Looking to wig out to some bodacious jams? No Duh. You're come to the right decade. The 80s, the time that subtlety forgot. The music was loud, the shoulders were padded, the synths were turned up to 11 and video had just killed the radio star. MTV was launched in 1981, dragging the rest of the industry along with it.

Music was now about pleasing young people. Which meant it had to stand out. It's also the decade that the USA got it's first karaoke bar, "Dimples", now a Whole Foods. Phych!

We've compiled a list of the best karaoke songs from the 80s. They've been picked according to a strict criteria... They're all memorable hitsnot too long, and like, totally bitchin.'


Take On Me - A-ha

1984

If you've got the voice to handle a sustained high note, or not, it is, after all, karaoke. Then the A-ha's Norwegian Synthpop hit 'Take on Me' is the choice for you, it's plenty tubular.


Tainted Love - Soft Cell

1981

Although originally recorded in 1964 by Gloria Jones, it became a quintessentially 80s song when covered by the somber Soft Cell. It also became a lot easier to sing.


Gold - Spandau Ballet

1983

Gold, it's humanity's favorite element, but for many, it's also their most loved 80s song. Just make sure you remember the verses.


Fame - Irene Cara (from the musical 'Fame')

1980

Bone-chillingly sincere, it was a different time. 


You Spin Me Round (Like a Record) - Dead or Alive

1985

'You Spin Me Round' is Dead or Alive's repetitive one-hit wonder. It's easy to sing and to remember the words, so you're bound to have a chorus of Pete Burn's impersonators joining in. 


(I've Had) The Time of My Life - Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes (from 'Dirty Dancing')

1987

Also appearing on our list of Best Karaoke Duets. Be careful singing this one. Many an injury has occurred trying to recreate the 'Dirty Dancing' lift. 


Come On Eileen - Dexys Midnight Runners

1982


Roxanne - The Police

1987


I'm So Excited - The Pointer Sisters

1982

 

Like a Prayer - Madonna

1989


Kiss - Prince

1986

One for those with a strong falsetto.


What's Love got to do with It - Tina Turner

1984


The Final Countdown - Europe

1986


White Wedding - Billy Idol

1982


Sweet Dreams (are made of these) - Eurythmics

1983


Careless Whisper - George Michael

1984

It's got a chorus that everybody will sing along to and a message that everybody can relate to. Specifically, that its wrong to gossip about loved ones behind their back.


I'm Still Standing - Elton John

1983

The only time it will ever be acceptable for you to wear sunglasses indoors and at night. Unless you are blind.


Club Tropicana - Wham

1983

Subtly make fun of your friends' love of package holidays with this saucy number.


I Want to Break Free - Queen

1984


Don't you Want Me - The Human League

1981