4 Songs From 1988 That Even Modern Music Fans Can Get Behind

Four songs released in 1988 are highlighted for their lasting appeal and musical significance, from major chart successes to acclaimed songwriting. The examples show how the year produced enduring pop and rock tracks that still reach listeners today.

Billy Ocean’s “Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car”, co-written and produced by Robert “Mutt” Lange, was Ocean’s final US No. 1. Tracy Chapman wrote “Fast Car” in one late-night session while studying at Tufts; it later earned three Grammy nominations and became a US Top 10 hit. U2’s “Desire” was the band’s first UK No. 1, while The Beach Boys’ “Kokomo”, written for the film Cocktail, became their final No. 1 hit.