Synth and Swagger

Synth and Swagger

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Synth and Swagger
Synth and Swagger
(premium) Best New Wave Songs of 1979

(premium) Best New Wave Songs of 1979

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Jason D'Orazio
May 27, 2025
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Synth and Swagger
Synth and Swagger
(premium) Best New Wave Songs of 1979
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Explore the series ($):

1978 | 1979 | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 to 1987 (coming soon)

Back to Best of Year list


This isn’t your average year-end list.

In 1979, new wave hit the airwaves—and never looked back. This deepdive explores the breakout hits and underground anthems that defined the year: from the bratty brilliance of My Sharona to the surreal nostalgia of Video Killed the Radio Star. Why pay for it?

  • Smart, personal commentary from a true new wave devotee

  • Cultural snapshots that make each song a time capsule

  • Unexpected links across punk, pop, and postmodern irony

  • A sharp take on what made 1979 a launchpad, not a footnote

👉 Go paid to unlock the full series, with in-depth posts for every year from ’78 to ’87.

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