5 ’80s Songs Everyone Knows but Few Remember the Artist

Ah, the ’80s. A decade bursting with neon colors, big hair, and unforgettable music. If you’ve ever found yourself humming along to a catchy tune while flipping through the channels, you know just how powerful these songs can be. But here’s the kicker: while everyone can belt out the chorus, not everyone remembers who actually sang them. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and shine a light on five iconic tunes from the ’80s that are still stuck in our heads, even if the artists have faded into the background.

1. “Come on Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners

“Come on Eileen” is one of those songs that you can’t help but sing along to, especially if you’re at a wedding or a karaoke bar. It’s got that infectious beat and a chorus that just begs for a group sing-along. But here’s the twist: how many of you can name the band? Dexys Midnight Runners, anyone? Yep, they’re the ones behind this catchy classic, and while they had a few hits, this one remains their crowning glory. It’s like the forgotten gem at the bottom of the jewelry box; you know it’s there, but it often gets overlooked.

2. “I Want Candy” – Bow Wow Wow

If you’re feeling nostalgic for those sweet, sugary sounds of the ’80s, “I Want Candy” probably pops into your head faster than a child in a candy store. With its bouncy rhythm and playful lyrics, it’s hard not to smile when this track plays. But wait—who’s that singing? Bow Wow Wow, the British New Wave band led by the charismatic Annabella Lwin. They burst onto the scene with this sugary hit, but many folks can’t quite recall their name. It’s a shame because they brought a lot of fun and energy to the pop landscape!

3. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” – Simple Minds

Now, if you’ve ever seen “The Breakfast Club,” you’ll know this song like the back of your hand. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” is practically synonymous with ’80s nostalgia and coming-of-age moments. It’s the ultimate anthem for all the misfits out there. But here’s where it gets interesting: while everyone remembers the song, hardly anyone remembers Simple Minds, the band behind it. They had a few other hits, but this one is so iconic that it often overshadows their entire discography. Who knew simple minds could create such a lasting impact?

4. “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)” – Dead or Alive

“Spin me right round, baby, right round!” If you’ve ever found yourself grooving to this track, you’re not alone. It’s a quintessential ’80s dance floor jam that still gets played at parties today. But let’s get real—how many of you know that it was Dead or Alive who brought this gem to life? That’s right! The band, led by the flamboyant Pete Burns, is often forgotten in the shadow of this song’s catchy hook. It’s like that friend who’s always around but doesn’t get enough credit for their contributions to the group.

5. “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell

Last but definitely not least, we have “Tainted Love.” This synth-pop masterpiece has been covered more times than I can count, but its original version by Soft Cell is still the one that makes us all want to dance, even if we’re just standing in our kitchens. The mix of melancholy lyrics and upbeat melody makes it a unique classic. Yet, despite its massive popularity, many people can’t recall the name Soft Cell. It’s one of those weird quirks of music history, where the song lives on, but the artist becomes a footnote. Talk about a love that’s truly tainted!

Keeping the ’80s Spirit Alive

So, there you have it! Five catchy tunes that are firmly lodged in our brains, yet their artists often slip through the cracks of memory. It’s a fun reminder of how music can be a big part of our lives, even if we forget who made it. Next time you hear one of these tracks, maybe take a moment to appreciate the artists behind them. They may not always get the recognition they deserve, but their music continues to bring joy and nostalgia to generations.

Vinyl and Velvet