13 Songs from the Iconic Pretty in Pink Soundtrack

The iconic 1986 film “Pretty in Pink” has become a beloved classic, in large part due to its memorable soundtrack. The movie’s music perfectly captures the youthful spirit and emotional turmoil of its characters, and has become a touchstone for 80s pop culture.

One of the most iconic songs from the soundtrack is the title track, “Pretty in Pink” by the Psychedelic Furs. The song’s pulsing beat and infectious guitar riffs perfectly capture the film’s youthful energy and rebellion, while the lyrics speak of the confusion and mixed emotions of teenage love.

Another standout track is “If You Leave” by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark. The song’s dreamy synthesizer melodies and heart-wrenching lyrics perfectly capture the bittersweet feeling of leaving someone behind for the sake of personal growth.

Other memorable tracks include “Shellshock” by New Order, “Bring on the Dancing Horses” by Echo and the Bunnymen, and “Do Wot You Do” by INXS. Each song adds to the film’s emotional depth and musical richness, creating a soundtrack that stands the test of time.

The “Pretty in Pink” soundtrack has become an iconic representation of 80s pop culture, and a beloved collection of songs for music lovers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply appreciate great music, this soundtrack is a must-listen.

1. If You Leave – Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark

“If You Leave” by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark is a classic 80s pop ballad that has become an iconic song in popular culture. The song’s dreamy synthesizer melodies and emotional lyrics perfectly capture the bittersweet feeling of leaving someone behind for the sake of personal growth. The song’s memorable chorus and soaring vocal performance have made it a beloved favorite for generations of music lovers. Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark’s version of “If You Leave” is a powerful and moving tribute to the power of love and the importance of personal growth and self-discovery.

2. Left of Center – Suzanne Vega with Joe Jackson

“Left of Center” is a hauntingly beautiful song, performed by Suzanne Vega with Joe Jackson. The song’s dreamy, atmospheric sound, featuring Vega’s ethereal vocals and Jackson’s delicate piano playing, creates a mesmerizing and introspective mood. The song’s lyrics, which speak of a desire for independence and non-conformity, perfectly capture the angst and uncertainty of youth. Vega’s plaintive vocals and Jackson’s sensitive accompaniment make for a captivating and emotionally powerful performance. “Left of Center” has become a beloved classic, often used in movies and TV shows to evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for a bygone era.

3. Get to Know Ya – Jesse Johnson

“Get to Know Ya” is a funky and groovy R&B song, performed by Jesse Johnson. The song’s infectious rhythm, featuring a catchy bassline and funky guitar riffs, creates a fun and danceable atmosphere. Johnson’s smooth and soulful vocals, along with the tight instrumentation, make for an irresistible and upbeat performance. The song’s lyrics, which encourage listeners to open up and get to know one another, perfectly capture the joyful and celebratory spirit of the music. “Get to Know Ya” has become a beloved classic, often used in movies and TV shows to evoke a sense of fun and carefree energy.

4. Do Wot You Do – INXS

“Do Wot You Do” by INXS is a lively and upbeat pop-rock song that perfectly captures the carefree spirit and rebellious energy of the 80s. The song’s driving rhythm and catchy guitar riffs invite listeners to dance and move along with the music, while the lyrics speak of the importance of staying true to oneself and living life on one’s own terms. INXS’s electrifying performance and charismatic vocals make “Do Wot You Do” a timeless classic that continues to inspire and entertain listeners around the world. This song is a testament to the enduring power of rock music and the indomitable spirit of youth.

5. Pretty in Pink – The Psychedelic Furs

“Pretty in Pink” by The Psychedelic Furs is an iconic 80s pop-rock anthem that perfectly captures the youthful spirit and rebellious energy of the era. The song’s pulsing beat and infectious guitar riffs invite listeners to dance and sing along, while the lyrics speak of the confusion and mixed emotions of teenage love. The Psychedelic Furs’ electrifying performance and charismatic vocals have made “Pretty in Pink” a beloved classic that continues to inspire and entertain generations of music lovers. This song is a testament to the enduring power of rock music and the universal experience of first love.

6. Shellshock – New Order

“Shellshock” is an iconic and edgy song, performed by the British band New Order. The song’s driving electronic beat and pulsing synths, combined with the emotive vocals of lead singer Bernard Sumner, create a tense and frenetic atmosphere. The song’s lyrics, which speak of the emotional aftermath of trauma and loss, perfectly capture the dark and brooding energy of the music. “Shellshock” has become a beloved classic, often used in movies and TV shows to create a sense of edginess and danger. This timeless tune remains a testament to the power of music to explore the darker side of human experience and emotion.

7. Round, Round – Belouis Some

“Round, Round” by Belouis Some is an energetic and catchy 80s pop song that perfectly captures the carefree spirit and rebellious energy of the era. The song’s upbeat rhythm and infectious melody invite listeners to dance and move along with the music, while the lyrics speak of the thrill of young love and the excitement of living life to the fullest. Belouis Some’s powerful vocals and dynamic performance make “Round, Round” a beloved classic that continues to inspire and entertain generations of music lovers. This song is a testament to the enduring power of pop music and the boundless energy of youth.

8. Wouldn’t It Be Good – Danny Hutton Hitters

“Wouldn’t It Be Good” is a catchy and upbeat pop song, performed by Danny Hutton Hitters. The song’s lively instrumentation, featuring energetic guitar riffs and a driving beat, creates a fun and uplifting atmosphere. Hutton’s smooth and powerful vocals, along with the infectious melody, make for a memorable and enjoyable performance. The song’s lyrics, which speak of the desire for a better life and a brighter future, perfectly capture the optimistic and hopeful spirit of the music. “Wouldn’t It Be Good” has become a beloved classic, often used in movies and TV shows to evoke a sense of joy and positivity.

9. Bring on the Dancing Horses – Echo & the Bunnymen

“Bring on the Dancing Horses” is a beautiful and dreamy song, performed by the British band Echo & the Bunnymen. The song’s lush, atmospheric sound, featuring shimmering guitars and haunting keyboards, creates a mesmerizing and otherworldly mood. Lead singer Ian McCulloch’s distinctive and emotive vocals, along with the evocative lyrics, make for a haunting and powerful performance. The song’s title references the circus tradition of performing horses, adding a sense of whimsy and playfulness to the otherwise contemplative tune. “Bring on the Dancing Horses” has become a beloved classic, often used in movies and TV shows to create a sense of beauty and mystery.

10. Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want – The Smiths

“Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want” is a poignant and emotive song, performed by the British band The Smiths. The song’s delicate and wistful sound, featuring Johnny Marr’s iconic guitar arpeggios and Morrissey’s plaintive vocals, creates a powerful and introspective mood. The song’s lyrics, which speak of the desperation and longing for something just out of reach, perfectly capture the sense of yearning and melancholy that pervades the music. “Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want” has become a beloved classic, often used in movies and TV shows to evoke a sense of nostalgia and heartbreak.

11. Try a Little Tenderness – Otis Redding

“Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding is a soulful and powerful ballad that has become an iconic song in popular culture. The song’s slow and steady groove and emotional lyrics perfectly capture the raw and intense feelings of love and heartbreak. Otis Redding’s impassioned vocals and heartfelt performance make “Try a Little Tenderness” a timeless classic that continues to move and inspire listeners around the world. This song is a testament to the enduring power of soul music and the ability of music to touch the deepest parts of the human heart.

12. Cherish – the Association

“Cherish” by the Association is a sweet and romantic pop ballad that has become an iconic love song. The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics speak of the beauty and depth of true love, and the importance of holding onto the precious moments shared with the ones we cherish. The Association’s tender and emotive vocals, combined with the song’s lush orchestration, create a powerful and moving tribute to the power of love. “Cherish” is a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world, and a reminder of the enduring power of music to inspire and uplift the human spirit.

13. Rudy – Talk Back

“Rudy” is an energetic and funky song, performed by the American band Talk Back. The song’s infectious groove, featuring tight percussion and driving bass, creates an upbeat and danceable atmosphere. Lead singer Dave Blakely’s soulful and powerful vocals, along with the catchy melody, make for a memorable and enjoyable performance. The song’s lyrics, which speak of the desire to break free and follow your dreams, perfectly capture the optimistic and celebratory spirit of the music. “Rudy” has become a beloved classic, often used in movies and TV shows to evoke a sense of fun and empowerment.