Best Duran Duran Songs: New Wave Hits That Defined the 80s

Duran Duran’s music is a time machine to the 80s. Their synth-pop sound and catchy hooks defined an era. The band’s blend of new wave, funk, and rock created a unique sonic landscape. Their music videos were groundbreaking, pushing the boundaries of the medium.

The British group’s impact extends beyond their heyday. They’ve collaborated with icons like Justin Timberlake and Janelle Monáe. These partnerships showcase Duran Duran’s enduring relevance and versatility. From Rio to Ordinary World, their best songs capture the essence of pop perfection. Let’s explore the tracks that made Duran Duran legendary.

1. Ordinary World – Duran Duran

“Ordinary World” by Duran Duran hit the airwaves in 1993, breathing new life into their career. The track blends pop-rock with a touch of melancholy, showcasing Simon Le Bon’s emotive vocals. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about loss and longing struck a chord with listeners worldwide.

The song’s music video is a visual feast that perfectly complements its emotional core. It features the band performing in a stark, minimalist setting interspersed with surreal, dreamlike sequences. The video’s imagery, from floating objects to stark landscapes, amplifies the song’s themes of disconnection and the search for meaning in an ordinary world.

2. Hungry Like the Wolf – Duran Duran

“Hungry Like the Wolf” is a classic Duran Duran banger from 1982. The 2009 remaster breathes new life into this new wave hit. It’s a perfect blend of pop and rock that’ll get your feet moving.

The music video for this track is iconic. Set in Sri Lanka, it features the band in a jungle adventure. The visuals are a mix of Indiana Jones-style action and MTV-era glam. It helped cement Duran Duran’s image as stylish, exotic heartthrobs.

3. Come Undone – Duran Duran

“Come Undone” by Duran Duran hit the airwaves in 1993, captivating listeners with its dreamy vibe. The song blends alternative rock with electronic elements, showcasing the band’s evolving sound. Its hypnotic melody and enigmatic lyrics left fans mesmerized, solidifying Duran Duran’s place in 90s music history.

The track’s music video added another layer to its allure. Underwater scenes and surreal imagery created a visual feast that matched the song’s ethereal quality. Director Ellen von Unwerth crafted a striking narrative that complemented the music perfectly. The video’s artistic approach elevated “Come Undone” beyond just an auditory experience, making it a multi-sensory journey for viewers.

4. INVISIBLE – Duran Duran

“Invisible” by Duran Duran is a catchy synth-pop tune from their 2021 album “Future Past.” The track blends classic Duran Duran vibes with modern production, creating a nostalgic yet fresh sound. Its upbeat rhythm and infectious melody make it a standout in their recent discography.

The song’s music video is a visual feast that perfectly complements its sonic landscape. It features the band performing in a futuristic setting, interspersed with surreal, dreamlike sequences. The video’s aesthetics mirror the song’s themes of technological advancement and human connection, creating a captivating audiovisual experience that enhances the overall impact of the track.

5. A View to a Kill – Duran Duran

“A View to a Kill” by Duran Duran is a classic 80s pop-rock anthem. The song, released in 1985 not 1989, served as the title track for the James Bond film of the same name. Its catchy synth riffs and Simon Le Bon’s distinctive vocals made it an instant hit.

The music video for “A View to a Kill” is a visual treat. It blends scenes from the Bond film with footage of the band performing atop the Eiffel Tower. The high-energy clip captures the essence of both the song and the movie, creating an unforgettable visual experience for fans of Duran Duran and 007 alike.

6. Save a Prayer – Duran Duran

“Save a Prayer” is a classic track from Duran Duran’s 1982 album “Rio.” This haunting ballad showcases the band’s signature new wave sound with a touch of exotic flair. Simon Le Bon’s emotive vocals blend seamlessly with Nick Rhodes’ atmospheric synthesizers, creating a lush sonic landscape that’s both melancholic and uplifting.

The song’s music video is a visual feast that perfectly complements its dreamy vibe. Shot in Sri Lanka, it features stunning tropical scenery and ancient ruins as backdrops. The band members appear in stylish outfits, exuding their iconic 80s charm. This cinematic approach helped cement Duran Duran’s reputation as pioneers of the MTV era, elevating “Save a Prayer” to iconic status in pop culture.

7. Girls on Film – Duran Duran

Girls on Film is a catchy new wave hit from Duran Duran’s debut album. The 2010 remaster brings fresh life to this synth-pop classic. Its pulsing rhythm and infectious hooks capture the band’s signature sound perfectly.

The music video for Girls on Film sparked controversy with its risqué content. It featured scantily clad models in various scenarios, pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable on MTV at the time. The video’s provocative nature helped propel the song to fame and cemented Duran Duran’s image as 80s pop icons.

8. Rio – Duran Duran

Rio, the 1982 hit by Duran Duran, got a fresh spin with its 2009 remaster. This new wave anthem blends catchy synth-pop with tropical vibes. Its upbeat rhythm and Simon Le Bon’s distinctive vocals create an instant party atmosphere. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a dream girl, capturing the essence of 80s glamour and excess.

The music video for Rio is a visual feast that perfectly complements the song’s energy. Shot on location in Antigua, it features the band sailing, sipping cocktails, and frolicking on pristine beaches. The video’s vibrant colors and playful scenarios became iconic, solidifying Duran Duran’s image as stylish jet-setters. It’s a time capsule of 80s aesthetics that continues to captivate viewers today.

9. The Reflex – Duran Duran

“The Reflex – Single Version; 2010 Remaster” by Duran Duran is a catchy pop-rock anthem from 1983. Its pulsating rhythm and synth-heavy sound epitomize the new wave era. Simon Le Bon’s distinctive vocals and the band’s infectious hooks make it an unforgettable hit.

The music video for “The Reflex” is a visual feast that perfectly complements the song’s energy. Shot during a live performance, it features innovative special effects for its time. The video’s centerpiece is a massive wave of water cascading from a screen above the stage, creating a striking visual metaphor for the song’s lyrics.

10. The Wild Boys – Duran Duran

The Wild Boys by Duran Duran is a high-energy new wave hit from 1984, not 1998. It’s a catchy tune with a pulsing beat and signature 80s synth sound. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of untamed youth and rebellion, capturing the spirit of the era.

The music video for The Wild Boys is a visual feast. It’s set in a post-apocalyptic world with a Mad Max vibe. The band performs on a rotating water wheel, surrounded by bizarre characters and dystopian scenes. It’s a perfect match for the song’s wild energy and showcases the band’s flair for dramatic visuals.

11. The Chauffeur – Duran Duran

“The Chauffeur” by Duran Duran is a moody synth-pop gem from their 1982 album “Rio.” This 2009 remaster breathes new life into the track, enhancing its atmospheric qualities. The song’s haunting melody and enigmatic lyrics create an air of mystery that’s captivated listeners for decades.

The song’s musical composition stands out with its innovative use of synthesizers and drum machines. Nick Rhodes’ keyboard work shines, laying a dreamy foundation for Simon Le Bon’s evocative vocals. The addition of Andy Taylor’s guitar near the end adds a layer of intensity, building to a powerful climax. This blend of electronic and traditional instruments showcases Duran Duran’s knack for crafting unique soundscapes.

12. Planet Earth – Duran Duran

“Planet Earth” by Duran Duran is a synth-pop banger from their 1981 debut album. The song blends new wave vibes with catchy hooks and dance-worthy beats. Its futuristic sound and sleek production helped establish Duran Duran as pioneers of the Second British Invasion.

The music video for “Planet Earth” was groundbreaking for its time. It featured the band in stylish outfits, performing against a backdrop of space-age visuals and early green screen effects. This video set the tone for Duran Duran’s image as fashion-forward, glamorous pop stars and helped propel them to MTV stardom.

13. Notorious – Duran Duran

Notorious, the 1986 hit by Duran Duran, got a fresh spin with its 2010 remaster. This funk-infused pop track showcases the band’s signature blend of catchy hooks and smooth synths. The remastered version brings out the crisp percussion and Simon Le Bon’s distinctive vocals, giving new life to this classic tune.

The song’s music video is a visual feast that perfectly captures the 80s aesthetic. It features the band in stylish outfits, performing against a backdrop of vibrant colors and geometric shapes. The video’s sleek production and clever editing techniques complement the song’s upbeat tempo and sultry lyrics, creating a memorable visual experience that’s stood the test of time.

14. New Moon on Monday – Duran Duran

New Moon on Monday is a classic synth-pop track from Duran Duran’s 1983 album Seven and the Ragged Tiger. The 2010 remaster breathes fresh life into this iconic song. Its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm capture the essence of 80s pop music.

The music video for New Moon on Monday is a visual feast. It features the band in a fictional Eastern European setting, blending romance and rebellion. The video’s cinematic quality and storytelling approach set it apart from typical music videos of the era. It’s a perfect complement to the song’s mysterious and alluring vibe.

15. Union of the Snake – Duran Duran

“The Union of the Snake – 2010 Remaster” by Duran Duran is a catchy new wave hit from 1983. It blends synth-pop with funky basslines and Simon Le Bon’s distinctive vocals. The song’s enigmatic lyrics and pulsating rhythm made it a dance floor favorite in the 80s.

The music video for this track was groundbreaking for its time. It featured surreal imagery and exotic locations, setting a new standard for visual storytelling in music videos. The band’s stylish appearance and the video’s mysterious narrative added to the song’s allure, helping cement Duran Duran’s status as MTV icons.

16. Lay Lady Lay – Duran Duran

Duran Duran’s cover of “Lay Lady Lay” hit the airwaves in 1995, giving Bob Dylan’s classic a fresh spin. The band infused their signature new wave sound with a touch of 90s alt-rock, creating a unique take on the beloved tune. Simon Le Bon’s smooth vocals glide over the revamped arrangement, breathing new life into the iconic lyrics.

The music video for “Lay Lady Lay” is a visual feast that perfectly complements the song’s dreamy vibe. Shot in rich, saturated colors, it features the band performing in a surreal, neon-lit setting. Interspersed with these performance shots are enigmatic scenes of a mysterious woman, adding an air of intrigue to the overall aesthetic. The video’s stylish direction captures the essence of Duran Duran’s 90s era, blending nostalgia with a modern edge.

17. Is There Something I Should Know? – Duran Duran

“Is There Something I Should Know?” by Duran Duran is a classic new wave track from the 80s. The song’s catchy synth-pop sound and infectious chorus made it an instant hit. Its upbeat tempo and energetic vibe capture the essence of the band’s signature style.

The song’s production quality stands out as a hallmark of 80s pop music. Crisp synths, punchy drums, and polished vocals create a radio-friendly sound that’s stood the test of time. The mix balances each element perfectly, allowing Simon Le Bon’s distinctive voice to shine through the instrumental layers. This attention to detail in production helped cement Duran Duran’s status as new wave icons.

18. Careless Memories – Duran Duran

“Careless Memories” by Duran Duran is a punchy new wave track from their 1981 debut album. The 2010 remaster breathes fresh life into this synth-pop gem. It’s a perfect blend of catchy hooks and moody undertones that defined the band’s early sound.

The song’s production quality shines in the remastered version. Crisp synths and tight percussion cut through with clarity. The updated mix brings out subtle details in the instrumentation. It’s a treat for audiophiles and casual listeners alike, showcasing the band’s innovative studio techniques.

19. Hold Back the Rain – Duran Duran

Hold Back the Rain is a classic Duran Duran track from their 1982 album Rio. The song’s catchy synth-pop melody and driving rhythm capture the band’s signature new wave sound. Its 2009 remaster breathes fresh life into the track, enhancing its sonic clarity and punch.

The song’s production quality stands out, showcasing the band’s attention to detail in the studio. The remastered version amplifies the lush layers of synthesizers and crisp percussion. Simon Le Bon’s vocals cut through the mix with renewed vigor, while the bass and guitar interplay shines. This polished sound highlights Duran Duran’s knack for crafting radio-friendly hits with a sophisticated edge.

20. Anyone Out There – Duran Duran

“Anyone Out There” by Duran Duran is a hidden gem from their 1981 self-titled debut album. The 2010 remaster breathes new life into this new wave classic. It’s a perfect blend of synth-pop and post-punk, showcasing the band’s early sound.

The song’s production quality is top-notch, especially in the remastered version. The crisp, clear sound brings out every nuance of the instrumentation. You can hear the layers of synthesizers and the punchy drum machine with incredible clarity. This polish elevates the track, giving it a modern feel while preserving its 80s essence.

21. Too Much Information – Duran Duran

“Too Much Information” by Duran Duran dropped in 1993 as part of their self-titled album. The track blends new wave and alternative rock vibes, showcasing the band’s evolving sound. Its catchy hooks and Simon Le Bon’s distinctive vocals made it a standout single from the record.

The song’s music video is a visual feast that perfectly complements its upbeat energy. It features the band performing in a vibrant, psychedelic setting with trippy effects and rapid-fire imagery. The video’s aesthetic captures the information overload theme, creating a sensory experience that matches the song’s lyrical content.

22. Love Voodoo – Duran Duran

“Love Voodoo” from Duran Duran’s 1993 album showcases the band’s evolution into a more mature sound. The track blends their signature new wave style with elements of funk and R&B. Its sultry rhythm and hypnotic bassline create an irresistible groove that pulls listeners in.

The song’s lyrics explore themes of desire and manipulation, hinting at the power of attraction. Nick Rhodes’ atmospheric synthesizers add a layer of mystique to the production. “Love Voodoo” stands as a testament to Duran Duran’s ability to reinvent themselves while maintaining their iconic sound.