Best Movie Soundtracks from the 80s: Top 10

Those of us old enough to remember the films of the 80s can look back with fondness on the big hair, bright colors and rebellious teens involved. Even those just now watching the best of the films from the 80s can appreciate the best movie soundtracks that many of them offered, with many of the songs still associated with the movies in which they appeared.

Whether you want to revisit your youth or explore some retro tunes, these 10 movies and this amazing list of movie soundtracks of the 80s are a great place to start:

1. Pretty in Pink: One of the quintessential 80s classics, this movie’s title song “Pretty in Pink” is one of the best off of the soundtrack.

2. Valley Girl: From Modern English’s “I Melt with You” to Men at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now” this soundtrack is full of 80s classics.

3. Breakfast Club: This movie and its soundtrack are both representative of the culture of the 80s. Check out the lineup which includes 80s stars like Wang Chung and Simple Minds.

4. Less Than Zero: The movie soundtrack of this film perfectly matches the drug-infused world of rich California kids represented in the movie. You’ll find hits ranging from Simon and Garfunkel to Poison.

5. Beverly Hills Cop: Oddly enough, the most popular song on this may be from a virtual unknown, but you’ll also get hits from the Pointer Sisters and former Eagle Glenn Frey.

6. Cocktail: This soundtrack is full of rock and roll hits and classic tunes to keep you grooving while the action unfolds, in the movie and wherever you’re listening.

7. Purple Rain: You never need to have seen this Prince film in order to enjoy the soundtrack that stands out as one of the best albums of the decade, movie soundtrack or otherwise.

8. The Big Chill: Children of the 80s may not be familiar with this film (it was more of a adult themed picture) but they likely will know a few of the songs that set the stage like the Temptation’s “My Girl” and The Beach Boys’ “Wouldn’t It Be Nice…”

9. Repo Man: If punk rock legends are more your style then this soundtrack can’t be missed with hits from Iggy Pop, Sucidal Tendencies, Black Flag and Fear.

10. The Lost Boys: Even if you’re not a huge fan of this vampire classic, you will still be able to appreciate the iconic 80s movie soundtrack it produced, with big name bands like INXS as well as smaller underground bands like Echo and the Bunnymen. Apart, the bands may not have been huge, but together, the soundtrack makes for great listening.

Agree or disagree with our list of movie soundtracks that highlight the best of the 80s? Leave a comment and tell us what other albums you think should be included in the best of the decade.

This feature article on the best movie soundtracks of the 80s was contributed by Sarah Russel, who writes about the graduate degree. She welcomes your feedback at SarahRussel1234 at gmail.com

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