ANKH TV

The year 1981 was marked by significant cultural shifts in music, reflecting the evolving landscape of popular genres. The rise of new wave, the continued popularity of disco, and the emergence of hip-hop began to shape the musical identity of the early 1980s. Artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince began to dominate the charts, while the influence of MTV started to transform how music was consumed and promoted.

Ranking

1. Bette Davis Eyes – Kim Carnes
   This song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks and became a defining hit of the year, showcasing Carnes' distinctive raspy voice.
2. Endless Love – Diana Ross and Lionel Richie
   A romantic ballad that spent nine weeks at number one, it became one of the most popular duets in music history.
3. Physical – Olivia Newton-John
   This upbeat track dominated the charts for ten weeks and is often associated with the fitness craze of the early 1980s.
4. Kiss on My List – Daryl Hall and John Oates
   This song marked Hall & Oates' rise to fame, reaching number one and showcasing their signature blend of rock and pop.
5. 9 to 5 – Dolly Parton
   The title track from the film of the same name, it became an anthem for working women and showcased Parton's crossover appeal.
6. Celebration – Kool & The Gang
   This song became a staple at parties and celebrations, reaching number one and reflecting the upbeat spirit of the era.
7. I Love a Rainy Night – Eddie Rabbitt
   This country-pop crossover hit reached number one and showcased Rabbitt's unique style and appeal.
8. Lady – Kenny Rogers
   Written by Lionel Richie, this ballad became one of Rogers' biggest hits, reaching number one on the charts.
9. Jessie's Girl – Rick Springfield
   This song became a defining hit for Springfield, reaching number one and solidifying his status as a pop icon.
10. The One That You Love – Air Supply
    This soft rock ballad reached number one and showcased Air Supply's signature harmonies.
11. What Are Friends For – Dionne Warwick and Friends
    This charity single became a number one hit, featuring contributions from Elton John, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder.
12. Take It on the Run – REO Speedwagon
    This rock ballad reached number five on the charts and became one of the band's most enduring hits.
13. Don't Stop Believin' – Journey
    Though not a number one hit in 1981, it gained immense popularity and has become one of the band's signature songs.
14. Rapture – Blondie
    This song was notable for its incorporation of rap elements and reached number one, showcasing the band's versatility.
15. Ain't Nobody – Chaka Khan
    This song became a classic, blending funk and soul, and is often celebrated for its powerful vocals.
16. Start Me Up – The Rolling Stones
    This track marked a successful return for the band and became a staple of their live performances.
17. Keep on Loving You – REO Speedwagon
    Another hit from REO Speedwagon, this power ballad reached number one and became a defining song of the era.
18. Waiting for a Girl Like You – Foreigner
    This ballad reached number two on the charts and is known for its romantic lyrics and smooth melody.
19. I Can't Tell You Why – Eagles
    This song showcased the Eagles' signature harmonies and reached number eight on the charts.
20. Give It Up – K.C. and the Sunshine Band
    This disco-influenced track reached number one and highlighted the band's continued popularity in the early 1980s.