Top International 80s Dance Songs To Groove To!

Get ready to turn up the volume and travel back in time! We're diving headfirst into the electrifying world of international 80s dance music. This era was a melting pot of vibrant sounds, infectious rhythms, and unforgettable melodies that still get us moving today. Forget your worries, and let's get this party started with the best international 80s dance hits that continue to dominate dance floors and bring back those nostalgic vibes!

The Undeniable Charm of 80s International Dance Music

When we talk about 80s international dance music, we're talking about a global phenomenon. It wasn't just the US and UK dominating the charts; artists from all over the world were crafting incredible tracks that blended local influences with the synth-heavy, beat-driven sounds of the decade. This fusion created a unique and diverse musical landscape that's still celebrated today. What makes these tracks so special? It's the combination of catchy hooks, innovative use of synthesizers, and a raw, unpolished energy that's hard to resist.

The 80s were a time of experimentation, and music was no exception. Producers and artists were pushing boundaries, exploring new technologies, and weren't afraid to take risks. This led to some truly groundbreaking tracks that defined the sound of the decade. Think about the iconic synthesizers, the gated reverb drums, and the larger-than-life vocals – these elements combined to create a sonic tapestry that was both futuristic and deeply human. The impact of 80s international dance music is still felt today, with many contemporary artists drawing inspiration from this golden era.

From Germany's Neue Deutsche Welle to Italy's Italo-disco and France's Synth-Pop explosion, each region brought its own unique flavor to the 80s dance music scene. These genres often incorporated elements of funk, new wave, and even classical music, resulting in a diverse and eclectic mix of sounds. Artists weren't confined by genre boundaries, and this freedom allowed them to create some truly innovative and memorable tracks.

Whether you're a seasoned 80s enthusiast or a newcomer eager to explore the sounds of the past, there's something undeniably captivating about 80s international dance music. Its infectious energy, innovative production, and diverse influences make it a genre that continues to resonate with audiences around the world. So, get ready to dust off your dancing shoes and join us as we delve into some of the best international 80s dance songs that are guaranteed to get you moving.

Must-Have International 80s Dance Tracks

Alright, guys, let's get into the heart of the matter – the absolute must-have international 80s dance tracks that no playlist is complete without! I'm talking about the songs that instantly transport you back to a time of neon lights, big hair, and unforgettable dance parties. These aren't just songs; they're cultural touchstones that defined a generation.

Let's kick things off with "Tainted Love" by Soft Cell. Originally a Northern Soul song, Soft Cell transformed it into a synth-pop masterpiece that dominated the charts worldwide. Its dark, brooding energy and Marc Almond's haunting vocals made it an instant classic. The song's themes of heartbreak and disillusionment resonated with audiences, and its infectious beat made it impossible to resist on the dance floor. "Tainted Love" remains a staple of 80s playlists and continues to inspire artists today.

Next up, we have "Fade to Grey" by Visage. This track is the epitome of New Romantic cool, with its sleek synthesizers, David Bowie-esque vocals, and avant-garde fashion sense. Visage was the brainchild of Steve Strange, a prominent figure in the London club scene, and "Fade to Grey" perfectly captured the glamorous and decadent spirit of the era. The song's atmospheric soundscapes and melancholic lyrics made it a standout track, and its music video helped to solidify Visage's status as style icons.

No 80s dance playlist would be complete without "Der Kommissar" by After the Fire. While the song is originally by Austrian artist Falco, the After the Fire version brought it to international acclaim. Its catchy melody, driving beat, and quirky lyrics made it a global hit. The song's themes of urban paranoia and police surveillance resonated with audiences, and its energetic performance made it a favorite on dance floors. "Der Kommissar" remains a beloved track and a testament to the power of cross-cultural musical exchange.

Let's not forget "Too Shy" by Kajagoogoo. With its infectious synth-pop sound and Limahl's distinctive vocals, "Too Shy" was an instant hit. The song's themes of teenage awkwardness and romantic longing resonated with audiences, and its upbeat tempo made it a perfect dance track. Kajagoogoo's success was meteoric, and "Too Shy" remains their signature song, instantly recognizable and guaranteed to get you moving.

Diving Deeper: Lesser-Known Gems

Okay, now that we've covered some of the big hitters, let's dig a little deeper and uncover some lesser-known gems from the international 80s dance scene. These are the tracks that might not be as famous, but they're just as worthy of your attention. These songs showcase the diversity and creativity of the era, offering a glimpse into the vibrant underground music scene.

First up, we have "Marusha - Somewhere Over the Rainbow". This techno anthem took Europe by storm in the early 90s, but its roots are firmly planted in the 80s rave scene. With its euphoric melodies, driving beat, and samples from The Wizard of Oz, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" is a quintessential example of early 90s rave culture. Marusha's high-energy performance and the song's uplifting message made it a favorite at dance parties across the continent.

Let's journey into the world of Italo-disco with " десятки тысяч/Desyтки тысяч by Альянс/Alliance". This Soviet/Russian new wave band created an awesome synth masterpiece that goes hard and is highly regarded by fans of the genre.

Another fantastic track is " ১৯৯০/ 1990 by Игорь Скляр/Igor Sklyar" This other Soviet/Russian hit song will give you a peak into what soviet dance music was like. It is a hit with over 18 million views on youtube, that features a fun and upbeat tempo that contrasts against a slightly dystopian theme of its lyrics.

These lesser-known gems offer a glimpse into the diverse and exciting world of 80s international dance music. They showcase the creativity, innovation, and raw energy that defined the era, and they're sure to add some spice to your playlist. So, take a chance and explore these hidden treasures – you might just discover your new favorite song!

How 80s Music Influenced Modern Dance Music

The influence of 80s international dance music on today's soundscape is undeniable. The sound of the 80s has not just been sampled, but wholeheartedly embraced by many modern artists and producers. The synth-heavy melodies, catchy hooks, and innovative production techniques of the era continue to inspire and shape the sound of contemporary dance music.

Think about the resurgence of synth-pop and retrowave in recent years. Artists like The Weeknd, Dua Lipa, and CHVRCHES have all drawn heavily from the 80s sound, incorporating its signature elements into their own music. These artists aren't just imitating the 80s; they're reinterpreting it, adding their own contemporary twist and introducing it to a new generation of listeners. This has helped to keep the spirit of 80s dance music alive and thriving.

Moreover, the DIY ethos of the 80s continues to resonate with independent artists and producers today. The rise of home studios and affordable music production software has empowered artists to create their own music without relying on big labels or expensive studios. This echoes the spirit of experimentation and innovation that characterized the 80s, when artists were pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds with limited resources.

The influence of 80s international dance music can also be heard in the production techniques used by many modern producers. The use of synthesizers, drum machines, and reverb effects is still prevalent in dance music today, and many producers are actively seeking to recreate the iconic sounds of the 80s. This has led to a revival of vintage synthesizers and drum machines, as well as a renewed appreciation for the production techniques of the era.

Ultimately, the legacy of 80s international dance music lives on through the artists, producers, and fans who continue to celebrate and draw inspiration from this golden era. Its influence can be heard in the music of today, and its spirit of innovation and experimentation continues to inspire creativity and push boundaries. So, the next time you hear a catchy synth riff or a driving beat, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of 80s international dance music – it's still shaping the sound of the world today.

Conclusion: Keep Dancing!

So, there you have it – a journey through the electrifying world of international 80s dance music! From the iconic hits to the lesser-known gems, we've explored the sounds, styles, and influences that made this era so unforgettable. Whether you're a seasoned 80s enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there's no denying the power and appeal of this music. So, crank up the volume, let loose, and keep dancing!

The 80s were a time of bold experimentation, vibrant creativity, and unforgettable music. The international dance scene was a melting pot of cultures and influences, resulting in a diverse and exciting sound that continues to resonate today. From synth-pop to Italo-disco to New Wave, the 80s gave us a treasure trove of dance tracks that are guaranteed to get you moving. So, embrace the nostalgia, discover new favorites, and keep the spirit of 80s dance music alive!

Remember, music is a universal language that transcends borders and generations. The international 80s dance scene is a testament to this, bringing together artists and audiences from all over the world in a celebration of rhythm, melody, and movement. So, whether you're dancing in your living room, hitting the club, or just listening on your headphones, let the music transport you to a time of carefree fun and unforgettable moments. Keep dancing, guys, and keep the 80s spirit alive!