Top 40 Forgotten ’80s Gems That Deserve a Comeback

The 1980s were an explosive era for music, defined by bold experimentation, synth-driven beats, and unforgettable melodies. While hits from icons like Michael Jackson and Madonna remain timeless, countless tracks from lesser-known artists have faded into obscurity—despite their brilliance. Here’s a curated list of 40 forgotten ’80s gems that deserve a second chance in the spotlight.

Synth-Pop & New Wave Wonders

• “Cars and Girls” by Prefab Sprout (1988)

  A sophisticated critique of American consumerism with shimmering synths and clever lyrics.

• “Situation” by Yazoo (1982)

  Vince Clarke’s synths collide with Alison Moyet’s powerhouse vocals in this club classic.

• “I Melt With You” by Modern English (1982)

  More than a love song—it’s an enduring anthem of romantic escapism.

• “Life in a Northern Town” by The Dream Academy (1985)

  A haunting tribute to Nick Drake, blending folk and electronic textures.

• “Things Can Only Get Better” by Howard Jones (1985)

  Optimistic synth-pop with an infectious hook.

• “Enola Gay” by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (1980)

  A Cold War-inspired track with an unforgettable melody.

• “Send Me an Angel” by Real Life (1983)

  Atmospheric and hypnotic, perfect for late-night drives.

• “The Promise” by When in Rome (1988)

  A bittersweet synth ballad later revived by Napoleon Dynamite.

• “Fade to Grey” by Visage (1980)

  The epitome of New Romantic cool, with French spoken-word interludes.

• “I Go Crazy” by Flesh for Lulu (1987)

  Gothic-tinged new wave from the Some Kind of Wonderful soundtrack.

Rock & Alternative Anthems

• “Lucretia My Reflection” by The Sisters of Mercy (1987)

  Brooding post-punk with a driving bassline.

• “Reap the Wild Wind” by Ultravox (1982)

  A majestic blend of synth and Midge Ure’s soaring vocals.

• “Romeo’s Distress” by Christian Death (1982)

  Gothic rock that defined LA’s underground scene.

• “Rain” by The Cult (1985)

  Jimmy Page-esque riffs meet Ian Astbury’s howl.

• “Ball of Confusion” by Love and Rockets (1985)

  A psychedelic cover of the Temptations’ classic.

• “Destination Zulaland” by The Comsat Angels (1985)

  Post-punk meets tropical rhythms in this underrated banger.

• “Space Age Love Song” by A Flock of Seagulls (1982)

  Often overshadowed by “I Ran,” this track is dreamier and more introspective.

• “Pictures on My Wall” by Sad Lovers & Giants (1981)

  Ethereal jangle-pop from UK post-punk pioneers.

• “Wishing” by A Flock of Seagulls (1982)

  Another synth-driven deep cut with emotional depth.

• “My Wild Love” by The Bolshoi (1986)

  Darkwave perfection with a seductive edge.

Funk, R&B, & Dance Floor Fillers

• “Don’t Look Any Further” by Dennis Edwards (1984)

  A duet with Siedah Garrett, sampled endlessly in hip-hop.

• “Rock Me Tonight” by Freddie Jackson (1985)

  Silky-smooth R&B that dominated quiet storm radio.

• “Critical Beatdown” by Ultramagnetic MCs (1988)

  Proto-hip-hop genius from Kool Keith & crew.

• “Weekend” by Class Action (1981)

  A disco-funk anthem later revived by Todd Terje.

• “Juice” by Gwen Guthrie (1986)

  Boogie-funk produced by Sly & Robbie.

• “Love Come Down” by Evelyn King (1982)

  Upbeat, soulful perfection.

• “Breakout” by Swing Out Sister (1986)

  Sophisti-pop with a brass section to die for.

• “Midnight Love” by Madonna’s early gem (1983)

  A pre-fame demo revealing her raw talent.

• “The Night” by Frankie Valli (1984)

  An overlooked Hi-NRG dance classic.

• “Just Be Good to Me” by The S.O.S. Band (1983)

  Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis’ first production hit.

Pop Ballads & Quirky Gems

• “Shattered Dreams” by Johnny Hates Jazz (1987)

  Slick, melancholic pop with a killer sax solo.

• “Heart and Soul” by T’Pau (1987)

  Power-ballad triumph led by Carol Decker’s vocals.

• “Eyes of a Stranger” by The Payolas (1982)

  Canadian new wave with cinematic flair.

• “Cool Places” by Sparks ft. Jane Wiedlin (1983)

  Quirky duet between art-pop legends and a Go-Go.

• “Temptation” by Heaven 17 (1983)

  Electro-pop meets orchestral grandeur.

• “The Sun Always Shines on TV” by A-ha (1985)

  Darker and grander than “Take On Me.”

• “Perfect Way” by Scritti Politti (1985)

  Jazzy pop with postmodern lyrics.

• “Change” by Tears for Fears (1983)

  A proto-hit before their Songs From the Big Chair breakthrough.

• “Only You” by Yazoo (1982)

  Alison Moyet’s voice turns synth-pop into soul.

• “Voices Carry” by ’Til Tuesday (1985)

  Aimee Mann’s chilling vocals in this tale of repression.

Conclusion

The 1980s were a goldmine of innovation, where underground scenes and mainstream pop collided to create unforgettable music. While trends fade, these 40 tracks prove that great songs never truly disappear—they just wait for the right moment to be rediscovered. Whether you’re revisiting them or hearing them for the first time, these forgotten gems offer a thrilling glimpse into an era that reshaped music forever.

FAQs

Why were these ’80s songs forgotten?

Many were overshadowed by bigger hits from the same artists or lacked marketing support. Others fell victim to shifting trends as the ’90s began.

How can I find these songs today?

Streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube have curated ’80s playlists, while vinyl reissues keep physical formats alive.

Did MTV play a role in their obscurity?

Yes—MTV’s focus on visual appeal meant some brilliant tracks without flashy videos got less airplay.

Are any of these artists still active?

Bands like Tears for Fears and A-ha still tour, while others (e.g., Prefab Sprout) release music sporadically.

Which underrated ’80s subgenre deserves more attention?

Coldwave (minimal synths + poetic vocals) and New Romanticism (glam meets electronics) both hold up remarkably well.