Music

Mejores canciones de synth-pop de los 80

Explore an unparalleled selection of synth-pop hits that defined the 1980s. From the iconic electronic rhythms of Depeche Mode and New Order to the catchy hooks of Erasure and The Human League, this list celebrates the innovation and style of an unforgettable musical era. Relive the nostalgia of synthesizers and melodies that shaped a generation, with tracks that remain influential today. Discover timeless gems from artists like Gary Numan and Eurythmics, and vote for your favourites to build the definitive collection of eighties synth-pop music.

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  1. 1

    I Ran (So Far Away) (1982)

    408 Global Votes
    • Became a major commercial success

      (+4)

    This song stands out for its iconic synthesizer riffs and genre-defining production, encapsulating the essence of 1980s synth-pop. Its catchy melody and innovative music video helped establish the sound and aesthetic of new wave during the decade.

  2. 2

    Cars

    23 Global Votes
    • Enduring anthem from the 1980s

      (+3)

    This song is a pivotal milestone in the development of synth-pop, demonstrating how the music of the late 70s and early 80s would differ from everything that came before. Its innovative use of synthesizers and unique atmosphere made it an instant classic that influenced countless artists in the genre.

  3. 3

    Don't You Want Me (1981)

    3 Global Votes
    • Iconic 80s synth-pop

      (+4)

    This song is a cornerstone of 80s synth-pop, notable for its breakup narrative delivered as a duet and its innovative electronic instrumentation. Its pioneering use of synthesizers and a drum machine established it as a genre benchmark, influencing the proliferation of electronic music in contemporary pop.

  4. 4

    Blue Monday (1983)

    2 Global Votes
    • Best-selling 12-inch single of all time

      (+3)

    "Blue Monday" is a landmark 80s synth-pop track, recognized for its innovative sound that fused Eurodisco, synth-pop, and alternative dance. Its 1983 release redefined the future of electronic music and became the best-selling 12-inch single of all time, demonstrating its cultural and commercial impact.

  5. 5

    Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)

    0 Global Votes
    • Redefined 80s synth-pop

      (+3)

    This song is a fundamental pillar of 80s synth-pop, defining the genre's sound and aesthetic with its innovative production and unforgettable synthesizer melody. Its global impact and commercial success established it as a generational anthem, influencing countless artists and leaving a lasting mark on pop culture.

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  7. 6

    Take On Me

    0 Global Votes
    • Defining style of the 1980s

      (+4)

    This song is an iconic example of 80s synth-pop, with its distinctive synthesizer melody and fast-paced rhythm that made it a global hit. Its groundbreaking music video, which combined live-action with rotoscoping animation, set a new standard for music videos and captured the imagination of the MTV audience.

  8. 7

    Just Can't Get Enough

    0 Global Votes
    • Very possibly Depeche Mode's poppiest hit

      (+4)

    This song is a pillar of 80s synth-pop, standing out for its infectious energy and innovative use of synthesizers that defined Depeche Mode's early sound. Its catchy melody and pop structure made it an instant hit, capturing the essence of the genre in its purest and most accessible form.

  9. 8

    Enola Gay

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic synth riff

      (+4)

    This song is a brilliant example of 80s synth-pop innovation, blending a sweet and catchy electronic melody with a profound anti-war message. Its textured and multi-dimensional production makes it a musical piece that resonates with a wide audience, demonstrating the genre's ability to tackle serious themes with an accessible sound.

  10. 9

    Relax

    0 Global Votes
    • Hit on state radio in communist Poland

      (+3)

    This song is a cornerstone of 80s synth-pop, notable for Trevor Horn's innovative production that transformed a funk-based version into an energetic dance track. Its distinctive sound and provocative lyrics captured the essence of the decade, making it a global hit. The cultural impact of "Relax" was immense, challenging conventions and solidifying its status as a generational anthem.

  11. 10

    The Look of Love

    0 Global Votes
    • Features shimmering synths, punchy horns, and tight rhythms

      (+4)

    This ABC song is a synth-pop landmark from the 80s, notable for its innovative fusion of synthesizers with orchestral and horn arrangements. Its ambitious production and clever lyrics about heartbreak and desire cemented its status as an influential classic of the genre.

  12. 11

    Chains of Love

    0 Global Votes
    • Written to be played in queer spaces

      (+1)

    The song features impeccable synth-pop production and an unforgettable melody that encapsulates the essence of the 1980s sound. Its commercial success and enduring popularity demonstrate its cultural impact and musical quality within the genre.

  13. 12

    What Is Love

    0 Global Votes

    The song features groundbreaking synthesizer production and a catchy melody that encapsulate the essence of 1980s synth-pop. Its commercial success, reaching number 2 on the UK charts, demonstrates its impact and popularity at the time, solidifying its place in the genre's history.

  14. 13

    Temptation

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic 80s synth pop hit

      (+2)

    This song is an outstanding example of 80s synth-pop, characterized by its entirely synth-driven instrumentation and powerful pulsating bass. Its emotional intensity and Carol Kenyon's distinctive vocals cemented it as a genre landmark, resonating strongly since its 1983 release.

  15. 14

    Rio

    0 Global Votes
    • Cemented Duran Duran as synth-pop legends

      (+4)

    Duran Duran's song "Rio" is a quintessential example of 80s synth-pop, characterized by its innovative use of synthesizers and its distinctive JUPITER-4 arpeggio. Its production and iconic music video defined the decade's aesthetic and sound, influencing pop culture and electronic music.

Frequently asked questions

This ranking includes iconic synth-pop songs from the 80s, highlighting the genre's influence and popularity during that decade. You'll find classics from artists like Depeche Mode, A Flock of Seagulls, Erasure, and many more.
Each song's position is determined by its relevance within the 80s synth-pop genre, its cultural impact, and general recognition. Both popular hits and influential tracks that defined the decade's sound are considered.
Currently, this ranking is based on an editorial selection. However, we value feedback from our community, and your suggestions may be considered for future editions or thematic lists.
A song is considered 'synth-pop' if it predominantly uses synthesizers and electronic elements to create its sound, combining them with catchy pop structures. The 1980s context is key for this ranking.

How we built this ranking and what to consider when choosing

Our ranking of the best 80s synth-pop songs has been compiled through a careful editorial selection, taking into account the cultural influence and popularity of each track within the genre.

  • The selection focuses on songs released during the 1980s that exemplify the sound and spirit of synth-pop.
  • Artists and tracks that had a significant impact on the music and popular culture of the era are considered, such as Depeche Mode, A Flock of Seagulls, and Human League.
  • Both globally recognized commercial hits and songs that, while perhaps not number ones, are considered fundamental pillars of the genre for their innovation or style are included.
  • The presence of distinctive synth-pop elements, such as the prominent use of synthesizers, drum machines, and catchy melodies, is valued.
  • Songs must have been released between 1980 and 1989, ensuring their strict adherence to the 80s decade.
  • They must exhibit the distinctive sonic characteristics of synth-pop, such as the central use of synthesizers, drum machines, and electronic production.
  • Cultural influence and impact on the music scene are prioritized, including tracks that were pioneers or defined trends within the genre.
  • Both the general popularity of the song and its longevity over time are considered, with tracks still recognized today as synth-pop classics.