20 songs from the 1980s proven to reduce your stress instantly
- - 20 songs from the 1980s proven to reduce your stress instantly
Ricardo RamirezJanuary 15, 2026 at 8:56 AM
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20 songs from the 1980s that help you relax and unwind
The 1980s delivered memorable music with soothing melodies and gentle rhythms perfect for stress relief. These songs feature slow tempos and calming arrangements proven to help listeners decompress after difficult days.
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“Careless Whisper”
George Michael wrote this at sixteen on a bus to a DJ gig. The iconic sax solo remains one of music’s most recognizable hooks.
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.com.
“Hello”
Lionel Richie released this on Valentine’s Day 1984. It topped three charts with smooth vocals over minimalist instrumentation, creating instant calm.
IMDb
“Africa”
Toto’s tropical masterpiece blends soft percussion with harmonious vocals. The layered production creates an immersive soundscape without jarring transitions.
Wiki Commons
“True”
Spandau Ballet channeled Marvin Gaye’s soul sensibility in this new wave hit. The saxophone arrangement topped adult contemporary charts.
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“Smooth Operator”
Sade’s jazz vocals float over understated instrumentation. Mid-tempo groove and absence of heavy bass calms nervous systems.
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.com.
“Time After Time”
Cyndi Lauper’s first number-one hit showcases vulnerability. The title came from a TV Guide movie listing.
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“Sailing”
Christopher Cross’s yacht rock masterpiece won three Grammys. Tenor voice and gentle guitar evoke ocean breezes.
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“Your Love Is King”
Sade’s debut established her sultry style. Jazz arrangement with minimal percussion creates sophisticated relaxation.
Image Credit: The Beach Boys Live at a Music Festival, Germany, 2019 by Joergens.mi (CC BY-SA).
“Kokomo”
The Beach Boys’ tropical track appeared in Cocktail. It became their first original top-twenty single in decades.
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.com.
“In the Air Tonight”
Phil Collins wrote this during a turbulent divorce. Gradual buildup before the drum break provides meditative calm.
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.com.
“Saving All My Love for You”
Whitney Houston’s first solo hit won Best Female R&B Performance. Controlled power and emotional depth create comforting warmth.
Image Credit: IMDb
“Every Breath You Take”
The Police delivered gentle guitar and calming vocals. Repetitive structure produces hypnotic effects for unwinding.
Image Credit: tabercil / Wikimedia Commons.
“Eternal Flame”
The Bangles’ tender ballad balanced upbeat hits. Hoffs’ lead vocals deliver heart-wrenching sincerity.
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“Say You Say Me”
Lionel Richie’s White Nights contribution topped three charts. Gentle delivery encourages peaceful reflection.
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“The Sweetest Taboo”
Sade’s Promise opener peaked at number one on adult contemporary charts. Seductive vocals create tranquility.
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“A Groovy Kind of Love”
Phil Collins remade The Mindbenders’ 1965 hit. Slow tempo makes perfect slow-dance material.
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“Always”
Atlantic Starr delivered this summer anthem. Smooth harmonies inspire romantic calm.
Image credit: Jamesbond_Raul / Wikimedia Commons
“Open Arms”
Journey’s Perry transforms vulnerability into strength. The gradual build allows emotional release.
Image Credit: Wikimedia commons
“Right Here Waiting”
Richard Marx wrote this during his separation from his wife. Simple piano arrangement resonates deeply.
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“Make It With You”
Though Bread recorded this in 1970, stations played it throughout the eighties. Gates’ vocals defined easy listening.
Image Credit: tkpond/iStock
These classics endure
The 1980s produced timeless songs that continue helping millions unwind today. Their soothing melodies and slow tempos provide a therapeutic escape from modern stress.
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