Best Synthwave Songs Ever Made – TOP 20 Superhits
These are some of the absolute best songs in the synthwave genre, also knows as retro-wave, synthpop, outrun, new retro synth, and future synth. Even though synthwave is a relatively new style (started in the late 2000s), it already has a super impressive range of artists, bands, and amazing songs. I explored hundreds of them to select the most impressive and beautiful tracks for this chart. And I loved every moment of it – synthwave is one of my favorite genres!
This electronic subgenre is build on the incredibly rich foundation of entertainment media and culture of the ’80s and early ’90s. It brings back the sweet nostalgia of simpler times, of our favorite childhood movies, iconic songs, cool fashion trends, interesting gadgets, and our friendships. This emotional connection is what makes retrowave so special and unique.
The songs are listed in no particular order, so be ready to meet your new favorite track at any point in the playlist😉
Also, some of the artists in here definitely deserve to have multiple songs to be included in the chart, but I wanted to have 20 unique tracks. So it is 1 artist = 1 spot. Hopefully, if you like particular song it will inspire you to check other music by that artist.
1. Kavinsky – Nightcall
A legendary track that has long reached iconic status in the synthwave community. It’s fair to say that this tune went far beyond the genre. For so many synth artists and fans it became a major inspiration and sort of a gateway into this style of music.
2. Trevor Something – Living in a Lie
Trevor Something is a well known artist among fans of retrowave. He creates amazing atmospheric tunes and also makes beautiful remixes of popular hits. “Living in a Lie” is one of his best songs.
3. Home – Head First
Home is a stage name of Randy Goffe, who composes wonderful synth music. He is also regarded as one of the main figures in chillsynth subgenre. “Head first” is a prime example of how talented this artist is.
4. Timecop1983 – My Delorean
Timecop1983 is one of the prominent artists in the genre and has thousands of fans. I could have chosen several of his tracks for this Best Synthwave Songs collection, because he has many superb ones. But “My Delorean” just hits different. Maybe because of its connection to Back to the Future movies, or just because it’s that good.
5. The Midnight – Vampires
The Midnight is without a doubt one of the best bands in synthwave. They make incredible music. It’s a supreme mix of all the best elements of the genre. And their song “Vampires” is a quintessential illustration of their class and talent. The sax solo alone is worth a Grammy.
6. Scandroid – Awakening
If you want to hear retro vibes in a stylish modern interpretation Scandroid has the perfect music for that. Awesome melodies and fabulous production. Just check “Awakening” and you’ll understand what I mean.
7. GUNSHIP – Between The Bars
Gunship is one of the biggest names in the synthwave scene. They are one of the most popular artists and have some of the best synth songs you will ever hear. Thanks to them more and more fans get to discover the genre in general. “Dark All Day” is without a doubt one of their most impressive tracks.
8. Dance with the Dead – That House
One of the most original bands, this duo offers a slightly different take on a synthwave genre. They often incorporate elements of metal into their music. Their sound is truly unique, and they have found plenty of fans over the years. “That House” is an excellent introduction to their work.
9. FM-84 – Running In The Night (feat. Ollie Wride)
FM-84 creates music that brings back the nostalgic vibes of the ’80s like no other artist. Even if you never lived during that time, you will experience deep nostalgic for that period. It’s music magic at its best. “Running In The Night” is a timeless hit.
10. Carpenter Brut – Maniac
Carpenter Brut is a name that immediately gives you a hint on the kind of music you’re about to listen. Franck Hueso, the artist behind it, draws inspiration from retro movies, horror flicks, and metal classics. By blending these influences with his synths, he creates a powerful mix of high-energy songs. “Maniac” being one of them.
11. Mr.Kitty – After Dark
“After Dark” became a viral sensation on media platforms. The artist behind the song has since been canceled, deservedly so. But the track remains and brings joy to thousands of music fans who have no idea about the author.
12. Daft Punk – Sea of Simulation
Daft Punk might not be considered as a pure sythwave band, but this legendary music duo definitely influenced many contemporary artists. Their song “Sea of Simulation” from the Tron (2010) soundtrack has this signature vibe that you can recognize in modern futuresynth tracks.
13. The Weekend – Blinding Lights
Even if you never heard of the synth sub-genre, you most likely came across this popular hit – “Blinding Lights” by The Weekend. This track openly borrowed from the genre and used its recognizable elements to create a great moody sound.
14. Daniel Deluxe – Star Eater
“Star Eater” gives synthwave fans a different feel. It has a darker tone and sounds like a soundtrack from a FPS video game. But that’s why we love music. It has countless tones and colors. There’s something for anyone.
15. Vangelis – Tears in Rain
Blade Runner. One of a kind movie that became almost synonymous with retro vibes. It’s an endless source of inspiration for many artists nowadays. Not only in music but in other forms of art as well. Ask any major synthwave musician and they will most likely cite Blade Runner as one of the major influences on their work. “Tears in Rain” by the great Vangelis is an immortal hit 100%.
16. Perturbator – Desire (feat. Greta Link)
Perturbator is a household name for the fans of the genre. And while his music is mostly associated with a heavier, more industrial and darksynth sound, he also made amazing tracks like “Desire“. One of his best songs for sure.
17. Mitch Murder – Prime Operator
“Prime Operator” by Swedish electronic musician Mitch Murder literally teleports listeners into 80s movies, TV series and cartoons. A music time machine if I ever saw one.
18. Robert Parker – ’85 Again (feat. Miss K)
The name of the song “’85 Again” kinda tells you right away what to expect from it. It’s a splendid example of creative synthwave music artistry. And the vocals are so cool! A must have in a playlist like this.
19. VØJ, Narvent – Memory Reboot
“Memory Reboot” by Ukrainian producer VØJ and Narvent is a popular song that attracted millions of views and streams since its release in 2023. A super clear futuresynth sound that hooks you in, and keeps you glued till the last beat.
20. Marvel83′ – Kumite
“Kumite” is a ultimate tribute to the ’80s. A superb track that embodies the vibes and the feeling of that era. Marvel83′ has created a song that will always have a place in any synthwave chart.