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.
- A collection of summer-like songs: tracks that go perfectly with summer, like the sea and the sky.
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- 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 (21–30)
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.
Lonely Summer NightsStray cats
It was included on the Stray Cats’ 1981 album with the incredible Japanese title “Goin’ DOWN TOWN.” Back then, this classic ballad was constantly on the radio.
Brian Setzer’s richly resonant voice—unbelievable for someone in his twenties—is wonderful.
The Golden Age of Western Music! Recommended Summer Songs That Hit in the ’80s (31–40)
If You Don’t Know Me By NowSimply Red
Originally written by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff and released by Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, this version by Simply Red, released in 1989, was used in the film American Psycho and won a Grammy Award.
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.
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!
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.
Eyes Without A FaceBilly Idol
A track by British rock musician Billy Idol, released as a single in 1984.
It features female backing vocals in French.
The track was a hit worldwide, reaching No.
4 on the charts in the United States and New Zealand.