The 1980s were a golden era for music, with an eclectic mix of pop, rock, new wave, and electronic that still defines the sound of today. Whether you’re hosting a silent disco or just want to take a trip down memory lane, an ‘80s-themed party playlist is essential to set the mood. The beauty of hiring a silent disco is that guests can switch between different music channels, allowing them to create their own musical journey. But, with so many great tracks to choose from, where do you begin?
Here’s the ultimate guide to creating the perfect ‘80s silent disco playlist, packed with iconic songs that’ll make your guests want to dance all night long.
1. 80s Pop Hits
The ‘80s were all about bold, catchy, and unforgettable pop tunes. Start your silent disco playlist with some of the best pop hits that still get people moving today.
- “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” – Wham!
This upbeat, infectious track will have your guests shaking it in no time. - “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper
A timeless anthem for every dance party. It’s fun, empowering, and guaranteed to get everyone in the groove. - “Thriller” – Michael Jackson
You can’t go wrong with MJ. This is the perfect mix of pop and eerie vibes for the ultimate ‘80s atmosphere. - “Material Girl” – Madonna
A classic that’s catchy and iconic. It’ll have your guests singing along while they dance. - “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” – Whitney Houston
This iconic song will inspire an irresistible urge to get up and move. It’s a classic that’ll work for every crowd. - “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey
A sing-along favourite that brings everyone together. It’s a classic anthem for any party.
For a ready-to-go, nostalgic 80’s pop playlist to get the party started, simply hit play on the embedded 80’s Pop Hits Playlist below and let the music take you back in time:
2. 80s Rock Anthems
If you want to spice up your playlist with a little rock flair, the ‘80s didn’t disappoint. From hair metal to alternative rock, there’s something for every fan of the genre.
- “Livin’ on a Prayer” – Bon Jovi
If there’s a crowd-pleaser, this is it. Everyone loves to belt out this anthem of perseverance. - “Under Pressure” – Queen & David Bowie
A rock classic that combines the talents of two music icons. The beat is infectious, and the vocals will bring out the best in everyone. - “You Shook Me All Night Long” – AC/DC
A rock anthem with high energy, perfect for those who want to unleash their inner headbanger. - “Here I Go Again” – Whitesnake
Another rock anthem that’s impossible not to sing along to—especially during a silent disco. - “Jump” – Van Halen
A perfect mix of rock and fun, this track brings an upbeat vibe that’s perfect for dancing.
For a rockin’ good time, check out the 80’s Rock Anthems Playlist below to bring some serious energy to your silent disco:
3. New Wave and Synth Sounds
For fans of electronic beats and futuristic sounds, the ‘80s synthwave and new wave movements were all the rage. Here are some essential tracks to keep things groovy.
- “Take On Me” – A-ha
One of the most iconic synth-pop tracks of the decade, it’s a perfect addition to any silent disco. - “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell
This catchy electronic hit will get your guests into the groove with its unforgettable beat. - “Blue Monday” – New Order
The perfect mix of dance music and electronic vibes, this track will keep everyone moving all night. - “Enjoy the Silence” – Depeche Mode
A slower track with a hypnotic beat, it’s perfect for a chill dance moment during the silent disco. - “Just Can’t Get Enough” – Depeche Mode
A feel-good synth track that will have everyone dancing with its infectious beat.
For the perfect blend of electronic beats and new wave sounds, listen to the 80’s Synth Pop / New Wave Playlist below:
4. 80s Dance Classics
The ‘80s were also a golden age for dance music. From disco to early house, there are endless tracks that will keep the dance floor packed.
- “Super Freak” – Rick James
With its funky bassline and catchy hooks, this track is pure dancefloor gold. - “Let’s Groove” – Earth, Wind & Fire
A funky, upbeat tune that’s perfect for those silent disco moments when you want to groove under the lights. - “Push It” – Salt-N-Pepa
A perfect mix of rap and dance beats, “Push It” will get everyone’s feet moving. - “Holiday” – Madonna
A feel-good track that celebrates freedom, perfect for adding energy to the party. - “Walk Like an Egyptian” – The Bangles
A catchy, upbeat track that combines a fun rhythm with infectious vocals. - “Rhythm of the Night” – DeBarge
A quintessential 80’s dance track that’ll have your guests dancing all night long.
To keep the dance vibes going, check out this 80’s Old School Dance Playlist below for the ultimate groove:
5. 80s One-Hit Wonders
Every decade has its share of unforgettable one-hit wonders, and the ‘80s are no different. These tracks were one-off sensations that deserve a place in your playlist.
- “99 Red Balloons” – Nena
This German classic became an international sensation and will stand out as a memorable moment in your silent disco. - “She Drives Me Crazy” – Fine Young Cannibals
The catchy melody and quirky vocals make this track a dancefloor favourite that will keep the energy high. - “Electric Avenue” – Eddy Grant
A true gem from the ‘80s, this upbeat track will have everyone dancing in no time. - “The Safety Dance” – Men Without Hats
A quirky, fun anthem that became an instant ‘80s classic. - “I Ran” – A Flock of Seagulls
This track’s catchy melody and futuristic sound will make it a standout moment at your silent disco.
For a nostalgic throwback, enjoy the 80’s One Hit Wonders Playlist below, packed with those unforgettable hits:
6. 80s Disco Classics
While disco hit its peak in the ‘70s, its influence continued to shape the music of the ‘80s, especially with the rise of dance clubs and the club scene. Here are some of the best disco-inspired tracks to keep the funky vibes alive.
- “Last Dance” – Donna Summer
A disco anthem that’s both emotional and perfect for closing the night. It’s a must-have for your silent disco playlist. - “Funky Town” – Lipps Inc.
With its catchy, upbeat rhythm, this track is perfect for getting everyone to boogie. - “Staying Alive” – Bee Gees
Although it’s technically from the late ‘70s, this track is a disco classic that resonates throughout the ‘80s and beyond. - “Superstition” – Stevie Wonder
A funky, groove-filled masterpiece that brings disco and soul together. It’s a guaranteed floor-filler. - “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor
An iconic disco anthem that empowers and brings the house down with its infectious rhythm. - “Get Down on It” – Kool & The Gang
A timeless track that combines funk and disco to create an undeniable party hit.
For a funky, feel-good vibe, check out the 80’s Disco Mix Playlist below and get ready to groove:
7. 80s Power Ballads
The ‘80s were known for their epic, heart-wrenching power ballads. These slow songs capture the emotions of the time and are perfect for those moments when you want to slow things down at your silent disco.
- “I Want to Know What Love Is” – Foreigner
This power ballad is an emotional rollercoaster that will have everyone singing along. - “Sweet Child O’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses
While it’s often associated with rock, this slow build-up ballad will have your guests in a trance with its soaring chorus. - “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” – Poison
A true ‘80s rock ballad that captures heartbreak and nostalgia, it’s perfect for a more reflective moment in your silent disco. - “Open Arms” – Journey
Another Journey classic that brings heart and passion to the dancefloor, this is perfect for the emotional moments of your silent disco. - “Total Eclipse of the Heart” – Bonnie Tyler
An iconic power ballad that mixes drama with melody, it’s the perfect way to slow down the energy and have everyone belting out the lyrics.
For the ultimate power ballad experience, check out this 80’s Power Ballads Playlist below and feel the emotion:
8. 80s Cheesy Anthems
Sometimes, the best part of any party is belting out those ridiculously catchy, feel-good tunes that everyone secretly loves. These ‘80s cheesy anthems are perfect for lightening the mood and having some fun!
- “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” – Wham!
Full of energy, this song’s infectious beat and fun lyrics make it a perfect cheesy anthem that everyone will happily dance to. - “Come On Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners
This quirky, energetic track will have your guests doing a happy, silly dance to the catchy rhythms. - “The Final Countdown” – Europe
This dramatic, over-the-top anthem will make everyone feel like they’re in a music video, singing and dancing like no one’s watching. - “Footloose” – Kenny Loggins
A fun, foot-tapping anthem that will have guests dancing with abandon—especially as they remember the iconic movie moments. - “Mickey” – Toni Basil
With its bubblegum pop and catchy chant, this track is pure fun and guaranteed to bring the smiles out. - “Maniac” – Michael Sembello
From the classic “Flashdance,” this track is a perfect cheesy anthem to inspire dramatic dance moves and enthusiastic air punching.
For some cheesy anthems to get the party going, check out the Cheesy 80s Classics Playlist below and let the fun begin:
Silent Disco Hire for Your 80s Themed Party
Create an unforgettable 80s silent disco party with Silent Disco Party UK. We rent high-quality equipment, including wireless LED headphones, transmitters, Spotify playlists, and vibrant lighting, all designed to set the perfect retro vibe for your event. Whether you’re hosting a birthday celebration, corporate event, or private party, our silent disco hire packages are tailored to provide a unique and exciting experience for your guests.
Get a quote or learn more about our hire packages today. Click here to start planning the ultimate 80s silent disco party!