80s New Wave Dance Hits: Groove To The Best Of The Decade

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80s New Wave Dance Hits: Groove to the Best of the Decade

Hey guys! Get ready to dust off your leg warmers and tease your hair because we're diving headfirst into the totally rad world of 80s new wave dance hits! This era was a melting pot of synths, infectious beats, and unforgettable fashion, and the music scene was absolutely electric. We're talking about a time when MTV ruled the airwaves, and every song seemed destined to become a dance floor anthem. So, let’s jump into a time machine and relive some of the greatest new wave dance tracks that defined a generation.

The Electrifying Rise of New Wave

Before we get down to the nitty-gritty of specific songs, let's set the stage. What exactly is new wave? It emerged as a subgenre of punk rock in the late 1970s, but it quickly evolved into something much more diverse and experimental. While punk was raw, rebellious, and often politically charged, new wave retained some of that rebellious spirit but embraced a wider range of musical influences, including electronic music, funk, and even reggae. This fusion resulted in a sound that was both edgy and accessible, making it perfect for the dance floor.

Key characteristics of new wave music include:

  • Synthesizers: The sound of the 80s was undeniably shaped by the synthesizer. New wave bands embraced this technology, using synths to create everything from catchy melodies to futuristic soundscapes.
  • Catchy Hooks: New wave songs were all about the hooks. These were the earworm melodies that got stuck in your head and made you want to dance.
  • Danceable Rhythms: While not all new wave was dance music, many of the most popular tracks featured infectious rhythms that made it impossible to stand still.
  • Artistic Expression: New wave bands often incorporated artistic and intellectual themes into their music, setting them apart from more mainstream pop acts.
  • Fashion and Visuals: New wave was as much a visual movement as it was a musical one. Bands like Duran Duran and Blondie cultivated distinctive styles that influenced fashion trends around the world.

Iconic 80s New Wave Dance Hits

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Here are some of the most iconic 80s new wave dance hits that are guaranteed to get you moving:

"Blue Monday" - New Order

When you talk about new wave 80s dance hits, you simply cannot skip "Blue Monday" by New Order. Released in 1983, this track is a monumental achievement in electronic music. Its groundbreaking use of synthesizers and drum machines created a sound that was unlike anything else at the time. The song’s minimalist lyrics and cold, detached vocals only added to its mystique. "Blue Monday" wasn't just a dance hit; it was a cultural phenomenon. Its influence can still be heard in electronic music today.

The story behind "Blue Monday" is almost as fascinating as the song itself. New Order, formed from the ashes of the legendary band Joy Division after the tragic death of Ian Curtis, were experimenting with electronic instruments and pushing the boundaries of what was considered pop music. The song's complex production and lengthy running time (over seven minutes!) made it a risky proposition for radio play, but its sheer innovation and irresistible beat propelled it to the top of the charts. Fun fact: the elaborate packaging for the original 12-inch single was so expensive to produce that the band actually lost money on every copy sold!

"Don't You Want Me" - The Human League

"Don't You Want Me" by The Human League is another essential track in the 80s new wave dance canon. Released in 1981, this song is a perfect example of new wave's ability to blend catchy melodies with sophisticated electronic arrangements. The song's unique structure, featuring dueling vocals between Philip Oakey and Susan Ann Sulley, creates a compelling narrative that draws the listener in. The music video, which was one of the first to embrace a cinematic style, helped to propel the song to international stardom.

The Human League had already been experimenting with synthesizers and electronic sounds for several years before "Don't You Want Me," but this song marked a major turning point in their career. Its commercial success helped to solidify new wave's place in the mainstream and paved the way for other synth-pop acts to follow. The song's themes of love, regret, and ambition resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic that continues to be played at parties and clubs today. The song's success was a surprise to the band, who initially considered it to be one of the weaker tracks on their album Dare!.

"Just Can't Get Enough" - Depeche Mode

If you're looking for pure, unadulterated 80s new wave dance energy, look no further than "Just Can't Get Enough" by Depeche Mode. This 1981 hit is an irresistible explosion of synths and infectious rhythms. It's a song that makes you want to jump up and down and sing along at the top of your lungs. "Just Can't Get Enough" was one of Depeche Mode's early hits, and it helped to establish them as one of the leading forces in the synth-pop movement.

What makes "Just Can't Get Enough" so special is its simplicity. Unlike some of Depeche Mode's later, more complex work, this song is all about pure, unadulterated fun. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, but they perfectly capture the feeling of being completely infatuated with someone. The music video, which features the band members goofing around and having a blast, perfectly captures the song's carefree spirit. It’s a perfect song for any 80s-themed party.

"Take on Me" - a-ha

"Take on Me" by a-ha is not only one of the most recognizable 80s new wave dance hits, but it's also one of the most iconic music videos of all time. Released in 1985, this song's distinctive synth melody and Morten Harket's soaring vocals made it an instant classic. The innovative music video, which combined live-action footage with rotoscoped animation, helped to propel the song to the top of the charts around the world.

"Take on Me" was a-ha's breakthrough hit, and it helped to establish them as one of the leading bands of the 80s. The song's success was due in large part to its innovative music video, which was directed by Steve Barron. The video took months to create and cost a fortune, but it was worth it. It won numerous awards and helped to make a-ha a household name. The song is an example of blending catchy hooks with artistic visuals. It's a song that continues to be loved and celebrated today.

"Walking on Sunshine" - Katrina & The Waves

For a dose of pure, unadulterated joy, you can't beat "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina & The Waves. This 1985 hit is an explosion of positivity, with its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Katrina Leskanich's infectious vocals. It's a song that makes you want to dance, sing, and smile all at the same time. “Walking on Sunshine” stands out as a vibrant and energetic 80s new wave dance hit.

"Walking on Sunshine" was Katrina & The Waves' biggest hit, and it remains one of the most popular feel-good songs of all time. The song's simple message of happiness and optimism has resonated with audiences around the world. It's been featured in countless movies, television shows, and commercials, and it continues to be played at parties and events of all kinds. The song is a testament to the power of positive music and its ability to lift our spirits and make us feel good.

More 80s New Wave Dance Gems

Okay, guys, so the list above? Just a tiny scratch on the surface! The 80s were overflowing with awesome new wave dance hits. Here are a few more that deserve a spin:

  • "Tainted Love" - Soft Cell: A synth-pop masterpiece with a dark and brooding edge.
  • "Our House" - Madness: A ska-infused singalong that's impossible not to love.
  • "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" - Eurythmics: An atmospheric and unforgettable synth anthem.
  • "Whip It" - Devo: A quirky and innovative track with a message about conformity.
  • "Turning Japanese" - The Vapors: A controversial but undeniably catchy new wave hit.

The Legacy of 80s New Wave Dance Hits

The 80s new wave dance hits left an indelible mark on music and culture. These songs not only defined a generation but also paved the way for future generations of artists. The influence of new wave can be heard in a wide range of genres, from electronic dance music to indie rock. The spirit of innovation and experimentation that characterized the new wave movement continues to inspire musicians today.

Here's why 80s new wave dance hits still matter:

  • They're Timeless: Despite being products of their time, these songs still sound fresh and exciting today.
  • They're Influential: They helped to shape the sound of modern music.
  • They're Fun: They're guaranteed to get you moving and put a smile on your face.
  • They're Nostalgic: They evoke a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time.
  • They're Diverse: They represent a wide range of musical styles and artistic expressions.

Conclusion: Keep on Dancing!

So there you have it, a whirlwind tour of some of the greatest 80s new wave dance hits. These songs are more than just music; they're cultural artifacts that represent a time of innovation, experimentation, and unbridled creativity. So, next time you're looking for a good time, put on some 80s new wave and get ready to dance the night away! And let's be real, these songs are perfect for any occasion – whether you're hitting the club, hosting a party, or just need a little pick-me-up on a gloomy day.

Keep grooving, guys! The 80s will live on forever!