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 Hit in the ’80s (51–60)
Roll With ItSteve Winwood
A perfect love song for summer—and one I’d also like to recommend as a motivational anthem—is “Roll With It.” It’s a track released by British rock musician Steve Winwood.
The lyrics are strikingly poetic, conveying a message to a loved one that “you can overcome any hardship.” It’s the kind of song that can give you courage when you listen, and it could work as a message song for someone you love.
While the lyrics don’t include any explicitly summery words, his passionate vocals somehow evoke a sense of summer.
Danger ZoneKenny Loggins
In the Western music scene of the 1980s, many people would probably name this song as one of the tracks that most evokes “summer.” Also famous as an insert song in the film Top Gun, this Kenny Loggins number is marked by an energetic, aggressive vibe.
The assertive drum sound that screams ’80s, the driving guitar riffs, and the powerful vocals all leave a strong impression.
Released in 1986, it reached No.
2 on the U.S.
Billboard chart.
As a song written specifically for the film, it has remained vibrant and unfaded to this day.
It’s the perfect track for a summer drive or for those moments when you want to push your own limits.
ManiacMichael Sembello
This is the song “Maniac” by American singer-songwriter Michael Sembello.
It became famous as part of the soundtrack for the film Flashdance.
It is included on the 1983 album Bossa Nova Hotel.
While the song is fast-paced and a high-energy dance number, it’s also a treasure trove of beautiful melodies.
Michael Sembello has a wild aura, yet his voice carries a delicate quality.
Let yourself be captivated by that contrast!
Jessie’s GirlRIck Springfield
A track released as a single in 1981 by Australian singer Rick Springfield.
It reached No.
1 on the charts in the United States and Australia and won a Grammy Award.
It was used in the 2004 film “13 Going on 30.”
Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the 1980s (61–70)
Take On Mea-ha
When it comes to the most popular genres of the 1980s, synth-pop tops the list.
Since the 2020s, it has been rediscovered along with a revival boom, so many of you are probably familiar with it.
“Take On Me” is a signature track by a-ha, released in 1984, and it became a worldwide hit.
Its synth sound, evocative of the era, perfectly suits the summer vibe.
Be sure to use it as driving music or as background music for your leisure activities.
You Give Love A Bad NameBon Jovi
Bon Jovi is a rock band that represents not only America but the global hard rock scene.
Their songs are used across various media in Japan, so even younger people are likely familiar with them.
Among Bon Jovi’s tracks, one of the most popular is “You Give Love a Bad Name.” Released in 1986, it’s crafted as a sharply executed hard rock number.
As such, it’s the perfect song for summer driving music.
The One That You LoveAir Supply
When you think of Air Supply, the soft rock group from Australia, the AOR boom of the ’80s brings to mind romantic summer scenes.
Known widely in Japan by the title “Seaside Love,” this song is the title track from their sixth album, The One That You Love, released in 1981.
Both the album and the single were major hits, and many people will recall the hot air balloon on the album cover.
The song features a beautiful melody colored by crystal-clear high tones and skillful choral work, along with an elegant band ensemble.
Interestingly, the lyrics don’t actually include any summery words.
Even so, the mood of the song and its Japanese title somehow match perfectly—a charmingly ’80s kind of quirk.
