1989 was a great year for music, with many classic songs released throughout the year. From the rebellious anthems of Guns N’ Roses to the sultry sounds of Prince and Madonna, here are 20 of the greatest songs from 1989.
Contents
- 1. “Like a Prayer” by Madonna
- 2. “Don’t Wanna Lose You” by Gloria Estefan
- 3. “Love Shack” by B-52’s
- 4. “Miss You Much” by Janet Jackson
- 5. “Bust A Move” by Young MC
- 6. “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler
- 7. “Pump Up the Jam” by Technotronic
- 8. “Heaven” by Warrant
- 9. “Another Day In Paradise” by Phil Collins
- 10. “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- 11. “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” by Simply Red
- 12. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty
- 13. “Express Yourself” by Madonna
- 14. “Right Here Waiting” by Richard Marx
- 15. “Keep On Movin” by Soul II Soul
- 16. “All Around the World” by Lisa Stansfield
- 17. “Get On Your Feet” by Gloria Estefan
- 18. “Lost in Your Eyes” by Debbie Gibson
- 19. “Cold Hearted” by Paula Abdul
- 20. “After All” by Cher and Peter Cetera
- Conclusion
1. “Like a Prayer” by Madonna
Like a Prayer is one of Madonna’s iconic songs, with its gospel-inspired vocals and powerful lyrics. The song was a huge hit, topping the charts in several countries and earning critical acclaim. It’s a timeless classic that still resonates today.
2. “Don’t Wanna Lose You” by Gloria Estefan
A heartfelt ballad by Gloria Estefan, “Don’t Wanna Lose You,” was one of her biggest hits. The song topped the Hot 100 charts and gained a gold certification from the RIAA. In addition to its commercial success, the track is remembered for its emotional lyrics and passionate delivery.
3. “Love Shack” by B-52’s
The B-52’s created a unique mix of pop and rock with their hit single “Love Shack.” It became a success, reaching the top 10 in various countries and peaking at 3rd in the US. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, it’s no wonder the song has remained a favorite to this day.
4. “Miss You Much” by Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson’s “Miss You Much” was a pop and R&B smash hit, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 charts.
With its catchy beat and energetic choreography, it was an undeniable success. Her dance choreography for the song was a groundbreaking moment in pop culture, inspiring most modern artists.
5. “Bust A Move” by Young MC
Young MC’s “Bust A Move” is an upbeat rap classic. It gained critical acclaim and commercial success, peaking at number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and earning a platinum certification from the RIAA. The song has been sampled in various other tracks, making it an enduring part of hip-hop culture.
6. “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler
Bette Midler’s classic “Wind Beneath My Wings” was a huge success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 charts.
The song earned a Grammy Award for Song of the Year and Record of the Year, and to this day it remains an enduring hit. Its emotional lyrics and soaring vocals make it a timeless classic.
7. “Pump Up the Jam” by Technotronic
Technotronic’s “Pump Up the Jam” was one of the biggest hits of 1989. The song charted in over 20 countries, reaching number 1 on the US Hot Dance Music chart and number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. It has since become an iconic dance track, and it is still popular today.
8. “Heaven” by Warrant
Warrant’s “Heaven” is a classic rock anthem. The song was a hit, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and garnering a gold certification from the RIAA. With its rebellious lyrics and powerful instrumentation, it’s no wonder this track has become an enduring classic.
9. “Another Day In Paradise” by Phil Collins
Phil Collins’ “Another Day in Paradise” is a heartfelt track that tackles the issue of homelessness and poverty. It reached the top spot on various charts, including those in the US. The song is an enduring classic and a reminder of the importance of helping those in need.
10. “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
“I Won’t Back Down” was released by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers with the help of George Harrison. It was a huge success, reaching the 12th spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the US Mainstream Rock Chart. The song is a timeless anthem of resilience and courage, inspiring generations of listeners with its powerful lyrics.
11. “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” by Simply Red
Simply Red’s “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” is a cover of the 1972 Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes song. It was a major success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and winning the Best R&B Grammy Award. The heartfelt delivery of Mick Hucknall gave the track an emotional edge that resonates with listeners to this day.
12. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty
Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin'” is an iconic track from his solo album Full Moon Fever. It reached the 7th spot on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and was certified platinum by the UK.
The song has become a classic with its catchy melody and melancholic lyrics that evoke feelings of longing and nostalgia.
13. “Express Yourself” by Madonna
Madonna’s “Express Yourself” is an anthem of female empowerment. It reached the top 10 in many countries and gained a gold certification from the RIAA. Madonna’s empowering message and iconic video cemented its legacy as one of her greatest hits.
14. “Right Here Waiting” by Richard Marx
Richard Marx’s “Right Here Waiting” is a classic pop ballad. It was an international success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving a platinum certification. The song’s passionate lyrics and heartfelt delivery continue to move listeners today.
15. “Keep On Movin” by Soul II Soul
Soul II Soul’s “Keep On Movin'” is a timeless track that defined the sound of British R&B. It reached the number 11 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached number 5 in the UK Singles Chart. The track has remained popular due to its infectious groove and uplifting message.
16. “All Around the World” by Lisa Stansfield
Lisa Stansfield’s “All Around the World” was an international smash, reaching the top spot in many countries. The track was nominated for a Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance and received a platinum certification from the RIAA. Its infectious groove and soulful delivery remain popular with listeners today.
17. “Get On Your Feet” by Gloria Estefan
Gloria Estefan’s “Get On Your Feet” is a powerful track from her debut solo album, Cuts Both Ways. It peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached the top 10 in Ireland and Japan. The song’s optimistic message and anthemic chorus inspired listeners to keep striving for their dreams.
18. “Lost in Your Eyes” by Debbie Gibson
Debbie Gibson’s “Lost in Your Eyes” is a pop ballad that topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was certified gold by the RIAA with over 500,000 sales. The song remains popular due to its timeless romantic lyrics and heartfelt delivery.
19. “Cold Hearted” by Paula Abdul
Paula Abdul’s “Cold Hearted” is a classic pop track from her debut album, Forever Your Girl. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and reached number six on the US Dance Chart. The song has remained popular due to its catchy melody and infectious groove.
20. “After All” by Cher and Peter Cetera
Cher and Peter Cetera’s power ballad “After All” was a successful track. It reached the 6th spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned a gold certification from the RIAA. The song has become an iconic duet capturing the eternal power of love.
Conclusion
The 1980s were a decade of great classics, and 1989 was no exception. With a mix of pop, R&B, and rock anthems, it’s no surprise that these 20 songs are still popular with listeners today.
From Madonna’s empowering message to Tom Petty and Cher’s timeless love songs, these tunes have cemented their place in music history.
Like a Prayer Music Video Screenshot Featured Image (Bottom) by: Music video on YouTube, Warner Bros. Records., Fair use, Link
