In the 1980s, dance music took an exciting new turn: upbeat tunes of previous decades gave way to synthesized tracks perfect for dance floors.
At this point, several artists such as Madonna and Michael Jackson gained mainstream success, their music videos becoming cinematic and entertaining, inspiring modern dance styles like moonwalking.
Irene Cara – “Fame”
Fame was the theme song to both a film and TV series that became an instant classic during the 80s, written by Michael Gore and Dean Pitchford and performed by Irene Cara who also sang it as part of her soundtrack performance – making this her first hit single and kickstarting her recording artist career.
It is an infectiously catchy song that will have everyone dancing along in no time! With its fast beat and infectious melody, this track can certainly liven up any party. Additionally, its music video offers even more energy – featuring thunderous sounds as well as footsteps – adding another dimension of excitement and emotion.
If you love catchy 80’s songs, this one should definitely make its way onto your playlist. With an unforgettable chorus and lyrics that are enjoyable to sing along with, this tune is simple enough that even beginners can join in dancing with friends!
Wham!’s song was their debut American hit and remains one of their most beloved and well-recognized dance tunes. With lighthearted lyrics and catchy music, this track can get anyone up and dancing at parties or whenever one needs some lighthearted fun! Perfect for summer dance parties or simply when needing some enjoyment!
Irene Cara was born and raised in the Bronx of New York City to a family that thrived on entertainment – with Gaspar Escalera playing in a mambo band and her mother Louise serving as a movie theater usher. Cara began acting and dancing before transitioning into singing; recording several albums that received critical acclaim by music industry professionals.
Cara made her mark as a composer when she wrote and performed the title track to Fame, playing Coco Hernandez a student at the High School for Performing Arts. For that song she received both Oscar nomination and two Grammy awards; additionally she led Flashdance’s cast as lead singer writing lyrics that comprised its memorable title song (also nominated for an Oscar and won three Grammy awards).
Tom Tom Club – “Genius Of Love”
A classic 80s dance song, this track’s simple pulsating synthesizers presciently pointed towards the coming trance wave and featured one of the catchiest bass lines ever heard–one that has been sampled by Mariah Carey and Latto among others.
Genius of Love was an offshoot collaboration between Talking Heads drummer Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth of Tina Weymouth’s sister Lani on backing vocals and Adrian Belew (formerly of King Crimson fame) on guitar – Chris Frantz was drummer of Talking Heads while Tina Weymouth sang her lead vocals – to explore New Wave, Synthpop and Funk music genres during a break between albums from Talking Heads. They recorded a single and album during that break between albums when Chris Frantz took charge as drummer of Tina Weymouth was taken ill while touring Talking Heads albums to do just this project.
“Wordy,” their first single, proved immensely successful across Europe and Latin America; however, due to demand, Island Records refused to distribute Genius of Love here in America until Sire Records signed a distribution deal and released it later that year.
It was a Top 5 hit in America and first became famous due to its inclusion in the movie Footloose. Since then, it has become a staple for girls’ night out dance parties and remains a radio hit today.
This song’s music video is cinematic, cinematic and frightening at once; yet hauntingly hilarious and undeniably catchy – an essential component of any 80s dance playlist. Viewed millions of times worldwide, its tune has been covered by several artists (such as the Backstreet Boys) as karaoke material; plus it’s even been used in films like Pie in the Sky and Lars and the Real Girl!
Madonna – “Like A Virgin”
Like a Virgin is one of the most iconic songs in pop music history. A true earworm with an infectious beat and memorable melody, Madonna collaborated with producer Nile Rodgers – known for creating disco band Chic – who combined energy from New York City club scenes with pop sensibilities for an unforgettable single.
Rodgers’ sound was warmer and more soulful than the cold synth sounds typical of underground dance music at that time, and his arrangement perfectly complimented Madonna’s vocal strengths. Additionally, its key of F major tempo of 118 BPM makes it ideal for dancing; and its catchy hooks will stay with you long after its end has played.
Madonna’s bold image and fearless performance made the song an unprecedented success, helping her break free from bubblegum pop and becoming an emblem of women’s sexual freedom. Even its music video proved stunning: Madonna donned a wedding gown to encourage young women to wait for the right partner.
Madonna’s lyrics speak to female desire to feel both seductive and powerful, challenging the tradition of viewing women as objects inferior to men. Instead of discussing how sexual activity demeans women, Madonna suggests that a woman’s power lies within her confidence and sexual strength.
This timeless hit from Madonna has inspired numerous tributes and YouTube covers over time – a testament to both her music writing skills and unabashedly feminine personality.
After its release in 1984, Madonna’s Like a Virgin album earned five massive Billboard top ten hits: Holiday,” Borderline,” Everybody,” and Lucky Star. Certified double platinum by the RIAA and introduced us all to an amazing singer-songwriter-dancer who broke boundaries through her music, Like a Virgin’s success paved the way for artists such as Gwen Stefani, Lady Gaga and P!nk to follow in Madonna’s footsteps. Like a Virgin was inducted into the National Recording Registry as an important work of cultural significance in 2023.
Michael Jackson – “Thriller”
“Thriller” instantly conjures images of Michael Jackson and his legendary music video. With its haunting sounds and dance choreography, this timeless Halloween hit helped set the pace for 80s dance music and set an iconic precedent. Additionally, its dramatic storyline and iconic moonwalk dance by MJ cemented him as a pop icon.
At its release in 1982, Michael Jackson’s Thriller album became an instant classic and revolutionized how music industry promoted and sold superstar releases, breaking down racial barriers of MTV in its early days. The record quickly became an international best-seller and still resonates today as one of our cultural touchstones.
“Songbird” marked an unprecedented debut of a major album worldwide simultaneously and on top of that was one of the first major albums to remain on the charts for close to two years as well as generate seven singles that went directly into radio airplay – more than double of what usually occurred. The success of both video and album has since become one of the most influential releases in popular music history.
Jerry Kramer’s award-winning documentary film Making Michael Jackson’s Thriller chronicled its making, as did Landis’ reveal that it all started when one of Landis’ bandmates wrote twice the word “up” in an email asking their parents to wake him up before heading somewhere – proof that inspiration can sometimes strike unexpectedly!
Dexys Midnight Runners combined rock and dance music seamlessly in this hit by British band Dexys Midnight Runners, creating an infectious tune that had everyone on their feet when it hit. It featured an eye-catching image and catchy melody, giving it a strong sexual appeal to both male and female audiences alike. Furthermore, this track featured a distinct guitar riff as well as rock and pop influences; its success encouraged Dexys Midnight Runners to release another even greater release a year later.