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
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- Classic nostalgic summer hits from the ’80s. A roundup of summer songs.
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- 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]
The Golden Age of Western Music! Recommended Summer Songs That Hit in the ’80s (31–40)
KokomoThe Beach Boys
Speaking of summer, this is a U.S.
No.
1 hit from 1988 by the legendary Beach Boys.
It was featured in the coming-of-age film “Cocktail” starring Tom Cruise.
Set to their breezy harmonies, it name-checks resort spots like Aruba, Jamaica, Bermuda, and the Bahamas.
It’s a song that makes you want to head to the beach right now.
Summertime RollsJane’s Addiction
Like R.E.M.
and Red Hot Chili Peppers, they are a California group that gained popularity as an alternative rock band.
This track is from their 1988 debut album, Nothing’s Shocking.
Dirty DianaMichael Jackson
A track that sings about women at concerts and clubs.
Featuring a rock edge, it was released by Michael Jackson in 1988.
The music video, directed by Joe Pytka, was filmed in Los Angeles.
MagicOlivia Newton-John
This is a single released from the soundtrack of the 1980 film Xanadu.
The movie is a fantasy musical that’s often called a legendary flop and even won the Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Director, but the single Magic became a major hit.
This dreamy, upbeat mid-tempo pop number showcases Olivia’s charm to the fullest.
Walking On SunshineKatrina and The Waves
A track written by Kimberly Rew, originally the guitarist of The Soft Boys who later became a member of Katrina & the Waves.
It was released in 1985.
The track has been used in many films, including American Psycho.
Bette Davis EyesKim Carnes
A track written by Donna Weiss and Jackie DeShannon.
It was inspired by the 1942 film Now, Voyager.
Released in 1981 by American singer Kim Carnes, the track won a Grammy Award.
Cold HeartedPaula Abdul
This is the song “Cold Hearted” by Paula Abdul, a singer from the United States who colored the 80s.
It’s included on the album “Forever Your Girl,” released in 1988.
The intricately layered synthesizer sounds are remarkably well crafted.
Overall, it’s a very funky track that makes you want to start dancing.
GhostbustersRay Parker Jr.
This is the theme song of the long-beloved movie Ghostbusters.
It’s sung by American musician Ray Parker Jr.
I’d say it’s no exaggeration to call it the 1980s version of “Obake nante nai sa”! The whole track brims with playfulness and a bit of cheeky mischief.
Ray Parker Jr.’s rich, low vocals are incredibly sexy—absolutely fantastic!
Like A PrayerMadonna
A track released by Madonna in 1989.
Before its release, it was featured in a Pepsi TV commercial and became a hot topic.
It is characterized by a gospel sound.
The music video, directed by Mary Lambert, was filmed in California and won an MTV Video Music Award.
Club TropicanaWham!
This is a hit song by the popular duo Wham!, also known for having British pop icon George Michael as a member.
Released in 1983, it reached No.
4 on the UK charts.
Even the title alone exudes the height-of-summer vibe.
Starting with the chirping of insects, the intro invites you straight into summertime, bringing a smile to listeners’ faces.
A funky bassline, crisp guitar chops, flashy horn section, and rhythmic piano tones… even now, well into the 2020s, putting this track on is sure to hype up the sweltering summer.
Be sure to check out the music video too—it’s heartwarming to see the two members of Wham!, both blessed with stunning looks, enjoying their summer vacation!
