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)
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.
Golden Age of Western Music! Recommended Summer Songs That Hit in the ’80s (51–60)
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.
Goin’ CrazyDavid Lee Roth
From the very first seconds, the hard rock sound explodes, and David Lee Roth’s uniquely energetic vocals leave a strong impression! This is one of the signature tracks from the new band Roth formed with guitarist Steve Vai and others after leaving Van Halen.
It was released in September 1986 as the second single from the album “Eat ’Em and Smile.” Blending hard rock with glam metal, it also drew attention for its music video, which showcased Roth’s trademark humor and flamboyant theatrics, and it reached No.
66 on the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100.
It’s a thrilling rock number you’ll want to blast at full volume on a hot summer day with your mind switched off!
Caribbean QueenBilly Ocean
Billy Ocean broke through with his 1984 album Suddenly.
This single, which was released from the album, made him a star.
He then followed it up with another hit, When the Going Gets Tough, the theme song for the adventure film The Jewel of the Nile starring Michael Douglas.
There Must Be An Angel (Playing With My Heart)Eurythmics
A track that sings about happiness from love and pure joy.
Released by Eurythmics in 1985, it reached No.
1 on the charts in the UK, Norway, Poland, and Ireland.
The harmonica solo is performed by Stevie Wonder.
Forever YoungAlphaville
A track that sings of the virtues of youth and the fear of aging and death.
It was released as a single in 1984 by the German rock group Alphaville.
The track has been used in many forms of media, including the TV drama One Tree Hill.
Little JeannieElton John
A track released as a single by Elton John in 1980.
It was written together with his songwriter friend Gary Osborne.
The track reached No.
1 on the charts in the United States and Canada and was certified Gold.