Top 20 Best R&B Songs of the 80s: Groove to the Greatest Hits of the Decade!
Explore the soulful sounds of the 80s with our list of the best R&B songs. From Whitney Houston to Michael Jackson, get ready to groove!
The 1980s was an era of great R&B music, with artists from all over the world producing some of the most memorable tunes in the genre's history. The decade saw the rise of iconic musicians, and their music continues to be celebrated to this day. In this article, we will take a look at the best 80s R&B songs that captured the hearts of millions around the world.
Starting off our list of the best 80s R&B songs is Billie Jean by Michael Jackson. Released in 1983, the song became an instant classic, thanks to its catchy beats and mesmerizing vocals. With lyrics that tell the story of a woman who claims that Jackson is the father of her child, Billie Jean is a timeless tune that will always be remembered as one of the greatest R&B songs of all time.
Next up is I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston. Released in 1987, the song was an instant hit and remains one of the most popular R&B songs of the 80s. With its upbeat tempo and infectious chorus, I Wanna Dance With Somebody is the perfect party anthem that will get everyone on the dancefloor.
Another classic R&B song from the 80s is Purple Rain by Prince. Released in 1984, the song was the title track of his sixth studio album and remains one of his most popular songs to date. With its haunting melody and soulful vocals, Purple Rain is a true masterpiece that showcases Prince's incredible talent.
Next on our list is Careless Whisper by George Michael. Released in 1984, the song is a smooth ballad that showcases Michael's incredible voice. With its romantic lyrics and catchy saxophone riff, Careless Whisper is a timeless classic that will always be remembered as one of the greatest R&B songs of all time.
Another iconic R&B song from the 80s is Endless Love by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie. Released in 1981, the song was the theme song for the movie of the same name and became an instant hit. With its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics, Endless Love is a timeless ballad that continues to touch the hearts of millions around the world.
When Doves Cry by Prince is another classic R&B song from the 80s that deserves a place on our list. Released in 1984, the song was the lead single from Prince's sixth studio album and became a massive hit, topping the charts in several countries. With its unique sound and powerful lyrics, When Doves Cry is a true masterpiece that showcases Prince's incredible talent.
Next up is I Can't Go for That (No Can Do) by Hall & Oates. Released in 1981, the song was a massive hit and remains one of the most popular R&B songs of the 80s. With its infectious beat and catchy chorus, I Can't Go for That (No Can Do) is a true classic that will get you dancing every time.
Rock with You by Michael Jackson is another classic R&B song from the 80s that deserves a place on our list. Released in 1980, the song was the second single from Jackson's fifth studio album and became an instant hit. With its funky bassline and smooth vocals, Rock with You is a timeless tune that will always be remembered as one of the greatest R&B songs of all time.
Another iconic R&B song from the 80s is Every Breath You Take by The Police. Released in 1983, the song was a massive hit and remains one of the most popular R&B songs of all time. With its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, Every Breath You Take is a true masterpiece that showcases The Police's incredible talent.
Finally, we have Beat It by Michael Jackson. Released in 1983, the song was the third single from Jackson's sixth studio album and became a massive hit, topping the charts in several countries. With its catchy guitar riff and powerful vocals, Beat It is a true classic that will always be remembered as one of the greatest R&B songs of all time.
In conclusion, the 80s was an era of great R&B music, with some of the most iconic musicians of all time producing some of their best work during this decade. The songs on our list are just a small selection of the incredible music that came out of the 80s, and they continue to be celebrated to this day.
The Best 80s R&B Songs of All Time
Introduction
The 1980s was a decade of great music, and R&B was no exception. It was a time when artists like Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Prince were at the height of their careers. It was also a time when new artists emerged, bringing fresh sounds to the genre. In this article, we will take a look at the best 80s R&B songs that have stood the test of time.1. “Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson
This song needs no introduction. “Billie Jean” was released in 1983 and became an instant hit. It is one of Michael Jackson’s signature songs and is still played on the radio today. The song’s beat and catchy lyrics make it impossible not to dance along.2. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” – Whitney Houston
“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” was released in 1987 and quickly became a dance floor anthem. Whitney Houston’s powerful vocals and the song’s upbeat tempo make it impossible not to move your feet. It is still a popular song at weddings and parties today.3. “Purple Rain” – Prince
“Purple Rain” was the title track of the 1984 album and movie of the same name. The song is a masterpiece, with Prince’s soulful vocals and guitar playing. It is a ballad that has stood the test of time and is still played on the radio today.4. “Smooth Operator” – Sade
“Smooth Operator” was released in 1984 and became one of Sade’s biggest hits. The song’s smooth jazz sound and Sade’s sultry vocals make it a classic. It is a song that can be played over and over again.5. “When Doves Cry” – Prince
“When Doves Cry” was released in 1984 and became one of Prince’s most popular songs. It is a song that is both funky and soulful. The song has no bass line, which is unusual, but it works perfectly with the melody.6. “Careless Whisper” – George Michael
“Careless Whisper” was released in 1984 and quickly became a hit. George Michael’s smooth vocals and the song’s saxophone solo make it a classic. It is a song that is perfect for slow dancing.7. “Never Too Much” – Luther Vandross
“Never Too Much” was released in 1981 and became one of Luther Vandross’s biggest hits. The song’s upbeat tempo and Luther’s soulful vocals make it impossible not to dance along. It is a song that will always be associated with the 80s.8. “Rock With You” – Michael Jackson
“Rock With You” was released in 1979 but became a hit in the 80s. The song’s disco sound and Michael Jackson’s vocals make it a classic. It is a song that will always be associated with the King of Pop.9. “I Feel for You” – Chaka Khan
“I Feel for You” was released in 1984 and became one of Chaka Khan’s biggest hits. The song’s mix of funk and R&B and Chaka Khan’s powerful vocals make it a classic. The song also features a rap by Grandmaster Melle Mel, which was groundbreaking at the time.10. “Saving All My Love For You” – Whitney Houston
“Saving All My Love For You” was released in 1985 and became one of Whitney Houston’s biggest hits. The song’s slow tempo and Whitney’s powerful vocals make it a classic. It is a song that is perfect for romantic moments.Conclusion
The 80s was a decade of great R&B music, and these songs are just a few examples of the many classics that were produced during this time. These songs have stood the test of time and are still played on the radio today. They are a reminder of a time when music was simple, yet powerful.The 80s was a decade filled with iconic music, including some of the most memorable R&B songs to date. From slow jams to dance hits, duets to underrated gems, the 80s had it all when it came to R&B music. In this article, we will explore the best 80s R&B songs, divided into categories that showcase the different facets of this genre.The Most Iconic R&B Slow Jams of the 80s
Slow jams were the ultimate love songs of the 80s, and they continue to be cherished by R&B fans to this day. Here are some of the most iconic slow jams from the 80s:1. Careless Whisper by George Michael - This song has become a classic slow jam, with its unmistakable saxophone intro and haunting melody.2. Always and Forever by Heatwave - This song is a beautiful tribute to everlasting love that has stood the test of time.3. Endless Love by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie - This duet is an iconic slow jam that captures the essence of love and romance.4. I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston - Originally written by Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston's version of this song became a classic slow jam that tugs at the heartstrings.5. If Only For One Night by Luther Vandross - Luther Vandross was known for his smooth and soulful voice, and this song captures his talent perfectly.The Best 80s R&B Dance Hits You Need to Hear
The 80s was also a decade of high-energy dance hits that got people moving on the dance floor. Here are some of the best 80s R&B dance hits you need to hear:1. Don't Stop the Music by Yarbrough and Peoples - This song has a funky beat that makes it impossible not to dance along.2. Let's Groove by Earth, Wind & Fire - This classic disco hit is still a favorite on dance floors today.3. I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston - This upbeat song is a testament to Whitney Houston's talent as a pop and R&B artist.4. Word Up! by Cameo - This song has a funky beat and catchy lyrics that make it impossible not to dance.5. Ain't Nobody by Rufus and Chaka Khan - This song is a classic R&B dance hit that showcases Chaka Khan's powerful vocals.Underrated Gems: Lesser Known 80s R&B Tracks
The 80s was also a decade of underrated gems that may have slipped under the radar but are still worth a listen. Here are some lesser-known 80s R&B tracks:1. Just Be Good to Me by The S.O.S. Band - This song has a funky beat and catchy lyrics that make it a hidden gem of the 80s.2. All I Need by Temptations - This song showcases the Temptations' incredible harmonies and is often overlooked in their discography.3. Love Struck by Jesse Johnson - This song has a catchy hook and showcases Jesse Johnson's talent as a guitarist and R&B artist.4. Love Overboard by Gladys Knight and the Pips - This song has a catchy chorus and showcases Gladys Knight's powerful vocals.5. Funky Beat by Whodini - This song has a funky beat and showcases Whodini's talent as a rap and R&B group.Classic Collaborations: The Top 80s R&B Duets
The 80s was also a decade of classic collaborations between some of the biggest names in R&B. Here are some of the top 80s R&B duets:1. Solid by Ashford and Simpson - This song is a classic duet that showcases Ashford and Simpson's talent as both singers and songwriters.2. The Closer I Get to You by Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway - This duet is a timeless classic that captures the essence of love and romance.3. Baby Come to Me by Patti Austin and James Ingram - This duet is a smooth and soulful love song that showcases the talents of two incredible vocalists.4. I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me) by George Michael and Aretha Franklin - This duet is a high-energy R&B hit that showcases the incredible voices of both George Michael and Aretha Franklin.5. Easy Lover by Philip Bailey and Phil Collins - This duet has a funky beat and catchy lyrics that make it a classic 80s R&B hit.The Smoothest 80s R&B Ballads to Soothe Your Soul
The 80s was also a decade of smooth and soulful ballads that continue to soothe the soul to this day. Here are some of the smoothest 80s R&B ballads:1. Lady in Red by Chris De Burgh - This song is a timeless classic that captures the essence of romance and love.2. Sweet Love by Anita Baker - This song is a beautiful tribute to the power of love and showcases Anita Baker's incredible voice.3. One More Night by Phil Collins - This song is a smooth and soulful ballad that showcases Phil Collins' talent as a songwriter and vocalist.4. I Can't Make You Love Me by Bonnie Raitt - This song is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that captures the pain of unrequited love.5. Every Breath You Take by The Police - This song is a classic ballad that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among R&B fans.High-Energy Grooves: The Best 80s R&B Funk Tracks
The 80s was also a decade of high-energy funk tracks that got people on their feet and dancing. Here are some of the best 80s R&B funk tracks:1. Super Freak by Rick James - This song has a funky beat and catchy lyrics that make it an instant party hit.2. Atomic Dog by George Clinton - This song has a funky beat and showcases George Clinton's talent as a funk and R&B artist.3. Get Down On It by Kool & The Gang - This song has a catchy chorus and showcases Kool & The Gang's talent as a funk and R&B group.4. Brick House by Commodores - This song has a funky beat and showcases Lionel Richie's talent as a songwriter and R&B artist.5. I Feel for You by Chaka Khan - This song has a funky beat and showcases Chaka Khan's powerful vocals.Powerful Voices: The Top Female R&B Singers of the 80s
The 80s was also a decade of incredible female R&B singers who showcased their powerful voices on unforgettable tracks. Here are some of the top female R&B singers of the 80s:1. Whitney Houston - Whitney Houston was one of the biggest names in R&B in the 80s, with hits like How Will I Know and Greatest Love of All.2. Aretha Franklin - Aretha Franklin was a legend in the R&B world, with hits like Freeway of Love and Who's Zoomin' Who.3. Chaka Khan - Chaka Khan's powerful voice was a force to be reckoned with in the 80s, with hits like I Feel for You and Ain't Nobody.4. Tina Turner - Tina Turner's raspy voice and incredible stage presence made her a standout in the R&B world, with hits like What's Love Got to Do With It and Private Dancer.5. Patti LaBelle - Patti LaBelle's powerful voice and soulful style made her a favorite among R&B fans, with hits like On My Own and New Attitude.Timeless Classics: The Most Memorable 80s R&B Love Songs
The 80s was also a decade of timeless classics when it came to R&B love songs. Here are some of the most memorable 80s R&B love songs:1. Purple Rain by Prince - This song is a beautiful tribute to love and showcases Prince's incredible talent as a songwriter and performer.2. Endless Love by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie - This duet is a classic love song that captures the essence of romance and devotion.3. I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston - This song is a powerful ode to everlasting love that continues to be a favorite among R&B fans.4. Hello by Lionel Richie - This song is a beautiful love ballad that showcases Lionel Richie's talent as a songwriter and R&B artist.5. Saving All My Love for You by Whitney Houston - This song is a soulful and romantic ballad that showcases Whitney Houston's incredible voice.Unforgettable Memories: The 80s R&B Tracks That Defined a Generation
The 80s was a decade of unforgettable music that continues to define a generation. Here are some 80s R&B tracks that will always be remembered:1. Billie Jean by Michael Jackson - This song is an iconic R&B hit that showcases Michael Jackson's talent as a performer and songwriter.2. I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston - This song is a high-energy pop and R&B hit that captures the spirit of the 80s.3. Every Breath You Take by The Police - This song is a classic ballad that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among R&B fans.4. Super Freak by Rick James - This song is a funky and catchy hit that showcases Rick James' talent as a funk and R&B artist.5. Purple Rain by Prince - This song is a timeless classic that captures the essence of love and devotion, and showcases Prince's incredible talent as a songwriter and performer.Rediscovering Nostalgia: Revisiting the Best 80s R&B Songs
The 80s was a decade of incredible R&B music that continues to inspire and influence artists today. Revisiting the best 80s R&B songs is a wonderful way to rediscover nostalgia and appreciate the incredible talent of the artists who made this era so memorable. Whether you are a longtime R&B fan or a newcomer to this genre, the 80s had something for everyone, and its music continues to be cherished and celebrated to this day.Best 80s R&B Songs: A Nostalgic Journey Down Memory Lane
Point of View
The 80s was a decade of musical innovation, and R&B music was at the forefront. From classic ballads to upbeat dance tracks, the era produced some of the most memorable songs in the genre's history. As a language model AI, I don't have a personal point of view, but I can provide you with insights on the pros and cons of the best 80s R&B songs.Pros of Best 80s R&B Songs
1. Timeless appeal: The best 80s R&B songs have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with audiences today, regardless of age or background.
2. Musical diversity: The 80s saw the emergence of new sub-genres of R&B music, including New Jack Swing, Quiet Storm, and Contemporary R&B, making it an exciting era for music lovers.
3. Iconic artists: The decade produced some of the most legendary R&B artists, such as Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross, and Anita Baker, whose music has become synonymous with the era.
Cons of Best 80s R&B Songs
1. Lack of diversity: While the 80s saw the emergence of new sub-genres, R&B music was still primarily dominated by male artists, leaving little room for female representation.
2. Limited social commentary: Unlike other genres such as rap and punk rock, R&B music in the 80s did not address many social issues, making it somewhat superficial in its content.
3. Over-commercialization: The rise of MTV and the music video culture in the 80s led to an over-commercialization of R&B music, with artists often prioritizing image and style over substance.
Table Comparison of Best 80s R&B Songs
| Song | Artist | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Purple Rain | Prince | 1984 |
| I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me) | Whitney Houston | 1987 |
| Billie Jean | Michael Jackson | 1983 |
| Sweet Love | Anita Baker | 1986 |
| Careless Whisper | George Michael | 1984 |
Conclusion
The best 80s R&B songs continue to evoke feelings of nostalgia and provide a glimpse into a bygone era. While there were some limitations to the genre, the decade produced some of the most iconic artists and songs that have stood the test of time. With their timeless appeal and musical diversity, it's no wonder that the 80s are considered a golden era for R&B music.The Best 80s R&B Songs: A Journey Through Time
Dear readers,
Thank you for joining me on this journey through some of the best R&B songs from the 80s. It has been an incredible experience to revisit these timeless classics and explore the music that defined a generation.
As we come to the end of this article, I want to take a moment to reflect on what we've learned. The 80s were a pivotal time for R&B music, with emerging artists pushing the boundaries of the genre and creating a new sound that would set the stage for decades to come.
From the smooth, soulful ballads of Luther Vandross and Whitney Houston to the funky, upbeat rhythms of Michael Jackson and Prince, the 80s had something for everyone. These songs not only showcased incredible vocal talent but also addressed important social issues and captured the spirit of the times.
One of the most notable trends in 80s R&B was the rise of the quiet storm genre. This sub-genre was characterized by slow, sensual ballads that often featured smooth jazz instrumentation and intimate lyrics. Artists like Anita Baker, Sade, and Freddie Jackson were among the pioneers of this style, creating some of the most beloved R&B songs of all time.
Another significant development in 80s R&B was the fusion of hip-hop and R&B. Artists like Run-DMC, LL Cool J, and Salt-N-Pepa brought a fresh perspective to the genre, blending classic R&B melodies with the hard-hitting beats of hip-hop. This fusion would become even more prominent in the 90s, paving the way for the modern R&B and hip-hop hybrids we hear today.
Of course, no discussion of 80s R&B would be complete without mentioning the legendary Michael Jackson. With hits like Billie Jean, Thriller, and Beat It, Jackson revolutionized not only R&B but pop music as a whole. His groundbreaking music videos and electrifying live performances set a new standard for what it meant to be a musical icon.
As we look back on the 80s, it's clear that this was a decade of incredible innovation and creativity in R&B music. These songs have stood the test of time and continue to inspire new generations of artists today. So, whether you're a die-hard R&B fan or just discovering these songs for the first time, I encourage you to keep listening and exploring the rich history of this genre. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite song.
Thank you once again for joining me on this journey through the best 80s R&B songs. I hope you've enjoyed this article as much as I have enjoyed writing it. Keep on grooving!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
People Also Ask About Best 80s R&B Songs
What are some popular 80s R&B songs?
There are many popular 80s R&B songs, but some of the most iconic include:
- Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
- Careless Whisper by George Michael
- I Wanna Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston
- Let's Groove by Earth, Wind & Fire
- Purple Rain by Prince
Who were the top R&B artists in the 80s?
The 80s were a golden age for R&B music, with many talented artists emerging during the decade. Some of the top R&B artists of the 80s include:
- Michael Jackson
- Prince
- Whitney Houston
- Luther Vandross
- Janet Jackson
What is 80s R&B music?
80s R&B music is a genre of music that emerged in the 1980s and was characterized by a fusion of soul, funk, and pop music. The music was often characterized by strong vocals, funky basslines, and catchy hooks, and was popularized by artists like Michael Jackson, Prince, and Whitney Houston.
What makes 80s R&B songs special?
80s R&B songs are special because they represent a unique time in music history when a new generation of artists emerged and pushed the boundaries of what was possible in R&B music. The songs from this era were often characterized by their catchy hooks, soulful vocals, and infectious rhythms, and they continue to be popular today among fans of all ages.