The 80s, a decade which popularised portable music and questionable hairstyles whilst introducing the wonders of the synthesizer to the mainstream. There are few periods in history which contain such a huge range of genre-defining music, from the emergence of modern rock to the legendary voice of Michael Jackson.
A hit-defining decade
The 1980s was a defining decade for music, with groundbreaking new genres and artists surfacing along with a surge of technological advancement that changed the way we listen to music. From the emergence of punk and hip-hop to the popularisation of electronic music, this decade saw a range of new artists that would go on to shape the sound of music for years to come.
The 80s also saw the birth of the MTV era, with the launch of the music video channel in 1981. Music videos quickly became a staple of the decade, and they helped to shape the way we listen to, and think about, music. Video brought a new element to popular music and helped to make it even more accessible to the masses playing in living rooms around the world.
Planning your wedding with an 80s twist
Planning a wedding can be stressful and overwhelming, but one of the most enjoyable parts of the entire process is creating the perfect playlist for your special day. A wedding DJ can help make the process easier by providing the right selection of songs to fit the atmosphere and get your guests moving. They can also help you choose the best 80s songs to match your desired mood and the overall theme of your wedding. With the right DJ, you’re sure to have a night to remember.
If you’re looking for a nostalgic and classic twist to your wedding playlist, consider including some of the best songs from the 80s. From timeless classics to memorable one-hit wonders, we have compiled a list of the perfect songs for your wedding playlist with songs from the 80s!
The top 10 80’s songs for your wedding playlist
1.
Billie Jean – Michael Jackson
Billie Jean is one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic songs and easily takes the top spot for our 80’s playlist. The lyrics of the song tell a story about a woman who claims the singer is the father of her unborn child. Jackson's performance of the song on the television show “Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever”, in which he debuted his iconic moonwalk dance, is cited as one of the most famous musical performances of all time. A special song which deserves a special place at your wedding.
Best Verse:
“Billie Jean is not my lover. She’s just a girl who claims that I am the one. But the kid is not my son. She says I am the one, but the kid is not my son.”
Did you know? Billie Jean doesn’t refer to any single person, but rather an accumulation of events where “groupies” often harassed Michael and his brothers. These groupies, along with one particular fan who took things much further, often claimed to be the mother of their children.
Chart success: The song reached number one for three weeks and spent a total of 34 weeks in the chart. It quickly rose through the ranks again after his death. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Michael-Jackson/Billie-Jean-934]
2.
Africa – Toto
"Africa" by Toto is an iconic song that has become an enduring classic and is often one that wedding guests love to sing along to. The song is considered a mid-tempo pop-rock song featuring a catchy chorus and, of course, a memorable guitar solo. The lyrics express a longing for a better way of life and speak to a feeling of homesickness and a deep longing to reconnect with a place of origin. It is a powerful reminder of the power of music to transport us to another place and to bring us closer together.
Best Verse:
“It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you. There’s nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do. I bless the rains down in Africa. Gonna take some time to do the things we never had.”
Did you know? David Paich wrote the song having never set foot in Africa, it was instead inspired by a late-night documentary about Africa which particularly touched him.
Chart success: Reaching a high of number six for one week, the song only lasted six weeks in the charts. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Toto/Africa-888]
3.
Wake Me Up before you Go-Go – Wham!
This iconic song by Wham is an upbeat pop tune with a catchy beat and a chorus which begs for a sing-along. The song's lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, as they tell the story of a young couple in love who wants to savour every moment together. The song's infectious melody and joyful groove make it a perfect accompaniment for having a good time on the dancefloor of your wedding. With its upbeat energy and fun-loving attitude, it's no surprise that "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" continues to be a favourite to this day and is prime for your playlist!
Best Verse:
“You put the boom-boom into my heart (ooh-ooh). You send my soul sky-high. When your lovin› starts. Jitterbug into my brain (yeah-yeah). Goes a bang-bang-bang. ‹Til my feet do the same”
Did you know? The song was inspired by a note written by bandmate Andrew Ridgeley for his parents which read “Wake me up up before you go go” - the second “go” only being added after he realised he wrote “up” twice.
Chart success: Peaked at number two for two weeks and spent 15 weeks in the charts. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Wham!/Wake-Me-Up-Before-You-Go-Go-1116]
4.
Sweet Dreams – Eurythmics
The track's lyrics touch on the power of dreams, and how they can provide strength and hope in the face of adversity. The dreamy, ethereal sound of the song helped make it a timeless anthem, and its influence can still be heard across multiple musical genres. Perhaps a song that will encourage some more unique dances, it made our list due to its continued influence today.
Best Verse:
“Sweet dreams are made of this. Who am I to disagree. I travel the world and the seven seas. Everybody’s looking for something.”
Did you know? Part of the song was recorded in a tiny home studio above a picture framing shop. The studio consisted of various electronic music machines, including a rare drum computer, which was financed by a personal bank loan taken out by Lennox and Stewart.
Chart success: Reached a high of number eight for only a week spending a total of five weeks in the charts. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Eurythmics/Sweet-Dreams-(Are-Made-Of-This)-951]
5.
Summer of 69 – Bryan Adams
The iconic song "Summer of 69" by Bryan Adams is a rock anthem that celebrates the joys of summer and the freedom of youth. Filled with nostalgia, Adams' lyrics evoke the spirit of summertime and the memories of friends and summer love. The perfect song to punch your fist in the air whilst holding a beer with your other. This song is sure to get those old rockers up and dancing.
Best Verse:
“Oh, when I look back now. That summer seemed to last forever. And if I had the choice. Yeah, I’d always wanna be there. Those were the best days of my life.”
Did you know? This song has nothing to do with the summer of 1969 - Bryan Adams would have been only nine years old - but has a far more hidden meaning to his teenage escapades.
Chart success: Shamefully, this song never even reached the charts. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Bryan-Adams/Summer-Of-’69-7137]
6.
I Want to Break Free – Queen
I Want to Break Free by Queen is an upbeat, empowering anthem that speaks to the liberation of the human spirit. With its soulful electric guitar riffs, passionate vocals, and intense drum beat, the song's message is an uplifting call for freedom and independence. Queen's lyrics speak to the desire to break away from the chains of conformity and to embrace the power of individuality and self-expression. This song has been a source of inspiration for many - from those seeking to break free from oppressive systems to those striving for a brighter future. It deserves a place on any wedding playlist for being such an iconic song.
Best Verse:
“I want to break free, I want to break free.I want to break free from your lies. You’re so self-satisfied I don’t need you. I’ve got to break free. God knows, God knows I want to break free.”
Did you know? The video stars the members of Queen dressed in drag as a parody of the popular UK soap Coronation Street. Whilst enjoyed by many, the video was banned (or at least severely limited) by MTV in the US as it was seen as a “coming out” video. The video has since become an anthem and symbol against political oppression
Chart success: Hit a high of number two for one week and spent a total of 16 weeks in the charts. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Queen/I-Want-To-Break-Free-1106]
7.
Like a Virgin – Madonna
Like a Virgin, released in 1984, is a timeless classic by Madonna. The song is about a girl who has just gone through a heartbreak and is starting a new relationship. The lyrics portray a woman's journey in re-discovering her self-confidence and sexuality. The song is accompanied by a driving beat and our favourite synthesizers which makes it an exciting and energetic song to dance along with. Its message of empowerment and self-love is still relevant to this day, making it a classic and timeless song.
Best Verse:
“Like a virgin. Touched for the very first time. Like a virgin. When your heart beats. Next to mine.”
Did you know? At the 1984 MTC Video Music awards Madonna performed the song in a wedding dress whilst writing around the stage suggestively. The performance was loved by many and helped propel the song's success.
Chart success: Reached a high of number nine for one week and was in the charts for a total of 13 weeks. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Madonna/Like-A-Virgin-1189]
8.
Push It – Salt N Pepa
Push It by Salt N Pepa is an iconic hip-hop classic that has been sampled and remixed countless times since its initial release in 1986. The song is an ode to female empowerment and self-confidence, encouraging women to take control of their lives in any way they can. It features a catchy beat, playful lyrics, and an infectious melody that has stood the test of time. Salt N Pepa's spirit and energy shine through in this classic track, making it easy to dance along to for all generations.
Best Verse:
“Ooh, baby, baby, baby, baby. Ooh, baby, baby, ba-baby, baby. Get up on this”
Did you know? When performing this song live, police at a local venue mistook the lyrics for something a little ruder. The police waited around to arrest the pair who had to show the written lyrics to prove otherwise.
Chart success: Hitting a high of number six for one week it spent nine weeks in the charts. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Salt-N-Pepa/Push-It-1833]
9.
Livin On A Prayer – Bon Jovi
The song "Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi is an anthem for anyone struggling to make it through life. It speaks to the power of believing in yourself, remaining resilient and never giving up. The lyrics are hopeful and encouraging, reminding us that we all have something to fight for. The melody instantly lifts the mood and gets the blood pumping ensuring your guests will sing their hearts out. It’s a timeless classic that is sure to get anyone singing and dancing, no matter the situation.
Best Verse:
“Woah, we’re half way there. Woah, livin› on a prayer. Take my hand, we’ll make it I swear. Woah, livin› on a prayer.”
Did you know? Jon Bon Jovi disliked the original recording of the song, however, lead guitarist Richie Sambora convinced him to re-record the song. The original recording was later released as a hidden track on 100,000,000 Bon Jovi Fans Can't Be Wrong.
Chart success: Only reaching number 12 for one week it spent 12 weeks in the charts. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Bon-Jovi/Livin›-On-A-Prayer-1551]
10.
Time Of My Life – Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes (Dirty Dancing)
An iconic duet that has stood the test of time, it would be criminal to leave this off an 80s playlist. Featured in the film Dirty Dancing, it became an instant classic and a favourite for weddings and special occasions alike. The song is about a couple saying goodbye to their old life as they look forward to an exciting new beginning. Its powerful lyrics and soulful melody make this classic song one which gets other couples on the dance floor.
Best Verse:
“I’ve had the time of my life. No, I never felt this way before. Yes, I swear, it’s the truth. And I owe it all to you.”
Did you know? The lyricist, Franke Previte, originally declined the offer to write songs for Dirty Dancing due to his belief it was an “adult movie” and his desire to get a recording contract elsewhere.
Chart success: Peaked at number five for one week and spent a total of 15 weeks in the charts. [Source: http://swisscharts.com/song/Bill-Medley-&-Jennifer-Warnes/(I’ve-Had)-The-Time-Of-My-Life-1718]
Have you got wedding playlist fatigue?
With so much to plan for your special day, spending time picking out the perfect songs for your guestlist can seem a daunting task. But wait, there’s an easier way! By hiring your very own professional wedding DJ.
A professional wedding DJ will put all their skills to use, not only compiling the ultimate wedding playlist but adapting it as the night goes on. Reading the room is an important skill to ensure your guests remain on the dance floor and have the night of their lives.
Are you interested in hiring a professional wedding DJ that has the skills for a successful and stress-free night? With years of professional experience, feedback that blows the competition away and a fully inclusive package, get in touch with The Wedding Crasher today.
The 80’s delivered
Looking back at 80’s music brings a sense of nostalgia that many other decades can’t provide. The 1980s were a time of vibrant and eclectic music that still resonates with both young and old today. From classic rock to new wave and synth-pop sounds, the music of the '80s provides the perfect soundtrack for any wedding celebration. Whether you're looking to evoke that nostalgia, create a unique atmosphere, or just want to get your guests on the dance floor, the hits of the '80s provide a perfect choice for your special day.
