AOR classic. A timeless, highly recommended hit.
Adult-oriented rock (AOR) began as an expression of youthful, primal impulse in rock music, and as it grew through encounters with various genres, it evolved into a mellow, urbane, and sophisticated sound.
AOR gently embraces the joys, sorrows, and loneliness you encounter in everyday life—it’s truly a soundtrack for grown-ups.
Here, we’ve selected some classic tracks in that vein.
As you listen, let the rich sound and lyrics resonate with your own feelings.
Surely, even a heart that’s felt a bit parched will be filled with new moisture.
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AOR classics: Timeless, highly recommended hits (81–90)
Yes-Noofukōsu
“Yes-No” is the 19th single by Off Course, released in 1980.
At the time, its lyrics drew a lot of attention, and the song clearly shows how Off Course continually created superb pop music—always absorbing the newest sounds of the era without ever falling into overproduction.
SailingChristopher Cross
It’s a masterpiece that beautifully captures the quiet and loneliness of the night.
Christopher Cross’s gentle vocals and the laid-back melody envelop the listener’s heart.
Using sailing as a metaphor, the lyrics sing about life’s journey and self-discovery, resonating with many people.
Released in June 1980, the song topped the Billboard charts and won a Grammy.
It was also used as the theme song for the film “Arthur,” which helped it reach an even wider audience.
When your heart is weary or you’re spending a quiet night alone, listening to this track is sure to be soothing.
Bluer Than Blue / Prologue of SorrowMichael Johnson
It’s a very beautiful piece.
It evokes the blue skies of the cold season as autumn turns to winter.
Randy Goodrum, who composed this work, is also an AOR singer, while Michael Johnson originally came from a country music background.
Released in 1978, it reached No.
12 on the U.S.
charts.
She is Wait for MeAIRPLAY
Released in 1980.
Fresh and uplifting right from the intro! Airplay is an AOR unit formed primarily by David Foster and Jay Graydon.
Other top-tier musicians like members of TOTO and Bill Champlin also took part.
This track is included on the album “Romantic.”
In conclusion
So, how was it, everyone? For those who grew up listening to rock and R&B from their teens, AOR is not only music that lets you reminisce about your youth, but also an adult soundtrack that soothes the fatigue of everyday life.
We’ll keep digging up more of that rich, déjà vu–tinged, relaxing music—AOR—so stay tuned!