Back in Time Today
Revisit the vibrant musical landscape of 1985, where iconic tunes dominated the airwaves and the beloved Walkman was an essential accessory for music lovers. From infectious pop anthems to soulful ballads, 1985 was a year rich with unforgettable hits.
Let’s embark on a nostalgic journey through the top 20 songs of this electrifying year, reliving the magic and memories behind each track. These songs not only defined an era but also continue to resonate with audiences today.
So grab your Walkman, pop in a tape, and enjoy the musical ride!
20. “Everything She Wants” – Wham!
Wham!’s “Everything She Wants” is a quintessential 1985 hit that explores desires and relationships. George Michael’s soulful voice delivers a compelling narrative about longing and the complexities of love.
The track’s catchy beat and relatable lyrics captivated audiences worldwide. With its danceable rhythm, the song became an anthem for those navigating romantic dilemmas.
Listeners were drawn to its upbeat yet reflective nature, making it a staple on the playlists of many. Even today, the track’s charm endures, reminding us of the universal struggles in love and desire.
19. “Heaven” – Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams’ “Heaven” is a heartfelt ballad that resonated with listeners in 1985. With its powerful lyrics and emotive melody, the song captures the essence of love and yearning.
Adams’ passionate delivery made it an instant classic. The song’s warmth and sincerity struck a chord with fans, earning it a place in the hearts of many. As a testament to enduring love, “Heaven” remains a favorite at weddings and romantic occasions.
Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke deep emotions and memories of love and longing.
18. “Saving All My Love for You” – Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s “Saving All My Love for You” is a powerful ballad that showcases her extraordinary vocal talent. Released in 1985, the song’s theme of unwavering love and dedication resonated deeply with audiences.
Houston’s emotive delivery captivated listeners, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards. The song’s soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics made it a standout hit of the year.
It continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth and Houston’s mesmerizing voice, marking an unforgettable moment in music history.
17. “St. Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion)” – John Parr
“St. Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion)” by John Parr is an iconic anthem from 1985, inspired by the film of the same name. The song’s energetic beat and motivational lyrics struck a chord with audiences.
Its powerful message of determination and resilience made it a favorite among fans. Parr’s dynamic performance and the song’s uplifting vibe made it a staple on the airwaves.
The track continues to inspire with its themes of perseverance and achieving dreams, resonating with listeners even decades later.
16. “Cherish” – Kool & the Gang
“Cherish” by Kool & the Gang is a romantic ballad that captured the hearts of many in 1985. Its smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics emphasized the importance of love and cherishing those special moments.
The song’s gentle rhythm and soulful harmonies created a sense of warmth and nostalgia. It became an anthem for love and appreciation, often played at weddings and romantic gatherings.
“Cherish” continues to be celebrated for its timeless message of love and gratitude, making it a beloved classic.
15. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” – Simple Minds
Simple Minds’ “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” became a defining anthem of the 1980s, thanks in part to its association with the film ‘The Breakfast Club’. The song’s catchy refrain and memorable beat captured the spirit of the era.
Its themes of connection and memory resonated with audiences, making it a staple on the radio. The track’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia and its role in pop culture history.
Even today, the song remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its catchy chorus and timeless message.
14. “We Built This City” – Starship
Starship’s “We Built This City” is a vibrant anthem that reflects the spirit of 1985. With its energetic beat and catchy lyrics, the song celebrates the power of music and community.
Though it received mixed reviews, its undeniable catchiness made it a hit, dominating the charts. The track’s lively nature and memorable chorus continue to make it a favorite among fans.
Its celebration of urban life and music’s impact endures, making it a catchy and memorable classic that still resonates today.
13. “Can’t Fight This Feeling” – REO Speedwagon
REO Speedwagon’s “Can’t Fight This Feeling” is a powerful love ballad that resonated deeply with listeners in 1985. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and emotional melody captured the essence of longing and love.
Its relatable theme of confronting emotions made it a favorite among fans. The track’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and romance.
It remains a staple at weddings and love-themed events, celebrated for its emotional depth and timeless message of love’s power.
12. “Easy Lover” – Philip Bailey & Phil Collins
“Easy Lover” by Philip Bailey and Phil Collins is a dynamic duet that became a hit in 1985. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hook made it an instant favorite among listeners.
Both artists’ distinctive voices blended perfectly, creating an electric energy that captivated audiences. The song’s lively beat and playful lyrics made it a staple on dance floors.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to its infectious charm and the remarkable collaboration between Bailey and Collins, celebrating the joy of music and dance.
11. “Everytime You Go Away” – Paul Young
Paul Young’s “Everytime You Go Away” is a soulful ballad that captured the hearts of many in 1985. Its melancholic melody and heartfelt lyrics explored themes of love and separation.
Young’s emotive voice brought depth to the song, resonating with listeners experiencing similar emotions. The track’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke feelings of longing and nostalgia.
It remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its emotional sincerity and Young’s powerful vocal performance, marking an unforgettable moment in music history.
10. “Take on Me” – a-ha
“Take on Me” by a-ha is an iconic synth-pop anthem that captured the imagination of audiences in 1985. Known for its innovative music video featuring sketch-animation, the song became a visual and auditory sensation.
Its catchy melody and upbeat tempo made it a favorite on the charts. The track’s enduring popularity lies in its unique sound and groundbreaking video.
It continues to be celebrated for its creativity and the way it captured the spirit of the 1980s, making it a timeless classic that still resonates today.
9. “Crazy for You” – Madonna
Madonna’s “Crazy for You” is a tender ballad that showcased her versatility as an artist in 1985. The song’s romantic lyrics and gentle melody captivated audiences, highlighting a softer side of the pop icon.
Its emotional depth and sincerity resonated with fans, making it a standout hit. The track’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke feelings of love and longing.
It remains a favorite at romantic occasions, celebrated for its beautiful melody and Madonna’s heartfelt performance, marking an unforgettable moment in her career.
8. “Money for Nothing” – Dire Straits
Dire Straits’ “Money for Nothing” is a rock anthem from 1985 that became famous for its iconic music video and catchy guitar riffs. Mark Knopfler’s distinctive vocals and the song’s satirical lyrics about the music industry struck a chord with audiences.
Its innovative video and memorable melody made it a favorite on MTV. The track’s enduring popularity lies in its witty commentary and energetic sound, making it a classic that continues to resonate with fans.
It remains a testament to the creativity and spirit of the 1980s.
7. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” – Tears for Fears
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears is a defining song of 1985, known for its catchy melody and thought-provoking lyrics. The track explores themes of power and ambition, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Its smooth rhythm and reflective message made it a staple on the charts. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the complexities of human nature and societal influence.
It remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its insightful lyrics and memorable sound, marking a significant moment in music history.
6. “Out of Touch” – Daryl Hall & John Oates
“Out of Touch” by Daryl Hall & John Oates is a lively pop hit from 1985 that captivated audiences with its catchy beat and vibrant energy. The song’s upbeat tempo and engaging lyrics made it a favorite on the charts.
Hall & Oates’ dynamic performance and harmonious vocals brought the track to life, making it a memorable classic. Its enduring popularity lies in its infectious rhythm and lively spirit, making it a staple at parties and dance floors.
The song remains a testament to the duo’s remarkable talent and musical influence.
5. “I Feel for You” – Chaka Khan
Chaka Khan’s “I Feel for You” is a dynamic and soulful hit from 1985 that showcased her incredible vocal talent. The song’s blend of funk, pop, and R&B elements made it an instant favorite.
Its innovative use of rap and catchy beat set it apart, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Khan’s powerful voice and energetic performance captivated audiences, making it a memorable classic.
The track’s enduring appeal lies in its infectious groove and Khan’s remarkable artistry, celebrating the joy and energy of 1985’s music scene.
4. “I Want to Know What Love Is” – Foreigner
Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is” is a powerful ballad from 1985 that captured the essence of longing and love. The song’s emotive lyrics and soaring melody struck a chord with audiences worldwide.
Its heartfelt message and powerful vocal delivery made it an instant classic. The track’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to evoke deep emotions and its timeless appeal.
It remains a favorite at romantic occasions, celebrated for its beautiful melody and poignant lyrics, making it a beloved classic in music history.
3. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” – Wham!
Wham!’s “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is a pop sensation from 1985 that captured the vibrant spirit of the 80s. With its infectious beat and lively energy, the song became an anthem for fun and excitement.
George Michael’s charismatic performance and the catchy chorus made it a favorite on the charts. The track’s enduring appeal lies in its feel-good vibe and playful nature, making it a staple at parties and celebrations.
Its joyful sound and memorable melody continue to resonate, celebrating the carefree essence of the era.
2. “Like a Virgin” – Madonna
Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” is a defining pop anthem of 1985 that marked a significant moment in her career. The song’s catchy melody and provocative lyrics captured the attention of audiences worldwide.
Its bold themes and Madonna’s charismatic performance made it a standout hit. The track’s enduring appeal lies in its innovative sound and cultural impact, making it a classic that continues to influence music and fashion.
It remains a testament to Madonna’s remarkable artistry and the transformative power of 1980s pop culture.
1. “Careless Whisper” – Wham! featuring George Michael
“Careless Whisper” by Wham! featuring George Michael is a timeless ballad that captured the essence of heartache and regret in 1985. The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics resonated deeply with audiences.
Michael’s emotive vocal delivery and the iconic saxophone riff made it an instant classic. The track’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to evoke deep emotions and its timeless appeal.
It remains a favorite at romantic occasions, celebrated for its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics, marking an unforgettable moment in music history.