30 Best 80s Songs to Dance To: The Ultimate Playlist

Updated at: 20/03/2025

The 1980s: a decade of iconic sounds, bold fashion, and unforgettable dance moves. To truly capture the electric energy of that era, you need the soundtrack to match. This isn't just a list of popular songs; it's a journey through the heart of 80s music, celebrating the artists who defined a generation. From the smooth grooves that commanded dance floors worldwide to the anthemic power ballads that resonated with millions, this curated selection showcases the diversity and infectious rhythm that made the decade so iconic. We're aiming to reintroduce – or perhaps introduce for the first time – the unparalleled artistry and timeless appeal of this unforgettable period in music history. Prepare to rediscover the infectious beats that will have you moving your feet and singing along in no time.

This collection isn't just about nostalgia; it's about experiencing the raw power and undeniable charisma of these groundbreaking artists. Whether it’s the unforgettable vocals that defined a generation, the innovative soundscapes that pushed creative boundaries, or the songwriting that spoke to universal emotions, each track selected holds a significant place in 80s musical history and continues to resonate with audiences today. Whether you’re a long-time fan rediscovering favorite tracks or a newcomer ready to experience the magic of this incredible decade, this list promises a captivating dance party that transcends time. Prepare to be swept away by the irresistible energy and unforgettable sounds of the 80s.

  • Billie Jean
    1

    Billie Jean

    Michael Jackson

    1982

    Thriller

  • Girls Just Want to Have Fun
    2

    Girls Just Want to Have Fun

    Cyndi Lauper

    1983

    She's So Unusual

  • Sweet Dreams
    3

    Sweet Dreams

    Eurythmics,Annie Lennox,Dave Stewart

    1983

    Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)

  • Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go
    4

    Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go

    Wham!

    1984

  • I Wanna Dance with Somebody
    5

    I Wanna Dance with Somebody

    Whitney Houston

    1987

    Whitney

  • Celebration
    6

    Celebration

    Kool , The Gang

    1980

  • Let's Groove
    7

    Let's Groove

    Earth, Wind , Fire

    1981

  • You Spin me 'round
    8

    You Spin me 'round

    Dead Or Alive

    1985

  • Push It
    9

    Push It

    Salt-N-Pepa

    1986

  • Footloose
    10

    Footloose

    Kenny Loggins

    1984

    4 (Expanded)

  • Teardrops
    11

    Teardrops

    Womack

    1988

  • Never Too Much
    12

    Never Too Much

    Luther Vandross

    1981

    Never Too Much

  • Into the Groove
    13

    Into the Groove

    Madonna

    1985

    True Blue

  • Rhythm of the Night
    14

    Rhythm of the Night

    DeBarge

    1985

  • Love Shack
    15

    Love Shack

    The B-52's

    1989

    Cosmic Thing

  • Blue Monday
    16

    Blue Monday

    New Order

    1983

    Substance

  • Let's Dance
    17

    Let's Dance

    David Bowie

    1983

    Let's Dance (2018 Remaster)

  • Tainted Love
    18

    Tainted Love

    Soft Cell

    1981

    Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret

  • Let's Hear It for the Boy
    19

    Let's Hear It for the Boy

    Deniece Williams

    1984

    Metal Health

  • Faith
    20

    Faith

    George Michael

    1987

    Faith

  • Buffalo Stance
    21

    Buffalo Stance

    Neneh Cherry

    1988

  • I'm So Excited
    22

    I'm So Excited

    The Pointer Sisters

    1982

    So Excited! (Expanded Edition)

  • Everybody Have Fun Tonight
    23

    Everybody Have Fun Tonight

    Wang Chung

    1986

  • Holiday
    24

    Holiday

    Madonna

    1983

    Madonna

  • Keep on Movin'
    25

    Keep on Movin'

    Soul II Soul

    1989

  • Mickey
    26

    Mickey

    Toni Basil

    1982

  • Maniac
    27

    Maniac

    Michael Sembello

    1983

    We Are Family (1995 Remaster)

  • Respectable
    28

    Respectable

    Mel , Kim

    1987

  • Moments in Love
    29

    Moments in Love

    Art of Noise

    1985

  • Somebody Else's Guy
    30

    Somebody Else's Guy

    Jocelyn Brown

    1984