(premium) Best New Wave Songs of 1981
Explore the series ($):
1978 | 1979 | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 to 1987 (coming soon)
This isn’t your average year-end list.
1981 was the year new wave turned glossy, gutsy, and unmistakably global—with synthpop breakouts, feminist anthems, and one unforgettable vampire-themed video. This deepdive takes you through it all:
Behind-the-scenes context with a fan’s eye for detail
Hooks, lyrics, and moods that still hit hard
Unexpected backstories—from Soft Cell to Squeeze
Writing that’s equal parts music nerd and mixtape buddy