49 Best '80s Songs to Dance to All Night Long
Grab your leg warmers and get ready to boogie!
Every item on this page was chosen by an editor from The Pioneer Woman. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
There’s nothing that takes you back quite like listening to the best '80s songs. Whenever you press play on a Cyndi Lauper, Queen, or Duran Duran classic, you're instantly transported to a time full of leg warmers, neon, big hair, and catchy hits you could listen to all night long.
There’s so much to love about the '80s. It’s when pop culture really peaked, not only with music, but also with shows like Cheers and Family Ties. Plus, '80s movies just can’t be beat: Back the Future, The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles—you could go on all night!
One thing is for sure: The '80s were one heck of a decade. That’s why this list of all the tunes that you probably played on repeat back then deserves a look. You might be inspired to hit the town with your friends and relive the best of the '80s. Or you might just want to turn up the stereo and have a party in your PJs. Like Cyndi says, girls just wanna have fun!
Bet you're attempting the chorus of this a-ha classic now. Don’t worry—it's hard to hit that high note!
Whitney Houston’s dance beat has not lost one ounce of popularity.
Bon Jovi always seems to bring back memories of driving around with the windows down, belting out his lyrics as loud as you can.
An essential girls night jam, whether you’re with your friends, daughters, sisters, mom, or just by yourself rocking out to the best of Cyndi Lauper.
Guns N’ Roses had plenty of hits back in the day, but this one remains at the top of the list.
“OoooOOOOHhh!” You'll never press skip on this funky number by The Human League.
This one has a little bit of an eerie feel to it, which is probably why it’s used in so many TV shows and movies.
The first few chords of Soft Cell’s popular song immediately get you in the mood to move.
Another Michael favorite, “Beat It” never fails gets us up and on the dance floor. Or the living room floor, same thing.
Journey continues to be a staple at proms, graduations, weddings, and any other event where people can shout out the inspirational lyrics.
We bet you played "Eye of the Tiger" before big games or moments where you needed a little boost of confidence.
We definitely used to listen to Bonnie Tyler in our room after a break up. Anyone else?!
The Breakfast Club made the Simple Minds song an instant classic that still gets played constantly on the radio today.
We’ll be honest: One of the reasons we love this one is because it’s just a little easier to sing than “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Duran Duran’s “Hungry Like the Wolf” is the easiest way to pump yourself up in the morning.
There’s a reason U2 is still a beloved band today: Their relaxed vibe is instantly calming.
Really, all of the late legend’s releases should make this list.
Rick Springfield was such a dreamboat, which only made his catchy tunes even more addicting.
We’re not sure if we’re ready to rule the world, but are happy to listen to an upbeat song by Tears for Fears on repeat.
For some reason, we listen to this most often in the morning. Must be the title!
Megan Stein is the executive editor for The Pioneer Woman, and oversees entertainment, features, and news for the website. Whether it's catching up on the latest true crime podcast, or re-watching the best '80s movies for the zillionth time, she's always here to talk about anything and everything relating to pop culture.
The Best Country Songs Ever, Picked by the Opry
20 Kid-Friendly Thanksgiving Movies to Watch
When Does 'Landman' Season 2 Debut on Paramount+?
The 'Old Farmer's Almanac' Predicts a Snowy Winter
