In my opinion, no decade had more amazing mainstream music than the 80's. The amount of variety and creativity that came from this decade is astounding, starting at the end of the disco era and ending with the foundations of house, hardcore rap and grunge, the era was filled with amazing music.
Countless lists of one-hit-wonders from the 80's have been produced, but many songs often don't get the attention I feel they deserve, so today I'll be taking a look at my top 5 favorite overlooked one-hit-wonders from the 1980's.
#5 One Night In Bangkok - Murray Head
Few songs sound as definitively 80's as this odd, but strangely addictive tune. It has a fantastic chorus, though the verses are all spoken word. Not as rhythmic as hip hop, but still in time with the music.
#4 Breakout - Swing Out Sister
This smooth pop song is simply bright and fun and it always puts me in a better mood when I hear it. I don't think I ever remember hearing it as a kid, so it's appeal isn't based on nostalgia but of its quality.
#3 Don't Wanna Fall In Love - Jane Child
While the single technically didn't hit until 1990, the album it appears on was released in 1989. I remember being a bit freaked out by her spiky hair and nosering-chain thing when I was a kid, but I've always loved the song. It was a big hit at the time, but seems to be largely forgotten today.
#2 If You Leave - OMD
Its a bit hard to call this one overlooked since it appeared on the Pretty In Pink soundtrack, but I can't deny how much I love this song and that it would be much more appreciated than it is.
The bright, new wave synth sound makes this another cheery favorite of mine.
#1 Break My Stride - Matthew Wilder
This song seems to have buried itself into my subconscious, as hearing it brings me back to a specific moment in my childhood playing Donkey Kong Jr. and eating a soft-serve vanilla cone at our small town ice cream shop. I get a strong caribbean vibe from the tune, and it just hits me a the perfect summer song.
What are your favorite 80's one-hit-wonders that tend to get left off best of lists? Let's discuss!
Thanks for reading. As always, upvotes, resteems and comments are appreciated!
Cover Image Source: PublicDomainPictures.net