5 Memorable Movie Soundtracks From The 80s
Remember the 1980s? It was a time of big hair, neon colors, and some of the most iconic movies ever made. But what made those movies so special? Often, it was the music. The soundtracks were an absolute blast!
They weren't just background noise. They were characters in themselves. They got us pumped up, made us feel the romance, and sometimes even gave us chills. Let's dive into five movie soundtracks that totally defined the 80s. Get ready for some serious nostalgia!
1. The Breakfast Club (1985)
This movie is a classic for a reason. It’s about five very different high school students stuck in Saturday detention. The soundtrack perfectly captures their angst and their unexpected bond.
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The absolute jam from this movie is "Don't You (Forget About Me)" by Simple Minds. You know the one. It plays at the end, and it just… hits you. It’s a song about being seen, about not being forgotten.
It’s anthemic and a little bit sad. It makes you want to pump your fist in the air. It also makes you want to think about your own high school days. Were you the athlete, the brain, the criminal, the basket case, or the princess?
The whole soundtrack has this cool, slightly melancholic vibe. It’s full of synth-pop goodness that screams 80s. But it’s more than just 80s. It feels timeless. It’s about teenage struggles and finding yourself.
Every time you hear that opening synth riff, you’re instantly transported. You’re in the library with them. You’re feeling their frustration and their hope. It’s a soundtrack that sticks with you.
2. Flashdance (1983)
Get ready to dance! Flashdance is all about a young woman who works as a welder by day and a dancer by night. She dreams of making it big in the professional dance world. And boy, does the music make you want to move.
The standout track is, of course, "Flashdance... What a Feeling" by Irene Cara. This song is pure, unadulterated energy. It’s about chasing your dreams and feeling amazing while doing it.
It’s got this driving beat and those soaring vocals. You can’t help but tap your feet. You can’t help but imagine yourself dancing like Jennifer Beals. Even if you have two left feet!
Another huge hit from this soundtrack is "Maniac" by Michael Sembello. This one is just as intense. It's for those moments when you're pushing yourself, really going for it.
The soundtrack is packed with upbeat, synth-driven pop. It’s catchy as heck. It makes you feel invincible. It’s the perfect soundtrack for anyone who’s ever had a big dream.
The music in Flashdance is inseparable from the visuals. Those iconic dance sequences are made even more powerful by the songs. It’s a soundtrack that’s all about passion and ambition.
3. Footloose (1984)
Dancing is banned in the town of Bomont. This is a major problem for Ren McCormack, who just moved there. He’s all about letting loose and expressing himself through dance. The soundtrack is the ultimate rebellion anthem.
The title track, "Footloose" by Kenny Loggins, is legendary. It’s a song that screams freedom and fun. It makes you want to kick off your shoes and dance like nobody’s watching.
It’s got that infectious beat and those super positive lyrics. It’s impossible to be in a bad mood when this song is playing. It’s pure joy in musical form.
Then there’s "Holding Out for a Hero" by Bonnie Tyler. This song is epic! It’s so dramatic and powerful. It’s the perfect tune for when you need a little extra courage.
The Footloose soundtrack is a collection of feel-good hits. It’s got a bit of rock and roll energy. It’s got that signature 80s synth sound. It’s all about breaking free.
This soundtrack makes you want to fight for your right to party. It makes you want to dance like there’s no tomorrow. It’s a soundtrack that embodies the spirit of youthful defiance.
4. The Lost Boys (1987)
Vampires in the 80s! This movie is a total cult classic. It’s got style, it’s got attitude, and it’s got a killer soundtrack that’s as cool as its leather-clad characters.
The song that everyone remembers is "Cry Little Sister" by Gerard McMann. It’s this dark, moody, and incredibly atmospheric track. It perfectly sets the tone for this vampire flick.
It’s got a haunting melody that sends shivers down your spine. It’s the sound of the night, the sound of the undead. It’s undeniably catchy in a creepy way.
You also have "People Are Strange" by Echo & the Bunnymen. This cover brings a whole new vibe to the song. It feels perfect for those scenes of the vampires cruising around town.
The soundtrack is full of alternative rock and new wave gems. It’s got a gothic edge. It’s a soundtrack that feels rebellious and a little bit dangerous.
Listening to it makes you feel like you’re part of their gang. You want to join them on their nocturnal adventures. It’s a soundtrack that’s both stylish and a little bit menacing.
5. Top Gun (1986)
Fighter jets, romance, and aviator sunglasses. Top Gun was a massive hit, and its soundtrack was just as huge. It’s packed with soaring power ballads and high-energy rock anthems.
The biggest song, no doubt, is "Take My Breath Away" by Berlin. This song is pure, cheesy, 80s romance. It’s the ultimate slow dance song for anyone who watched this movie.
It’s incredibly dramatic and sweeping. It’s the perfect backdrop for those intense romantic moments. It’s a song that everyone knows, even if they haven’t seen the movie.
Then there’s the adrenaline-pumping "Danger Zone" by Kenny Loggins. This song is the absolute definition of high-octane excitement. It makes you feel like you’re in the cockpit yourself.
The soundtrack also features hits like "Heaven" by Bryan Adams and "Leading Man" by Jay Ferguson. It’s a collection of songs that just scream 80s confidence and power.
It’s a soundtrack that’s all about living life on the edge. It’s about pushing your limits. It makes you feel like you can do anything.
This soundtrack is pure 80s blockbuster magic. It’s incredibly memorable and still gets people singing along today. It’s a true testament to the power of movie music.
