Timeless classics: Summer of '69, Material Girl and 8 other iconic songs that turn 40 in 2025
Music is timeless and we bet you'd agree that it has a unique way of freezing moments, creating memories that feel like they occurred just a few days back. But believe it or not, these iconic songs that continue to rock were released 40 years ago! Yes, you read that right. Despite being old, even GenZ or Zoomers enjoy them today. Music lovers, if you want to go back in time and remember those good 'ol moments in life that have long been forgotten, just play these tunes and be transported to your teenage days. For the music industry, 1985 was a significant year as the release of these popular tracks shaped genres in the '80s and 90s, capturing emotions and turning them into timeless classics. Fast forward to 2025 these popular tracks complete an incredible journey of four decades still getting people to don their dancing shoes. Tune into these 10 songs that enjoy! (Image: Reuters) No 1. Summer of '69 by Bryan Adams | Summer of '69 was performed by the Canadian artist Bryan Adams and featured on his fourth studio album, Reckless. The upbeat rock track explores the conflict between pursuing a stable life and chasing dreams of rock stardom. Written by Adams alongside his frequent collaborator Jim Vallance, the song was produced by Adams and Bob Clearmountain. Released under A&M Records, Summer of '69 debuted as the album's fourth single in June 1985. (Image: Reuters) No 2. Material Girl by Madonna | This pop anthem had the girls go wild and ensured Madonna’s status as a cultural icon. Material Girl is a satirical take on materialism and the pursuit of wealth, delivered with a catchy tune and a dazzling persona that continues to influence pop culture. (Image: Reuters) No 3. Money for Nothing by Dire Straits | Money for Nothing and… We know you want to complete the lyrics… Another rock anthem that explores themes of entitlement and the contrast between hard work and easy success. With its memorable riff and satirical lyrics, it became a defining track of the '80s, critiquing the superficial aspects of fame and wealth in the music industry. (Image: Reuters) No 4. Take on Me by A-ha | What a groundbreaking music video of the time. The infectious synth-pop melody, Take on Me became an instant classic. The Norwegian band's hit remains one of the most recognisable songs of the 1980s, with its iconic falsetto and memorable chorus captivating audiences worldwide. (Image: Reuters) No 5. Born in the USA by Bruce Springsteen | An anthem for the working class, Bruce Springsteen’s Born in the USA is a complex narrative of pride and disillusionment. Its powerful lyrics and driving rock beat have made it a mainstay in American music history. (Image: Reuters) No 6. We Are the World by USA for Africa | Written by the King of Pop and legendary late Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, this charity single brought together some of the biggest names in music to address famine in Africa. The song's universal message of unity and compassion struck a chord globally, becoming an anthem for humanitarian efforts. (Image: Reuters) No 7. Careless Whisper by George Michael | Who has not dedicated this one to their then girlfriends? George Michael’s debut solo single, Careless Whisper, is a quintessential ballad of heartbreak and regret. The saxophone riff and soulful vocals make it a timeless piece, often regarded as one of the greatest love songs ever written. (Image: Reuters) No 8. We Built This City by Starship | This one is a song about the decline of the music industry, focusing on the commercialisation and corporate takeover of the arts. The track, blending rock and pop, captures a sense of disillusionment with how the creative landscape has shifted, with an energetic chorus that made it a chart-topping hit. (Image: Reuters) No 9. West End Girls" by Pet Shop Boys | This track is a synth-pop classic that combines catchy beats with clever storytelling about city life and the complexities of relationships. Its moody, introspective lyrics reflect themes of social class and love in a metropolitan setting, making it an iconic anthem of the 1980s. (Image: Reuters) No 10. Your Love by The Outfield | Released in 1986, Your Love is a catchy pop-rock song that delves into the excitement and confusion of love and desire. Known for its upbeat melody and chorus, the track remains a timeless feel-good anthem about relationships and the yearning for connection. (Image: Reuters)
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