Ah, the 1980s. What a time for music. Technology was rapidly evolving, tastes in terms of music were changing, and new genres were popping up left and right. It’s not exactly shocking that so many one-hit wonders are associated with this particular decade. Let’s take a look at just a few tracks that are still fan favorites among listeners, old and new!
“Come On Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners
Few anthems from the 1980s are as memorable and enthralling as this one. “Come On Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners came out in 1982 but didn’t make it to the US until 1983. Almost immediately after this new wave Celtic folk tune was released, it was a smash hit around the globe. It topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, as well as the UK Singles chart and charts in Australia, Belgium, Ireland, New Zealand, and many more countries. Nothing brings out positive energy and the need to sing along quite like this delightful 1980s gem.
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“Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell
This somewhat spooky synth-funk track from 1983 is probably best known for featuring Michael Jackson’s vocals in the chorus. However, this song isn’t an MJ original. Rather, it was released by a musician named Rockwell. Sadly, despite this song being such a big hit, Rockwell would fail to chart nearly as well again. “Somebody’s Watching Me” peaked at No. 2 on the Hot 100 chart, but none of Rockwell’s follow-up releases made it to the Top 30.
“Rhythm Of The Night” by DeBarge
There are very few dance-pop songs from the 1980s that boast a chorus quite as addictive as “Rhythm Of The Night” by DeBarge. In fact, whenever this song comes on, I rarely notice anyone not singing along. Sometimes, family groups really could deliver massive, well-aging hits. This classic peaked at No. 3 on the Hot 100 chart in 1985.
It’s worth noting that many would consider DeBarge to be a two-hit wonder, rather than a one-hit wonder. “Who’s Holding Donna Now”, released shortly after “Rhythm Of The Night”, peaked at No. 6. However, given how legendary “Rhythm Of The Night” is over that latter song, I’ll go ahead and include it on this list. Honestly, I just wanted an excuse to listen to it again. If it gets stuck in your head, apologies in advance.
Photo by Herb Ball/NBC via Getty Images
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