The year 1981 was a notable time in music. Pop, rock, and new genres like new wave and synth-pop were evolving. Artists built on the vibrant sounds of 1980. They pushed boundaries, creating music that defined the decade. Casey Kasem’s American Top 40 showcased this exciting mix. Listeners enjoyed a blend of hits from legends and rising stars. Below is a look at the top 40 songs of 1981, highlighting the diverse styles and catchy melodies that captured audiences.
1. “Bette Davis Eyes” – Kim Carnes
With its haunting synths and sultry vocals, “Bette Davis Eyes” dominated the charts in 1981. This song, which pays homage to the iconic actress, blends rock and pop elements seamlessly and remains one of Carnes’ signature hits.
2. “Endless Love” – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie
A timeless ballad, “Endless Love” became an instant classic. This duet showcases the vocal chemistry between Ross and Richie, and its romantic themes resonated deeply with listeners, solidifying its place in music history.
3. “Lady” – Kenny Rogers
Kenny Rogers delivered another heartfelt ballad with “Lady,” written by Lionel Richie. The song’s emotional depth and Rogers’ warm vocals made it a staple on radio stations across the country.
4. “Physical” – Olivia Newton-John
“Physical” marked a turning point in Newton-John’s career, showcasing a more provocative side. With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, it became one of the defining hits of the year and a major dance anthem.
5. “I Love a Rainy Night” – Eddie Rabbitt
This country-pop crossover became an anthem for rainy days, highlighting Rabbitt’s smooth vocals and catchy melodies. Its feel-good vibe made it a favorite among listeners.
6. “Jessie’s Girl” – Rick Springfield
A quintessential rock song of the era, “Jessie’s Girl” tells the story of unrequited love with catchy hooks and energetic instrumentation. Springfield’s charisma helped propel the song to the top of the charts.
7. “Don’t Stop Believin'” – Journey
Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” became an anthem of hope and perseverance. Its iconic piano intro and powerful chorus made it a staple of classic rock radio, resonating with generations of fans.
8. “Celebration” – Kool & The Gang
“Celebration” brought a feel-good spirit to the airwaves, encouraging listeners to come together and enjoy life. Its infectious groove and upbeat lyrics made it a party favorite.
9. “Queen of Hearts” – Juice Newton
Juice Newton’s blend of pop and country in “Queen of Hearts” resonated with a wide audience. The song’s catchy melody and storytelling made it a standout hit of 1981.
10. “Kiss on My List” – Hall & Oates
This smooth pop gem combines infectious melodies with clever lyrics. Hall & Oates’ signature sound shines through, making “Kiss on My List” an enduring classic.
11. “Rapture” – Blondie
Blondie continued to push musical boundaries with “Rapture,” blending rock with the emerging sounds of hip-hop. This groundbreaking track features a rap section and showcases Debbie Harry’s versatility.
12. “The One That You Love” – Air Supply
Air Supply’s romantic ballad “The One That You Love” highlights their soft rock sound, featuring soaring harmonies and heartfelt lyrics that resonated with listeners seeking romance.
13. “Take It on the Run” – REO Speedwagon
With its catchy refrain and rock-driven sound, “Take It on the Run” became a defining hit for REO Speedwagon. The song’s themes of love and doubt connected with a wide audience.
14. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” – Tina Turner
This powerful anthem marked Tina Turner’s comeback. Its bold lyrics and Turner’s commanding vocals made it an instant classic, addressing themes of love and independence.
15. “Guilty” – Barbra Streisand & Barry Gibb
The collaboration between Streisand and Gibb created a smooth, disco-infused ballad that became a major hit. Their vocal synergy and the song’s lush production contributed to its success.
16. “9 to 5” – Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” became an anthem for the working woman, combining catchy melodies with sharp lyrics that captured the struggles of daily life. Its upbeat nature made it a favorite.
17. “Every Woman in the World” – Air Supply
Another hit from Air Supply, “Every Woman in the World” features their signature soft rock sound and heartfelt lyrics, solidifying their place in the hearts of fans.
18. “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)” – Christopher Cross
This Oscar-winning song from the film “Arthur” blends smooth melodies with relatable lyrics, showcasing Cross’s talent for crafting memorable tunes.
19. “I Can’t Tell You Why” – Eagles
Eagles’ “I Can’t Tell You Why” is a soft rock classic that highlights the band’s smooth harmonies and introspective lyrics, making it a standout track in their catalog.
20. “Ain’t Even Done with the Night” – John Cougar
John Cougar’s catchy tune blends rock with country influences. Its upbeat tempo and relatable lyrics about love and longing resonated with many listeners.
21. “Boys Don’t Cry” – The Cure
As part of the post-punk movement, “Boys Don’t Cry” offered a unique sound that combined jangly guitars with introspective lyrics. It became one of The Cure’s defining tracks.
22. “The Night Owls” – Little River Band
With its lush harmonies and smooth melodies, “The Night Owls” showcases Little River Band’s signature sound, appealing to fans of soft rock.
23. “Waiting for a Girl Like You” – Foreigner
This power ballad became a staple of rock radio, featuring a memorable melody and passionate lyrics that captured the essence of longing and desire.
24. “Private Eyes” – Hall & Oates
With its catchy hooks and playful lyrics, “Private Eyes” showcased Hall & Oates’ unique blend of pop and rock, becoming another hit for the duo.
25. “Too Much Time on My Hands” – Styx
Styx delivered a classic rock anthem with “Too Much Time on My Hands,” featuring catchy melodies and thoughtful lyrics that resonated with fans.
26. “Under Pressure” – Queen & David Bowie
This iconic collaboration between Queen and David Bowie blended rock and funk, creating a timeless anthem that addressed societal pressures and challenges.
27. “Physical” – Olivia Newton-John
Returning to the charts, “Physical” showcased Newton-John’s evolution as an artist. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus made it an enduring hit.
28. “Slow Hand” – Pointer Sisters
“Slow Hand” featured smooth vocals and sultry lyrics, highlighting the Pointer Sisters’ versatility and appeal across genres.
29. “Don’t You Want Me” – The Human League
This synth-pop anthem became a defining track of the 80s, showcasing catchy melodies and lyrics that explored themes of love and desire.
30. “Roxanne” – The Police
With its reggae-infused rock sound, “Roxanne” became a classic hit, showcasing Sting’s distinct vocals and the band’s innovative style.
31. “I Made It Through the Rain” – Barry Manilow
Barry Manilow’s inspirational ballad captures resilience and hope, resonating with fans seeking uplifting messages during challenging times.
32. “The Final Countdown” – Europe
This rock anthem features memorable keyboard riffs and powerful vocals, establishing it as one of the defining tracks of the 80s rock scene.
33. “Say Say Say” – Paul McCartney & Michael Jackson
This collaboration brought together two musical legends, resulting in a catchy pop hit that dominated the charts and showcased their vocal talents.
34. “You and I” – Crystal Gayle
This heartfelt ballad showcases Gayle’s rich vocals and romantic lyrics, solidifying her place in the country music scene.
35. “Don’t Stop” – Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac’s “Don’t Stop” became an anthem of hope and perseverance, capturing the spirit of the era with its uplifting message.
36. “Woman” – John Lennon
“Woman” is a heartfelt ballad that expresses love, appreciation, and admiration. It reflects Lennon’s deep feelings for his wife, Yoko Ono,
37. “Start Me Up” – The Rolling Stones
Released in 1981, “Start Me Up” marked a triumphant return for The Rolling Stones. With its infectious riff and energetic beat, the song quickly became a classic rock anthem and remains one of the band’s most recognized hits.
38. “What a Fool Believes” – The Doobie Brothers
This smooth rock hit features introspective lyrics and catchy melodies, highlighting the band’s talent for crafting memorable tunes.
39. “Heaven” – Bryan Adams
A quintessential power ballad, “Heaven” showcases Adams’ emotive vocals and heartfelt lyrics, making it a timeless classic.
40. “Never Gonna Give You Up” – Rick Astley
Though released later, Astley’s hit embodies the infectious energy and catchy hooks that defined the decade, making it an enduring favorite.
Conclusion
The top songs of 1981 reflect a year rich with musical diversity and innovation. From power ballads to upbeat dance tracks, these hits not only defined the charts
