3 One-Hit Wonders From the 80s That Sum up the Decade

Sometimes you just have to call a spade a spade. And in the spirit of that, let it be said: the 1980s were strange. They were weird, they were awkward, they were, well, let’s just say unique. Hairspray, leg warmers, Tom Cruise, synthesizers, Pee-wee Herman. It was just an odd time to be alive. No shade, it’s just the truth.

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And as such, the songs from that time period reflect that strangeness. Particularly, the one-hit wonders from the era. That’s why we wanted to explore three examples of that from the decade. Three one-hit wonders from the 1980s that both display how unique the decade was and that sum up the time period to perfection.

“The Safety Dance” by Men Without Hats from ‘Rhythm Of Youth’ (1982)

What is this song about? What is a safety dance? It would seem that, at its core, the track is about feeling the freedom to be yourself. To dance as if no one is watching. But that idea is put through an unconventional lens and done so by an unconventional band with an unconventional name. And all of that is okay! Do you! The song is supremely catchy and memorable. And in the end, it’s of course very 80s, like The Breakfast Club or a Walkman.

“Relax” by Frankie Goes To Hollywood from ‘Welcome To The Pleasuredome’ (1983)

This might be the most 1980s song of all time. It’s like a time capsule. You’ve unearthed it, and there is a Pee-wee Herman doll and a Teddy Ruxpin in there, too. These deep synths are combined with the echoing voice that sounds both foreign and familiar. You’re being told to relax. How does that make sense? Also, have you seen the music video for this song? What is happening? Nevertheless, if you want to transport yourself to the 1980s, just hit play on this offering from Frankie Goes to Hollywood.

“Genius Of Love” by Tom Tom Club from ‘Tom Tom Club’ (1981)

The one-hit wonder band from husband and wife duo Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth, the Tom Tom Club was a bit like a spinoff TV show, having split off for a spell from the Talking Heads. The group also created one of the catchiest songs ever in their bubbly, “The Genius of Love”. A track that has been sampled in hip-hop songs and remembered fondly on the iconic concert film Stop Making Sense, the funky disco tune is just about as 80s as you can get.

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