28 Best Songs of 1989: The Ultimate 80s Throwback Playlist

Step back in time with us to 1989, a year that exploded with iconic music! Remember the big hair, the neon colors, and the unforgettable sounds that defined a generation? If the echoes of that era still resonate with you, then you've come to the right place. This definitive list tackles the question on every 80s music lover's mind: what are the true best songs of 89? We've delved deep into the archives, sifting through chart-toppers and hidden gems to bring you a curated collection of tracks that perfectly encapsulate the vibrant energy and diverse sounds of the year. Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado reliving your youth or a younger listener discovering the magic of 80s music for the first time, prepare to rediscover (or discover!) the unforgettable anthems and soulful ballads that made 1989 such a landmark year in music history. Get ready to crank up the volume and journey back to a decade of unforgettable sounds.

Heartfelt Ballads That Defined 1989’s Emotional Soundscape

These ballads tugged at the heartstrings of listeners with powerful lyrics and deeply emotional melodies. Songs like 'Right Here Waiting' and 'Listen to Your Heart' became unforgettable anthems of longing and devotion.

  • Right Here Waiting

    Right Here Waiting

    Richard Marx

    1989

    Repeat Offender

  • Listen to Your Heart

    Listen to Your Heart

    Roxette

    1988

  • If You Don't Know Me by Now

    If You Don't Know Me by Now

    Simply Red

    1989

    A New Flame (Expanded Version)

  • Lost in Your Eyes

    Lost in Your Eyes

    Debbie Gibson

    1989

    Electric Youth

  • Two Hearts

    Two Hearts

    Phil Collins

    1988

    ...But Seriously (Deluxe Edition)

  • Wind Beneath My Wings

    Wind Beneath My Wings

    Bette Midler

    1988

    Beaches (Original Soundtrack Recording)

  • Don't Wanna Lose You

    Don't Wanna Lose You

    Gloria Estefan

    1989

  • Giving You the Best That I Got

    Giving You the Best That I Got

    Anita Baker

    1989

  • How Can I Fall?

    How Can I Fall?

    Breathe

    1989

High-Energy Pop Hits That Dominated 1989’s Charts

These pop sensations electrified the airwaves with infectious beats and dynamic performances. 'Miss You Much' and 'Cold Hearted' showcased Janet Jackson and Paula Abdul at their peak, delivering unforgettable danceable hits.

  • My Prerogative

    My Prerogative

    Bobby Brown

    1989

  • Straight Up

    Straight Up

    Paula Abdul

    1989

  • Baby Don't Forget My Number

    Baby Don't Forget My Number

    Milli Vanilli

    1989

  • Blame It on the Rain

    Blame It on the Rain

    Milli Vanilli

    1989

  • Cold Hearted

    Cold Hearted

    Paula Abdul

    1989

  • Miss You Much

    Miss You Much

    Janet Jackson

    1989

Rock Anthems That Captured the Spirit of Late ’80s

These rock tracks blended powerful instrumentation with deep storytelling, representing some of the most iconic moments of ’89. 'Like a Prayer' stood out as a groundbreaking fusion of pop and rock with deep religious imagery.

  • Like a Prayer

    Like a Prayer

    Madonna

    1989

    Faith

  • I'll Be There For You

    I'll Be There For You

    Bon Jovi

    1988

    New Jersey (Deluxe Edition)

  • The Look

    The Look

    Roxette

    1989

  • Every Rose Has Its Thorn

    Every Rose Has Its Thorn

    Poison

    1988

Catchy Dance and Funk Hits That Kept ’89 Moving

Groovy rhythms and catchy hooks made these tracks instant classics. 'She Drives Me Crazy' captured the energy of the era with its unique vocals and funky beats.

  • Girl I'm Gonna Miss You

    Girl I'm Gonna Miss You

    Milli Vanilli

    1989

  • Girl You Know It's True

    Girl You Know It's True

    Milli Vanilli

    1989

  • Waiting for a Star to Fall

    Waiting for a Star to Fall

    Boy Meets Girl

    1988

  • I'll Be Loving You

    I'll Be Loving You

    New Kids On The Block

    1990

  • My Prerogative

    My Prerogative

    Bobby Brown

    1989

  • Straight Up

    Straight Up

    Paula Abdul

    1989

  • On Our Own

    On Our Own

    Bobby Brown

    1989

Songs That Perfectly Embodied Late ’80s Soft Rock & Soul

Blending rock with soulful vocals, these tracks were the backbone of late ’80s radio, featuring heartfelt lyrics and powerful performances. 'Giving You the Best That I Got' became a staple of Anita Baker’s smooth and emotive sound.

  • Toy Soldiers

    Toy Soldiers

    Martika

    1989

  • Heaven

    Heaven

    Warrant

    1989

  • Look Away

    Look Away

    Chicago

    1989

    Chicago 19 (Expanded Edition)

  • Giving You the Best That I Got

    Giving You the Best That I Got

    Anita Baker

    1989