The 1980s were a decade of fantastic movie soundtracks that captured the era’s essence. From enduring classics like “Footloose,” “The Breakfast Club,” and “Dirty Dancing” to unforgettable soundtracks from “Top Gun,” “Flashdance,” and “Beverly Hills Cop,” the 1980s became a golden age of movie soundtracks.
The best soundtracks of the 1980s were more than just a collection of great songs; they reflected the times. In this blog post, we have assembled the top 10 best movie soundtracks of the 1980s that remain relevant and popular today.
Top Gun Soundtrack (1986)
The “Top Gun” Soundtrack, released in 1986, is still one of the most epic. With its iconic songs like “Danger Zone,” “Take My Breath Away,” and “Playing with the Boys,” the “Top Gun” soundtrack captured the intensity and glamor of the 1980s better than any other soundtrack. The Top Gun soundtrack is the perfect blend of rock, pop, and ballads, which is a must-have for every 1980s music lover.
Beverly Hills Cop Soundtrack (1984)
The “Beverly Hills Cop” Soundtrack, released in 1984, was one of the most successful soundtracks of the decade, selling over 3 million copies and winning a Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack.
The soundtrack features the unforgettable “Axel F” by Harold Faltermeyer, a synth-pop tune that became an iconic theme song for the movie. Other standout tracks on the soundtrack include “The Neutron Dance” by The Pointer Sisters, “Rock ‘n’ Roll Me Again” by The System, and “New Attitude” by Patti LaBelle.
Footloose Soundtrack (1984)
The “Footloose” Soundtrack, released in 1984, was an instant classic and an essential soundtrack for any fan of the 1980s. With songs like “Footloose,” “Let’s Hear It for the Boy,” and “Almost Paradise,” the Footloose soundtrack embodies the spirit of the era. The soundtrack also features the memorable rock tracks “Holding Out for a Hero” by Bonnie Tyler and “Dancing in the Sheets” by Shalamar.
Purple Rain Soundtrack (1984)
The Purple Rain soundtrack, released in 1984, was a game-changer for both the movie and music industries. The soundtrack, written and performed entirely by Prince, became an instant classic and helped establish Prince as one of the most iconic musicians ever.
Featuring hit songs like “When Doves Cry,” “Let’s Go Crazy,” and the title track “Purple Rain,” the soundtrack remains one of the best-selling soundtracks of all time.
The Breakfast Club Soundtrack (1985)
The “Breakfast Club” Soundtrack, released in 1985, is one of the most memorable and iconic soundtracks of the 1980s. The soundtrack features a diverse mix of genres, including rock, pop, and new wave.
It includes hits like “Don’t You Forget About Me” by Simple Minds, “We Are Not Alone” by Karla DeVito, and “If You Were Here” by Thompson Twins. The Breakfast Club soundtrack perfectly captures the angst and energy of youth in the 1980s.
The NeverEnding Story (1984)
This classic fantasy film left a lasting impression on audiences, partly thanks to its incredible score. Composed by Klaus Doldinger, the soundtrack features the title track “The NeverEnding Story” by Limahl. The album’s instrumental tracks are equally captivating and transport you to the magical land of Fantasia.