11 Love Songs From the 80s.: 80s Love Beats

Hey there, fellow music lovers! It’s TBone here, from Level Tunes, where our beats never stop.

As a DJ and an unapologetic fan of all things musical, I’ve got something special for you today.

Why am I talking about love songs from the 80s, you ask? Well, there’s something timeless and magical about the 80s era that always gets me. The synthesizers, the soulful lyrics, and those rhythms that you just can’t forget.

So, I’ve decided to dive into my collection and pick out 11 love songs from the 80s that still make our hearts skip a beat.

Whether you’re a die-hard romantic or just love a good throwback, these tracks are guaranteed to take you on a nostalgic journey of love and melody. Let’s rewind to a time when love was in the airwaves and music was the language of the heart. Get ready to feel the love, 80s style!

Here are the love songs From the 80s that you can check out:

List Of Love Songs From the 80s

Love songs from the 80s in a list format:

“Endless Love” by Lionel Richie & Diana Ross (1981, Motown Records)

From the album “Endless Love: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack,” this duet between Lionel Richie and Diana Ross is the epitome of 80s love songs. Released in 1981 under Motown Records, “Endless Love” showcases the powerful and emotive vocals of both Richie and Ross. The song became a massive hit, symbolizing eternal love. I chose this song for its timeless melody and the way it beautifully captures the essence of deep, enduring love. The orchestration, coupled with the soul-stirring lyrics, makes it a classic for romantic evenings.

“Careless Whisper” by George Michael (1984, Columbia/Epic Records)

George Michael’s “Careless Whisper,” from the 1984 album “Make It Big” by Wham!, is iconic with its sultry saxophone intro and Michael’s poignant vocals. Released under Columbia/Epic Records, this song talks about regret and lost love, a theme that resonates with many. The reason for picking this song is its haunting melody and the way it conveys the complexity of relationships. It’s a reminder that love isn’t always simple, but it’s always memorable.

“Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper (1983, Epic Records)

Featured on Cyndi Lauper’s album “She’s So Unusual” (1983), “Time After Time” is a tender ballad that speaks to the heart. Released by Epic Records, this song has become a love anthem for its honest lyrics and Lauper’s expressive voice. I included it for its relatable message about standing by your loved one through thick and thin. It’s a song that reassures you that love can endure the test of time.

“I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner (1984, Atlantic Records)

This power ballad from Foreigner’s 1984 album “Agent Provocateur” is one of the defining love songs of the 80s. Released under Atlantic Records, it combines a gospel choir’s soulful backing with Lou Gramm’s intense vocals. I chose this song for its epic feel and its exploration of the longing and vulnerability in love. It’s a song that seeks to understand the depths of love, something we all yearn for.

“With or Without You” by U2 (1987, Island Records)

From U2’s legendary album “The Joshua Tree,” released in 1987, “With or Without You” is a song that epitomizes emotional struggle in love. Bono’s evocative voice, backed by the band’s dynamic sound, creates a powerful experience. Released by Island Records, this song is chosen for its intense portrayal of the complexities of love and attachment. It’s a song that speaks to the soul about the pain and pleasure of love.

“Eternal Flame” by The Bangles (1988, Columbia Records)

Featured in The Bangles’ album “Everything” in 1988 and released under Columbia Records, “Eternal Flame” is a song about everlasting love. Susanna Hoffs’ captivating vocals, along with the gentle melody, create a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. I picked this song for its ethereal quality and the way it captures the idea of a love that burns forever.

“Heaven” by Bryan Adams (1984, A&M Records)

“Heaven” from Bryan Adams’s 1984 album “Reckless,” released by A&M Records, is a rock ballad that has stood the test of time. Adams’s heartfelt vocals and the song’s moving lyrics make it a favorite for lovers everywhere. I chose “Heaven” for its raw emotional power and the way it beautifully illustrates the feeling of finding paradise with your loved one.

“Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler (1983, Columbia Records)

This epic ballad from Bonnie Tyler’s album “Faster Than the Speed of Night” (1983) is a masterpiece of emotional intensity. Released by Columbia Records, Tyler’s powerful voice, coupled with Jim Steinman’s grandiose production, creates a dramatic love song. It’s chosen for its passionate delivery and the way it captures the turmoil and intensity of love.

“Hello” by Lionel Richie (1983, Motown Records)

Another gem from Lionel Richie, “Hello,” from his 1983 album “Can’t Slow Down” released under Motown Records, is a heartfelt ballad that speaks of longing and love. Richie’s soothing voice and the song’s simple, yet powerful lyrics, make it a classic. I included it for its tender portrayal of love and the yearning to connect with someone special.

“The Power of Love” by Jennifer Rush (1985, CBS Records)

Featured on Jennifer Rush’s self-titled album in 1985 and released by CBS Records, “The Power of Love” is a song that showcases Rush’s dynamic vocal range. This song speaks to the overwhelming strength and emotion that love can bring. I selected this song for its inspiring message and the way it exemplifies love’s transformative power.

“True” by Spandau Ballet (1983, Chrysalis Records)

From Spandau Ballet’s 1983 album “True,” released under Chrysalis Records, this song is a smooth, soulful ballad that has become a symbol of romantic 80s pop. The song’s soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics, sung by Tony Hadley, make it timeless. “True” is chosen for its classic feel and the way it epitomizes the romantic spirit of the 80s.

Fun Facts: Love Songs From the 80s

“Endless Love” by Lionel Richie & Diana Ross

• Originally a Movie Soundtrack: “Endless Love” was initially composed for the film of the same name. Its cinematic origin adds to the emotional and dramatic depth of the song.
• Record-Breaking Success: The song was a massive commercial success, staying at the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks. It became one of the biggest-selling duets of all time.
• Award Nominations: “Endless Love” was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song and also garnered a Golden Globe nomination.

“Careless Whisper” by George Michael

• Teenage Composition: George Michael was only 17 years old when he composed “Careless Whisper,” showcasing his early talent.
• Iconic Saxophone Riff: The song’s saxophone intro is one of the most recognizable and iconic sax riffs in popular music history, played by session musician Steve Gregory.
• Global Hit: It reached number one in nearly 25 countries, including the UK and the US, making it one of George Michael’s most successful singles.

“Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper

• Lauper’s First Number One: “Time After Time” was Cyndi Lauper’s first number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
• Inspired by Sci-Fi: The title was inspired by the 1979 science fiction movie ‘Time After Time,’ though the song’s lyrics don’t relate to the film’s content.
• Cover Versions: The song has been covered by over 100 artists, making it one of Lauper’s most covered songs.

“I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner

• Gospel Choir Involvement: The song features the New Jersey Mass Choir, adding a unique gospel flavor that was somewhat unusual for a rock band at the time.
• International Acclaim: It topped the charts in both the UK and the US and remains one of the band’s best-known songs.
• Personal Inspiration: Mick Jones, the songwriter, was inspired by his personal experiences and struggles with relationships while writing the lyrics.

“With or Without You” by U2

• Lengthy Composition Process: The song underwent many changes and rewrites. It almost didn’t make it onto the album “The Joshua Tree” because the band members were having difficulty finalizing the composition.
• Distinctive Bass Line: The song is notable for Adam Clayton’s distinctive bass line, which adds to the haunting quality of the song.
• Chart-Topping Success: It was U2’s first number one hit in the United States and remained on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for three weeks.

“Eternal Flame” by The Bangles

• Inspired by a Real Eternal Flame: The song was inspired by an eternal flame memorial at Elvis Presley’s Graceland. Co-writer Billy Steinberg saw it and thought it was a perfect metaphor for everlasting love.
• Vocals Recorded Barefoot: Susanna Hoffs reportedly recorded her vocals for the song while barefoot and lying on the studio floor, aiming for a more relaxed and intimate vocal performance.
• Global Popularity: The song became a worldwide hit, reaching number one in various countries, including the US, UK, and Australia.

“Heaven” by Bryan Adams

• Written for a Film: Originally written for the soundtrack of the 1983 film “A Night in Heaven,” the song later became a standout track on Adams’ album “Reckless.”
• Live Performance Origins: Bryan Adams first performed “Heaven” live during his concerts before it was officially released, helping to build anticipation and familiarity with the song among his fans.
• Adams’ First Number One Single: “Heaven” was Bryan Adams’ first number one single in the USA and marked the beginning of his rise as a major international artist.

And there you have it, my friends – a journey through the heart of the 80s, where love was not just a feeling but a melody. These timeless tunes remind us that love is eternal, just like the unforgettable beats of the 80s. Keep the love and music alive!

Thanks for reading.

TBone