Again, as we asked before, what could possibly beat out the Purple one’s ultimate rock epic in this countdown?  How about one of the most recognizable and greatest power rock ballads of the 80s?  How many times have we heard this song quoted in some capacity, whether it’s a tv show, movie, or even the news?  Honestly, it’s a great song and has managed to continue to hold on to its popularity to this day.  Coming in at #6 for the top songs from 1984 countdown, it’s Can’t Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon.

Dearly beloved – we are gathered here today to get through this thing called the top 20 songs turning 40 years old in 2024, and here was my original #1 of this countdown.  However, as I finessed this list, it ended up falling down to this spot.  Still a high mark considering all the other songs that were considered, and it’s one of this artist’s most legendary songs, including an incredible finishing guitar solo.  It’s his second entry to this countdown under his name and it does not disappoint.  At #7 it’s Let’s Go Crazy by Prince.

At this point for the countdown of the top songs released in 1984, the questions are going to be asked are what could possibly beat the previous song?  In this case, how about one of the most anti-authority, rebellious, protest rock songs of all time?  This song is a staple for everyone sick and tired of the status quo and willing to tell everyone that they are done taking it.  When you hear this song, you’ll know why it rose so high, high up to #8 – it is We’re Not Gonna Take It by Twisted Sister.

We now come to the first entry of the 1984 countdown that will probably be #1 on many others’ lists.  The fact it is only at #9 speaks volumes about the competition for this year.  Featuring one of the most recognizable saxophone riffs of all time, this song stops everyone in its tracks when it gets played, and it this band’s greatest ballad hands down.  Despite being Billboard’s #1 song for 1985, it was released in 1984, making it place in this competitive countdown year.  Coming in (controversially) at #9 is Careless Whisper by Wham!

Starting out the second half of the countdown for the top 20 songs turning 40 years old is a track that was played by many students in chorus rooms with grand pianos, mainly because the melody is all black keys.  This track made this artist a star and it didn’t hurt her for being a fantastic drummer and percussionist.  It’s also another Prince entry in that he wrote the tone.  Coming in at #10 is The Glamorous Life by Sheila E.

We wrap up the first half of the incredibly difficult and competitive top 20 countdown of songs turning 40 years old this year with the title track of the album that made this woman a massive superstar.  If she didn’t rule the world before, this album would make certain of that this and especially the following year.  This track established her as one of the most controversial artists of her time and she was only getting started.  Coming in at #11 is Like a Virgin by Madonna.