If I had a nickel for every time I’ve heard someone say “I wish my life was like an 80s movie”, I would have enough money to replace my whole closet with paisley vests, hammer pants, and all the vintage accessories of my dreams. Although I was born just shy of the 80s, these movies were still popular during my childhood and I spent my formative years wishing a boy would come take me away on his riding lawn mower like Patrick Dempsey in Can’t Buy Me Love. Here are some must haves for your playlist inspired by my favorite 80s movies.
Otis Redding- “Try a Little Tenderness”
Pretty in Pink
This song has never ceased to brighten my day. The intro comes in like a jazz ballad, but the powerful chorus will make you feel things you thought only John Hughes could make you feel. And have I mentioned, this is the most lip sync-cable song to ever exist? If you don’t believe me, rewatch this iconic scene.
Harry Belafonte- “Jump in the Line”
Beetlejuice
80s movies always knew how to choose scores to end the film on a great note (pun intended). Not as annoying as the Banana Boat (Day-O) song but still as fun, “Jump the Line” was probably the most bizarre way to wrap up the movie that both amused and terrified me as a child.
Cream- “Sunshine of Your Love”
The Breakfast Club
While we were all lifting our fists along with Judd Nelson during “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”, we totally missed this rock song that reminds us why British rock music rules all.
David Bowie- “Magic Dance”
Labyrinth
Even understanding the film’s context, this song is pretty silly. But if loving David Bowie singing with Muppets is wrong, I don’t want to be right. And David Bowie’s tight pants don’t hurt either.
Starship- “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now”
Mannequin
Only this song could make me believe in the love between a man and his mannequin. This song belongs on the list because it is a staple 1980s love song, complete with an awesome electric guitar solo. Also, if you’ve never seen this movie, I would recommend it for the next rainy day because Meschach Taylor’s character Hollywood was nothing short of Oscar-worthy.
Honorable Mention:
“Top That” from Teen Witch
If you want to feel extra funky (and glad that you were born in the 90s) watch this clip and bask in the second hand embarrassment you feel when you watch this scene.