1980s Love Songs: Power Ballads and Timeless Romance
The 1980s were a masterclass in romance. It was the decade of big hair, neon lights, and even bigger emotions. From the soaring rock anthems of Journey to the smooth R&B duets of Lionel Richie and Diana Ross, these 17 tracks represent the absolute best of 1980s love songs. Many of these songs have stood the test of time, serving as the soundtrack for thousands of first dances and remaining “tried and true” favorites for modern weddings.
Essential 1980s Love Songs
- The Ultimate Rock Vow: “Faithfully” by Journey. Released in 1983, this power ballad is a masterclass in devotion. Its lyrics about “lovin’ a music man” and being “forever yours” have made it a mandatory first-dance choice for over four decades.
- The Sophisticated Anthem: “In Your Eyes” by Peter Gabriel. Famously featured in the movie Say Anything, this 1986 rock masterpiece is about complete devotion. Its lush production and emotional depth make it a sophisticated choice for couples looking for a meaningful spotlight moment.
- The Record-Breaking Duet: “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie & Diana Ross. This 1981 R&B classic is arguably the greatest duet of all time. It spent nine weeks at #1 and defines the “soulful romance” of the early 80s. It remains a top-tier choice for a romantic first dance.
- The “Indie” Standard: “Lovesong” by The Cure. Proving that 80s love wasn’t just about power ballads, this 1989 track is a hauntingly beautiful declaration of loyalty. Whether you play the original or a cover, its simple message of “I will always love you” is timeless.
Expert DJ Tips for an 80s Love Set
- The “Phased” Groove Trivia: If you include “Africa” by Toto in your romantic set, note that its unforgettable drum beat uses a “Phased Shuffled Groove”, a technique that makes it feel deeper and more rhythmic than your average 80s ballad.
- The “Inspiration” Mix: “You’re the Inspiration” by Chicago is a perfect “all-ages” song. Because of its massive radio play in 1984, it’s a track that will have the couple’s parents and their friends singing along on the dance floor.
- The “Top Gun” Atmosphere: Use “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin to create a cinematic atmosphere. Its heavy synth-bass and ethereal vocals work perfectly for a mid-tempo slow dance that feels “larger than life”.
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80s Love Songs List
In Your Eyes – Peter Gabriel
Released in 1986 on the album So
Genre: Rock
In your eyes
Oh, I want to be that complete
I want to touch the light
The heat I see in your eyes
Longer – Dan Fogelberg
Released in December 1979 on the album Phoenix
Genre: Folk
Through the years, as the fire starts to mellow
Burning lines in the book of our lives
Though the binding cracks and the pages start to yellow
I’ll be in love with you
Lovesong – The Cure
Released in 1989 on the album Disintegration
Genre: Rock
However far away
I will always love you
However long I stay
I will always love you
Whatever words I say
I will always love you
Crazy For You – Madonna
Released in 1985 on the album Vision Quest Soundtrack
Genre: Pop
Touch me once and you’ll know it’s true
I never wanted anyone like this
It’s all brand new
You’ll feel it in my kiss
You’ll feel it in my kiss
Because I’m crazy for you
Lady – Kenny Rogers
Released in 1980 on the album Greatest Hits
Genre: Country
Lady
For so many years, I thought I’d never find you
You have come into my life and made me whole
Forever
The Search Is Over – Survivor
Released in 1984 on the album Vital Signs
Genre: Pop
Taking on the world
That was just my style
Now I look into your eyes
I can see forever
The search is over
You’re The Inspiration – Chicago
Released in 1984 on the album Chicago 17
Genre: Rock
You’re the meaning in my life
You’re the inspiration
You bring feeling to my life
You’re the inspiration
Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now – Starship
Released in 1987 on the album No Protection
Genre: Pop
Let ’em say we’re crazy, what do they know
Put your arms around me baby don’t ever let go
Let the world around us just fall apart
Baby, we can make it if we’re heart to heart
Faithfully – Journey
Released in 1983 on the album Frontiers
Genre: Rock
And lovin’ a music man ain’t always what it’s supposed to be
Oh, girl, you stand by me
I’m forever yours
Faithfully
Eternal Flame – The Bangles
Released in 1988 on the album Everything
Genre: Pop
Close your eyes, give me your hand, darling
Do you feel my heart beating
Do you understand?
Do you feel the same
Am I only dreaming
Is this burning an eternal flame?
Take My Breath Away – Berlin
Released in 1986 on the album Count Three & Pray
Genre: Rock
When the mirror crashed I called you
And turned to hear you say
If only for today
I am unafraid
Take my breath away
The Lady In Red – Chris De Burgh
Released in 1986 on the album Into the Light
Genre: Rock
I’ve never seen so many people want to be there by your side
And when you turned to me and smiled, it took my breath away
And I have never had such a feeling
Such a feeling of complete and utter love, as I do tonight
Tonight, I Celebrate My Love – Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack
Released in 1983 on the album Born to Love
Genre: R&B
Tonight there’ll be no distance between us
What I want most to do, is to get close to you
Saving All My Love For You – Whitney Houston
Released in 1985 on the album Whitney Houston
Genre: R&B
So I’m saving all my love for you
Yes, I’m saving all my love
Yes, I’m saving all my love for you
Keep On Loving You – REO Speedwagon
Released in 1980 on the album Hi Infidelity
Genre: Rock
And I meant every word I said
When I said that I love you
I meant that I love you forever
You & I – Eddie Rabbit & Crystal Gayle
Released in 1982 on the album Radio Romance
Genre: Country
We can entrust each other
With you in my life
They’ll never be another
We’ll be all right
Just you and I
Endless Love – Lionel Richie & Diana Ross
Released in 1981 on the album Endless Love Soundtrack
Genre: R&B
‘Cause you
You mean the world to me
I know I know
I’ve found, I’ve found in you
My endless love
Angel Eyes – The Jeff Healey Band
1988 on the album See the Light
Genre: Rock
Don’t anyone wake me
If it’s just a dream
‘Cause she’s the best thing
Ever happened to me
1980s Love Songs Spotify Playlist
If you have a favorite 80s love song, please share the song below and why it is special to you.
