Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the 80s
When it comes to the music scene of the ’80s, it’s often said that here in Japan, Western music was at its most dazzling, and the era produced countless hit songs that remain vivid in both memory and record.
With the disco boom, the spread of synthesizers that brought glittering, flashy sounds, and the visual strategies built around music videos following the birth of MTV, a succession of legendary superstars emerged.
In this article, we’ve focused on summer hits from the ’80s, while also weaving in tracks with a summery feel and timeless songs that seem perfect for listening to in the summer.
For those who lived through the era, it’s nostalgic; for younger listeners, it’s fresh.
Enjoy this selection of hits!
- [1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80's Best Hit Songs
- Club Hits: Dance music from Western artists that energized the dance floors in the 1980s
- 1980s: Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Classic and Hit Songs
- Classic nostalgic summer hits from the ’80s. A roundup of summer songs.
- A collection of summer-like songs: tracks that go perfectly with summer, like the sea and the sky.
- Get fired up for the hot season! Summer songs recommended for Gen Z
- Songs you want to listen to at the end of summer: Late-summer classics to look back on the season
- [Oldies] Summer Songs Recommended for People in Their 50s [2026]
- [Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks
- Summer songs from Western music that were hits in the 2000s
- A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s
- Hidden gems of Western music. Lesser-known songs.
- Recommended Summer Songs for People in Their 60s: Classic and Popular J-Pop Hits [2026]
Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that hit in the ’80s (121–130)
Toy SoldiersMartika
A track that sings about drug addiction.
It was released in 1989 by American singer-songwriter Martika and became a hit worldwide.
It was sampled in Eminem’s 2004 track “Like Toy Soldiers.”
SledgehammerPeter Gabriel
This is the song Sledgehammer, released under the solo name of Peter Gabriel, the original lead vocalist of the legendary British rock band Genesis.
It’s included on the 1994 album Secret World Live.
His distinctive vibe and soulful voice haven’t changed since his Genesis days! It’s a well-balanced fusion of funk and rock, showcasing his talents as a songwriter to the fullest.
Love ShackThe B-52’s
The B-52’s are a powerful group whose singing instantly gives you a boost the moment it hits your ears.
They’re a new wave band from Georgia that churned out hit songs throughout the ’80s.
Also keep an eye on the hairstyles and fashion of the two vocalists, Kate and Cindy.
Summer of LoveThe B-52’s
The B-52’s are known for their pop sound featuring keyboards.
When it comes to their summer love songs, “Summer of Love” comes to mind.
It’s a track included on the album “Bouncing Off the Satellites,” and it’s a dance number about a summer romance.
The lively keyboard sound and harmonies will lift your spirits.
With its fresh, cool vibe, it’s perfect for hot days.
MagicThe Cars
A single hit from The Cars’ fifth album, Heartbeat City.
This was the period when they had broken into the mainstream and were shining the brightest.
The music video for this song, which starts with “It’s summer!”, made waves for its surreal imagery—Ric Ocasek walking on a swimming pool, surrounded by mysterious people.
I’m So ExcitedThe Pointer Sisters
A pop-groove track released in 1982 by the American R&B group The Pointer Sisters.
It became a hit in the United States and various European countries.
The track has been featured in many films, including Summer Lovers.
What’s Love Got To Do With ItTina Turner
Tina Turner, an American singer-songwriter who gained popularity for her musical style that added a rock flavor to Black music, had a powerful voice and was also very popular in Japan.
Among her works, a song especially recommended for summer is What’s Love Got To Do With It.
This track strongly reflects adult contemporary and R&B elements, giving it an overall mature vibe.
It’s Still Rock and Roll to MeBilly Joel
A track released as a single by Billy Joel in 1980.
One of his most popular tracks, it reached No.
1 on the charts in the United States and Canada.
It has been covered by artists such as Drake Bell, Kid Rock, and “Weird Al” Yankovic.
SailingChristopher Cross
When it comes to AOR heavyweights and quintessential figures, Christopher Cross from Texas, USA, stands out.
His self-titled debut album, released in 1979—also known in Japan by the unique title “The Man from the South”—not only became a global hit but also achieved the historic feat of winning five Grammy Awards.
Among the tracks on that debut album is the masterpiece “Sailing,” which won two of those Grammys.
Opening with grand strings and centered on a melody delivered in Christopher’s angelically clear high tenor, it’s a beautiful ballad that drifts gently like calm waves—utterly mesmerizing.
On a midsummer night, if this song comes on in the car as you’re heading home after a long day of fun, it’s perfection!
Don’t Stop BelievinJourney
Journey is a rock band that enjoyed immense popularity in the 1980s rock scene.
They’re also extremely popular in Japan and still have many fans today.
Among Journey’s many classic songs, one I especially recommend is Don’t Stop Believin’.
Released in 1981, it pairs a fresh, energetic melody with story-style lyrics.
Its sound is perfect for a morning or midday drive, so be sure to add it to your leisure soundtrack!