20 of the Greatest Songs From 1987

In 1987, popular music was dominated by a mix of genres and sounds that would come to define the decade. From soulful ballads to hard-hitting rock anthems, these 20 songs were some of the most popular and influential of the year.

1. “Always” by Atlantic Starr

Atlantic Starr’s “Always” is an iconic love song that still stands the test of time. It was a major success on both the US and UK charts, reaching number one on the Hot 100 and the R&B charts and peaking at number three in the UK.

With its smooth, soulful production and romantic lyrics, it’s no surprise that “Always” is one of the greatest songs from 1987.

2. “Welcome To The Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses made their mark on the music scene with their hard-hitting, rebellious anthems, and “Welcome to the Jungle” is no exception.

The song was a massive hit in the US, reaching number seven on the Hot 100. It’s still one of their most popular songs, and its driving guitar and powerful lyrics are sure to get any crowd going.

3. “With Or Without You” by U2

U2’s “With or Without You” is one of the most iconic songs from 1987. It was a major international hit, reaching number one in the US and getting multi-platinum certifications in multiple countries.

The song’s emotive lyrics and Bono’s powerful vocals make it an enduring classic that still resonates with audiences today.

4. “Shakedown” by Bob Seger

Bob Seger’s “Shakedown” was one of the biggest hits of 1987, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and the US Mainstream Rock Chart. The song is a hard-hitting rock anthem with a memorable chorus and instantly recognizable guitar riff. It’s an enduring classic that still packs a punch even today.

5. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” was an international smash, topping charts in over 10 countries. The track has numerous multi-platinum certifications, including six RIAA platinum certifications and seven ARIA platinum certifications.

This upbeat pop classic is one of Houston’s most popular songs, featuring an infectious melody and powerful vocals that make it impossible not to sing along.

6. “Looking for a New Love” by Jody Watley

Jody Watley’s “Looking for a New Love” was one of the biggest R&B hits of 1987, reaching number two on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the dance charts.

The song is an upbeat and catchy jam with a memorable chorus and Watley’s soulful vocals. It’s still popular today, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987.

7. “Bad” by Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson’s “Bad” was one of the biggest hits of 1987, topping the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching number 3 in the UK Singles Chart.

The track is platinum-certified by the ARIA and the RIAA, making it one of his most successful songs. It features an upbeat dance groove and powerful vocals that make it a timeless classic you can still hear on the radio today.

8. “I Think We’re Alone Now” by Tiffany

Tiffany’s cover of “I Think We’re Alone Now” was an international success, topping charts in multiple countries, including the US and the UK.

The song is a timeless classic with a catchy chorus and Tiffany’s pop-rock vocals. It’s still a popular track today, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987.

9. “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” by Starship

Starship’s “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” was a major international hit in 1987, topping the US Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart.

The song is a feel-good power ballad with an uplifting chorus and powerful vocals by Grace Slick. It’s still popular today, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987.

10. “Big Love” by Fleetwood Mac

Fleetwood Mac’s “Big Love” was a major hit in 1987, peaking at 5th on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song is an upbeat pop-rock anthem with infectious guitars and an iconic chorus.

With its memorable melody and powerful harmonies, it’s no wonder why this song is still popular today. It’s one of the greatest songs from 1987.

11. “Need You Tonight” by INXS

INXS’ “Need You Tonight” was a major hit in 1987, topping the US Billboard Hot 100. The song is an infectious rock anthem with a catchy hook and Michael Hutchence’s soulful vocals.

The iconic guitar riff and driving rhythm make this song a classic that still resonates with audiences today. It’s one of the greatest songs from 1987.

12. “I Heard a Rumour” by Bananarama

Bananarama’s “I Heard a Rumour” was a major hit in 1987. The song peaked at number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 3 on the US Dance Club Songs chart.

The song is an upbeat synth-pop classic with a catchy chorus and memorable lyrics. It’s still popular today due to its timeless melody, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987.

13. “The Way You Make Me Feel” by Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel” was a major hit in 1987, peaking at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song is an uptempo dance classic with an infectious groove and powerful vocals. It’s still popular today, making it one of Michael’s best songs of all time.

14. “Alone” by Heart

Heart’s “Alone” was a major hit in 1987, topping the US Billboard Hot 100. The song is a powerful rock anthem with an epic chorus and Ann Wilson’s soulful vocals. The track has made it a classic that still resonates with audiences today. It’s one of the greatest songs from 1987.

15. “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” by Jennifer Warnes and Bill Medley

A powerful ballad, “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” was a major hit in 1987, topping the US Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Golden Globe award for Best Original Song.

This song’s influence can still be heard in pop music today, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987. Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes’ powerful vocals combined with a soulful melody make this track unforgettable.

16. “Faith” by George Michael

George Michael’s “Faith” was a major hit in 1987, topping the US Billboard Hot 100. The song is an upbeat rock anthem with an iconic chorus and George’s signature vocals. It still resonates with audiences today, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987.

17. “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” by U2

U2’s “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” was an international hit in 1987, topping the US Billboard Hot 100 and charting in multiple countries including Australia, Ireland, Norway, and Sweden.

The song is a timeless classic with Bono’s powerful vocals and a driving rhythm. It’s still popular today due to its uplifting message, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987.

18. “Didn’t We Almost Have It All” by Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston’s “Didn’t We Almost Have It All” was a major hit in 1987, peaking at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100.

The song is a powerful ballad with Whitney’s incomparable vocals and a heartfelt melody. It’s still popular today due to its timeless message, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987.

19. “La Bamba” by Los Lobos

The only Spanish-language song on this list, Los Lobos’ “La Bamba,” was a major hit in 1987. The song is a classic cover of the traditional Mexican folk song, featuring an infectious rhythm and David Hidalgo’s powerful vocals.

It’s still popular today due to its timeless melody and its popular use in media, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987.

20. “Pour Some Sugar On Me” by Def Leppard

Def Leppard’s “Pour Some Sugar On Me” was a major hit in 1987, peaking at number two on the US Billboard Hot 100.

The song is an infectious hard rock anthem with an iconic chorus and Joe Elliot’s signature vocals. It’s still popular today due to its timeless melody, making it one of the greatest songs from 1987.

Conclusion

1987 was a great year for music, as evidenced by the 20 greatest songs from that year. From Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel” to Def Leppard’s “Pour Some Sugar On Me,” these timeless classics have stood the test of time and still remain popular today.

Each song featured here is unique in its own way and serves as a reminder of the great music that came out of 1987.

“Bad” Music Video Screenshot Featured Image (Bottom): Fair use, Link