New Wave Music: A Genre That Shaped the 1980s emerged before the early ’80s, marking its territory on the U.S. music charts. Often regarded as the more melodic and approachable counterpart to punk rock, new wave artists frequently shared airtime on radio stations and occupied the same record-store shelves as their more aggressive counterparts. This genre combined elements of punk with pop sensibilities, creating an infectious sound that resonated with a broad audience.

The Top 50 New Wave Songs list below, curated by the UCR staff, showcases tracks that seamlessly blend into various playlists from the era, encompassing genres such as punk, pop, rock, and electronic music. Picture a vibrant dance party where synth-pop, post-punk, and art-rock collide—a celebration of creativity and sound.

The ’80s are undeniably well-represented in this compilation. The most iconic new wave tracks originate from the early years of the decade, a period significantly influenced by the debut of MTV, which revolutionized music exposure and propelled numerous artists into the limelight. Today, these timeless hits continue to inspire a myriad of genres, reflecting their enduring legacy.

50. New Order, “Temptation” (From 1982 single)

Following the tragic death of frontman Ian Curtis, New Order embarked on a quest to redefine their identity beyond Joy Division. With their fourth single, “Temptation,” they marked a pivotal shift from the post-punk sound into structured new wave. This track exemplified the innovative blend of electronic elements and melody, setting the stage for their future hits, including the groundbreaking “Blue Monday,” which would go on to become one of the most iconic tracks of the decade.

49. The Police, “Every Breath You Take” (From Synchronicity, 1983)

As the Police released their final album in 1983, interpersonal tensions within the band were at an all-time high. Yet, this creative friction birthed some of their finest work, including the haunting “Every Breath You Take.” This track, emanating from the perspective of a possessive lover, struck a chord with listeners, ultimately achieving global success as a No. 1 hit, illustrating the complexity of love and obsession.

48. Joy Division, “Isolation” (From Closer, 1980)

Featured on Joy Division’s poignant second album, “Isolation” captures the somber essence that enveloped the band following Ian Curtis’s untimely death. The track’s minimalist instrumentation, characterized by electronic drums and lush synths, provides a momentary respite from the album’s otherwise bleak themes. This song foreshadows the less shadowy sound that would later define New Order, showcasing the band’s evolution through their musical journey.

47. Big Country, “In a Big Country” (From The Crossing, 1983)

Big Country’s 1983 debut, The Crossing, showcased a grand musical vision, blending rock with expansive soundscapes. The opening track, “In a Big Country,” features guitarists Stuart Adamson and Bruce Watson manipulating their instruments through effect pedals, creating a sound reminiscent of soaring bagpipes. This unique approach resonated with audiences, propelling the single into the Top 20 worldwide and establishing the band as a formidable force in new wave music.

46. Pretenders, “Middle of the Road” (From Learning to Crawl, 1984)

The period leading up to the Pretenders’ third album was fraught with challenges, including the loss of two founding members. Amid these trials, frontwoman Chrissie Hynde navigated motherhood in her 30s, experiences that culminated in the deeply personal “Middle of the Road.” This track serves as a heartfelt reflection on the band’s journey, encapsulating the spirit of resilience and determination that defined their artistry as they prepared to release Learning to Crawl.

45. The Knack, “My Sharona” (From Get the Knack, 1979)

The Knack’s foray into new wave was serendipitous, as they initially drew inspiration from the Beatles in both style and sound. Their blend of garage rock and power pop in “My Sharona” features distinctive jerky rhythms and frontman Doug Fieger’s sharp vocal delivery, which propelled the song to a No. 1 hit. This catchy track perfectly encapsulated the essence of new wave, fusing catchy melodies with an energetic punk influence.

44. The Clash, “Should I Stay or Should I Go” (From Combat Rock, 1982)

As one of the most straightforward tracks on The Clash’s final album featuring their original lineup, “Should I Stay or Should I Go” diverges from the political themes prevalent in other songs from Combat Rock. With its passionate delivery by Mick Jones and infectious power-chord riffs, the song has transcended its era, becoming a beloved anthem that resonates with listeners across generations.

43. Devo, “Whip It” (From Freedom of Choice, 1980)

Devo was known for their unorthodox approach to music and a unique worldview that often challenged societal norms. Their 1980 hit “Whip It” is a quintessential example of their quirky style, combining metronomic beats with satirical lyrics. The song’s popularity was bolstered by its memorable music video, which became an early hit on MTV, showcasing Devo’s eccentricity while appealing to a broader audience eager for innovation in pop music.

42. Blondie, “Call Me” (From American Gigolo, 1980)

As Blondie reached the zenith of their popularity, they were tapped to create the theme song for the 1980 film American Gigolo. Collaborating with renowned disco producer Giorgio Moroder, the band infused “Call Me” with infectious dance rhythms that propelled it to the top of the charts, where it remained for six consecutive weeks. Interestingly, the song was initially offered to Stevie Nicks, who declined the opportunity, paving the way for Blondie’s iconic success.

41. The Police, “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” (From Ghost in the Machine, 1981)

Written by Sting before the Police officially formed, “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” showcases the band’s signature blend of reggae and new wave influences. Upon its release, the song became the group’s highest-charting single in the U.S., propelling their fourth album, Ghost in the Machine, to a peak position of No. 2. This track exemplified the band’s artistic evolution, capturing the essence of their sound just before they reached unprecedented commercial heights.

40. Joe Jackson, “Steppin’ Out” (From Night and Day, 1982)

Inspired by his experiences in New York City, Joe Jackson’s album Night and Day showcases a sophisticated blend of pop influences reminiscent of Cole Porter and other American Songbook writers. “Steppin’ Out” stands as a testament to this artistic direction, featuring a harmonious combination of live and electronic piano and drums that create a captivating atmosphere. This single remains Jackson’s only Top 10 hit in the U.S., illustrating the lasting impact of his unique sound.

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39. Blondie, “Atomic” (From Eat to the Beat, 1979)

Following the success of their No. 1 single “Heart of Glass,” Blondie ventured into new territory with their follow-up album, Eat to the Beat. The standout track “Atomic” combines new wave, disco, and pop elements while incorporating influences from various genres, including a distinctive spaghetti western guitar riff. Despite the lyrics being somewhat nonsensical, the song’s infectious energy and catchy melody solidified its status as a quintessential pop hit.

38. Elvis Costello and the Attractions, “Radio, Radio” (From This Year’s Model, 1978)

Elvis Costello’s bold declaration in “Radio, Radio” reflects his critical stance on the music industry and media. Released in 1978, this track initially faced challenges in gaining traction, particularly due to its lack of support from the BBC. However, the song’s eventual inclusion on his second album in the U.S. helped solidify his reputation as a provocative artist. Notably, a surprise performance on Saturday Night Live led to an 11-year ban from the show, showcasing the song’s controversial impact.

37. Peter Gabriel, “Sledgehammer” (From So, 1986)

Continuing his artistic evolution, Peter Gabriel achieved massive success with his fifth solo album, So, which catapulted him to global stardom in 1986. “Sledgehammer” is characterized by its playful, less-serious tone, where Gabriel exuberantly boasts about his masculinity over a backdrop of vibrant synth melodies. The song’s groundbreaking music video, which featured cutting-edge animation and visual effects, played a significant role in its popularity, making it a defining moment of the decade.

36. INXS, “Need You Tonight” (From Kick, 1987)

Australian band INXS had long been on the cusp of major success, but it was the release of their 1987 album Kick that truly elevated them to the A-list. The infectious single “Need You Tonight” features an entrancing groove and captivating vocal performance by Michael Hutchence, which quickly resonated with audiences. Built on a fundamental funk riff, the song rapidly ascended to No. 1, solidifying INXS’s status in the new wave and rock landscape.

35. Til Tuesday, “Voices Carry” (From Voices Carry, 1985)

Before embarking on a successful solo career, Aimee Mann led the Boston-based new wave band ‘Til Tuesday, whose debut single “Voices Carry” became their sole Top 10 hit. The song hints at Mann’s future artistry, as she confronts a partner with chilling lyrics and a haunting melody. The track’s brittle synth instrumentation perfectly complements her icy vocal delivery, creating an unforgettable listening experience that would define her later work.

34. Talking Heads, “Life During Wartime” (From Fear of Music, 1979)

With its memorable chorus—”This ain’t no party, this ain’t no disco, this ain’t no following around“—”Life During Wartime” represents one of Talking Heads’ earliest efforts to branch out from their New York City art punk roots. David Byrne penned the song as a commentary on the apocalyptic atmosphere of his Manhattan neighborhood, encapsulating a sense of urgency and unease. This track laid the groundwork for their innovative blend of new wave and funk, which would flourish in subsequent releases.

33. The Cure, “In Between Days” (From The Head on the Door, 1985)

When The Cure released their sixth album, The Head on the Door, in 1985, they were emerging from a dark, despairing period in their career. Still influenced by the somber art-pop of their earlier work, the album introduced a more diverse range of styles. “In Between Days” stands out with its buoyant pop melodies and jangly guitars, establishing it as one of the band’s most beloved tracks and showcasing their ability to evolve while maintaining their distinct sound.

32. The B-52’s, “Rock Lobster” (From The B-52’s, 1978)

The B-52’s carved out a unique niche in the music scene, drawing attention for their eclectic sound and vibrant aesthetic. Comprising five friends from Athens, Georgia, the band gained popularity in college circuits and the New York punk scene. “Rock Lobster,” their infectious dance anthem, represents a pivotal moment in their career, capturing the spirit of experimentation and fun that defined the early years of new wave music.

31. Elvis Costello, “Alison” (From My Aim Is True, 1977)

In his autobiography, Elvis Costello revealed that “Alison” was written for a woman he encountered at a supermarket checkout line. This haunting ballad remains one of his most cherished compositions, showcasing the raw emotion that permeates his debut album. At this time, the Attractions were not yet formed, allowing the American band Clover to provide backing. Their elegant accompaniment complements Costello’s poignant delivery, resulting in a timeless classic.

30. The Buggles, “Video Killed the Radio Star” (From The Age of Plastic, 1979)

As the first music video to air on MTV in August 1981, The Buggles’ “Video Killed the Radio Star” encapsulated the transition of music into the visual realm. Initially released in 1979, the song achieved significant success in Europe, topping the charts before gaining traction in the U.S. The members of The Buggles, Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes, later joined the iconic progressive rock band Yes, further solidifying their influence in the music industry.

29. Talking Heads, “Psycho Killer” (From Talking Heads: 77, 1977)

David Byrne’s distinctive persona was first showcased in “Psycho Killer,” a track that originally appeared on Talking Heads’ 1977 self-titled debut album. Released during a time when New York City was grappling with the Son of Sam killings, the song’s chilling themes sparked controversy and discussion. Despite the initial shock, “Psycho Killer” has endured as a defining piece of the mid-’70s punk scene, showcasing the band’s unique blend of art and music.

28. Pretenders, “Brass in Pocket” (From Pretenders, 1980)

Achieving U.K. success with “Brass in Pocket,” the Pretenders crafted a Motown-inspired anthem that resonated with listeners. Frontwoman Chrissie Hynde later expressed that the song didn’t fully capture their intended vision, yet its fusion of ’60s pop, ’70s rock, and edgy new wave elements anticipated the musical landscape of the ’80s. The playful video for “Brass in Pocket” became one of the earliest hits aired on MTV, marking a significant milestone for the band.

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27. The Clash, “Train in Vain (Stand by Me)” (From London Calling, 1979)

Originally intended as a last-minute addition to their groundbreaking album London Calling, “Train in Vain (Stand by Me)” became an unexpected hit, showcasing The Clash’s versatility. The soulful new wave rhythm and Mick Jones’s passionate vocals transformed the punk band’s image, allowing them to resonate with a broader audience. This track marked a significant moment in their evolution, solidifying their status as both punk rock icons and pop stars.

26. Billy Idol, “White Wedding” (From Billy Idol, 1982)

Having emerged from the U.K. punk scene as part of Generation X, Billy Idol’s shift towards new wave marked a turning point in his career. His self-titled 1982 album introduced a new image and sound, highlighted by the goth-inspired “White Wedding.” With its powerful guitar riffs and Idol’s charismatic presence, the song captured the essence of the era, propelling him into the spotlight and solidifying his status as a leading figure in new wave music.

25. The Psychedelic Furs, “Love My Way” (From Forever Now, 1982)

With a message encouraging self-acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community, “Love My Way” became the Psychedelic Furs’ most significant hit in the U.K. at the time. The track’s production, led by Todd Rundgren, featured backing vocals from legendary group Flo & Eddie, propelling its success. The song received renewed attention through its inclusion in films like The Wedding Singer and Call Me by Your Name, maintaining its cultural relevance and connection with audiences across generations.

24. David Bowie, “Let’s Dance” (From Let’s Dance, 1983)

David Bowie’s collaboration with Nile Rodgers in 1983 for the album Let’s Dance marked a turning point in his career, elevating his commercial appeal. The title track embodies a fusion of pop, disco, funk, and new wave, showcasing Bowie’s versatility and knack for innovation. This revitalizing approach not only captivated listeners but also reestablished Bowie as a dominant force in the music industry, paving the way for future artistic endeavors.

23. The Police, “Roxanne” (From Outlandos d’Amour, 1978)

As one of The Police’s most iconic songs, “Roxanne” introduces listeners to a dark narrative, told from the perspective of a man infatuated with a prostitute. The song’s emotional weight grows as it unfolds, driven by Sting’s haunting vocal performance that oscillates between desperation and longing. After initial struggles, “Roxanne” eventually captured mainstream attention, becoming a timeless classic and a defining moment in The Police’s career.

22. Modern English, “I Melt With You” (From After the Snow, 1982)

New wave often birthed bands that faded into obscurity after a brief moment of fame, and while Modern English never replicated the success of “I Melt With You,” they continue to create music. The song, their sixth single, remains their most recognized track despite not being their highest-charting hit in the U.K. The band has revisited the song in various forms, but its enduring appeal showcases the impact of this quintessential new wave anthem.

21. Tom Tom Club, “Genius of Love” (From Tom Tom Club, 1981)

Originating from the expanded lineup of Talking Heads, Tom Tom Club spotlighted the band’s rhythm section, Tina Weymouth and Chris Frantz, alongside guitarist Adrian Belew and other talented collaborators. “Genius of Love,” inspired by Zapp’s funk classic “More Bounce to the Ounce,” exemplifies the band’s unique sound, gliding along infectious synth melodies. This track not only became a favorite in its own right but also laid the groundwork for future hip-hop hits.

20. Talk Talk, “It’s My Life” (From It’s My Life, 1984)

The title track from Talk Talk’s second album has experienced a remarkable journey since its 1984 release, initially garnering little attention before being reintroduced to the mainstream. Its re-release in 1990 and subsequent cover by No Doubt in 2003 significantly boosted its profile, solidifying the original’s status as a beloved anthem. The soaring chorus remains a testament to the song’s enduring appeal, captivating listeners across generations.

19. XTC, “Senses Working Overtime” (From English Settlement, 1982)

Among the British post-punk scene, few bands evolved as significantly as XTC. By the time they reached their fifth album, English Settlement, their sound had embraced new wave influences blended with pastoral elements, resulting in intricate production. “Senses Working Overtime” stands out with its infectious hook, showcasing the band’s ability to create catchy melodies while exploring deeper themes within their music, establishing their unique place in the genre.

18. The Psychedelic Furs, “Pretty in Pink” (From Talk Talk Talk, 1981)

While their self-titled debut album failed to distinguish the Psychedelic Furs from the post-punk landscape, their 1981 follow-up, Talk Talk Talk, showcased a brighter, more dynamic sound. “Pretty in Pink” emerged as the standout track, gaining renewed attention when its title was appropriated for a popular Brat Pack film. This reworking introduced the song to a new generation, further solidifying its status as a quintessential new wave classic.

17. Duran Duran, “Hungry Like the Wolf” (From Rio, 1982)

Upon its release in June 1982, “Hungry Like the Wolf” initially struggled to make an impact on the U.S. charts. However, heavy rotation on MTV transformed the song’s trajectory, propelling it to No. 3 just nine months later. Duran Duran’s vibrant music video played a crucial role in their rise to fame, establishing them as one of the most prominent bands of the new wave era, while this track remains a standout in their discography.

16. Soft Cell, “Tainted Love” (From Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret, 1981)

Soft Cell breathed new life into Gloria Jones’ 1964 classic “Tainted Love,” merging it with their signature synth-pop sound in 1981. The duo’s electronic reimagining shot to No. 1 in the U.K. and reached the Top 10 in the U.S., showcasing their innovative approach to music. The extended version, which paired the hit with “Where Did Our Love Go,” further solidified its place in pop culture, marking a significant moment in the evolution of new wave.

15. Nick Lowe, “Cruel to Be Kind” (From Labour of Lust, 1979)

As a seasoned veteran of the British music scene, Nick Lowe found himself stepping