In honor of ’80s Homecoming week, here is a playlist of some great ’80s songs to spark more excitement this week. Chances are some of these songs are already in your iPod, but if you’re craving more ’80s music, tune into “Radio Gold,” a radio show hosted by Scott Vyverman, who is also a professor in the College of Communication. He’s always playing some fine music and corresponding anecdotes. Tune in Fridays 10 a.m. -11 a.m. to Radio DePaul.A-Ha – “Take On Me”
This Norwegian pop band hit it big thanks to their innovative music video, which earned them a total of 6 MTV Video Music Awards, including Video of the Year.
Michael Jackson – “Beat It”
The King of Pop had the best-selling album of the decade thanks to some groundbreaking work in his music, and this was one of his finest songs. Eddie Van Halen plays the distinctive guitar accompaniment to “Beat It.”
Madonna – “Like a Virgin”
Madonna’s breakthrough single (and scandalous performance at the inaugural MTV Video Music Awards) launched her into superstardom and paved the way for countless artists, including Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Lady Gaga, who owe their careers to this Material Girl.
Beastie Boys – “Fight for Your Right (To Party)”
One of music’s memorable and quotable party anthems was originally written as a parody to party anthems. The irony was lost on listeners. On the upside, it is one of The Rock and Rock Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs That Shaped Rock ‘N’ Roll.
The Cure – “Love Song”
Robert Smith is only credited to be the original “Emo” thanks to his eyeliner, moody lyrics and singing, and simple, all-black wardrobe. But the man and his band know how to create a hauntingly beautiful “Love Song.” Bands like 311 and Death Cab for Cutie have covered it over the years but The Cure have set the bar pretty high.
Simple Minds – “Don’t You Forget About Me”
Better known as the theme to “The Breakfast Club,” this song has been covered numerous times, but the original is still as popular now as it was 25 years ago.
Talking Heads – “Once in a Lifetime”
The song is either about an existential crisis, a person lost or trapped, or a critique of consumerism. (I say all three.) This isn’t just one of the best songs of the ’80s, but one of the best songs in popular music. Don’t take my word for it: In 2000, it was selected by National Public Radio as one of the 100 most important American songs of the 20th century. “You may ask yourself, am I right, or am I wrong?”
Modern English – “I Melt with You”
This charming ballad was featured in the cult comedy “Valley Girl” and has had countless love-struck folks singing it ever since.
R.E.M. – “It’s The End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)”
Recorded during the last days of the Cold War (when nuclear holocaust was a much bigger threat to mankind), R.E.M. knew that despite the chaos (whether it be very ridiculous, over-politicized, or genuinely tragic) in the world, they wanted to assure listeners that everything would somehow be alright.
Janet Jackson – “Nasty”
The King of Pop had some serious competition on the radio, album sales, and MTV airplay from his younger sister Janet, who finally broke free from the Jackson family’s shadow with her dynamic albums “Control” and “Rhythm Nation 1814,” the former letting naysayers know that she’s in control.
David Bowie – “Let’s Dance”
The second this track begins, your head starts moving and soon the rest of your body follows along; this catchy song became one of Bowie’s biggest hits, and for good reason.
Soft Cell – “Tainted Love”
This somber yet seductive song ranked #2 on VH1’s 100 Greatest One-Hit Wonders. Random fact #1: This is actually a cover version of an obscure Motown b-side recorded by Gloria Jones.
Blondie – “Call Me”
Blondie has been entertaining fans on-and-off for nearly four decades, and with songs like “Call Me,” which is a delightful marriage between New Wave and New York-based punk rock, it’s easy to see (and hear) why.
Billy Joel – “Uptown Girl”
Most people, including myself, first think of “Piano Man” when Billy Joel is brought up in conversation. Inspired by Motown and doo-wop, Billy Joel wrote and recorded this song about a “downtown man” in love with an “Uptown Girl” for his girlfriend (and later wife/ex-wife) at the time, supermodel Christie Brinkley.
Bon Jovi – “Livin’ on a Prayer”
Bon Jovi’s signature song has taken a life of its own since it appeared on their album “Slippery When Wet.” Millions of people, many of whom weren’t around during Bon Jovi’s heyday, can now play guitar and sing their hearts out to “Livin’ on a Prayer” thanks to “Rock Band” and “Guitar Hero: World Tour.”
Men Without Hats – “The Safety Dance”
This Canadian band’s worldwide hit became huge thanks to their entertaining music video, in which they dance around medieval England. Years later, shows like “Family Guy” and “Glee” have paid homage to “Safety Dance” with their own smooth dancing moves. Random fact #3: Despite myths that the song is either a protest song or advocates safe sex, the song was actually written as a response to bouncers kicking dancers who were constantly jumping up and down out of clubs.
Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes – “I’ve Had the Time of My Life”
The previous song lost the Oscar to this track, which is best known as the finale song from “Dirty Dancing,” one of the decade’s most memorable movies, thanks to leads Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey’s chemistry as the couple who know how to put on a show.