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!
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- 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)
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.
Summer NightsVan Halen
A hit tune from Van Halen’s seventh album, 5150, released in 1986.
After lead vocalist David Lee Roth left to pursue a solo career, the newly joined Sammy Hagar rose to the challenge, matching Dave’s energy.
Thanks to that, the album was a huge success, and this track also charted.
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!
On The BeachChris Rae
Chris Rea, who might actually be more popular in Japan as an AOR artist than in his native UK.
For some reason, his songs are often used in commercials.
His irresistibly captivating, husky voice is part of the appeal.
It’s a song about calling out the name of a woman he nostalgically remembers on a beach from the past.
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.
Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the ’80s (41–50)
CherishKool and The Gang
The intro, where the plaintive tones of a piano layer over an SE of seagulls calling and waves rolling, evokes a summer evening, doesn’t it? “Cherish” is a hit released in 1985 by Kool & the Gang, a group that has been active in the soul and funk scene since their formation in 1964.
Even among the many hits they churned out in the ’80s, this is likely the first number that comes to mind for many when you say “a summer song.” With lead vocalist J.T.
Taylor delivering a sweet, soaring performance, this medium-tempo, pop-tinged urban soul classic boasts a beautiful, soothing melody.
Its subtly wistful sound is perfect for cooling down a body flushed by the midsummer heat.
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.