Funkytown
"Funkytown"
Won't you take me to "Funkytown"? Lipps Inc.'s massive 1980 global smash hit defined the transition from disco to synth-pop. Its iconic opening riff, robotic vocal effects, and infectious dance beat made it an unforgettable party anthem and classic one-hit wonder.
Released as a chart-topping single worldwide, this track became the signature song for the Minneapolis-based project Lipps Inc. Its unique blend of late-disco groove, funk bassline, early synth-pop production, and dance-pop energy captured the sound of the burgeoning 80s dance music scene.
Featuring Cynthia Johnson's powerful lead vocals layered with vocoder effects over an irresistible beat, this 1980 classic remains instantly recognizable. Its futuristic feel and undeniable groove cemented "Funkytown" as an enduring dance floor filler and one of pop music's most famous one-hit wonders.
SONG MEANING: The song expresses a strong desire to move away from a current, possibly boring or stagnant, situation to a more exciting and vibrant place – the titular "Funkytown" ("Gotta make a move to a town that's right for me"). It's about seeking energy, movement, and a lively environment to feel truly alive.
- BAND: Lipps Inc.
- GENRE: Dance-pop, Disco, Funk, Minneapolis Sound, Synth-pop
- OTHER: OneHitWonder
- RELEASEDAY: January 25
- YEAR: 1980
"She Blinded Me With Science"
- BAND: Thomas Dolby
- GENRE: New Wave, Synth-pop
- OTHER: OneHitWonder
- RELEASEDAY: October 12
- YEAR: 1982
"Turning Japanese"
- BAND: The Vapors
- GENRE: New Wave, Power Pop
- OTHER: OneHitWonder
- RELEASEDAY: January 28
- YEAR: 1980
"The Safety Dance"
- BAND: Men Without Hats
- GENRE: New Wave, Synth-pop
- OTHER: OneHitWonder
- RELEASEDAY: September 24
- YEAR: 1982
