‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’
This peppy tune is annoying because it is repetitive. But it also gets on your nerves because it is repetitive while being peppy. It’s too happy. In the US, it was a one-hit-wonder.
In the UK, the Scottish band did well. There was even a movie called “Sunshine on Leith” made based on the band’s album “Sunshine on Leith.”
Crazy Frog
‘Axel F’
Axel Foley was a Detroit police officer reassigned to the posh 90210 districts of LA. Eddie Murphy’s portrayal of the character in "Beverly Hills Cops" was legendary. And so naturally, the original '80s theme song became a hit too.
But then along came this inexplicable remake decades later, accompanied by a bizarre animated music video of an actual frog made by Swedish CGI artists and "musicians." It was huge, and we don't know why.
Starland Vocal Band
‘Afternoon Delight’
The only thing more grating than listening to “Afternoon Delight” is watching it. A close-up shot of the singer’s mug is a creepy introduction to the 1976 music video. The tune itself seesaws monotonously back and forth, swaying with a sing-song pitch.
Possibly the best version of the song is the one sung in "Anchorman." It really gets the comic twist it needed, making it much less annoying while at the same time showing just how cheesy it is.
Europe
‘Final Countdown’
This band nails the 80s big hair look. They’ve also managed to dial in the synth sound of the era as well. The highly charged tune relies on one riff played over and over and over. But it’s a powerful one that makes it a perfect workout song.
They mention that it's the final countdown 13 times, just in case you forgot what you're listening to. This repetitive and annoying song will definitely have you counting down until the song is over.
Barry Manilow
‘Copacabana’
Copacabana is one of those catchy cabaret songs that the 70s could not do without. It tells an interesting story, but all we remember is the chorus repeats. It’s a great refrain, for a minute.
While he is undeniably popular, Barry Manilow's shmaltzy quality can be pretty grating, and this song is certainly proof of that.