Turn back the clock and crank up the volume! 1981 was a monumental year in music, a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse sounds that still resonate today. From the infectious pop anthems that dominated the airwaves to the groundbreaking tracks that pushed musical boundaries, this year cemented its place in music history. If you’re a music lover, a nostalgic 80s aficionado, or simply curious about the sounds that shaped a generation, then you've come to the right place. This list dives deep into the heart of the matter, exploring the contenders for the title of best songs of 81. We'll journey through iconic hits, rediscover forgotten gems, and debate the songs that truly defined the year, helping you curate the ultimate 1981 playlist. Prepare to relive the magic – or discover it for the first time!
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Celebration |
Kool The Gang | 325M+ | |
| 2. Bette Davis Eyes | Kim Carnes | Mistaken Identity | 170M+ |
| 3. The Winner Takes It All | ABBA | 156M+ | |
| 4. Angel of the Morning | Juice Newton | 126M+ | |
| 5. Woman | John Lennon | Double Fantasy: Stripped Down | 125M+ |
| 6. 9 To 5 | Dolly Parton | 9 To 5 And Odd Jobs | 78M+ |
| 7. Keep on Loving You | REO Speedwagon | 72M+ |
1. Celebration (Kool ft The Gang - 1980)
Upbeat Rhythm: Kool & The Gang's "Celebration" is infectious, its driving beat and irresistible groove perfectly capturing the exuberant energy of 1981.
Anthemic Vocals: The powerful, soulful vocals add a layer of uplifting emotion, making it ideal for joyful occasions and a perfect soundtrack for the celebratory mood of the era.
Enduring Legacy: Its timeless appeal continues to resonate, proving "Celebration" remains a quintessential party starter and a testament to the decade's vibrant musical landscape.
2. Bette Davis Eyes (Mistaken Identity - 1981)
Iconic Sound: Kim Carnes's "Bette Davis Eyes" is instantly recognizable thanks to its distinctive, jazzy saxophone riff and driving rhythm, which perfectly captured the sound of 1981.
Vocal Performance: Carnes's sultry, captivating vocals are a key element of the song's enduring appeal, delivering a performance that's both alluring and emotionally resonant.
Cultural Impact: The song's massive success cemented its place in 80s pop culture history, becoming a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated for its infectious energy and unforgettable hook.
3. The Winner Takes It All
Ageless Melody: "The Winner Takes It All" boasts a timeless melody that transcends its 1981 release, remaining instantly recognizable and emotionally resonant even today.
Vocal Powerhouse: Agnetha Fältskog's soaring vocals are the emotional core of the song, conveying both strength and vulnerability with breathtaking power.
Unforgettable Lyrics: The lyrics' exploration of heartbreak and resilience resonate deeply, contributing to the song's enduring popularity and making it a staple of '80s music.
4. Angel of the Morning
Vocal Performance: Juice Newton's distinctive, emotive vocals are at the heart of "Angel of the Morning" delivering a performance that perfectly captures the song's melancholic yet hopeful tone, making it a standout track of 1981.
Production: The song's smooth, polished production, characteristic of the early 80s pop sound, contributes to its timeless appeal and lasting place in the decade's musical landscape.
Lyrical Content: The relatable themes of longing and resilience within the lyrics resonated deeply with listeners in 1981, further solidifying its position as a beloved hit.
5. Woman (Double Fantasy: Stripped Down)
John Lennon's Vocal Performance: Lennon's tender vocals on "Woman" offer a poignant and intimate counterpoint to his more iconic rock anthems, making it a surprisingly reflective addition to the best of '81.
Production and Sound: The song features a warm, mellow production, with subtle instrumentation that perfectly complements Lennon's vocals, creating a timeless and soothing quality fitting for a year that blended various musical styles.
Emotional Resonance: "Woman" expresses a deep, heartfelt appreciation for the feminine, striking a chord with listeners on a personal level; its gentle yet powerful message transcends the trends of 1981.
6. 9 To 5 (Dolly Parton - 1980)
Catchy Melody: "9 to 5" boasts an instantly memorable melody that perfectly captures the frustrations and resilience of the working class, making it incredibly relatable and hummable.
Empowering Anthem: Parton's strong vocals deliver a message of female empowerment that resonated deeply with audiences in 1981 and continues to inspire today.
Enduring Popularity: The song's blend of country twang and pop sensibilities secured its place as a classic of the era, remaining a staple on radio and in popular culture.
7. Keep on Loving You (1981)
Power Ballad Perfection: REO Speedwagon's "Keep on Loving You" epitomizes the power ballad sound of 1981, showcasing soaring vocals and a memorable melody that resonated deeply with audiences.
Unforgettable Vocals: Kevin Cronin's emotive vocals are the undeniable centerpiece, delivering a performance that is both tender and powerful, cementing the song's place in 80s rock history.
Enduring Legacy: Its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal, making it a significant contribution to the best songs of 1981 and beyond.
8. Jessie's Girl
Catchy Hook: "Jessie's Girl" boasts an instantly memorable chorus that perfectly encapsulates the frustration and longing of unrequited love, a theme that resonated deeply with listeners in 1981.
Energetic Performance: Rick Springfield's passionate vocals and the song's driving beat create an undeniable energy that propelled it to the top of the charts.
Timeless Appeal: The relatable lyrics and infectious melody ensured "Jessie's Girl" transcended its 80s origins, remaining a classic rock staple and a testament to the decade's pop songwriting prowess.
9. Queen Of Hearts (Juice Newton)
Vocal Performance: Juice Newton's emotive vocals are a highlight of "Queen of Hearts" conveying both vulnerability and strength, perfectly capturing the song's emotional core.
Catchy Melody: The memorable melody and infectious rhythm made "Queen of Hearts" an instant earworm in 1981, ensuring its place in the hearts (and playlists) of listeners.
Production Quality: The song's crisp production showcases Newton's voice beautifully, contributing to its lasting appeal and making it a quintessential example of polished 80s country-pop.
10. Just the Two of Us (Bill Withers ft Grover Washington, Jr. - 1981)
Smooth Vocals: Bill Withers' warm, soulful vocals blend seamlessly with Grover Washington Jr.'s smooth saxophone, creating an irresistible combination that defines the mellow sound of 1981.
Romantic Vibe: The song's intimate lyrics and gentle melody create a perfect romantic atmosphere, making it a classic choice for couples and a defining track of the decade's romantic soundscape.
Enduring Appeal: "Just the Two of Us" transcended its era, remaining a beloved and frequently sampled track that continues to resonate with listeners decades later, solidifying its place in the pantheon of 1981's best.
11Endless Love
Lionel Richie,Diana Ross
1981
12Rapture
Blondie
1981
Parallel Lines
13Starting Over
John Lennon
1980
Double Fantasy: Stripped Down
14Guilty
Barbra Streisand,Barry Gibb
1981
Guilty
15Being With You
Smokey Robinson
1981
16Love on the Rocks
Neil Diamond
1981
17Slow Hand
The Pointer Sisters
1981
18A Woman Needs Love
Raydio
1981
19Lady
Kenny Rogers
1981
The Gambler
20Morning Train
Sheena Easton
1981
21I Love You
Climax Blues Band
1981
22The Tide Is High
Blondie
1980
Parallel Lines
23Sukiyaki
A Taste Of Honey
1981
24Kiss on My List
Daryl Hall, John Oates
1981
25I Love a Rainy Night
Eddie Rabbitt
1980