Crafting a playlist that encapsulates the essence of the 1980s—a decade celebrated for its bold fashion, vibrant culture, and, most notably, its distinctive music—is an exhilarating venture. The ’80s were a transformative period in music history, marked by the rise of synthwave and pop, genres that continue to influence contemporary artists and enthrall new generations of listeners. Here, I present a carefully curated selection of 20 songs that epitomize the electrifying synergy of 80s synthwave and pop. This vibrant mix not only defined the decade but also laid the groundwork for future musical innovations.

80s Synthwave and Pop Playlist

1. “Take On Me” – a-ha: An emblematic track of the era, its groundbreaking music video and unforgettable synth riff encapsulate the quintessential ’80s vibe.
2. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Eurythmics: A synth-pop masterpiece, this song’s iconic bassline and powerful vocals epitomize the genre’s appeal.
3. “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell: Originally a soul track, Soft Cell’s synth-driven rendition became one of the decade’s most recognizable anthems.
4. “Don’t You Want Me” – The Human League: A staple of ’80s pop, this track’s narrative storytelling and catchy chorus captured the hearts of listeners worldwide.
5. “Blue Monday” – New Order: Known as the best-selling 12-inch single of all time, its pioneering use of synthesizers and sequencers marked a pivotal moment in dance music.
6. “Cars” – Gary Numan: This song’s minimalistic electronic arrangement and futuristic sound were ahead of its time, influencing countless artists.
7. “Just Can’t Get Enough” – Depeche Mode: A buoyant track that showcases the band’s early synth-pop sound, brimming with catchy hooks and melodic synths.
8. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” – Tears for Fears: A timeless anthem with lush synthesizers and an unforgettable chorus, capturing the spirit of the decade.
9. “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” – Kate Bush: A pioneering track blending emotive lyrics with innovative synth textures, showcasing Bush’s unique artistry.
10. “Jump” – Van Halen: A rock band’s foray into synthesizers, this track features one of the most memorable synth intros in music history.
11. “Africa” – Toto: With its rich harmony, distinctive melody, and synth sounds, this song remains a beloved classic.
12. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper: An empowering anthem that combines pop hooks with synth-driven arrangements, defining an era of music.
13. “Relax” – Frankie Goes to Hollywood: A controversial and bold track, its innovative production and synthesizer work made it a dance floor staple.
14. “West End Girls” – Pet Shop Boys: A song that masterfully blends hip-hop beats with synth-pop elements, capturing the urban feel of the ’80s.
15. “The Safety Dance” – Men Without Hats: An infectious track with a memorable synth line and catchy chorus, embodying the carefree spirit of the decade.
16. “A Little Respect” – Erasure: A vibrant synth-pop anthem with heartfelt lyrics and dynamic production, showcasing the duo’s musical prowess.
17. “Dancing in the Dark” – Bruce Springsteen: While known for his rock roots, this track’s synthesizer arrangement demonstrates the Boss’s versatility and the era’s influence.
18. “Video Killed the Radio Star” – The Buggles: Recognized as the first video ever played on MTV, its commentary on technological change is wrapped in catchy synth-pop packaging.
19. “If You Leave” – Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD): A poignant synth-pop ballad featured in the iconic movie “Pretty in Pink,” encapsulating the sound and sentiment of the era.
20. “Never Gonna Give You Up” – Rick Astley: A late ’80s hit that combines a deep, soulful voice with upbeat synth arrangements, enduring as a cultural touchstone.

Playlist Curation Process

Curating a playlist that encapsulates the vibrant essence of the 1980s, particularly its synthwave and pop anthems, involved a meticulous selection process designed to immerse listeners in the decade’s sonic landscape. Our criteria for selecting songs were multifaceted, focusing on lyrical content, melody, beat, and the significance of the artists themselves, ensuring each track not only stood out individually but also contributed to the overarching narrative of the playlist.

Selection Criteria:

• Lyrical Content: We sought out songs that resonated with the themes of love, freedom, technology, and societal change—core aspects of the ’80s cultural ethos. The lyrics had to evoke the emotions, aspirations, and challenges of the era, offering listeners a glimpse into the decade’s collective consciousness.
• Melody and Beat: The melody and beat were critical in capturing the quintessential sound of the ’80s. We prioritized tracks with iconic synth riffs, infectious hooks, and dynamic rhythms that defined synthwave and pop music. These elements were essential in recreating the atmospheric and emotional depth of the decade.
• Artist Significance: The artists included in this playlist were chosen for their impact on the ’80s music scene and their enduring influence on future generations. From pioneers of synthwave to pop icons, each artist contributed to the sonic revolution of the decade, leaving a lasting legacy.

The Playlist

1. “Take On Me” – a-ha

Commentary: This track is a quintessential example of the ’80s synth-pop revolution. Its innovative rotoscope animation music video was groundbreaking, embedding the song in popular culture. The high-pitched vocal line and synthesizer riff are instantly recognizable, making it a timeless classic.

Listening Experience: As the synth riff unfolds, you might feel a surge of exhilaration, picturing yourself in a monochrome comic book world, embarking on an adventure of love and resilience.

2. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Eurythmics

Commentary: A synth-pop anthem that delves into the pursuit of ambition and the search for fulfillment. Annie Lennox’s androgynous style and powerful voice, coupled with the song’s haunting melody, made it a cultural icon of the era.

Listening Experience: The repetitive synth line induces a trance-like state, urging you to contemplate your desires and the lengths you’d go to achieve them.

3. “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell

Commentary: This song’s transformation from a 1960s soul track to an ’80s synth-pop hit exemplifies the era’s innovative spirit. Its themes of love gone wrong and the unforgettable synth hook captured the hearts of listeners worldwide.

Listening Experience: The stark, pulsating beats might evoke feelings of longing and heartache, as if you’re navigating the complexities of an unyielding love.

4. “Don’t You Want Me” – The Human League

Commentary: A narrative of love and power dynamics, this track showcases the Human League’s pioneering use of synthesizers in pop music. Its call-and-response vocals and catchy melody made it a defining anthem of the decade.

Listening Experience: The song’s vibrant synth layers and compelling storyline might transport you to a neon-lit dancefloor, caught in a tale of romantic ambition and equality.

5. “Blue Monday” – New Order

Commentary: Known for its influence on dance music, “Blue Monday” combines electronic beats with a post-punk aesthetic. Its innovative use of drum machines and sequencers marked a significant moment in music production.

Listening Experience: The driving beats and synth bassline could make you feel as if you’re part of an endless, euphoric night, embodying the spirit of the ’80s club scene.

6. “Cars” – Gary Numan

Commentary: A pioneer of electronic music, Gary Numan’s “Cars” uses minimalistic instrumentation to convey a sense of isolation amidst technological advancement. The song’s futuristic sound influenced the direction of synth-pop and new wave music.

Listening Experience: The mechanical rhythms and synthesized melodies might evoke visions of cruising through a dystopian landscape, contemplating the relationship between man and machine.

7. “Just Can’t Get Enough” – Depeche Mode

Commentary: This upbeat track, with its infectious melody and cheerful synths, highlights Depeche Mode’s early pop sensibilities before their later, darker themes. It’s a testament to the joyous side of ’80s synth-pop.

Listening Experience: Its catchy chorus and bouncy rhythm could fill you with an irrepressible joy, reminiscent of youthful exuberance and endless nights of dancing.

8. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” – Tears for Fears

Commentary: With its sweeping synths and thoughtful lyrics about power and control, this song captures the essence of the ’80s zeitgeist. It remains a powerful reflection on ambition and the human condition.

Listening Experience: The expansive soundscapes might inspire feelings of liberation and introspection, driving down an open road with the wind in your hair, contemplating your place in the world.

9. “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” – Kate Bush

Commentary: Kate Bush’s experimental approach to music production shines in this track, blending electronic and traditional instruments to discuss themes of empathy and change. Its haunting melody and lyrical depth showcase Bush’s artistry and innovation.

Listening Experience: The song’s emotive force might make you feel as if you’re scaling personal and spiritual mountains, striving for understanding and transformation.

10. “Jump” – Van Halen

Commentary: A rock band’s successful foray into synthesizers, “Jump” features one of the most iconic synth intros in music history. Its upbeat tempo and Eddie Van Halen’s virtuosic guitar solo bridge the gap between rock and synth-pop.

Listening Experience: The energetic synth riff and soaring guitar solo could lift your spirits, compelling you to jump into action, face challenges head-on, and embrace the joy of living.

11. “Africa” – Toto

Commentary: “Africa” stands as an epic ode to the continent, combining rich harmonies, a memorable melody, and the distinctive use of synthesizers and percussion. Its enduring appeal lies in its lush soundscapes and evocative lyrics, showcasing Toto’s musicianship and the ’80s penchant for musical experimentation.

Listening Experience: The song’s sweeping chorus and warm rhythms might transport you to rain-soaked savannas, sparking a sense of wanderlust and connection to distant lands and dreams.

12. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper

Commentary: This anthem of female empowerment and liberation became a defining track of the ’80s, thanks to Cyndi Lauper’s exuberant performance and vibrant personality. It’s a celebration of joy, independence, and the right to express oneself freely.

Listening Experience: The playful synths and Lauper’s infectious energy could make you feel as though you’re in the midst of a carefree dance party, embracing the moment and the joy of living.

13. “Relax” – Frankie Goes to Hollywood

Commentary: With its provocative lyrics and pulsating beat, “Relax” pushed the boundaries of pop music and censorship, becoming one of the most controversial and popular tracks of the decade. Its boldness in both content and sound captures the rebellious spirit of the ’80s music scene.

Listening Experience: The driving beat and suggestive lyrics might evoke a sense of daring and liberation, as if you’re exploring the edge of ’80s nightlife and cultural taboos.

14. “West End Girls” – Pet Shop Boys

Commentary: A commentary on class inequality and urban life, “West End Girls” combines the Pet Shop Boys’ signature synth-pop sound with elements of hip-hop and spoken word, creating a moody, atmospheric track that’s both reflective and catchy.

Listening Experience: The song’s brooding beats and narrative storytelling might immerse you in a cinematic journey through London’s contrasting landscapes, contemplating life’s complexities.

15. “The Safety Dance” – Men Without Hats

Commentary: This quirky, synth-driven track became an unlikely anthem for freedom of expression and non-conformity, accompanied by a medieval-themed music video that further cemented its place in pop culture. Its catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm encapsulate the fun and eccentricity of ’80s music.

Listening Experience: The song’s infectious beat and whimsical lyrics could inspire a joyful rebellion against conformity, dancing through life with a sense of whimsy and independence.

16. “A Little Respect” – Erasure

Commentary: Combining vibrant synth-pop with heartfelt lyrics, “A Little Respect” is a plea for compassion and understanding in relationships. Erasure’s energetic delivery and catchy melodies made it a standout track of the late ’80s, resonating with audiences across the globe.

Listening Experience: The uplifting synths and emotive vocals might fill you with hope and empathy, singing along to the chorus with a renewed belief in love and mutual respect.

17. “Dancing in the Dark” – Bruce Springsteen

Commentary: A departure from Springsteen’s rock roots, this track incorporates synthesizers to tell a story of restlessness and desire for change. It’s a testament to the Boss’s storytelling prowess and his ability to evolve with the musical landscape.

Listening Experience: The song’s rhythmic beat and introspective lyrics might evoke a sense of yearning and introspection, dancing alone in the dark while dreaming of a brighter tomorrow.

18. “Video Killed the Radio Star” – The Buggles

Commentary: As the first video ever played on MTV, this song symbolizes the transition from radio to television in the music industry. Its catchy melody and nostalgic lyrics reflect on the changing landscape of media and music consumption.

Listening Experience: The song’s bouncy rhythm and memorable hook might inspire reflections on technological advancement and nostalgia for a bygone era, as if witnessing the dawn of a new media age.

19. “If You Leave” – Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD)

Commentary: Featured in the iconic movie “Pretty in Pink,” this synth-pop ballad captures the emotional turmoil of love and loss. OMD’s ability to weave deeply felt emotions with electronic instrumentation made it a standout track of the ’80s.

Listening Experience: The soaring synths and melancholic melody might stir feelings of longing and heartbreak, as if you’re part of a poignant, cinematic love story.

20. “Never Gonna Give You Up” – Rick Astley

Commentary: Known for its catchy beat and Astley’s rich, baritone voice, this song transcended its ’80s origins to become a lasting internet meme. Its upbeat melody and optimistic lyrics have made it an enduring symbol of the decade’s pop culture.

Listening Experience: The energetic rhythm and iconic chorus might fill you with a sense of joy and resilience, as if you’re being lifted by a wave of unyielding optimism and camaraderie.

Closing Thoughts

As we reach the end of this sonic journey through the 1980s, it’s impossible not to reflect on the sheer breadth and depth of the musical landscape of the decade. This playlist, a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of synthwave and pop, offers more than just a collection of songs; it provides a gateway to a bygone era that continues to resonate with energy, innovation, and emotional depth. The tracks selected not only stand as pillars of their genres but also as testaments to a time when music was a powerful vehicle for expression, experimentation, and connection.