Nothing but classics! A nostalgic collection of ’80s Western ballads
Speaking of Western music from the ’80s, it was the heyday of MTV, with countless flashy music videos airing on TV.
There were innumerable global hits that we enjoyed with the same familiarity as domestic hit songs in Japan.
For those who spent their youth in the ’80s, chances are that a beloved classic from Western music is playing somewhere in the pages of your memories.
In this article, we’ve gathered masterpieces that focus specifically on “ballads” from ’80s Western music.
The ’80s catalog is far too deep to cover exhaustively, but please enjoy a wide range of ballad classics—from straightforward ballads to medium-tempo ballads and power ballads by rock bands.
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All timeless hits! A collection of nostalgic ’80s Western ballads (21–30)
Careless WhisperGeorge Michael
It’s a timeless masterpiece filled with bittersweet emotion, where jazz and pop melodies resonate beautifully.
Released in 1984 as George Michael’s first solo single while he was a member of Wham!, it became a worldwide hit.
Topping the charts in over 20 countries, it showcased George Michael’s talent as a solo artist to the world.
The lyrics, centered on the end of a romantic relationship and betrayal, deeply resonate with many listeners.
It’s a song you’ll want to hear if you’re feeling the pain of heartbreak or a sense of regret.
Loved across generations, it continues to influence countless people, and was even chosen by Smooth Radio listeners as their favorite song in the All-Time Top 500 of 2022.
Crazy for YouMadonna
Madonna’s “Crazy for You” is a song written specifically for the 1985 American film Vision Quest.
Released as a single the same year, it reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Unlike the upbeat dance-pop image strongly associated with Madonna, this is a gentle, soothing ballad that completely changes that perception, with romantic lyrics depicting a mature relationship between two adults.
Total Eclipse of the HeartBonnie Tyler
Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler’s biggest hit is “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” Released as a single in 1983, it reached No.
1 on both the U.S.
and U.K.
charts and was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
It’s a ballad that uses a total solar eclipse to express a shadow over the heart, showcasing Bonnie’s powerful vocals.
In 2017, when a total solar eclipse was visible in the United States, the song reached No.
1 on the overall U.S.
iTunes Songs chart.
I Remember YouSkid Row
Some of you might want to listen to a power ballad to lift your spirits.
If that’s you, “I Remember You” is a perfect fit.
It’s sung by the heavy metal band Skid Row.
While Skid Row is strongly associated with rough, hard-edged songs, in “I Remember You” they sing about the bittersweet feelings of a woman after a breakup.
That said, it still retains the powerful elements of heavy metal, and you’ll feel refreshed after listening.
Can’t Fight This FeelingREO Speed Wagon
It’s a quintessential 80s power ballad masterpiece.
Beginning with a gentle, warm vocal and building gradually into a dynamic arrangement, it truly stands as an iconic song of its era.
Released in 1984, it achieved international success, reaching No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 the following year.
It was included on the album “Wheels Are Turnin’” and later featured on the greatest hits compilation “The Hits.” The lyrics, which tell of romantic feelings blossoming from a long-standing friendship, touch on a universal theme that anyone can relate to.
It’s a heartwarming track that reminds us of the importance of being honest with the feelings deep inside our hearts.