Dance music stands out as being more vibrant and energetic than many other genres, encouraging listeners to get up and move – creating that synergy between music, body movement and mind.
The 80s was an important turning point for dance music, as synthesizers and other electronic instruments became more cost-effective allowing bedroom producers to experiment with new sounds and styles.
“Pump Up the Volume” by M/A/R/R/S
In the 1980s, dance music reached its zenith of popularity. Duran Duran’s glossy new wave sound, Janet Jackson’s fiery anthems and Run-DMC’s thunderous beats all lit up dance floors from high-class clubs to school gymnasiums alike.
“Pump Up the Volume,” M/A/R/R/S’ sole single from 1980s dance music, remains one of the best examples. With its irresistibly catchy bassline and catchy horn hooks, “Pump Up the Volume” remains one of the go-to tracks at dance parties around the globe today.
This song’s lyrics tell the tale of a boy infatuated with his female colleague. With its blend of electronic instruments and emotive vocals, its popularity remains iconic with teenagers today.
“Walk Like an Egyptian” by The Bangles
Duran Duran’s glossy new wave, Janet Jackson’s fiery anthems, Run-DMC’s booming beats, INXS’ sinewy sax-rock and Cyndi Lauper’s retro-nouveau pop all helped ensure dance floors were packed during the 80s. But certain groups went too far. One such case is “Walk Like an Egyptian,” written and recorded by The Bangles in 1986 and written by outside writer Liam Sternberg with no stamp from them at all; band members disagreed about who would sing what verse.
The Bangles achieved another huge hit, which remains a staple at dance parties today and appears in the opening credits of Totally Spies!. Unfortunately, however, this song also caused their separation: Drummer Debbi Peterson left and joined roots-rock group while bassist Susanna Hoffs joined an altogether different one before all remaining members eventually reformed again in late ’90s.
“Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
“Girls Just Want To Have Fun” was one of the defining dance songs from the 80s, featuring an optimistic message: women just want to have fun! With its catchy tune and energetic performance accompanied by its unforgettable music video. it became a timeless classic.
Robert Hazard first wrote his original, little-known tune “Pity Party for Myself,” in 1979. This obscure piece follows a defensive male as they throw themselves a self-pity party when a girl rejects them; with whiny vocals and overpowering instrumentals emphasizing his denial. Four years later, Cyndi Lauper released her rendition, with sparkling instrumentation and vibrant vocals setting the scene for an energetic party, complete with its refrain being transformed into an act of defiance.
With its infectious bassline, catchy synth riff, and energetic chorus, “We Are Young” has quickly become an enduring dance classic. Additionally, many hip hop productions have sampled its Latin-influenced track as an element of their work; further solidifying its legacy in dance music culture.
“The Humpty Dance” by Digital Underground
Released in 1989, this classic hip-hop song has become an indispensable component of dance music over 30 years later. With its upbeat tempo, catchy lyrics and infectious groove, this timeless tune has won fans across generations – it is even often referenced in movies, TV shows or other forms of popular culture.
Tom Tom Club’s “Genius of Love” is an iconic 1980s dance-pop classic that is still sampled today in hip hop music. Its upbeat tempo and infectious bassline make for ideal dancing music; while its lyrics celebrate love’s joy.
The 1980s was an era of dynamic culture, and no genre more accurately captured that spirit than dance music. From disco to new wave and funk, dance songs embraced the spirit of that decade and helped define an entire generation. This playlist features some iconic hits from that era that are sure to get your feet moving and your head bobbing – turn up the volume and let the rhythm take over!
“Electric Boogie” by Marcia Griffiths
Reggae star Marcia Griffiths has recently sought to correct misinformation surrounding her mega-hit Electric Boogie. As it turns out, it was written and recorded in 1983 with help from Bunny Wailer (producer, arranger, bass player & backing vocalist). Sly & Robbie provided rhythm box beats.
“Beat It” by Michael Jackson
“Beat It,” an iconic dance song of the 80s, was an international smash hit that captured its energy and spirit perfectly. Featuring Sheila E’s trademark percussion work to celebrate female empowerment and independence, its catchy lyrics also celebrate female independence while its video depicting a socialite living a glamorous yet empty lifestyle reflects materialism and decadence that were prevalent at that time in pop culture.
Dazz Band’s infectious dance classic, with its bassline groove and electric guitar riffs is irresistible; listeners are sure to join in singing along while its upbeat lyrics encourage dancing!
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”, released by Eurythmics in 1983, became an iconic 80s dance song that demonstrated their distinctive sound and style. Featuring Annie Lennox’s powerful vocals and an iconic synth riff that instantly made this an instant classic; while its music video featured striking androgynous attire with choreographed dance moves that have since become timeless classics.
“Love Shack” by The B-52s
The B-52s are widely considered one of the greatest party bands ever, and this song by them serves as an ideal example of how to start an upbeat dance floor experience. Its upbeat pace and catchy lyrics remain popular dance staples even today among their many fans.
DeBarge’s “Rhythm of the Night,” with its infectious beat and catchy melody, remains one of the greatest dance hits from the 80s. Sung by lead singer El DeBarge himself over its catchy beat, this feel-good tune will have you dancing all night long.
“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” is an upbeat pop tune about women wanting to enjoy themselves without needing the approval of men. Cyndi Lauper’s energetic performance made this track a smash hit that remains popular today.
“The Politics of Dancing” by Re-Flex
The Politics of Dancing is a timeless synth-pop classic from the 80s. Featuring its infectious beat and message, this track serves as a reminder that dance can serve as an expression of social and political activism.
This song showcases a combination of electronic and rock instrumentation to produce an energetic yet funky soundscape. Coupled with strong vocals from the band’s lead singer and catchy melody lines, this timeless classic continues to inspire audiences today.
“Fame” is an upbeat and energetic dance track that captures the desire for recognition and success with its electrifying beat and synthesizer riffs, making it an instantaneous hit upon its release – and has since remained a beloved classic among music fans worldwide.
“Conga” is an upbeat Latin-influenced dance-pop classic sure to get you moving. The catchy beat and infectious lyrics will have you bopping away in no time – with its unmistakable hook, “Electric Boogie Boogie Woogie,” sure to stay with you long after its initial success around the globe, cementing Miami Sound Machine as an iconic dance-pop group.