roars into our list with its infectious groove and catchy hooks. Released in 1982, this new wave anthem captured the spirit of the 80s, earning Duran Duran a place in music history.

Album: Escape

Release Year: 1981

Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" earns its spot as one of the best 80s songs with its anthemic chorus and timeless appeal. Released in 1981, this rock anthem continues to inspire audiences worldwide, making it a true classic of the decade.

Album: Thriller

Release Year: 1983

Taking the top spot on our list of the best 80s songs is Michael Jackson's groundbreaking masterpiece, "Thriller." Released in 1983, this iconic song redefined the music industry with its innovative production and cinematic music video. A cultural phenomenon, "Thriller" remains the ultimate representation of the best 80s songs, sure to captivate audiences for generations to come.