Back in Time Today
The 1980s were a vibrant decade filled with iconic music, but not every great song made it to mainstream radio. Some tracks were overshadowed by the megahits of the era, yet they possessed the quality and appeal to rival even the biggest names. This blog post explores 17 such songs that deserved more recognition and could have been bigger than Madonna’s hits. Discover these hidden gems that showcase the diverse sounds and creative spirit of the ’80s, offering a nostalgic trip through overlooked anthems that still resonate today.
1. “I’m In Love” – Evelyn “Champagne” King (1981)
A true R&B masterpiece, “I’m In Love” by Evelyn “Champagne” King is a smooth and funky track that never quite reached the heights it deserved. Despite its infectious groove and heartfelt lyrics, it was overshadowed by more famous hits like “Love Come Down.” The song’s rhythm effortlessly captures the essence of the early ’80s R&B scene. King’s powerful voice and charismatic stage presence shine through, making it a timeless piece. With its catchy hooks and soulful delivery, it’s baffling why this gem didn’t dominate the airwaves alongside the decade’s biggest hits.
2. “Cool Places” – Sparks ft. Jane Wiedlin (1983)
“Cool Places” is a quirky new wave duet by Sparks featuring Jane Wiedlin of the Go-Go’s. The song exudes a playful energy with its catchy melody and clever lyrics. Despite its infectious nature and the star power of Wiedlin, it remained criminally overlooked. The track blends Sparks’ eccentric style with Wiedlin’s vibrant vocals, creating a unique soundscape. Its upbeat tempo and whimsical charm make it a standout of the era. Unfortunately, it didn’t receive the radio play it deserved, remaining a hidden treasure within the expansive landscape of ’80s music.
3. “Send Me An Angel” – Real Life (1983)
“Send Me An Angel” by Real Life is a synth-pop masterpiece that captured the essence of the early ’80s electronic scene. Initially, it only gained cult status despite its haunting melody and mesmerizing synth lines. The song’s futuristic sound and evocative lyrics offer a dreamy escape, making it a favorite among fans of the genre. Over time, it gained more recognition, but it never achieved the mainstream success it deserved during its initial release. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to another world with its enchanting soundscape.
4. “Johnny Come Home” – Fine Young Cannibals (1985)
“Johnny Come Home” by Fine Young Cannibals is a soulful post-punk track that was too cool for mainstream radio. The song’s poignant lyrics and catchy melody showcase the band’s distinctive sound. Despite its compelling narrative and infectious rhythm, it got overshadowed by their later hits like “She Drives Me Crazy.” The track explores themes of struggle and disillusionment, resonating with many listeners. Its unique blend of post-punk and soul elements creates a captivating listening experience. Although it wasn’t a radio staple, it remains a cherished piece of ’80s music history.
5. “Doot-Doot” – Freur (1983)
Freur’s “Doot-Doot” is a hypnotic electronic oddity that deserved way more love. The song’s mesmerizing rhythm and ethereal soundscapes create an otherworldly experience. Despite its innovative approach to electronic music, it didn’t achieve the radio success it warranted. The track’s dreamy atmosphere and catchy refrain captivate the listener, offering a unique take on ’80s electronic music. Its distinctive sound has influenced numerous artists in the genre. “Doot-Doot” remains a cult favorite, cherished by those who appreciate avant-garde music that pushes the boundaries of conventional pop.
6. “The Promise” – When In Rome (1988)
“The Promise” by When In Rome is a soaring synth-pop ballad that only gained fame years later, thanks in part to its inclusion in the film “Napoleon Dynamite.” The song’s emotive lyrics and powerful synths create an uplifting experience. Despite its potential, it never became a mainstream hit upon release. The track’s heartfelt sentiment and captivating melody resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic. Its eventual recognition highlights the enduring appeal of well-crafted synth-pop. “The Promise” stands as a testament to the hidden gems within the ’80s musical landscape.
7. “Love Is a Shield” – Camouflage (1988)
Camouflage’s “Love Is a Shield” is a darker Depeche Mode-esque track that never got its due. The song’s brooding synths and introspective lyrics create a compelling atmosphere, reminiscent of the best of ’80s synth-pop. Despite its potential to captivate a wide audience, it didn’t receive the airplay it deserved. The track’s haunting melody and rich production values make it a standout piece. Its exploration of love and vulnerability resonates deeply with listeners, offering a glimpse into the emotional depth of the era’s music. “Love Is a Shield” remains a hidden treasure.
8. “Cry” – Boys Don’t Cry (1985)
“Cry” by Boys Don’t Cry is not to be confused with The Cure’s song; this new wave anthem is a lost gem with killer hooks. The song’s catchy refrain and energetic beat create an irresistible listening experience. Despite its potential to be a radio hit, it remained largely underappreciated. The track’s playful vibe and engaging melody capture the essence of ’80s new wave. Its infectious energy and memorable lyrics make it a standout of the genre. “Cry” deserves recognition for its contribution to the vibrant tapestry of ’80s music, remaining a beloved classic among fans.
9. “The Metro” – Berlin (1982)
Berlin’s “The Metro” was big in clubs but overshadowed by their hit “Take My Breath Away.” This song should’ve been their signature hit, with its driving beat and haunting vocals. The track’s pulsating rhythm and evocative lyrics create an atmospheric journey. Despite its club popularity, it never achieved the mainstream radio success it deserved. The song’s edgy sound and compelling narrative capture the spirit of the early ’80s. Its cinematic quality and complex emotion make it a standout piece. “The Metro” remains a favorite for those who appreciate the depth of Berlin’s musical artistry.
10. “Destination” – The Church (1987)
“Destination” by The Church is a dreamy jangle-pop track that radio ignored in favor of their bigger hit “Under the Milky Way.” The song’s lush guitar work and introspective lyrics create a captivating soundscape. Despite its atmospheric quality and engaging melody, it didn’t receive the recognition it deserved. The track’s dreamy vibe and rich instrumentation transport listeners to another realm. Its exploration of longing and introspection resonates deeply, showcasing the band’s artistic depth. “Destination” remains a beloved piece among fans, embodying the essence of ’80s alternative music.
11. “Marlene On The Wall” – Suzanne Vega (1985)
Suzanne Vega’s “Marlene On The Wall” is a folk-pop gem that predated her hit “Luka.” With smart, catchy lyrics, the song was underplayed on the radio. Its introspective narrative and melodic charm offer a refreshing take on ’80s pop. Vega’s distinctive voice and storytelling ability shine through, creating an engaging listening experience. Despite its potential, it remained largely unrecognized by mainstream audiences. The track’s poetic lyrics and gentle melody make it a standout piece. “Marlene On The Wall” continues to resonate with fans, showcasing the understated brilliance of Vega’s artistry.
12. “I Go Crazy” – Flesh For Lulu (1987)
“I Go Crazy” by Flesh For Lulu is a goth-tinged rocker that should’ve been massive. The song’s energetic guitar riffs and catchy chorus create a thrilling experience. Despite its potential, it was overlooked by mainstream radio. The track’s edgy vibe and dark undertones capture the essence of ’80s alternative rock. Its infectious energy and memorable hooks make it a standout of the era. “I Go Crazy” deserves recognition for its contribution to the vibrant landscape of ’80s music, remaining a beloved classic among fans who appreciate the genre’s intensity and passion.
13. “The Chauffeur” – Duran Duran (1982)
Duran Duran’s “The Chauffeur” is a haunting B-side from their album Rio that was too artsy for pop radio. The song’s ethereal melody and evocative lyrics create an intriguing soundscape. Despite its artistic depth, it didn’t receive the airplay it deserved. The track’s haunting vibe and complex arrangement showcase the band’s innovative spirit. Its exploration of themes like desire and mystery resonates with listeners, offering a glimpse into the creative landscape of the early ’80s. “The Chauffeur” remains a hidden gem, cherished by fans of Duran Duran’s more experimental work.
14. “Pulling Mussels (From The Shell)” – Squeeze (1980)
“Pulling Mussels (From The Shell)” by Squeeze is a brilliant storytelling pop song that never got the airplay of “Tempted.” The song’s vivid narrative and catchy melody create an engaging listening experience. Despite its potential to be a radio hit, it remained largely unnoticed. The track’s clever lyrics and upbeat tempo capture the essence of ’80s pop. Its charming storytelling and energetic delivery make it a standout piece. “Pulling Mussels (From The Shell)” deserves recognition for its contribution to the rich tapestry of ’80s music, remaining a favorite among fans of the genre.
15. “I Can Prove It” – The Three O’Clock (1985)
“I Can Prove It” by The Three O’Clock is jangle-pop perfection from the Paisley Underground that should have been everywhere. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat rhythm create a joyful listening experience. Despite its potential, it didn’t achieve the radio success it deserved. The track’s playful vibe and infectious energy capture the essence of ’80s pop. Its vibrant sound and engaging lyrics make it a standout piece. “I Can Prove It” deserves recognition for its contribution to the joyful spirit of ’80s music, remaining a beloved classic among fans of the Paisley Underground scene.
16. “The Killing Moon” – Echo & The Bunnymen (1984)
“The Killing Moon” by Echo & The Bunnymen is a moody masterpiece that only gained cult status outside the UK. The song’s haunting melody and introspective lyrics create an enigmatic soundscape. Despite its potential to captivate a global audience, it didn’t receive the airplay it deserved. The track’s ethereal vibe and complex arrangement make it a standout of ’80s music. Its exploration of themes like fate and destiny resonates deeply with listeners, offering a glimpse into the emotional depth of the era’s music. “The Killing Moon” remains a cherished classic among fans worldwide.
17. “Love My Way” – The Psychedelic Furs (1982)
“Love My Way” by The Psychedelic Furs is a shimmering new wave classic that deserved to be as big as “Pretty In Pink.” The song’s lush synths and emotive lyrics create a captivating listening experience. Despite its potential to be a major hit, it was overshadowed by more famous tracks. The track’s dreamy soundscape and poignant narrative resonate deeply with listeners, offering a glimpse into the creative spirit of the early ’80s. Its timeless quality and rich emotion make it a favorite among fans of new wave music. “Love My Way” remains a cherished classic.