The 1980s saw the height of movie soundtracks, with almost every film featuring a chart-topping hit. Often, these popular songs eclipsed other fantastic tracks. However, this compilation is dedicated to those lesser-known tunes that deserve more attention. Tracks like those from Rocky IV not sung by James Brown, or from The Lost Boys sans saxophone players in tight shirts. Crank up your music streaming service and give them a listen!
“Heavy Metal – Take A Ride” – Heavy Metal
The popular animated classic Heavy Metal features an array of fantastic songs, including tracks from Sammy Hagar, Blue Öyster Cult, Devo, among others. One standout tune is “Heavy Metal – Take A Ride,” originally by Don Felder, who was a guitarist for the Eagles before that. Despite not receiving the recognition he deserved as a songwriter in the Eagles, Felder demonstrates his talent with this timeless track.
“A Hazy Shade Of Winter” – Less Than Zero
In the film “Less Than Zero,” The Bangles’ rendition of Simon & Garfunkel’s timeless folk song “A Hazy Shade Of Winter” captures the palpable energy of the 1980s perfectly. This cover version undergoes a remarkable transformation, aligning seamlessly with the movie’s theme. Being a story about the extravagant lifestyle of yuppies, The Bangles’ dynamic rhythm matches this portrayal flawlessly.
“Ghostbusters” – Ghostbusters 2
In the first Ghostbusters movie, Ray Parker Jr.’s “Ghostbusters” tune is well-known to many, but the Run DMC version of the same name from the sequel is less familiar. I’d argue it’s an even more impressive song, without detracting from Parker’s original masterpiece. It’s worth noting that Run DMC’s version draws significantly from the original, both in its lyrics and music.
“You’re The Best” – The Karate Kid
Without a doubt, the most memorable tune from The Karate Kid is “Cruel Summer” by Bananarama. However, another great track on the soundtrack deserves mention too – “You’re The Best” by Joe Esposito. I’m sure it’s stuck in your head, but when was the last time you gave it a spin?
“To Live And Die In L.A.” – To Live And Die In L.A.
The 1980s film “To Live and Die in L.A.” has largely slipped from memory, and the band Wang Chung isn’t nearly as celebrated today as they should be for their contributions. While “Everybody Have Fun Tonight” may be well-known, their theme song, “To Live and Die in L.A.,” is equally impressive.
“Love on a Real Train” – Risky Business
1980s movies frequently featured music by German electronic innovators, Tangerine Dream. One of their most notable scores was composed for the film Risky Business. While Bob Seger’s tunes are often remembered as Tom Cruise danced in his underwear, fewer recall the psychedelic electronic soundtrack by Tangerine Dream, particularly the track that accompanied the train scene.
“Burning Heart” – Rocky IV
On the 4th of July, you’ll often hear James Brown’s “Living In America,” famously played in the movie Rocky IV, echoing from yards nationwide. Another tune from this film can be found during the intense training sequence in Siberia – it’s “Burning Heart” by Survivor. Interestingly, Survivor is also known for another Rocky anthem, “Eye of the Tiger,” which was featured in Rocky III.
“Shakedown” – Beverly Hills Cop II
The original “Beverly Hills Cop” features some fantastic musical scenes. In contrast, its sequel may not boast a soundtrack as strong, except for Bob Seger’s “Shakedown.” That song is on par with the music from the first film, and it was even nominated for an Academy Award.
“Restless Heart” – The Running Man
John Parr is recognized for one of the most popular songs of the ’80s with the theme to St. Elmo’s Fire, however, that wasn’t his only notable tune composed for a film. “Restless Heart” from The Running Man demonstrated that even movies set in dystopian futures could generate hit songs that exude pure 1980s vibe. You might not recall it from the movie, but it’s quintessential ’80s cheese – in a delightful way.
“One Foot In Front Of The Other” – Revenge Of The Nerds
In the movie “Revenge of the Nerds,” while there were no hits, some songs are unforgettable. Among them is the standout track “One Foot In Front Of The Other” by Bone Symphony, a band known for just this one song. Although the movie might have been controversial (for valid reasons), the tune continues to thrive!
“Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want” – Pretty In Pink
The Smiths are among the most esteemed bands of the 1980s and continue to be highly regarded today, if not more so than during their height of popularity. Similar to many other iconic new wave groups, they made an appearance in a classic John Hughes film titled “Pretty In Pink,” where their song “Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want” was featured. While it may not have been the movie’s most famous tune, it remains a quintessential ’80s anthem.
“For Your Eyes Only” – For Your Eyes Only
Among the numerous theme songs from James Bond films, the tune titled “For Your Eyes Only” from the Roger Moore era is not frequently recalled. This song, sung by Sheena Easton, is a softer melody in comparison to others in Bond’s history, and it’s surprisingly fantastic.
“You Can Leave Your Hat On” – 9 1/2 Weeks
1986 saw the release of the cultural sensation, 9 1/2 Weeks, which left an indelible mark. Not only did it boast a legendary soundtrack, but among its tracks, “You Can Leave Your Hat On,” performed by Joe Cocker, stands out as my personal favorite. This memorable tune was penned by the gifted Randy Newman (known for his hit “You Got A Friend In Me”) and is featured in one of the most iconic scenes from this steamy film.
“Cry Little Sister” – The Lost Boys
Is it refreshing in your memory the saxophone player without a shirt in the movie “The Lost Boys“, portrayed by Tim Cappello? However, have you ever thought about the song “Cry Little Sister” by Gerard McMahon? It’s quite catchy too. Honestly, it’s slightly superior to “I Still Believe,” but not as widely recognized, due to obvious reasons.
“We Are Not Alone” – The Breakfast Club
Simple Minds achieved global success with their hit track “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” from the The Breakfast Club soundtrack. This song has been cherished by Generation X since its release, and it continues to be popular today. Additionally, Karla DeVito’s song “We Are Not Alone,” which was played during the scene where Emilio Estevez danced in the library, is also a favorite among Gen Xers that deserves recognition.
“Playing With The Boys” – Top Gun
It’s true that the Top Gun soundtrack is widely cherished, yet among Kenny Loggins’ tracks from that album, “Playing With The Boys” seems to be less frequently recalled compared to his other hits such as “Danger Zone” and “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin. While the volleyball scene is iconic, it’s not primarily due to its accompanying music.
“Cat People” – Cat People
The film titled “Cat People” boasts a thrilling soundtrack by the iconic Giorgio Moroder. Notably, the theme song was collaboratively penned by Moroder and another legendary figure, David Bowie, who also graced it with his voice. Is it Bowie’s finest melody? Perhaps not, but let’s be honest! It’s a collaboration between Bowie and Moroder, which is more than enough reason for us to still discuss this song today.
“All She Wants To Do Is Dance” – Real Genius
In my perspective, “All She Wants To Do Is Dance” by Don Henley was released as a single and featured in the soundtrack of “Real Genius” at around the same time. While the popcorn scene with “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears for Fears is often remembered from the movie, this Don Henley hit playing during the party scene in the school lecture hall may not be as well-known.
“Stir It Up” – Beverly Hills Cop
In a fresh and conversational style: The movie Beverly Hills Cop boasts an impressive soundtrack, which includes hits from The Pointer Sisters, Glenn Frey, Rick James, and composer Harold Faltermeyer with his iconic “Axel F.” Although less recognized, Patti LaBelle contributes two songs. Among the two, I personally prefer “Stir It Up.
“Glory Of Love” – The Karate Kid Part II
Admittedly, I came across this song not long ago, which sparked the creation of this entire playlist. The “Glory of Love” was a massive success when Peter Cetera released it in 1986 on the soundtrack for The Karate Kid Part II. It reached the top of the Billboard charts and even earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song. Yet, it’s surprising to me that this hit isn’t as well-remembered today, a puzzle I find intriguing.
“Eighties” – Weird Science
John Hughes had an uncanny ability to feature up-and-coming bands on his soundtracks, and Killing Joke’s “Eighties” is a fitting illustration of this talent. The band was just on the verge of becoming popular at that time, and while Oingo Boingo’s theme song from Weird Science might be more renowned, Killing Joke’s song is equally impressive.
“Mr. Night” – Caddyshack
Kenny Loggins gained immense popularity for his ’80s soundtracks, particularly due to songs like “I’m Alright” from the Caddyshack soundtrack. While “I’m Alright” is well-known, it isn’t the only song by him on that album. In fact, Kenny has four tracks in the movie, and among them, the standout is “Mr. Night,” which plays when the caddies jump into the pool.
“Oh I Love You So” – Cocktail
1988 saw the massive success of the “Cocktail” soundtrack, one of the year’s top-selling albums, boasting nearly 6 million sales. This collection climbed the charts in numerous countries, earning a spot among the top ten in many of them. The album is anchored by the beloved hits “Kokomo” by the late Beach Boys and “Don’t Worry Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin, but it also includes a delightful track called “Oh I Love So,” sung by Preston Smith, which is just as enjoyable as those two popular songs.
“Somebody’s Baby” – Fast Times At Ridgemont High
When asked to name a song from the movie Fast Times at Ridgemont High, most individuals are likely to respond with “Moving In Stereo” by The Cars. A few might mention “Goodbye, Goodbye” by Oingo Boingo. Few will recall “Somebody’s Baby” by Jackson Browne, which seems to be a less remembered classic for many.
“Bring On The Dancing Horses” – Pretty In Pink
It’s no wonder John Hughes’ movies are on this list, given how he crafted exceptional soundtracks. For instance, the movie Pretty In Pink showcased hits like “If You Leave” by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and a remade version of the film’s title track, “Pretty In Pink” by The Psychedelic Furs. It even gave a minor hit to Echo & The Bunnymen with “Bring On The Dancing Horses.
“Helplessly In Love” – Dragnet
If you’re curious about why people long for Tom Hanks to return to pure comedies, take a look at the film “Dragnet“. Although it’s not his finest work, Hanks delivers plenty of laughs in it. Moreover, it includes a memorable and almost forgotten tune, “Helplessly In Love” by New Edition.
“Unbelievable” – Night Of The Comet
Night of the Comet is a well-known ’80s cable movie, not many caught it in theaters but it was widely viewed on TV after its release. It’s a low-budget film that has gained minor cult status over the past four decades. “Unbelievable” by the short-lived and relatively unknown band Revolver mirrors that ’80s cheesy charm perfectly.
“After All” – Chances Are
When Peter Cetera, a renowned artist, collaborates with the iconic Cher, they create a beautiful love theme for the film “Chances Are,” starring Robert Downey Jr. The song, titled “After All,” was Oscar-worthy but remains overlooked in ’80s playlists. It deserves more recognition!
“Thunder In Your Heart” – Rad
Individuals who spent their childhood during the 1980s often yearned for the thrill of riding a BMX bike, just like the characters portrayed in the movie Rad. This desire also included performing tricks such as bouncing on one tire, synchronized with the rhythm of “Thunder In Your Heart” by John Farnham.
“Far From Over” – Staying Alive
The album accompanying the movie “Saturday Night Fever” is among the best-selling and most cherished of all time. It created quite an impact in the 70s, with the film catapulting John Travolta to stardom. Contrary to its predecessor, the sequel, “Staying Alive,” and especially its soundtrack, were not as successful. However, “Far From Over” by Frank Stallone, who was Sylvester (the movie’s director)’s brother, is undeniably a hit track.
“Cheer Down” – Lethal Weapon 2
It’s quite surprising that a song by a former Beatle, like George Harrison, from a well-known film such as Lethal Weapon, didn’t become a more enduring hit. Yet, here we are. The mournful guitar in “Cheer Down” can only belong to one guitarist, the iconic George Harrison. This song truly embodies Harrison and deserves as much recognition as his more famous hits.
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2025-05-31 01:40