Top 10 '80s Songs That Are STILL Underrated Classics
#10: “The Whole of the Moon” (1985)
The Waterboys
This Scottish act featured a number of talented musicians, receiving some modest success in the 1980s. The Waterboys created something of an underrated masterpiece with this track. It’s one filled with lively piano, violin, and drums. Without wasting any time, the band jolts you awake with a folk-infused rock tune. “The Whole of the Moon” contains some interstellar lyrics that’ll leave you shaken. The high-quality words take you on a journey, building out a track that’s ultimately timeless. Vocalist Mike Scott gives a spirited performance alongside his bandmates. Through the years, other performers covered the song to help celebrate its greatness.
#9: “Temporary Secretary” (1980)
Paul McCartney
After a successful decade away from the Beatles, Paul McCartney kickstarted the 1980s with a new record. “McCartney II” saw the artist embracing different sounds on tracks like “Temporary Secretary.” It might be the singer’s most daring track since the 1960s. With an electronic beat, the song alters your sense of time and rhythm. This unorthodox tune demands a few listens to fall in love with it. Once you’re acclimated to the man’s strange musical vision, you might just call this one a guilty pleasure. It’s certainly among the more experimental and unforgettable of the man’s solo works.
#8: “Wolves, Lower” (1982)
R.E.M.
On their first EP entitled “Chronic Town,” this alternative band already had a self-assured sound. “Wolves, Lower” is lesser known than “Radio Free Europe,” but it’s equally praiseworthy. The former song includes guitarist Peter Buck’s speedy riffs. Michael Stipe’s voice makes for an indelible part of the group’s success, making this number even more awesome. The contributions from bassist Mike Mills and drummer Bill Berry can’t be understated either. Combining vocals and rock beats, the quartet seem more than ready to conquer an ever-evolving genre in the 1980s. They were already doing amazing work before their classic debut album “Murmur.”
#7: “Private Idaho” (1980)
The B-52’s
From “Rock Lobster” to “Love Shack,” this band helped to usher in an alternative and fun kind of rock. Their second album “Wild Planet” keeps the energy going with some career highlights. “Private Idaho” starts off with Ricky Wilson’s signature guitar, combining with some notable vocal work from Kate Pierson, Cindy Wilson, and Fred Schneider. The incredible collection of musicians and personalities shines through in each passing second. Putting out music that’s completely unique, the group mashes up surfer vibes and inventive lyrics. The B-52’s know how to make you want to hum and dance along here.
#6: “In a Big Country” (1983)
Big Country
Is this one of the best self-titled songs ever? Big Country created a legacy for themselves where you never have to forget their name. Not only that, they crafted a single that’s filled with rock and pop influences. True fans of the era remember it as a top 20 hit with new wave flair. The Scottish group knew how to make an unforgettable song, giving this tune a bouncy energy. “In a Big Country” sends you on a wonderful, musical roadtrip. Transporting listeners to their ideal and dreamlike state, the upbeat track never disappoints. While they might not have the same fame as some of their contemporaries, the band’s work could excite anybody looking for a throwback rocker.
#5: “Life’s What You Make It” (1985)
Talk Talk
In the 1980s, Talk Talk achieved fame for singles like “It’s My Life.” Their eclectic career ranged from new wave to post-rock. On their third album, their sound expanded to tracks such as “Life’s What You Make It.” The song features a piano riff that might catch you off-guard. Built around a solid hook, the group conjures up a rich tapestry of production elements. Singer Mark Hollis uses his singular voice to deliver some effective lyrics. This single from “The Colour of Spring” finds the musicians in between two distinct eras, evolving into more interesting artists at every turn. For those willing to take a deeper dive, the British act has a catalog full of deep cuts and imaginative records.
#4: “Don’t Let’s Start” (1987)
They Might Be Giants
You might know this band for their acclaimed work in the 1980s or their theme song for “Malcolm in the Middle.” Their self-titled debut features all the promise of their later career. “Don’t Let’s Start” is chock full of cool guitar parts, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats. John Flansburgh and John Linnell have an exceptional style that might satisfy any number of alternative rock fans. The rhythm alone could inspire many repeat listens just to appreciate it all. Years before “Birdhouse in Your Soul,” They Might Be Giants proved themselves as unique songwriters and performers.
#3: “The Downtown Lights” (1989)
The Blue Nile
Some people came to know this song after Taylor Swift referenced it. Before the “The Tortured Poets Department” album, you also might’ve heard The Blue Nile as an 80s music fan. The band carries a pop and soul blend that never gets old. Sung with gravitas, the lead singer conjures up memories with his extended notes. Every sound is deliberately paced with some fantastic synths underneath. “The Downtown Lights” creates such a moving and reflective piece. It takes you to another place in your mind, beckoning you to fall deeper into its emotional center. Casting a spell over the listener, this single can’t go wrong in capturing the moments and feelings that make up our complicated lives.
#2: “The Promise” (1987)
When in Rome
Younger fans might remember this one from the end of “Napoleon Dynamite.” It’s certainly one way that the track lived on with listeners. Beyond the occasional needle drop, this majestic number deserves some more love. When in Rome was largely seen as a one-hit wonder in their day. “The Promise” features a pulsating drive and beat underneath compelling vocals. While the band combines their musical talents, they offer up some lyrics for any heartsick listener. It almost seems to be walking the line between camp and sincerity. Like many other 1980s songs, we can wholeheartedly enjoy this one for all of its cheesy charms.
#1: “Dead Man’s Party” (1986)
Oingo Boingo
Before his celebrated work as a composer for Tim Burton and TV shows like “The Simpsons,” Danny Elfman served as the frontman for Oingo Boingo. Their take on new wave and art rock produced a number of worthy songs including “Dead Man’s Party.” Years before his gothic music in “A Nightmare Before Christmas,” Elfman gave the 80s rock genre an artistic boost with this dark edge. It’s a lively song despite the title and lyrics, proving itself as a danceable track all these years later. The vocalist’s sharp and theatrical delivery only makes this hit more special.
Did we forget another underrated classic from the 1980s? Let us know in the comments below.
