Remember These Prom Songs from the ’80s and ’90s?

From cheesy power ballads to funky dance hits.

by:
Caitlin Carter
May 11, 2022

Ah, prom night — a magical evening of awkward dances, questionable fashion choices, and, of course, unforgettable music straight out of the ’80s and ’90s.

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Whether you were rocking a mullet, sporting a neon prom dress, or busting out your best dance moves in parachute pants, there’s no denying that the music of this era provided the perfect soundtrack for the most memorable night of high school. So, grab your scrunchies, dust off your cassette tapes, and join us on a hilarious journey back in time as we revisit the glory days of ’80s and ’90s prom music.

From cheesy power ballads to funky dance hits, let’s dive in and see just how “rad” things got on the dance floor back in the day!

Biggest ’80s and ’90s prom songs

Aerosmith – “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” (1998)

A power ballad that captures the intensity of love and the desire to cherish every moment with someone special.

Blackstreet – “No Diggity” (1996)

A smooth R&B track with infectious beats and slick vocals, perfect for grooving to on the dance floor.

Mr. Big – “To Be With You” (1991)

A heartfelt rock ballad about longing for love and companionship, with memorable acoustic guitar melodies.

Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock – “It Takes Two” (1988)

An iconic hip-hop anthem known for its catchy hooks and irresistible beats, guaranteed to get the party started.

Cyndi Lauper – “Time After Time” (1983)

A timeless pop classic that speaks to the enduring nature of love and loyalty, with Cyndi Lauper’s distinctive vocals shining through.

Men Without Hats – “The Safety Dance” (1982)

An upbeat new wave hit with catchy synth lines and quirky lyrics that invite listeners to let loose and dance without inhibitions.

Young M.C. – “Bust A Move” (1989)

A funky hip-hop track with clever lyrics and infectious grooves, encouraging listeners to hit the dance floor and bust a move.

Alphaville – “Forever Young” (1984)

An anthemic synth-pop ballad that celebrates the spirit of youth and the desire for eternal happiness and freedom.

Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch – “Good Vibrations” (1991)

A high-energy hip-hop track with infectious beats and Marky Mark’s charismatic delivery, guaranteed to get you moving.

Berlin – “Take My Breath Away” (1986)

A romantic power ballad with lush instrumentation and emotive vocals, best known for its appearance in the film Top Gun.

Bell Biv Devoe – “Poison” (1990)

A catchy R&B track with a funky groove and memorable hooks, warning listeners about the dangers of toxic relationships.

Edwin McCain – “I’ll Be” (1997)

A heartfelt rock ballad with soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, expressing undying love and devotion.

Los Del Rio – “Macarena” (1993)

A dance-pop sensation with infectious beats and a catchy chorus, inspiring listeners to join in on the iconic dance moves.

Chris DeBurgh – “Lady In Red” (1986)

A romantic ballad with elegant instrumentation and tender vocals, capturing the magic of a special moment on the dance floor.

69 Boyz – “Tootsee Roll” (1994)

A lively hip-hop track with an infectious beat and catchy dance instructions, perfect for getting the party started.

Madonna – “Like A Prayer” (1989)

A genre-defying pop masterpiece with powerful vocals and provocative lyrics with Madonna exploring themes of spirituality and redemption.

Digital Underground – “The Humpty Dance” (1990)

A playful hip-hop track with funky beats and humorous lyrics, inviting listeners to join in on the dance floor antics.

K-Ci and JoJo – “All My Life” (1998)

A heartfelt R&B ballad with soulful vocals and emotional lyrics, expressing deep love and devotion.

Prom Radio on SiriusXM

Like a high school ex that won’t stop hitting you with friend requests on social media, Prom Radio is now a permanent channel on the SiriusXM App.

Dedicated to spiking your punch with musical memories of proms from the ’80s, ’90s, and beyond, Prom Radio can help you relive the smell of hairspray and corsages, the feel of your date’s clammy hand, and the anxiety-inducing opening notes of the next slow dance.

It’s musical nostalgia for those who peaked in high school… and the rest of us!



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