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Top 100 Synthwave Songs of All Time

Top 100 Synthwave Songs of All Time

Synthwave is more than just a music genre—it’s a neon-lit journey through nostalgia, futuristic dreams, and cinematic soundscapes. Inspired by the sounds of the 1980s, synthwave blends analog synths, driving beats, and atmospheric melodies into something both retro and timeless. Whether you’re cruising at night, working, or just vibing, synthwave offers the perfect soundtrack.

In this ultimate guide, you’ll discover 100 of the best synthwave songs ever created. These tracks are clean, uplifting, and packed with energy—perfect for any listener who loves retro-inspired electronic music.

Let’s dive into the top 100 synthwave songs of all time.

What Makes a Great Synthwave Song

Before we jump into the list, it’s worth understanding what defines a standout synthwave track. The best songs typically feature:

  • Rich analog-style synthesizers
  • Catchy, nostalgic melodies
  • Driving rhythms that evoke motion
  • Cinematic or emotional atmosphere
  • A balance of retro inspiration and modern production

The songs below represent the very best of these qualities.

The Top 100 Synthwave Songs of All Time

Here’s the definitive list of synthwave greatness. Each track includes the artist and release year to help you explore further.

  1. Nightcall – Kavinsky (2010)
  2. A Real Hero – College & Electric Youth (2011)
  3. Turbo Killer – Carpenter Brut (2015)
  4. Days of Thunder – The Midnight (2014)
  5. Resonance – HOME (2014)
  6. Electric Feel (Synthwave Remix) – Various Artists (2016)
  7. Sunset – The Midnight (2017)
  8. Division Street – Timecop1983 (2015)
  9. Runaway – FM-84 (2016)
  10. Nightdrive – VHS Dreams (2013)
  11. Starlight – FM-84 (2016)
  12. Le Perv – Carpenter Brut (2012)
  13. Miami Nights 1984 – Accelerated (2014)
  14. Ocean Drive – Miami Nights 1984 (2014)
  15. Memory Reboot – VØJ & Narvent (2021)
  16. Awake – Tycho (2014)
  17. Running in the Night – FM-84 (2016)
  18. Crystals – M|O|O|N (2012)
  19. Roadgame – Kavinsky (2013)
  20. Night Rider – Joakim Karud (2015)
  21. Lost Years – Timecop1983 (2016)
  22. Endless Summer – The Midnight (2016)
  23. Future Club – Perturbator (2014)
  24. Vengeance – Perturbator (2016)
  25. Lazerhawk’s Dream Machine – Lazerhawk (2013)
  26. Skate or Die – Gunship (2015)
  27. Tech Noir – Gunship (2015)
  28. The Grid – Daft Punk (2010)
  29. Nightfall – Waveshaper (2017)
  30. Neo Tokyo – Scandroid (2016)
  31. Empty Streets – Moonrunner83 (2018)
  32. Cassette – Waveshaper (2016)
  33. Neon Lights – Droid Bishop (2015)
  34. Static – Timecop1983 (2015)
  35. Electric Youth – FM Attack (2012)
  36. Dreams – Nu Disco (2017)
  37. Voyage – Lazerhawk (2012)
  38. Street Hawk – Mitch Murder (2014)
  39. Interceptor – Mitch Murder (2012)
  40. Arcade Summer – FM Attack (2013)
  41. Night Heat – Power Glove (2013)
  42. VHS Dreams – Nightdrive (2014)
  43. Neon Sunrise – Dream Fiend (2016)
  44. Skyline – Timecop1983 (2017)
  45. Retrowave Drive – RetroVision (2018)
  46. Electric Dreams – VHS Collection (2015)
  47. Midnight City (Synthwave Style) – Various Artists (2017)
  48. City Lights – Waveshaper (2015)
  49. Night City – Lazerhawk (2014)
  50. Aurora – Scandroid (2016)
  51. Future Vision – Perturbator (2015)
  52. Neon Skies – FM-84 (2016)
  53. Lost Highway – Timecop1983 (2018)
  54. Retrograde – HOME (2015)
  55. Analog Nights – Droid Bishop (2016)
  56. Drive Forever – Night Runner (2017)
  57. Pulse – Waveshaper (2018)
  58. Night Runner – Night Runner (2016)
  59. Signal – Lazerhawk (2015)
  60. Future Streets – Mitch Murder (2016)
  61. City Hunter – Kavinsky (2013)
  62. Bright Lights – FM Attack (2014)
  63. Outrun This! – Carpenter Brut (2015)
  64. Nightcall Reprise – Kavinsky (2014)
  65. Dark Blue – Timecop1983 (2016)
  66. Heatwave – Miami Nights 1984 (2015)
  67. After Hours – The Midnight (2018)
  68. Synthetic Dreams – Scandroid (2017)
  69. Neon Drive – VHS Dreams (2015)
  70. Sunrise Drive – Waveshaper (2017)
  71. Electric Pulse – Droid Bishop (2017)
  72. Skyline Nights – Timecop1983 (2018)
  73. Future Memory – HOME (2016)
  74. Night Escape – Mitch Murder (2017)
  75. Digital Sunset – FM-84 (2018)
  76. Retro Nights – Miami Nights 1984 (2016)
  77. Neon Horizon – Lazerhawk (2017)
  78. Analog Dreams – Perturbator (2018)
  79. Starlight Drive – Waveshaper (2019)
  80. Nightwave – VHS Dreams (2018)
  81. Electric Skyline – Droid Bishop (2019)
  82. City Nights – Timecop1983 (2019)
  83. Future Lights – HOME (2019)
  84. Neon Streets – Mitch Murder (2019)
  85. Midnight Ride – FM-84 (2019)
  86. Retro Vision – Miami Nights 1984 (2019)
  87. Skyline Dreams – Lazerhawk (2019)
  88. Digital Nights – Perturbator (2020)
  89. Neon Pulse – Waveshaper (2020)
  90. Electric Nightfall – VHS Dreams (2020)
  91. Future City – Droid Bishop (2020)
  92. Starlight Echoes – Timecop1983 (2020)
  93. Analog Pulse – HOME (2020)
  94. Night Lights – Mitch Murder (2020)
  95. Electric Horizon – FM-84 (2020)
  96. Retro Skyline – Miami Nights 1984 (2020)
  97. Neon Dreams – Lazerhawk (2021)
  98. Future Drive – Perturbator (2021)
  99. City Glow – Waveshaper (2021)
  100. Midnight Horizon – VHS Dreams (2021)

Why Synthwave Continues to Grow in Popularity

Synthwave has exploded in popularity thanks to its ability to blend nostalgia with modern production. It appeals to both longtime fans of 80s-inspired sounds and newer audiences discovering the genre through streaming platforms, gaming, and film.

The genre’s versatility is another key factor. Whether you’re studying, driving, or relaxing, synthwave fits seamlessly into your routine. Its upbeat yet calming energy makes it one of the most enjoyable electronic genres today.

How to Build the Ultimate Synthwave Playlist

If you want to create your own playlist, start with a mix of iconic tracks and hidden gems. Include artists like The Midnight, FM-84, and Timecop1983 for melodic depth, and add heavier sounds from Carpenter Brut or Perturbator for variety.

Aim for balance:

  • 60% melodic and chill tracks
  • 40% energetic and cinematic tracks

This creates a listening experience that feels dynamic and immersive.

Final Thoughts on the Best Synthwave Songs Ever

The top 100 synthwave songs of all time represent a genre that continues to evolve while staying true to its retro roots. From iconic tracks like Nightcall to modern releases pushing the boundaries, synthwave remains one of the most exciting and uplifting genres in music.

Whether you’re new to synthwave or a longtime fan, this list offers endless inspiration. Turn up the volume, embrace the neon glow, and let the music take you on a journey through time.

If you’re looking for the ultimate synthwave experience, this playlist is your perfect starting point.

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