The 80s were a golden era for music, filled with iconic songs featuring unforgettable keyboard and piano lines. From pop anthems to heartfelt ballads, 80s piano music defined a generation. In this article, we’ll explore a curated list of five famous 80s piano songs that are perfect for piano enthusiasts. Plus, we’ll share tips to help you master these timeless classics.
- Fall in love with the music - Learn your favorite songs, at a level suitable for you.
- Enjoy interactive piano lessons - Explore courses covering music theory, technique chords & more.
- Get real-time feedback - Skoove's feedback tells you what went well and what needs practice.
Listen to Your Heart – Roxette
This power ballad is a standout among great piano songs of the 80s. The emotional melody and lush harmony makes it perfect for expressive piano playing. Focus on building dynamics throughout the song to mirror its soaring vocals. Pay attention to the delicate intro and transition smoothly into the powerful chorus.
I’m Still Standing – Elton John
Elton John’s energetic anthem is a must-learn for fans of 80s keyboard songs. The upbeat tempo will challenge your timing while providing a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Keep the rhythm tight and use a light, playful touch to match the song’s vibrant tone.
Uptown Girl – Billy Joel
This lively tune is one of the most famous 80s piano songs with its bright staccato and rhythmic precision. The song’s bouncy feel is driven by a steady left-hand bassline and fast-moving rhythms in the right hand. Practice each section slowly, focusing on accuracy before building speed.
Africa – Toto
A hallmark of 80s keyboard music, “Africa” features lush harmonies and an iconic riff that’s as fun to play as it is recognizable. Focus on maintaining a smooth flow between note changes and let the melody shine through in the right hand. Add subtle dynamic shifts to capture the song’s unique atmosphere.
Another One Bites the Dust – Queen
This funky classic may not be piano-centric, but its driving rhythm and iconic bassline make it a great addition to your 80s songs with keyboard intro playlist. Hold the steady bassline in your left hand while playing rhythmically with your right. The groove is the key to nailing this song’s infectious energy.
How to play 80s piano songs?
To master the unique feel of 80s keyboard music, focus on these essential tips:
- Rhythmic precision: Many 80s piano songs feature syncopated rhythms that require steady timing. Use a metronome to practice complex patterns.
- Dynamic control: The 80s were known for dramatic dynamic shifts. Practice soft intros and bold crescendos to match the era’s expressive style.
- Layered textures: Many 80s keyboard songs involve multiple layers of sound. Focus on balancing the melody, chords, and bassline to create a full, rich sound.
- Famous riffs and intros: Songs like “Africa” and “I’m Still Standing” are known for their memorable intros. Master these sections to impress your audience!
- Start slow: Build confidence by starting with easy piano songs from the 80s and progress to more challenging pieces.
Listen closely to the original recordings of these hits on piano for inspiration and to develop your technique.
Conclusion
The 80s gave us some of the most unforgettable and best piano songs. Whether you’re learning famous 80s piano songs or exploring 80s keyboard music for the first time, these iconic tracks will enrich your playing and deepen your connection to the era. Ready to dive into the decade of big hair and big sounds? The Skoove app offers step-by-step lessons to help you master these great piano songs of the 80s and much more. Happy practicing!
Author of this blog post:
Susana Pérez Posada
With over seven years of piano education and a deep passion for music therapy, Susana brings a unique blend of expertise to Skoove. A graduate in Music Therapy from SRH Hochschule Heidelberg and an experienced classical pianist from Universidad EAFIT, she infuses her teaching with a holistic approach that transcends traditional piano lessons. Susana’s writings for Skoove combine her rich musical knowledge with engaging storytelling, enriching the learning experience for pianists of all levels. Away from the piano, she loves exploring new places and immersing herself in a good book, believing these diverse experiences enhance her creative teaching style.
Published by Lydia Ogn from the Skoove team
