As we travel back to the heart of the 80s, we find ourselves reminiscing on an era that was a melting pot of musical diversity. The year 1986 was a particular highlight, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that defined a generation. From synth-pop anthems to classic rock ballads, this year had it all. Let’s turn up the volume and count down the top 10 songs of 1986 – tracks that continue to resonate through the decades and have our feet tapping even today.
#10. “Invisible Touch” by Genesis
Kicking off our list is the title track from Genesis’s 13th studio album, “Invisible Touch,” which left an indelible mark on the charts. The song captures the heightened synthesis of pop and rock with its catchy chorus and spirited keyboard riff. Phil Collins’s vocal delivery was both energetic and distinctive, helping this track to become a staple on both pop and rock radio stations. This blend of mainstream appeal with the band’s prog-rock roots signified the evolution of the era’s sound—a true 80s classic.
#9. “Addicted to Love” by Robert Palmer
Next up is Robert Palmer’s “Addicted to Love,” a song with an iconic and, at the time, somewhat controversial music video featuring the sharply dressed Palmer with a band of mannequin-like female models. The track’s slick production and driving beat complemented Palmer’s suave vocal style perfectly. The relentless refrain, “Might as well face it, you’re addicted to love,” became an instant catchphrase symbolizing the decade’s decadent and hedonistic lifestyle.
#8. “Walk This Way” by Run-D.M.C. ft. Aerosmith
The groundbreaking collaboration between hip-hop group Run-D.M.C. and rock legends Aerosmith brought “Walk This Way” to new audiences and became an anthem bridging musical styles. This high-energy track is often credited with bringing hip-hop into the mainstream and reviving Aerosmith’s career. Its distinctive guitar riff, coupled with bold raps and Steven Tyler’s inimitable screams, created a hybrid that both rock and rap fans couldn’t get enough of.
#7. “West End Girls” by Pet Shop Boys
“West End Girls,” with its urban storytelling and catchy synth melodies, comes in at number seven. Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, also known as the Pet Shop Boys, created a mood of cool detachment and commentary on class and the pressures of city life. The song’s mesmerizing beat and spoken-word verses set against the melodic chorus showcased the increasing influence of electronic music—cementing the Pet Shop Boys as one of the premier synth-pop duos of the time.
#6. “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin
The haunting love theme from the motion picture “Top Gun,” “Take My Breath Away” made Berlin a household name. This sultry ballad’s emotive lyrics and atmospheric synthesizers create a feeling of romantic longing that perfectly captured the tone of the film’s central love story. Terri Nunn’s vocals glide through the airwaves with a breathy intensity, illustrating the transformative power of love songs in the 80s.
#5. “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi
Few songs can get a stadium of voices singing in unison quite like Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer.” This rock anthem tells the story of Tommy and Gina, a young couple overcoming obstacles, with a fist-pumping chorus that epitomizes the tenacious spirit of the decade. The song’s blend of hard rock and anthem-like hooks helped propel the band into the stratosphere of rock superstardom.
#4. “Dancing on the Ceiling” by Lionel Richie
Lionel Richie’s “Dancing on the Ceiling” brings a touch of joyful exuberance to our list. With its infectious beat and sing-along chorus, the track is a feel-good invitation to let loose and dance away your troubles. Richie’s charismatic delivery radiates warmth, reminding listeners of the power of music to lift spirits—a message that echoes through the decades.
#3. “Sledgehammer” by Peter Gabriel
“Sledgehammer” is a celebrated hit from Peter Gabriel’s self-titled album, notable for its innovative stop-motion music video as well as Gabriel’s unique take on blue-eyed soul. The song’s funky horns and danceable groove, combined with Gabriel’s impassioned vocals, make for an earworm that is still hailed for its creativity. The video’s visual effects, which earned a record number of MTV Video Music Awards, played a major role in making “Sledgehammer” a song that defined the year and the decade.
#2. “Papa Don’t Preach” by Madonna
At number two, “Papa Don’t Preach” finds Madonna in one of her many chameleonic phases, owning the charts and stirring up controversy. The song juxtaposes a serious subject matter—the story of a young woman declaring her intention to keep her baby—against a danceable pop melody. It was a bold move for Madonna, both artistically and socially, as the song sparked dialogue on teen pregnancy and personal choice. With “Papa Don’t Preach,” Madonna continued to solidify her reputation as a pop icon and trailblazer.
#1. “When Doves Cry” by Prince
Topping our list is Prince’s revolutionary hit “When Doves Cry,” a genre-blurring masterpiece from his album and film “Purple Rain.” Prince’s spellbinding falsetto and innovative omission of a bassline result in a composition that’s as haunting as it is beautiful. The heartfelt lament on love and pain showcased Prince’s exceptional talent as a songwriter and musical genius. “When Doves Cry” stands as a testament to Prince’s artistry and the enduring appeal of his music.
As we wrap up our journey through the top 10 songs of 1986, it’s clear that this year was brimming with music that resonated deeply and still influences artists today. The tapestry of sounds ranging from the innovations of synth-pop to the hearty roots of rock and soul remains vibrant, a testament to the creative vitality of the era. These songs not only defined 1986 but continue to move audiences around the globe, proving that great music truly is timeless.