The 8 Defining Songs of the Decade of the '80s

The '80s were a time of cultural and stylistic change, marked by vibrant fashion choices like skinny ties and acid-washed jeans. More than just a look, the decade was a rich era for music, introducing the world to diverse genres from new wave and alternative to country, R&B, pop, rock, pop metal, also known as 'hair metal', and the emerging beats of rap. The '80s saw the rise of MTV and the advent of compact discs, all set against the backdrop of significant historical events like the fall of the Berlin Wall. Eight songs stand out as emblematic, each representing the eclectic musical landscape of this unforgettable decade.

1. 'Whip It' by Devo (1980)

Devo's 'Whip It' became an instant classic with its offbeat music video featuring a woman's clothes getting whipped off. The song, as Devo co-founder Jerry Casale clarified, was misunderstood by DJs who equated its title to an obscene gesture. Casale highlighted that the song's inspiration actually came from author Thomas Pynchon, an explanation often lost on their audience. So, they embraced the misunderstood concept in their visuals.

2. 'I Melt With You' by Modern English (1982)

Modern English's hit 'I Melt With You' was a love story set against the doom of nuclear war. Robbie Grey shared his experience writing the track, influenced by a perspective of love transcending catastrophic events and crafted under the brief, potent inspiration during a moment of being stoned.

3. 'Mountain Music' by Alabama (1982)

Alabama's 'Mountain Music' came to life over three years, pulling from lead singer Randy Owen's childhood experiences. The song reflects a longing for simplicity and the nostalgia of growing up in rural America, capturing the essence of a generation's experience.

4. '1999' by Prince (1982)

Prince's '1999' depicted the apprehension of an approaching new millennium. Yet, Prince himself saw it as an opportunity to inspire hope rather than fear, a dichotomy perfectly in line with the '80s spirit of looking forward despite challenges.

5. 'Beat It' by Michael Jackson (1983)

Michael Jackson's 'Beat It', produced by Quincy Jones, was an answer to the raw energy of 'My Sharona' by The Knack. A blend of rock and pop with an unforgettable guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, the song addressed gang violence, providing a window into the issues troubling society at the time.

6. 'Round and Round' by Ratt (1984)

Ratt's 'Round and Round' epitomized pop metal, with guitarist Warren DiMartini recounting tales of music video shoots and the influence of early television on their careers, symbolizing the changing faces of fame and entertainment.

7. 'Jump' by Van Halen (1984)

Van Halen's 'Jump' showcases Eddie Van Halen's keyboard talents. Spawned from a news item about a potential suicide, David Lee Roth spun the theme into a message about seizing life with zest.

8. 'My Adidas' by Run-D.M.C. (1986)

Before their crossover hit 'Walk This Way', Run-D.M.C.'s 'My Adidas' off the album 'Raising Hell' challenged societal judgments and stereotypes about youth, particularly in urban culture, and marked the start of a new dialogue through rap.

music, culture, history