33 Best Songs From 1989

“Blew” by Nirvana

Song Year: 1989

Everyone knows that Nirvana changed the world; after the first album, “Bleach,” released in 1989, with “Blew” as one of the singles, a mixture of rock and grunge was born.

Sink into the memories of that world-altering album with this live performance video of “Blew.” Bang your head, guys!

“After All” by Cher

Song Year: 1989

Cher and Peter Cetera teamed up to sing this 1989 hit about a couple that got together, strayed apart, and ultimately found themselves back together. “After All” and after everything they’d been through, they recognize that they belong together.

This song is a happy, positive one that gives hope to those experiencing trouble in their relationships. At the end of the day, everything will be okay. Sinking into the music video might leave you feeling inspired and romantic; that is the point, after all!

“Revival” by the Eurythmics

Song Year: 1989

“Revival” was written by singers Annie Lennox and David A. Stewart, with additional influence from Pat Seymour and vocalist Charlie Wilson. It’s a hopeful 1989 hit about restarting and how everyone could use a ‘revival’ to escape those nasty bits and pieces of life.

It seeks and encourages listeners to remember that everyone has their battles, but we can make the best of things by starting anew.

“Rhythm Nation” by Janet Jackson

Song Year: 1989

Janet Jackson, the youngest member of the Jackson family, had already defined her strong career by the time 1989 “Rhythm Nation” off of her fourth studio album of the same name arrived.

While her beats were catchy, as always, this album tackled issues of poverty, racism, and drug abuse. “Rhythm Nation” calls on society to stand together in the face of injustice, and that together, they can call for action to make things more hospitable.

Get your groove on!

“Miss You Much” by Janet Jackson

Song Year: 1989

This 1989 love song reminds listeners of how powerful the feelings of love can be. When you miss that special person, you don’t want to hold back any longer. It’s a fantastic comforting song for those who may be in long-distance relationships.

Try to keep your feet from dancing when you play this bumping tune.

“Woman in Chains” by Tears for Fears

Song Year: 1989

This 1989 hit might not be appropriate for kids; if you were a kid when it was released, you probably had no idea what it was saying.

There are a couple of different connotations; the chains could be a symbol of something being sexually charged, or it could just literally be that; women are stuck under the chains of society. No matter your interpretation, it’s worth revisiting, especially years later.

“Hit Me With Your Best Shot” by Pat Benatar

Song Year: 1989

This Pat Benatar classic, released in 1989, was a helpful anthem for those getting through breakups. How could you not feel comforted and reenergized under the confident serenade of Pat Benatar?

It’s the perfect pick-me-up song for those reeling from a failed relationship. Check out the video here to pick yourself up in style.

“Do You Remember” by Phil Collins

Song Year: 1989

Phil Collins’s 1989 “Do You Remember” is another testament to a partner whose luck has fallen out. There’s been an argument or a betrayal of some proportion, and the couple is contemplating calling it quits.

Well, half of them are. The other, the singer, pleads with them to stay, reminding them of the love they share. No matter the hiccups, they’ll save that love, which is why they are desperate and beg them to please stay, to work things out. Relive that music video here.

“We Didn’t Start the Fire” by Billy Joel

Song Year: 1989

Everyone knows this 1989 song by Billy Joel! “We didn’t start the fire” is responsible for introducing listeners to the name of many celebrities, as well as the assassination of US president JFK.

It’s catchy, as always, and a great headbanger to remind listeners of the chaos that happens around us every single day. Catch the video here.

“Rise to It” by Kiss

Song Year: 1989

If you were a kid in 1989, you probably rocked out to this song without really knowing the implications of its lyrics. Whether you finally figured it out or still listen with blissful ignorance, “Rise to IIt” is a memorable staple in Kiss history.

The video romanticizes the group explicitly in a way you might not remember. Dive back in to take a stroll down memory lane.