The 1980s was a decade filled with vibrant music, quirky styles, and unforgettable pop culture moments. (As well as 1980s stores that you may not have heard of)Among the mainstream hits, there were also a plethora of bizarre and obscure songs that captured the essence of the era’s eccentricity. From quirky novelty songs about prehistoric families to reggae tracks about kitchen-dwelling rodents, this era produced some of the most eccentric and entertaining tunes you’ve probably never heard.
The decade’s unique blend of genres, from synth-pop to rockabilly, gave birth to these hidden musical gems that perfectly capture the spirit of the times. These forgotten tracks showcase the boundless creativity and playful experimentation that made the 80s such a special time in music history. This article explores some of the weirdest tracks from the 80s that you probably haven’t heard of, but definitely should!
12. I Wanna Be A Flintstone
First up is “I Wanna Be A Flintstone” by the Screaming Blue Messiahs. Released in 1987, this song is a fun escape from modern life, expressing a desire to live like the characters from the classic animated series, The Flintstones. With its catchy chorus and energetic rhythm, it invites listeners to chant along. The lyrics celebrate the simple pleasures of Stone Age life while offering commentary on modern complexities. Bill Carter’s distinctive vocals cut through the mix with raw authenticity, while the production maintains the perfect balance between polished professionalism and garage band grit. Rock historians recognize this track as a prime example of late 80s genre-blending innovation.
11. May The Cube Be With You
Next, we have “May The Cube Be With You” by Thomas Dolby. This 1984 track mixes sci-fi references with groovy beats, creating a danceable tune that transports listeners to a galaxy far, far away. The playful nod to Star Wars adds a layer of humor, making it a memorable piece of 80s pop culture. Dolby’s unique sound and clever lyrics make this song a must-listen for fans of quirky music.
10. Get Your Feet Out Of My Shoes
The Booill Foot Tappers delivered pure rockabilly gold with 1988’s “Get Your Feet Out Of My Shoes.” This toe-tapping tune takes relationship frustrations and transforms them into three minutes of pure musical therapy. The band’s twangy guitars and jumping rhythms create the kind of infectious energy that gets entire rooms dancing. Every element of the song, from its clever wordplay to its rollicking instrumental breaks, shows off the band’s deep understanding of what makes rockabilly tick. Music fans who discover this hidden gem will find themselves hitting repeat just to catch all the wonderful details packed into every verse.
9. Rat In Mi Kitchen
UB40‘s “Rat In Mi Kitchen” is a reggae-infused track that addresses social issues through the metaphor of a rat infestation. Released in 1986, the song combines catchy rhythms with a message about frustration and discontent. The band’s signature groove transforms a simple complaint about an unwanted houseguest into a broader commentary on life’s daily struggles. Their expert blend of serious themes with lighthearted delivery creates the perfect balance of meaning and entertainment. The track’s infectious rhythm section and memorable melody line make serious social commentary go down as smooth as honey.
8. Charlton Heston
“Charlton Heston” by the band Stump is a quirky tribute to the Hollywood legend. Released in 1988, the song features nonsensical lyrics and an offbeat charm that reflects the band’s eccentric style. While it may not directly relate to Heston’s film career, it captures the whimsical nature of 80s music. Music lovers will discover new quirks and oddities with each listen, as the band packs every moment with unexpected sonic surprises. The track’s gleeful disregard for traditional song conventions makes it a perfect example of how 80s alternative music could push boundaries while still being incredibly fun.
7. Bring Me Edelweiss
Edelweiss brought Austria’s favorite flower into the synth-pop age with 1988’s “Bring Me Edelweiss.” This Euro-pop gem shows exactly what happens when clever producers mix traditional Alpine charm with hip-hop beats and electronic wizardry. The song’s irresistible chorus will have you humming along whether you understand German or not. Dance music fans will appreciate how the track seamlessly blends different musical styles into one cohesive, joyful package. The song’s success across Europe proved that great pop music needs no translation.
6. Geil
Bruce & Bongo struck gold with “Geil,” a 1986 synth-pop celebration that taught the world a new way to say “awesome.” This German language earworm demonstrates the universal power of a perfect dance beat and an unforgettable hook. The producers packed every second with enough electronic energy to power a small city, creating an instant party starter. German music experts recognize this track as a perfect example of mid-80s Europop at its most infectious. The song’s continued popularity in German-speaking regions proves that sometimes the simplest ideas make the biggest impact.
5. Woodpeckers From Space
“Woodpeckers From Space” by Video Kids stands as one of the most charmingly absurd entries in the 80s novelty song catalog. This delightfully strange tune combines space-age sound effects with an unforgettable melody that burrows into your brain like, well, a woodpecker. The producers went all-in on the concept, creating a perfect marriage of silly lyrics and serious musical craftsmanship. Dance music aficionados will appreciate how the track maintains its groove even while telling its bizarre tale of intergalactic bird invasion. Every element of the production serves both the song’s humor and its danceability.
4. Kenny The Kangaroo
Michael Barrymore’s “Kenny The Kangaroo” is a novelty song that became one of his most well-known works. This novelty track showcases Barrymore’s natural talent for entertainment, turning a simple story about an escaped marsupial into pure pop joy. The production team knew exactly how to frame Barrymore’s playful delivery with the perfect musical backing. Every verse adds new adventures to Kenny’s story, keeping listeners engaged right through to the end. The song’s enduring charm lies in its complete commitment to having fun with its ridiculous premise.
3. Star Trekkin
“Star Trekkin’” is a humorous parody of the popular science fiction series, Star Trek. The producers masterfully wove beloved Star Trek catchphrases into a catchy melody that even non-Trekkies couldn’t resist humming. Every verse introduces a new character from the series, each with their own signature phrase transformed into musical gold. Entertainment experts recognize this track as a perfect example of how to create a parody song that shows genuine love for its source material. The song’s ability to appeal to both dedicated fans and casual listeners demonstrates the universal appeal of well-crafted musical comedy.
2. Atakatakatakata
“Atakatakatakata” by Mink is a disco banger from 1982 that features cryptic lyrics and a catchy beat. While it may not be widely recognized, its infectious rhythm and playful nature make it a memorable track. This disco masterpiece takes pure sound and rhythm to create something magically mysterious and undeniably danceable. Music producers will appreciate how the track builds layer upon layer of infectious groove, creating an irresistible momentum that keeps bodies moving. The song’s cryptic title and lyrics add to its charm, making it feel like a secret code shared between everyone on the dance floor. Dance music historians point to this track as a perfect example of how early 80s disco was evolving into new and experimental forms.
1. Hitler Rap
“Hitler Rap” by Mel Brooks, a controversial yet humorous take on history. This irreverent rap combines elements of hip-hop with comedic lyrics, poking fun at the infamous dictator. The production team created the perfect backdrop for Brooks’ lyrics, matching classic hip-hop beats with touches of cabaret music that emphasize the satirical nature of the piece. Comedy experts recognize this song as a masterclass in how to handle sensitive subject matter through careful use of parody and wit. The track’s lasting impact demonstrates how skilled comedic artists can tackle challenging topics while still creating entertaining and memorable music.
