Timeless Hits: Classic ’80s Songs You Didn’t Know Were Actually Covers
The 1980s gave us some of the most iconic songs in music history—tracks that defined an era of neon lights, big hair, and unforgettable anthems. But did you know that some of your favorite ’80s hits were actually covers of earlier songs? Many artists took existing tracks and turned them into global sensations, often overshadowing the originals. Here are some of the most surprising classic ’80s songs that weren’t as original as you might have thought.
1. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper (1983)
Cyndi Lauper’s version of “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” became a feminist anthem, but the song was originally recorded by Robert Hazard in 1979. His version had a rockier edge, while Lauper’s upbeat, synth-pop rendition transformed it into a worldwide hit.
2. “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell (1981)
Soft Cell’s dark, synth-heavy version of “Tainted Love” was a defining track of the new wave era, but it was originally a 1964 soul song by Gloria Jones. While Jones’ version had an energetic Motown feel, Soft Cell’s slower, melancholic take made it unforgettable.
3. “I Love Rock ’n’ Roll” – Joan Jett & the Blackhearts (1981)
Joan Jett made “I Love Rock ’n’ Roll” one of the biggest rock anthems of the ’80s, but it was first recorded in 1975 by The Arrows. Their version had a more subdued, bluesy feel, while Jett’s aggressive vocals and power chords made it legendary.
4. “The Tide Is High” – Blondie (1980)
Before Blondie took “The Tide Is High” to the top of the charts, it was a 1967 rocksteady hit by The Paragons, a Jamaican group. Blondie added a new wave twist, but the song’s reggae roots remain unmistakable.
5. “Venus” – Bananarama (1986)
Bananarama’s energetic dance-pop version of “Venus” became a massive hit, but it was originally a 1969 rock song by Dutch band Shocking Blue. Their original had a psychedelic rock vibe, while Bananarama’s version turned it into an ’80s club staple.
6. “Mickey” – Toni Basil (1981)
Toni Basil’s cheerleader-style pop anthem “Mickey” was actually a cover of “Kitty” by the British band Racey, released in 1979. Basil changed the title and added the chant that made it an instant hit.
7. “Red Red Wine ” — UB40 ( 1983)
UB40’s reggae-infused “Red Red Wine” is one of their most beloved songs, but it was originally recorded as a country ballad by Neil Diamond in 1967. The band’s version gave it an entirely new life and remains the most famous rendition.
8. “Cum On Feel the Noize” – Quiet Riot (1983)
Quiet Riot’s headbanging anthem “Cum On Feel the Noize” was first recorded by British glam rockers Slade in 1973. While Slade’s version was already a hit, Quiet Riot’s cover helped bring heavy metal to mainstream American audiences.
9. “Always Something There to Remind Me” – Naked Eyes (1983)
Naked Eyes turned “Always Something There to Remind Me” into a synth-driven classic, but the song was originally written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David and recorded by Dionne Warwick in the ’60s.
10. “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” – Kim Wilde (1986)
Kim Wilde’s high-energy pop-rock take on “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” was originally a 1966 Motown hit by The Supremes. While the original had a smooth, soulful feel, Wilde’s version was pure ’80s power pop.
Final Thoughts
The ’80s may have been an era of bold originality, but these covers prove that some of the biggest hits were borrowed from the past. Whether reimagined in synth-pop, rock, or reggae, these songs found new life and became classics in their own right. So next time you belt out one of these tunes, just remember—it might not have started in the ’80s, but that’s where it became legendary!
