Remember 1987? It was a year that felt like a turning point, a vibrant mix of big hair, bold fashion, and music that still gets us humming. The airwaves were alive with sounds that captured the spirit of the time, and the Billboard charts were the ultimate barometer of what was hot.
When you dive into the Billboard Top 100 from that year, it's like opening a time capsule. You've got anthems that made you want to crank up the volume and just feel it. Think about The Bangles with "Walk Like An Egyptian" – that infectious beat and quirky charm were everywhere. Or Heart's powerful ballad "Alone," a track that showcased raw vocal talent and resonated with so many.
Gregory Abbott's smooth "Shake You Down" offered a different vibe, a soulful groove that was perfect for a late-night drive. And who could forget Whitney Houston's electrifying "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)"? That song was pure joy, an invitation to let loose and celebrate. Starship's "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now" was another massive hit, an uplifting declaration of love and resilience.
Then there were those tracks that just had that undeniable swagger. Robbie Nevil's "C'est La Vie" brought a cool, sophisticated edge, while Whitesnake's "Here I Go Again" was pure rock and roll energy, a stadium-filler for sure. Bruce Hornsby and The Range delivered "The Way It Is," a song that was not only a massive hit but also carried a thoughtful message, proving that pop music could be both catchy and meaningful.
It's fascinating to look back at these songs, curated by chart historian Joel Whitburn for collections like "Billboard Top Hits: 1987." His work in chronicling Billboard's music charts gives us a clear picture of what dominated the airwaves. These weren't just random songs; they were the soundtrack to a year that also saw significant global events, from political shifts to technological leaps. The music, in many ways, mirrored that sense of change and dynamism.
Listening to these hits today, you can't help but feel a connection to that era. They evoke memories, feelings, and a shared cultural experience. It’s a reminder of how music can transport us, bringing back the sights, sounds, and even the emotions of a specific time. 1987’s chart-toppers are more than just songs; they’re snapshots of a moment in time, etched into our collective memory.
