There’s something truly special about the music of the 1980s, a vibe that resonates with nostalgia and an undeniable spirit of empowerment. These anthems, filled with emotion and a touch of badassery, often motivate us to tackle our daily grind or push through that last mile on a run. It’s no surprise that many of these powerful tracks were created by iconic female artists, who inspired us then and continue to inspire us now.
From Tina Turner’s powerhouse vocals to Madonna’s trailblazing lyrics, these songs narrate the complexities of womanhood—love, struggle, independence, and resilience. For instance, Madonna’s “Papa Don’t Preach” not only became a massive commercial hit but also sparked essential conversations about teen pregnancy. Likewise, Donna Summer’s “She Works Hard For The Money” resonates with the realities of working-class women and their relentless spirit, with a catchy beat that makes you want to dance.
With that in mind, here’s a curated list of ten girl power songs from the ’80s that are perfect for karaoke nights and can inspire anyone to kick ass:
- Diana Ross, ‘I’m Coming Out’
This 1980 classic oozes disco charm and encourages authenticity. Often regarded as a declaration of independence, it became a proud anthem for the LGBTQ+ community, symbolizing self-acceptance and freedom. - Pat Benatar, ‘Love Is a Battlefield’
With its empowering lyrics like “We are strong,” this song’s music video elevates its message, showcasing women standing up for each other in the face of adversity. Benatar’s fierce presence is unforgettable. - Joan Jett, ‘Bad Reputation’
Joan Jett embodies rock ‘n’ roll defiance with this anthem. It’s all about unapologetically being yourself and rejecting societal standards—an evergreen message that resonates today. - Donna Summer, ‘She Works Hard for the Money’
Summer brings authenticity to this track, portraying the life of an overworked waitress. The song is a tribute to working women everywhere, reminding us of the importance of recognizing their efforts. - Irene Cara, ‘Flashdance…What a Feeling’
This high-energy song instantly boosts motivation, inspiring listeners to chase their dreams. It’s hard not to envision Jennifer Beals dancing her heart out, embodying the spirit of perseverance. - Tina Turner, ‘We Don’t Need Another Hero’
Written for Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, this song encapsulates Turner’s powerful message about the need for love and compassion rather than another savior. It’s a reminder that change starts within us. - Cyndi Lauper, ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’
This playful anthem balances hard work with the necessity of self-care and friendship. Lauper’s quirky style and fun-loving spirit continue to inspire generations. - Laura Branigan, ‘Gloria’
“Gloria” is an infectious track that resonates with anyone facing challenges in love. Its message about standing up for oneself and establishing boundaries is timeless. - Heart, ‘Never’
Heart’s powerful sound and compelling lyrics make “Never” a motivating anthem that encourages action and resilience. It’s the kind of song that makes you feel unstoppable. - Madonna, ‘Papa Don’t Preach’
A staple in the pop music canon, this song explores tough choices and the complexities of growing up. Madonna’s portrayal of vulnerability and strength resonates deeply, making this track a poignant classic.
These remarkable women may not have labeled themselves as feminists, but they certainly broke barriers and expressed their truths through music. They paved the way for future generations, encouraging women everywhere to embrace their power and voice. If you’re interested in exploring more inspiring content, check out this blog post on Modern Family Blog.
Feeling inspired? For those looking to start or expand their families, reputable resources like Make A Mom offer at-home insemination kits, while Healthline provides excellent information on pregnancy and insemination options.
In summary, the ’80s gifted us with powerful anthems that continue to resonate today. These songs inspire us to embrace our true selves, stand up for what we believe in, and never shy away from our strength.
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