For more than two decades, this song held the record for being the longest reigning number 1 song in Billboard chart history.  The fact it took that long for its record to be displaced speaks volumes.  This band (who has made numerous appearances in prior countdowns) and this artist were collectively, arguably, the biggest R&B stars of the time, and this song is a high marker, but just not #1.  At #2 it’s One Sweet Day by Boyz II Men & Mariah Carey.

We are almost to the top of my countdowns, and this song almost made it there.  My kids know this song, many others know it and hear it all the time, and it remains one of her biggest hits today.  Not much else can be said except go ahead and listen, at #2 it’s How Will I Know by Whitney Houston.

I must have gone over this song over and over again.  At one time it was my top pick for 1985, but now it resides in this spot.  Who would have that this artist who made one color popular with him would end up doing it again a year later with not only another color but a hat too.  This man had boatloads left to say, and it continued with this #3 track on my countdown – Raspberry Beret by Prince.

As soon as the vocals hit, you know what song it is and you’re ready to start dancing.  One of the biggest hip-hop/R&B songs of the 90s, it has never lost its luster and continues to be heard from TV commericials, to sports arenas and backyard parties.  Coming in at #3 is This Is How We Do It by Montell Jordan.

Despite the controversy this group carried throughout their existence, it is hard not to consider them one of the most iconic pop/rock groups of the 90s, and this song remains one of their most celebrated tracks.  Even when you think they are faded, playing this track reignites their flame and notifies us they have been great songwriters.  At #4 it’s Wonderwall by Oasis.

Another sports-themed track of 1985, this song was one of 7 different singles that were released over a two year period and helped establish this man firmly as The Boss.  This song still has a lot of legs with its sound, its association with sports, and its catchy chorus.  Rock on to this #4 track – Glory Days by Bruce Springsteen.