Music

Best 80s love songs

Explore a timeless collection of the most iconic romantic ballads from the 1980s. This selection features the love hits that defined a decade, perfect for reminiscing about slow dances and special moments. Discover songs that evoke nostalgia and passion, from pop classics to soft rock anthems. Relive the musical magic of the eighties with these unforgettable melodies that continue to touch hearts today.

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  1. 1

    Time After Time (1983)

    82 Global Votes
    • Lauper's most enduring masterpiece

      (+4)

    This song is a timeless anthem of unwavering support and enduring love, resonating with listeners for its heartfelt lyrics and Cyndi Lauper's distinctive vocals. It beautifully captures the essence of being there for someone, no matter the circumstances.

  2. 2

    With or Without You

    56 Global Votes
    • Ranked 17th greatest song in history by Q readers

      (+4)

    U2's 'With Or Without You' is an iconic rock ballad known for its emotional intensity and Bono's powerful vocals. It explores the complexities and paradoxes of a deep, consuming love, making it a profound and enduring 80s classic.

  3. 3

    I Melt With You (1982)

    52 Global Votes
    • Depicts a love song

      (+2)

    Modern English's 'I Melt With You' is an iconic new wave love song, celebrated for its romantic lyrics and infectious, uplifting melody. It perfectly captures the feeling of being completely absorbed in a moment of shared love and joy.

  4. 4

    Total Eclipse of the Heart (1983)

    51 Global Votes
    • Reached number 1 in several countries

      (+4)

    Bonnie Tyler's 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' is a dramatic and powerful rock ballad, celebrated for its epic scope and Tyler's raw, emotive vocals. It's a theatrical declaration of overwhelming love and longing, making it an unforgettable 80s anthem.

  5. 5

    Careless Whisper (1984)

    49 Global Votes
    • Resonated globally

      (+4)

    Wham!'s 'Careless Whisper' is a soulful and melancholic saxophone-driven ballad that explores themes of regret and lost love. Its iconic saxophone riff and George Michael's emotive vocals make it a deeply moving and unforgettable 80s love song.

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  7. 6

    Crazy for You (1985)

    33 Global Votes
    • Pop ballad with torch influences

      (+4)

    Madonna's 'Crazy for You' is a romantic ballad that showcased her versatility and became a major hit. Featured in the film 'Vision Quest,' it perfectly captures the intense, all-consuming feeling of being deeply in love.

  8. 7

    Take My Breath Away (1986)

    27 Global Votes
    • Iconic 1986 Top Gun love theme

      (+4)

    As the iconic love theme from 'Top Gun,' this song by Berlin perfectly captures the exhilarating feeling of being completely swept away by love. Its atmospheric synths and tender vocals evoke a sense of passionate romance, making it an unforgettable 80s classic.

  9. 8

    I Want to Know What Love Is (1984)

    20 Global Votes
    • A transatlantic hit song

      (+4)

    Foreigner's iconic power ballad is celebrated for its profound emotional depth and the unforgettable gospel choir backing. It perfectly encapsulates the universal human desire to understand and experience true love, making it a quintessential 80s love song.

  10. 9

    Saving All My Love for You (1985)

    19 Global Votes
    • Won Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance

      (+4)

    Whitney Houston's 'Saving All My Love for You' is a powerful vocal performance about a passionate, albeit complicated, love. Her incredible voice conveys the depth of emotion and longing, making it a timeless ballad of devotion.

  11. 10

    Heaven (1985)

    18 Global Votes
    • A classic power ballad

      (+4)

    Bryan Adams' 'Heaven' is a quintessential 80s power ballad, celebrated for its romantic lyrics and soaring melody. It remains a beloved staple, perfectly capturing the feeling of finding a love that feels like paradise.

  12. 11

    Endless Love (1981)

    0 Global Votes
    • A declaration of eternal love

      (+4)

    This duet by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross is widely regarded as one of the greatest love songs of all time, spending nine weeks at number one in 1981. Its powerful vocal performances and heartfelt lyrics make it a definitive expression of eternal devotion.

  13. 12

    Sexual Healing (1982)

    0 Global Votes
    • Explores innate need for connection

      (+4)

    Marvin Gaye's 'Sexual Healing' is a soulful and sensual masterpiece that explores the profound healing power of love and intimacy. Its smooth grooves and seductive vocals make it an iconic and influential R&B love song of the decade.

  14. 13

    Every Time You Go Away (1985)

    0 Global Votes
    • Became an international hit in 1985

      (+4)

    Paul Young's soulful rendition of 'Every Time You Go Away' became a massive hit, expressing deep longing and devotion. Its smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics perfectly capture the pain of separation and the enduring nature of love.

  15. 14

    Lovesong (1989)

    0 Global Votes
    • Written as a wedding present

      (+4)

    The Cure's 'Lovesong' stands out as a beloved alternative rock love song, known for its heartfelt lyrics and Robert Smith's distinctive vocals. It's a powerful declaration of enduring love, making it a unique and cherished entry in the 80s romantic canon.

  16. 15

    Ain't Nobody (1983)

    0 Global Votes
    • Reached number one on the U.S. R&B chart

      (+4)

    Chaka Khan and Rufus's 'Ain't Nobody' is a vibrant and enduring R&B love song, celebrated for its infectious groove and Chaka Khan's powerful vocals. It's a declaration of unique and irreplaceable love, making it a timeless dance-floor classic.

  17. 16

    Open Arms

    0 Global Votes
    • Considered one of the greatest love songs ever written

      (+3)

    Journey's 'Open Arms' is a quintessential power ballad, renowned for its soaring vocals and emotional intensity. It's a powerful plea for reconciliation and a testament to enduring love, making it one of the most iconic romantic songs of the 80s.