1986 was a landmark year in pop music, producing unforgettable hits that still resonate today. Whether you’re a nostalgic music fan, a collector, or just curious about the sounds that defined that year, this list highlights the top 10 hit songs from 1986 that made a lasting impact on charts and culture alike.
1. “Walk Like an Egyptian” – The Bangles
With its catchy hook and quirky music video, “Walk Like an Egyptian” became an instant classic. Released in 1986, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks and showcased The Bangles’ playful style. Its blend of new wave and pop made it a defining track of the mid-80s.
2. “That’s What Friends Are For” – Dionne & Friends
This heartfelt ballad, featuring Dionne Warwick, Elton John, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder, became a charity anthem for AIDS awareness. It reached number One on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned multiple Grammy nominations, highlighting its emotional and social significance.
3. “Papa Don’t Preach” – Madonna
Madonna’s provocative hit addressed teenage pregnancy and defied social norms of the time. It peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and was a testament to her bold, rebellious persona that challenged conventional pop-star images in 1986.
4. “Stuck with You” – Huey Lewis and the News
From the album “Fore!”, “Stuck with You” is an upbeat track that showcases Huey Lewis’s signature sound blending rock and pop. It hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and was emblematic of the energetic, feel-good music of the mid-80s.
5. “Venus” – Bananarama
This cover of Shocking Blue’s 1969 hit became a dance-floor staple in 1986. Known for its infectious beat and playful vocals, it reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Bananarama’s place in the pop scene.
6. “One More Night” – Phil Collins
With its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, “One More Night” became one of Phil Collins’ biggest solo hits. It climbed to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and showcased his ability to craft emotional ballads that resonated worldwide.
7. “Higher Love” – Steve Winwood
This uplifting song, produced by Frank Fillipetti, earned Steve Winwood a Grammy for Best R&B Song. Its soaring vocals and inspiring message made it a standout hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986.
8. “Greatest Love of All” – Whitney Houston
Originally written for The Greatest American Hero, Whitney Houston’s powerful rendition became iconic. Released in 1986, it topped the charts and is celebrated for Houston’s remarkable vocal range and emotional delivery.
9. “Word Up!” – Cameo
With its funky groove and commanding vocal style, “Word Up!” became a defining track of 1986. It reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and influenced a wave of funk and hip-hop fusion in the late 80s.
10. “Kiss” – Prince and the Revolution
This minimalist, sexy hit showcased Prince’s innovative approach to pop and funk. It became one of his most successful singles, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning critical acclaim for its originality.
How to Choose
When selecting the best hit songs from 1986, consider what matters most to you: chart success, cultural impact, personal nostalgia, or musical innovation. Some tracks achieved massive commercial success but may lack the emotional depth others offer. Think about the genre you prefer—pop, rock, R&B, or new wave—and how each song resonates with your taste or memories. Additionally, pay attention to production quality, lyrical content, and the influence a song had on future music trends. Ultimately, the best song is the one that connects with you personally or represents the sound of 1986 most authentically.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the biggest hit of 1986? “Walk Like an Egyptian” by The Bangles was one of the top-charting hits, spending four weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
- Did any of these songs win Grammy Awards? Yes, “Higher Love” by Steve Winwood won the Grammy for Best R&B Song in 1987, and “That’s What Friends Are For” was nominated for Song of the Year.
- Are any of these songs considered influential today? Absolutely—songs like “Kiss” by Prince and “Greatest Love of All” by Whitney Houston are still influential and frequently covered or sampled.
- Did these hits come from debut artists or established stars? Most were from established artists like Madonna, Whitney Houston, and Prince, though some, like The Bangles, were rising stars at the time.
- Are there any notable omissions from this list? While these are some of the biggest hits, many other great songs from 1986, such as “Addicted to Love” by Robert Palmer, also made a significant impact but didn’t make this top 10.
Final Thoughts
1986 was a vibrant year that produced a diverse array of hit songs spanning genres and styles. From pop anthems to soulful ballads, these tracks not only dominated charts but also helped shape the musical landscape of the late 80s. Whether you’re revisiting these classics or discovering them anew, they offer a rich snapshot of the era’s musical creativity and cultural energy. Each song on this list exemplifies the sound and spirit of 1986, making them timeless pieces worth celebrating.
Related
- The 10 Best T. Graham Brown Songs of All Time
- The 10 Best The Stylistics Songs of All Time
- The 10 Best Love Songs from 2000 That Still Touch the Heart