Top-Selling One-Off Hit Record of All-Time Measures 12 Inches
Title: Dance Nights of the '80s: The Roar of the Best-Selling 12" Singles of All Time
Brace yourself for a trip down memory lane as we delve into the pulsating, rhythmic universe of the 12" single, the crown jewel of the disco and club scene of the 1980s. These extended mixes offered a dancefloor-friendly experience that catapulted a plethora of tracks to unparalleled fame. Let's crank up the volume and groove to the sounds of some of the most iconic, dance-inducing tunes of the era.
1 - "Blue Monday" by New Order (1983)
Atop our list stands the best-selling 12" single of all time, "Blue Monday." This genre-blending anthem of electronic and dance elements, with its groundbreaking production, made the cut to become a chart-topper of historical significance. The 12-minute version of the single, replete with an innovative die-cut sleeve design, will forever stand as a pinnacle of cultural impact.
2 - "1999" by Prince (1982)
In 1982, funk, rock, and pop imploded into one harmonious explosion of sound with "1999." The extended version of this 12" single showcased the unmatched prowess of the Purple One, and its inclusion of hits like "How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore" and "Little Red Corvette," only added to its power. The track remains one of Prince's signature pieces, playing a pivotal role in the promotion of his album of the same name.
3 - "The Message" by Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five (1982)
Lyrically courageous and socially conscious, "The Message" not only marked the dawn of political commentary in hip-hop but also expanded the genre's horizon. The single, released in 1982, addresses pertinent issues of urban poverty, inequality, and marginalization in communities of color. Its remarkable impact earned it a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2012.
4 - "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen (1980)
Though originating from the United Kingdom, "Another One Bites the Dust" charmed the world with its funky bassline and, ultimately, its unmatched success on both rock and R&B charts. Numerous English 12" single releases paved the way for transatlantic stardom, showcasing the band's adaptability to unexpected genres.
5 - "Girls on Film" by Duran Duran (1981)
The extended night version of "Girls on Film," featuring additional instrumental sections, proved irresistible to dancefloor enthusiasts and DJs. The controversial music video directed by Godley & Creme only added fuel to the fire, pushing the single to the forefront of the emerging dance scene.
6 - "Heart of Glass" by Blondie (1979)
Dancing the night away to the uplifting synth beats of "Heart of Glass" was a sensation embraced by fans around the globe. The 12" single version offered a dance-friendly take on the new wave classic, making it an ideal fit for the burgeoning dance floors and clubs of the time.
7 - "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson (1983)
The unmistakable bassline of "Billie Jean" is synonymous with the King of Pop himself. The 12" single, with its extended mix, helped establish the single as a dominant force on dance floors, further solidifying Jackson's status as a global superstar.
8 - "Vogue" by Madonna (1990)
The remix magician Shep Pettibone unleashed his flair with "Vogue," offering up an extended version bursting with production elements. The track's distinct catwalk-like footsteps and plentiful sound effects made it a dance floor sensation and a defining piece of Madonna's discography.
9 - "Love Will Tear Us Apart" by Joy Division (1980)
Released a month after the tragic loss of their lead singer, "Love Will Tear Us Apart" became a poignant anthem of grief and longing. The extended version of the 12" single showcased a delicate, heartfelt take on a song that would forever remain etched in history.
10 - "Relax" by Frankie Goes to Hollywood (1983)
The controversial "Relax" courted media attention and infamy as it topped the charts for 17 weeks in the United Kingdom. The 12" single, with its provocative lyrics and alluring beats, cemented Frankie Goes to Hollywood as a force to be reckoned with in the dance music scene.
Unravel the mesmerizing tale of the 12" singles that provided the backbone for the pulsating rhythm of the '80s dancefloors, shaping music history with each beat. The evolution of dance culture and the emergence of new sounds and styles were profoundly influenced by these elongated, remixed, and experimentally produced singles, ensuring their legacy and primacy in music history.
As we move beyond the '80s, unearth the treasures of the '60s and '70s: the albums that reigned supreme on the charts and left indelible marks on the music landscape of their time. Discover the epic tales of those unforgettable albums here.
Hungry for more insider tales on the intriguing world of music recordings, obscure records, and industry secrets? Delve into the Bookhouse of Wax, where white label records, promos, test pressings, and more await your curious ears. Let the adventure begin!
- The entertainment scene of the 1980s was characterized, in part, by the rise of iconic pop-culture anthems, as demonstrated by the best-selling 12" single of all time, "Blue Monday" by New Order (1983).
- The fusion of funk, rock, and pop in Prince's "1999" (1982) exemplified the cultural impact of music within the broader landscape of pop-culture, underscoring its position as a pivotal moment in the development of modern music.
