25 modern songs that sound like '80s tracks

The Cry has been releasing music since the '90s, but their recent songs still have an iconic '80s sound. In fact, if I didn’t know better, I would assume some of their tracks were actually hits by The Smiths. “Starting Again,” a more recent release, is a prime example.

The Midnight is one of the most well-known, modern ‘80s-sounding bands around. Specifically, the track “Sunset” has those signature dreamy synths and airy vocals. This nostalgic hit is reminiscent of some of the moodier '80s songs out there.

Surf Curse has that post-punk, garage rock sound we all know and love. Their song “Midnight Cowboy” sounds like it’s straight out of the '80s or, at the very least, directly inspired by the decade. From the moody reverb to the atmospheric production, it’s the perfect track for '80s lovers.

As someone whose favorite bands thrived during the '80s, I absolutely adore “Witchcraft” by the Graveyard Club. The group markets itself as a “spooky synth band,” which is pretty on par. Graveyard Club has that signature '80s sound, what with its dramatic, goth vocals and gated snares, appealing to fans of The Cure and New Order.

“Midnight City” by M83 is a popular, high-energy hit with an underlying '80s tone. While it might have a more modernized take on various '80s elements, the song features reverb-heavy production and a dramatic sax solo. It doesn’t get more '80s than that.

Taylor Swift is a versatile artist who’s experimented with various styles and genres. Her 1989 album is well-known for its '80s sound. In particular, the track “Out of the Woods” is highly influenced by the iconic decade, specifically echoing bands like A-ha and Tears for Fears.

Arguably one of the most '80s-like modern songs out there is “Don’t Take the Money” by Bleachers. From the drums to the synths to the arena-pop energy, this song takes the cake for its nostalgic sound. If you’re looking for a track to satisfy your '80s craving, look no further than Bleachers.

The 1975 has become one of the most famous pop-rock bands in recent years. The British band offers a unique, versatile sound and vulnerable lyricism you can’t find anywhere else. “Somebody Else” is one of the group’s more '80s-inspired tracks, with its soft reverb and strong, echoey vocals paying tribute to the era's pop ballads.

While The Band Camino is mostly modern pop, the band definitely incorporates some of the decade’s best musical elements. Their track “Berenstein” leans more '80s than some others by the group, including a jangle-like guitar tone and melodic vocals. The song’s dreamy, atmospheric sound is comparable to popular '80s hits. 

“Can I Call You Tonight?” by Dayglow fits into that '80s new wave sound. While it might have a more modern take than others on this list, it still pulls some '80s-inspired elements, especially with its echoey vocals and bouncy bassline.

The title of this track alone hints at its '80s appeal, but its production confirms it. Both “1980s Horror Film” tracks (the original and “1980s Horror Film II”) feature different '80s-inspired elements, with the first being more of a cinematic ballad and the second having an energetic pop sound. They both do their names justice.

Another '80s-inspired song, “Televised,” involves a ton of new wave/post-punk elements. While Hunny might be a more modernized indie band than others on this list, they incorporate similar guitar tones, synths, and drums as the '80s legends. 

Many fans believe Lorde’s “Supercut” has a strong '80s feel. When it comes to its production, the song is a bit more modern than others on this list. However, it does use certain '80s elements like punchy electronic drums and shimmering synths, which we all associate with the decade. 

Wolf Alice’s “Don’t Delete the Kisses” has that legendary ethereal sound of the '80s. While it certainly falls under a modern indie-rock/shoegaze style, it’s still reminiscent of iconic bands like Cocteau Twins. The track’s echoey vocals and layered harmonies seal the deal. 

“Physical” by Dua Lipa seems to be heavily influenced by '80s synth-pop hits. This high-energy, catchy track has the signature electric drums with punchy chord synths that know how to rouse fans. In fact, many consider the song to be an aerobic pop anthem, perfect for workout motivation or pregame hype. 

A more recent release by the iconic '00s rock band The Killers, “Caution” has an '80s sound you can’t deny. From the dramatic vocals to the chorused guitars to the punchy drums, this track has it all. While its production is a bit more modern, “Caution” still satisfies that '80s itch.

I remember first hearing “If Only For Tonight” and assuming the band was decades old, as they have that instantly recognizable '80s sound. However, the band formed in 2014, and this evocative track was actually released in 2021. Of course, in addition to its '80s new wave elements, it definitely has that modern indie feel that sets it apart from traditional '80s songs. Still, it deserves a place on this list.

“Silk Chiffon” by MUNA ft. Phoebe Bridgers is an iconic pop song that’s basically an ode to the legendary '80s pop stars. (Think: Cyndi Lauper and Belinda Carlisle.) While the production might be more modern, its high energy is reminiscent of various '80s bubblegum pop hits.

“12 to 12” by Sombr has a strong '80s sound that’s impossible to deny. The catchy, high-energy track merges elements of disco, new wave, and synth-pop that have fans dancing the night away.

It’s hard to believe “Ellipsis” by Drab Majesty was released in 2019. This song sounds like it's straight out of an '80s movie, with its signature synths and drum patterns. Even the vocals have that traditional reverb-heavy, layered pattern. 

Twin Tribes is a dark wave band that formed in 2017, decades after the genre originally emerged in the late ‘70s/early ‘80s with bands like Joy Division and The Cure. Even Twin Tribes’ aesthetic matches the decade, with a dark, gothic appearance reminiscent of those glory days. Released in 2019, their song “Fantasmas” is as 80s as it gets.

Just a second into the song, it’s evident that “Wounds of Love” is an '80s-inspired track. Its electronic influences and synth-rock sound give it that feel. Not to mention, it’s a particularly groovy hit—one worth listening to (or dancing to).

DECEITS is known for its post-punk/dark wave music. Their song “All We Are (Are Memories)" has a similar gothic appeal as The Cure, especially with its dramatic vocals and moody lyrics. 

Future Islands is a band with quite a unique sound, particularly in its distinctive vocals. However, their song “For Sure” features many '80s-inspired elements, like layered synths and an electronic sound. 

Perhaps one of the most fitting songs on this list, “Nites Like This” by Choir Boy is a prime example of a modern song with an ‘80s feel. The band shares a similar sound with the Cocteau Twins, an iconic group from the era. Their dreamy, melancholic vibe is unmatched.