4 Massive 80s Hits That Haven’t Lost Their Luster (Even Though We’ve Heard Them a Gajillion Times)
This is a lighthearted feature from American Songwriter highlighting four hit songs from the 1980s that remain enduringly popular despite being played extensively for decades. The piece argues that these tracks' distinctive songwriting choices, unusual instrumentation and emotional depth have allowed them to retain their appeal long after their initial chart success.
The four songs profiled are Prince's "When Doves Cry", noted for its bold decision to omit bass; Dexys Midnight Runners' "Come On Eileen", described as one of the greatest one-hit wonders; Don Henley's "The Boys Of Summer", co-written with Heartbreakers guitarist Mike Campbell after Tom Petty passed on the track; and Tears For Fears' "Everybody Wants To Rule The World", praised for pairing melancholic lyrics with an uplifting melody.
- Feature lists four 80s hits still beloved despite heavy radio play.
- Songs included: Prince, Dexys Midnight Runners, Don Henley, Tears For Fears.
- Article celebrates their distinctive songwriting and lasting appeal.
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Prince, Dexys Midnight Runners, Don Henley and Tears For Fears all had defining hits in the 1980s that still get regular radio play and streams today. "When Doves Cry," "Come On Eileen," "The Boys Of Summer" and "Everybody Wants To Rule The World" were each big chart successes at the time, and decades on they remain some of the most recognisable songs from the decade.
American Songwriter, a music magazine that covers songwriting craft and the stories behind well-known tracks, has put together a feature looking at why these four songs in particular have held up so well. It points to specific creative choices behind each one, such as Prince's decision to leave bass out of "When Doves Cry," and the unusual path "The Boys Of Summer" took after Tom Petty turned it down before Don Henley and guitarist Mike Campbell developed it.
The piece is a retrospective, celebratory look at pop and rock songwriting rather than a news story tied to any recent event, so it does not involve any dispute, controversy or new development to weigh up.