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)
WHO’S CRYING NOWJourney
This is a gem of a song whose luscious piano melody resonates deeply.
The lyrics, which brilliantly fuse the joys and pains of love, have struck a chord with many listeners.
Released in 1981, the track reached No.
4 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It has remained beloved over the years and was also featured on the TV show Glee.
As the lead single from Journey’s album Escape, it is counted among the band’s signature songs.
Perfect for a long nighttime drive—why not gaze at the quietly passing scenery as you surrender to the heartfelt vocals and sweet melody?
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!