The Best '80s Songs That Feature Piano
1Listen to Your Heart
RoxetteRoxette's touching ballad "Listen to Your Heart" features a memorable piano intro that perfectly sets the sentimental mood for this 1980s pop-rock classic. With Marie Fredriksson's powerful vocals, this song sits comfortably among the era's greatest piano-driven hits.
2Heaven
Bryan AdamsBryan Adams' tender ballad "Heaven" features soothing piano melodies that perfectly complement his passionate vocal performance. This love song resonated with audiences in the '80s and still holds a special place in listeners' hearts today.
3Can't Fight This Feeling
REO SpeedwagonREO Speedwagon delivered a timeless power ballad with "Can't Fight This Feeling," which features rich piano instrumentation supporting Kevin Cronin's fervent vocals. The song became a staple in '80s soft rock, as it beautifully conveyed themes of love and longing.
4JourneyJourney's heartfelt masterpiece, "Faithfully," boasts an iconic piano backing that intertwines with Steve Perry's soaring vocals, creating an unforgettable ode to love and commitment. This beautiful ballad is undeniably one of the most popular and enduring songs from the entire 1980s.
More Faithfully
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5Richard MarxRichard Marx's poignant "Right Here Waiting" features delicate piano notes that tug at listeners' heartstrings, while his emotive voice weaves a tale of enduring love. This song remains one of the most memorable ballads from the 1980s and continues to resonate with audiences today.
6Bonnie TylerBonnie Tyler’s epic “Total Eclipse of My Heart” pairs emotionally charged piano lines with her husky voice, creating an unforgettable masterpiece that is synonymous with raw passion. The song remains a pinnacle moment for power ballads throughout history.
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7Alone
HeartHeart poured emotion into every note of their mega-hit “Alone,” featuring elegant piano melodies that mesh seamlessly with Ann Wilson’s dramatic performance. The combination proved unstoppable, making it one of the standout piano-based songs from their illustrious career.
8Bonnie TylerBonnie Tyler's adrenaline-pumping anthem "Holding Out for a Hero" features driving piano melodies that add flair and urgency to this iconic '80s powerhouse. Paired with Tyler's raspy, impassioned vocals, this high-energy track remains a celebrated gem from the decade.
9JourneyWith its instantly recognizable opening piano riff, Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" is arguably one of the most enduring songs in modern music history. This anthem of perseverance captured hearts in the '80s and continues to inspire generations today.
10Hold On To The nights
Richard MarxRichard Marx's tender "Hold on to the Nights" showcases his emotive piano playing and heartfelt vocals, solidifying his place in pop-rock history. This wistful ballad captures both love and longing, making it a quintessential '80s love song.
11I'm Still Standing
Elton JohnElton John's spirited "I'm Still Standing" showcases his virtuoso piano skills, providing a driving force behind this infectious pop hit. With its catchy melody and triumphant theme, this song has become one of Sir Elton's most beloved anthems from the 1980s.
12Carrie
EuropeEurope's emotional ballad "Carrie" tastefully incorporates delicate piano instrumentation alongside Joey Tempest's heart-wrenching vocal delivery. This powerful and memorable song has secured its place as one of the defining tracks in 1980s rock music.
13WhitesnakeWhitesnake’s “Here I Go Again” married irresistible keyboard hooks with powerful guitar riffs, resulting in an anthemic track that quickly became synonymous with 80’s rock magic. David Coverdale’s gritty yet soulful voice solidified this tune as one of the decade’s defining hits.
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14JourneyOpen Arms, another Journey gem, showcases a delicate piano arrangement accompanied by Steve Perry's passionate delivery. This emotive ballad struck a chord with listeners in the '80s and remains a quintessential part of any romantic mixtape or playlist.
15Don't You (Forget About Me)
New Found GlorySimple Minds' anthemic "Don't You (Forget About Me)" features pulsating piano textures that define this classic '80s track. Jim Kerr's unforgettable vocal performance, combined with the song's uplifting energy, ensures it remains a favorite among fans of the decade.
16When I Look Into Your Eyes
FireHouseFirehouse seamlessly melds passionate piano harmonies with CJ Snare's soaring vocal delivery in their romantic hit "When I Look Into Your Eyes." This enchanting love song has secured its place as one of the most memorable ballads from the era.
17Making Love (Out Of Nothing At All)
Bonnie TylerAir Supply hit all the right notes on "Making Love (Out Of Nothing At All)," delivering an exquisite blend of piano and soaring vocals that defined the soft-rock genre of the '80s. This powerful ballad remains an iconic representation of love and heartbreak in popular music.
18Who's Crying Now
JourneyJourney once again demonstrates their mastery of piano-driven ballads with “Who’s Crying Now,” which expertly melds evocative keys with Steve Perry’s soul-stirring vocals. This timeless piece exemplifies why Journey remains one of the most iconic bands from the 1980s music scene.
19SurvivorSurvivor delivered an emotional hit with "The Search Is Over," weaving soul-stirring piano melodies and lyrics that tug at listeners' heartstrings. This timeless ballad exemplifies the spirit of 1980s power ballads and continues to captivate audiences today.
20Night Ranger
Sister ChristianSister Christian by Night Ranger showcases their ability to blend catchy piano hooks with Kelly Keagy’s soulful voice, resulting in an unforgettable power ballad. The song perfectly captures the essence of ‘80s rock anthems and still resonates with audiences today.
21When It's Love
Van HalenVan Halen softened their rock edge on “When It’s Love,” utilizing emotive piano melodies to underscore Sammy Hagar’s heartfelt singing. This refreshing mid-tempo track demonstrated Van Halen's versatility and solidified their status as icons in 1980s music.
22Steppin' Out
Joe JacksonJoe Jackson’s infectious “Steppin’ Out” boasts a captivating piano-centric hook that launched it into instant classic territory during the ‘80s New Wave explosion. The vibrant energy combined with Jackson’s smooth delivery formed a timeless musical staple that remains fresh today.
23Guns N' RosesIn "November Rain," Guns N' Roses combined tender piano melodies with electric guitar solos to create one of the most epic ballads in rock history. Axl Rose's poignant lyrics and powerful voice shine through in this ambitious masterpiece that is revered by fans of all ages.
24Whitney HoustonWhitney Houston's powerful ballad "Where Do Broken Hearts Go" features stirring piano melodies that support her phenomenal vocal talent. This soul-bearing anthem remains a shining example of Houston's unparalleled ability to captivate listeners with her emotive performances.
25Come On Eileen
Dexys Midnight RunnersDexys Midnight Runners captured the essence of the '80s with "Come On Eileen," blending traditional Irish folk elements and an infectious piano hook to create a feel-good, dance-worthy track. The song became a massive hit and has since become emblematic of the decade.
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26CinderellaCinderella masterfully employed emotive piano playing on their hit single “Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone),” providing listeners with a touching reflection on love and loss. The band showcased their musical depth on this unforgettable track, which remains an iconic piece from the era.
27Mötley CrüeMötley Crüe took a detour from their hard-rocking roots with "Home Sweet Home," embracing poignant piano melodies and heartfelt lyrics. This introspective hit solidified its status as one of the greatest power ballads of the 1980s.
28AerosmithAerosmith showcased their softer side on "Angel," blending delicate piano lines with Steven Tyler's vulnerable vocal performance. This heartfelt tribute to love remains one of Aerosmith's standout tracks from their legendary career.
29Tonight Is What It Means to be Young
Jim Steinman's "Tonight Is What It Means to Be Young" is a high-octane, piano-driven masterpiece that perfectly encapsulates the intensity and passion of youth. Featured in the film Streets of Fire, this high-energy track remains a beloved gem from the 1980s.
30Uncertain Smile
The TheThe The’s “Uncertain Smile” combines captivating piano riffs with Matt Johnson’s introspective lyrics, resulting in a unique gem from the ‘80s post-punk era. The instrumental intricacies and evocative atmosphere make this track stand out among its contemporaries.
