George Michael moved from the British pop duo Wham! into a solo catalog that combined melodic pop, soul and dance music. Careless Whisper appeared as a solo single in 1984, before Faith established a broader album...
View background statusFind songs
Search across titles, artists, years, genres and themes.
Find a song. Follow a memory.
Basic search checks titles and artists, not background notes. List year and release year are displayed separately. Recent carryovers are labeled; historical reissues do not reset a release date. Genre tags may be editorial.
150 matching catalog entries
Results show year, song, artist and editorial genre tags.
Browse by yearResearched song storiesShuffle this result setOpen saved songs
Showing 1-150 of 150.
1986
A Love Bizarre
Sheila E.Reported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #83Co-written with Prince, this funk track explores unconventional love.
View background statusPalmer wrote this song about the overwhelming power of romantic attraction.
View background statusAin't Nothing Like the Real Thing
Laura Branigan and Ted NeeleyReported release: 1986Date needs verification
A cover of the Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell classic, celebrating authentic love.
View background statusAlive and Kicking
Simple MindsReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #17The song reflects on personal growth and overcoming challenges.
View background statusThis emotional ballad explores the pain of a broken relationship.
View background statusAll I Need Is a Miracle
Mike + The MechanicsReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #74This song expresses hope for reconciliation in a troubled relationship.
View background statusThis power ballad expresses the depth of romantic love.
View background statusThis atmospheric track explores complex emotions and communication in relationships.
View background statusWritten by Tom Scholz, this love song was named after his wife.
View background statusThis dance-pop hit expresses the joy of new love.
View background statusBad Boy
Miami Sound MachineReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #79This upbeat song warns about the allure of a "bad boy" in relationships.
View background statusBroken Wings
Mr. MisterReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #5Richard Page attributes the imagery in Broken Wings to lyricist John Lang's reading of Kahlil Gibran. In a firsthand interview, Page said Lang approached the author's estate about using the material. Page also...
Read background and sourcesBurning Heart
SurvivorReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #8Written for the movie "Rocky IV," this song captures the competitive spirit and determination of the film's protagonist.
View background statusAccepting life's ups and downs
View background statusThis song reflects on long-distance communication and relationships.
View background statusConga
Miami Sound MachineReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #40This Latin-influenced dance track was inspired by the energy of Miami's nightlife.
View background statusThis upbeat pop song captures the excitement of a new romantic interest.
View background statusThis upbeat song celebrates the joy and freedom of dancing.
View background statusWritten for the movie "Top Gun," this song captures the adrenaline and risk of fighter pilot missions.
View background statusThis song critiques the superficiality of the 1980s social scene.
View background statusNeil Finn wrote this song about maintaining hope in the face of adversity.
View background statusDon't Forget Me (When I'm Gone)
Glass TigerReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #34This song deals with the fear of being forgotten by a loved one.
View background statusThis solo effort by Hall explores themes of love and dreams.
View background statusArcadia was the separate recording project formed by Duran Duran members Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes and Roger Taylor. Its album So Red the Rose included Election Day, The Promise and Goodbye Is Forever. Guests on the...
View background statusThis party anthem encourages listeners to enjoy life and have a good time.
View background statusRoland Orzabal and Curt Smith recalled that an early chorus referred explicitly to going to war, reflecting the nuclear anxiety of the Cold War. Orzabal changed the central phrase after thinking about a record...
Read background and sourcesThis song promotes a message of equality and unity.
View background statusFriends and Lovers
Gloria Loring and Carl AndersonReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #13This duet explores the transition from friendship to romantic love.
View background statusThis song expresses the desire to reunite with a former love.
View background statusWritten for the movie "The Karate Kid Part II," this song embodies themes of love and heroism.
View background statusThis song addresses the pain of a failing relationship and the desire to reconcile.
View background statusOriginally recorded by George Benson, this song's lyrics emphasize self-love and personal growth.
View background statusA cover of Bob & Earl's R&B classic, bringing the sound to a new audience.
View background statusThe "Miami Vice" star's foray into music, exploring themes of love and desire.
View background statusCo-written with Will Jennings, this song explores spiritual and romantic love.
View background statusHolding Back the Years
Simply RedReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #22Mick Hucknall wrote this song about his difficult childhood and relationship with his father.
View background statusOriginally written for Janet Jackson, this upbeat song about young love became one of Whitney Houston's signature hits.
View background statusThis synth-pop hit explores the complexities of human relationships and emotions.
View background statusThe song's upbeat tempo and lyrics capture the excitement of new love.
View background statusI Didn't Mean to Turn You On
Robert PalmerReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #46A cover of Cherrelle's 1984 hit, exploring unintended romantic signals.
View background statusThe song reflects on the pain of missing a loved one and the desire to reconnect.
View background statusWritten by Steve Lukather and Randy Goodrum, this song deals with moving on after a breakup.
View background statusI'm Your Man
Wham!Reported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #63This upbeat pop song showcases George Michael's commitment in a relationship.
View background statusIf You Leave
Orchestral Manoeuvres in the DarkReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #53Written for the movie "Pretty in Pink," this song deals with the pain of potential separation.
View background statusGabriel wrote this song about the depth and spirituality of love.
View background statusThe song's lyrics were inspired by a character in the 1984 film "2010: The Year We Make Contact."
View background statusThis song explores themes of fleeting power and fame.
View background statusPrince was a singer, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist whose work connected funk, rock, soul, pop and jazz. His 1978 debut, For You, introduced a largely self-contained studio approach, while later...
View background statusThe title comes from the Greek phrase "Kyrie eleison" meaning "Lord, have mercy," reflecting the song's spiritual themes.
View background statusLet's Go All the Way
Sly FoxReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #45This upbeat song encourages living life to the fullest.
View background statusLife in a Northern Town
Dream AcademyReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #78This song pays tribute to Nick Drake and describes life in a small English town.
View background statusWritten for the film "At Close Range," this ballad explores themes of survival and truth-telling.
View background statusThe struggles of working-class Americans
View background statusLiving in America
James BrownReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #65Written for "Rocky IV," this patriotic song celebrates American life and culture.
View background statusLonely Is the Night
Air SupplyReported release: 1985 / 1986Date needs verification | Recent carryover
This power ballad describes the loneliness of being without a loved one.
View background statusThis R&B ballad expresses enduring love and commitment.
View background statusThis romantic song celebrates the enduring nature of true love.
View background statusSting's solo effort explores love as a powerful, recurring force in life.
View background statusWritten for the movie "Legal Eagles," this song explores physical attraction.
View background statusThis optimistic song promotes the power of love to overcome obstacles.
View background statusThis romantic song describes a perfect place of love and harmony.
View background statusThis song explores the intense emotions of being in love.
View background statusWritten by Prince under the pseudonym "Christopher," this song describes the stress of starting a work week.
View background statusWritten for the movie "Ruthless People," this song celebrates the strength and independence of modern women.
View background statusMoney's Too Tight (To Mention)
Simply RedReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
A cover of the Valentine Brothers' song, addressing economic hardships.
View background statusThis song uses mountains as a metaphor for overcoming life's challenges.
View background statusThis song deals with the need to leave a toxic relationship.
View background statusJackson wrote this song as a response to being catcalled by men on the street.
View background statusThis power ballad deals with the pain of unrequited love.
View background statusThis song expresses the idea of eternal love.
View background statusGeorge Michael appears on this recording from Ice on Fire. The album reunited Elton with Gus Dudgeon, the producer associated with many of his 1970s records. Nikita subsequently became the album's biggest hit; the...
Read background and sourcesThis philosophical song explores the idea that sometimes circumstances are beyond our control.
View background statusFame and its consequences
View background statusObject of My Desire
StarpointReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #93This R&B hit expresses passionate romantic attraction.
View background statusOn My Own
Patti LaBelle and Michael McDonaldReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #4This duet explores the theme of independence and self-reliance after a relationship ends.
View background statusThis satirical song critiques the materialism and greed of the 1980s.
View background statusThis controversial song addresses teenage pregnancy and a young woman's decision to keep her baby.
View background statusParty All the Time
Eddie MurphyReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #7Eddie Murphy's foray into music was produced by Rick James and reflected the party culture of the 1980s.
View background statusPerfect Way
Scritti PolittiReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #64This new wave song explores themes of love and perfection.
View background statusThis dance track explores the moment when a relationship becomes serious.
View background statusThis upbeat song deals with media pressure and public scrutiny.
View background statusR.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.
John MellencampRelease year not establishedDate review open
Source year-end #66This song pays homage to the rock music and culture of the 1960s.
View background statusR.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to 60's Rock)
John MellencampReported release: 1986Date needs verification
This song pays homage to the rock music and culture of the 1960s.
View background statusThis German-language hit was inspired by the life of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
View background statusThis song addresses the damaging nature of gossip and rumors.
View background statusThe song was written about Sara, the daughter of Starship's drummer Donny Baldwin.
View background statusWritten for the movie "White Nights," this song was inspired by the theme of friendship and perseverance.
View background statusThis song captures the excitement and innocence of teenage romance.
View background statusSecret Lovers
Atlantic StarrReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #12The song explores the complicated emotions involved in an extramarital affair.
View background statusRomantic seduction
View background statusThis song, with its post-apocalyptic themes, was inspired by the 1972 sci-fi film of the same name.
View background statusSilent Running (On Dangerous Ground)
Mike + The MechanicsReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #70Written for the movie "On Dangerous Ground," this song has themes of isolation and perseverance.
View background statusThis song uses sexual metaphors and was influenced by Otis Redding's style of soul music.
View background statusZZ Top developed a compact, forceful approach to Texas blues and boogie. The classic lineup of Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill and Frank Beard drew on blues musicians including Freddie King and Lightnin' Hopkins. Records...
View background statusMellencamp wrote this song about his experiences growing up in a small town in Indiana.
View background statusThis rock ballad expresses a longing for meaningful connection.
View background statusSomething About You
Level 42Reported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #37The lyrics describe the feeling of being attracted to someone but unable to express it.
View background statusA cover of the classic song from "West Side Story," exploring themes of hope and love.
View background statusSpies Like Us
Paul McCartneyReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #92Written as the theme song for the movie of the same name, this playful track reflects the film's comedic spy theme.
View background statusThis blues-rock track explores the different phases of a relationship.
View background statusThis solo effort by The Cars' bassist explores themes of desire and passion.
View background statusThis power ballad expresses raw, honest emotions in a relationship.
View background statusThis power ballad expresses feelings of abandonment and loneliness.
View background statusA lighthearted look at long-term commitment in relationships.
View background statusWritten for the movie "Running Scared," this upbeat song celebrates personal freedom.
View background statusBaker co-wrote this song about the joy and comfort of a loving relationship.
View background statusThis sensual song explores forbidden love and desire.
View background statusPhil Collins is a British singer, drummer and songwriter who worked as a child actor before joining Genesis as a drummer. His solo career developed alongside the band, with In the Air Tonight and albums including...
View background statusThis song features Ronnie Spector and references her 1963 hit "Be My Baby."
View background statusWritten for the movie "Top Gun," this love ballad was inspired by the film's romantic storyline.
View background statusNicks wrote this song about the importance of communication in relationships.
View background statusTarzan Boy
BaltimoraReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #73This Italo disco hit was inspired by the character of Tarzan and jungle themes.
View background statusTender Love
Force MDsReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #95This R&B ballad expresses deep romantic love and commitment.
View background statusThat's What Friends Are For
Dionne & FriendsRelease: 1985Source checked | Recent carryover
Source year-end #1Written by Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager, this song was originally recorded by Rod Stewart in 1982. The 1985 version was released as a charity single for AIDS research and prevention.
View background statusThe Greatest Love of All
Whitney HoustonRelease year not establishedDate review open
Source year-end #11Originally recorded by George Benson, this song's lyrics emphasize self-love and personal growth.
View background statusThis duet explores the theme of finding love again after heartbreak.
View background statusThis sensual song explores forbidden love and desire.
View background statusSocial and economic inequalities in America
View background statusThis song reflects on the emotional power of music to evoke memories and feelings.
View background statusHeart developed from the Pacific Northwest rock scene around the powerful singing of Ann Wilson and the guitar work of Nancy Wilson. The band combined hard-rock riffs with acoustic passages and folk textures,...
View background statusThis song deals with the theme of letting go of a failing relationship.
View background statusTonight She Comes
The CarsReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #81This upbeat rock song describes the anticipation of meeting a love interest.
View background statusMadonna wrote this song as a tribute to her then-husband Sean Penn.
View background statusWritten by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, this song promotes self-acceptance and authenticity.
View background statusThis dance-pop hit describes the excitement of new love.
View background statusThis upbeat song humorously describes stereotypical male behavior in relationships.
View background statusA cover of Shocking Blue's 1969 hit, reimagined with a dance-pop arrangement.
View background statusThis song expresses the desire to be recognized and appreciated.
View background statusAncient Egyptian culture and dance moves
View background statusWalk of Life
Dire StraitsReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #49The song celebrates the lives of street musicians and performers.
View background statusWalk This Way
Run-D.M.C. featuring AerosmithReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #89This groundbreaking collaboration reimagined Aerosmith's 1975 hit with a hip-hop twist.
View background statusWe Don't Have to Take Our Clothes Off
Jermaine StewartReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #60This song promotes responsible behavior and abstinence during the AIDS crisis.
View background statusWest End Girls
Pet Shop BoysReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #15Influenced by T.S. Eliot's poem "The Waste Land" and the hip-hop culture of New York City.
View background statusThis song questions the role of love in a relationship facing difficulties.
View background statusWritten by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, this song addresses relationship expectations.
View background statusWhat You Need
INXSReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #56This upbeat rock song explores desire and need in relationships.
View background statusA cover of the classic love song, expressing hopes for finding true love.
View background statusThis upbeat song celebrates the positive feelings associated with thinking about a loved one.
View background statusWhen the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going
Billy OceanReported release: 1985 / 1986Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #31Written for the movie "The Jewel of the Nile," this song encourages perseverance in difficult times.
View background statusWritten for the Stephen King film "Maximum Overdrive," this song questions the nature of creation and control.
View background statusWritten for the movie "Short Circuit," this song relates to the film's robot character.
View background statusThis was the first single with Sammy Hagar as lead vocalist, exploring new love.
View background statusThis quirky song comments on the fast-paced, chaotic nature of modern life.
View background statusThe song's catchphrase was inspired by street slang of the time.
View background statusWords Get in the Way
Miami Sound MachineReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #47This ballad explores communication difficulties in relationships.
View background statusCo-written with Desmond Child, this song describes a heartbreaking relationship.
View background statusCall for social change and unity
View background statusYour Love
The OutfieldReported release: 1985Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #62This rock song tells the story of a man tempted to cheat on his girlfriend.
View background statusThis song nostalgically recalls a past love and wonders about rekindling the relationship.
View background statusBrowse by year
1960-2025. Each year contains 150 selections.