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Of all of the Top 40s we’ve put together for our 80s year-by-year series, this is one of our clear favourites. In part, as it’s packed to bursting point with melody, intrigue and experimentation. In part as it’s as varied a mix of pop confections as they come – from synth-pop classics and soulful belters to synth-driven instrumentals and rock-pop balladry – underlining the decade as truly one of the greatest and most diverse in musical history.
As always, it’s one track per artist, and our approach has been to survey the field, from Classic Pop’s ever-opinionated staffroom, to calling upon our contacts list of discerning experts – plus anyone willing to give their two pennies’ worth. Our travails have resulted in this magically miscellaneous rundown of some of pop’s finest moments, as well as a few lesser-spun outliers that deserve their moment in the sun.