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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Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the ’80s (41–50)
Just Like ParadiseDavid Lee Roth
One of the quintessential hits of the ’80s, wrapped in the sparkling vibe of summer.
Released as David Lee Roth’s solo single in January 1988, it became a major success, reaching No.
6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spending four consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Mainstream Rock chart.
Co-produced with guitarist Steve Vai, its refined sound and optimistic lyrics celebrating youth and freedom are irresistible.
The music video even features rock-climbing scenes shot in Yosemite National Park.
It’s a perfect track not only for young people eager to make summer memories, but also for adults looking to reminisce about the glory of their youth.
Golden Age of Western Music! Recommended Summer Songs That Hit in the ’80s (51–60)
Wild Summer NightsEddie&The Cruisers
“Wild Summer Nights” is also a quintessential summer song of the ’80s.
John Cafferty wrote it specifically for the musical drama Eddie and the Cruisers.
It’s a rock track with pleasantly ringing guitars.
The lyrics depict young people cutting loose on summer nights, capturing their sense of invincibility and rising excitement.
A key point is that it also includes lines hinting that youth will eventually come to an end.
If This Is ItHuey Lewis & The News
When it comes to American bands that define the ’80s, this group has got to be it.
Their theme song for the movie Back to the Future, Power of Love, is famous, but this track is also a summer staple.
It’s a bittersweet love song where he pleads, “If we’re over, please just say it clearly,” yet the sound is endlessly happy.
Hurts So GoodJohn Mellencamp
A track released as a single in 1982 by American singer-songwriter John Mellencamp.
It reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
The music video was filmed in Indiana, where John was born and raised.
Summer FunThe Barracudas
The Barracudas are a British surf rock band formed in 1979.
This track was released as a single in 1980 and reached No.
37 on the UK Singles Chart.
The track was inspired by the advertising campaign for the 1960s car, the Plymouth Barracuda.
Don’t You Want MeThe Human League
You can’t talk about the peak of British synth-pop without this song: The Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me.” It’s included on the 1981 album Dare.
Whether it’s the bassline or the vocal melody, once you hear it, it won’t leave your head—an irresistibly catchy track.
Also pay attention to the lyrics, which depict a major breakup unfolding from both male and female perspectives.
Sea Of LoveRobert Plant
Robert Plant, former vocalist of Led Zeppelin.
There’s no doubt he’s a legend in the rock world, but if you were a teenager in the ’80s, you might have first discovered him through this song.
Plant covered a hit number from ’59, and his relaxed, unforced singing felt refreshing.