Trends in music will come and go, but some songs will never get old. Let’s take a look at six of the most timeless songs from the 1980s that will always be good!
1. “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson
This epic 1982 single from Michael Jackson is one of his very best songs. We could have easily put any of MJ’s releases from the 1980s on our list of timeless songs, but we think “Billie Jean” is one of the most enduring pieces of work from the King of Pop. It’s one of the best tracks on Thriller, along with the title track and “Beat It”.
2. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
Even if you’re not a fan of hard rock or Guns N’ Roses, you can’t deny that this 1988 song is one of the band’s most memorable tunes. It was a breakthrough hit for the glam metal outfit, as was the whole of Appetite For Destruction. Axl Rose’s vocals are at their best on this song, and there’s a reason it has since been covered by dozens of big names in music. Sheryl Crow and Taken By Trees are just a couple of examples.
3. “Eye Of The Tiger” by Survivor
This Survivor hit from 1982 was made famous by its feature in Rocky III, and there’s a reason why it has been used in films consistently through the decades. Even the younger generations know the words to this anthemic hard rock tune. “Eye Of The Tiger” is widely considered to be one of the most powerful rock anthems of all time.
4. “With Or Without You” by U2
U2 is far from an underrated band, but this 1987 power ballad is underrated compared to their other, newer works. It’s one of the most timeless songs from the 1980s out there, after all. Complete with sustained guitar riffs and stunning vocals from Bono, few rock ballads have matched the power of this chart-topping hit.
5. “Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi
No matter your age or if you were even alive when Bon Jovi released this song in 1986, you can probably belt that chorus as well as anyone else. This hit glam metal sound is the ultimate jam, and it got a ton of recognition when it was first released. It’s Bon Jovi’s signature song, and it’s historically been a treat to hear live on tour.
6. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
“Fast Car” got some refreshing new attention in 2024 when Tracy Chapman performed it with Luke Combs at the 2024 Grammy Awards. It’s such a timeless folk-rock classic. Released in 1988, “Fast Car” (and its album of the same name) gained critical acclaim almost immediately. Chapman is a master at exploring poverty, queerness, systemic racism, and the struggle of women with a sort of tenderness that can’t be matched.
Photo by Kevin Mazur
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