The Top 10 Preppiest Songs of the 1980s

Ah, the 1980s – a golden era of music that gave us the birth of MTV, the rise of the synthesizer, and the reign of the power ballad. But nestled among the big hair and the even bigger shoulder pads were the tunes that became the anthems of the preppy subculture. These are the songs that echoed through the halls of ivy-covered universities, were whispered among the sailcloth and seersucker at garden parties, and became the soundtrack for a generation of popped collars and penny loafers.

Without further ado, let's dive into the Top 10 Preppiest Songs of the 1980s, a list so exclusive, even the members' only jacket couldn't get you in.

10. "Take On Me" – A-ha

Starting our list is A-ha's synth-pop masterpiece, "Take On Me." With its catchy beat and iconic high-pitched chorus, it's the perfect track for driving to the country club in your convertible, wind in your hair, and Ray-Bans firmly in place. The music video, with its groundbreaking pencil-sketch animation, screams art class at prep school.

9. "Centerfold" – The J. Geils Band

Ah, "Centerfold." The song that made every preppy boy's heart beat just a little faster. It's the tune you secretly listened to on your Walkman in the back of your parents' station wagon, dreaming of the girl next door... who just happened to attend the all-girls academy up the road.

8. "This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)" – Talking Heads

Nothing says "sophisticated prep" quite like Talking Heads. "This Must Be the Place" is the intellectual preppy's anthem, perfect for those introspective moments in your dorm room, surrounded by posters of regattas and vintage maps of Martha's Vineyard.

7. "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" – Tears for Fears

Is there a more apt description of the competitive spirit among preppies? "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" captures the ambition and drive of the prep set, all while being a tune you can't help but tap your Sperry-clad foot to.

6. "Steppin' Out" – Joe Jackson

"Steppin' Out" is the soundtrack for those nights when you're dressed in your finest blazer, ready to hit the town – or at least the most exclusive garden party. Joe Jackson’s smooth tune captures the excitement of a night out when you know you look good, and your date does too.

5. "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" – Eurythmics

Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart gave us this synth-pop gem that's all about ambition, power, and the pursuit of success – themes any self-respecting preppy can get behind. Plus, it's impossible not to feel cool listening to this, whether you're cruising in a BMW or plotting your climb to the top of the social ladder.

4. "Sussudio" – Phil Collins

Phil Collins might as well have been singing about every preppy guy's crush when he penned "Sussudio." It's catchy, it's fun, and it's slightly mysterious – much like the allure of the preppy lifestyle itself. Plus, it's a great track for showing off your best dance moves at the yacht club.

3. "Don't You (Forget About Me)" – Simple Minds

Immortalized by "The Breakfast Club," this song transcends its movie soundtrack origins to become a preppy anthem. It's the perfect blend of rebellion and longing for belonging, a sentiment any prep school attendee can understand. Raising your fist in the air in solidarity is optional but recommended.

2. "The Way It Is" – Bruce Hornsby and the Range

Bruce Hornsby's smooth piano riff in "The Way It Is" is as timeless as a well-worn leather-bound book. The song’s message about change and social justice resonated then and now, proving that preppies can be both stylish and socially conscious.

1. "Africa" – Toto

Topping our list is Toto's "Africa" – a song that has nothing to do with preppy culture and everything to do with its universal appeal. It's the song everyone knows the words to, whether they're at a frat party or a black-tie gala. Its enduring popularity proves that some tunes, much like the best preppy fashion, never go out of style.

So there you have it, the Top 10 Preppiest Songs of the 1980s. Each track offers a glimpse into the preppy lifestyle – a world of ambition, sophistication, and, of course, impeccable taste in music. Whether you're a bona fide prep or just a fan of 80s music, these songs are sure to add a touch of class to your playlist. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go find my pastel polo shirt – I've suddenly got an urge to hit the tennis courts.