'80s Love Songs

Isn't it fascinating how one single song can transport you back to a time, place, mood, experience or even a deep emotion?


I was born in the '70s and grew up in the '80s. And one constant in my life was that my mom always played '80s love songs. It was such a big part of my childhood that now, even as an adult, when I hear a song from that time period, I can immediately sing along, and I know every word to every song!

And it's the same for my friends who are my age. So it didn't matter that I grew up in Jamaica because my American friends can also belt out those words in a snap. What is it about '80s love songs?

The thing I wonder is why the songs of the '80s are so so sooo sad? I mean, if you stop and really listen to the lyrics and the music, they're really depressing! Was everyone heartbroken and falling out of love in the '80s? Seriously?

Case in point...

I'm All Out of Love, Air Supply.

Against All Odds, Phil Collins.

Truly, Lionel Richie.

She's Like the Wind, Patrick Swayze.

Careless Whisper, George Michael.

Every Breath You Take, The Police.

It Must Have Been Love, Roxette.

I Want to Know What Love Is, Foreigner.

Lost in Your Eyes, Debbie Gibson.

And they are many many more songs like these!

The thing I'm realizing though is this. No matter the era or time period, love is ubiquitous. It is the common language, no matter where you live or grew up. Love is everywhere. It causes many wonderful feelings, but it can also cause many other extreme emotions like woe, sorrow, and melancholy.

Just the other night, I was "in my feelings" thinking and reflecting about life, my dad, and other things. And I played some '80s love songs and had me a good little cry. Don't act all surprised. You know you do it too!

'80s love songs get me every time.

Do you have a favorite song from the '70s, '80s or '90s?