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 recommended popular numbers (21–30)
I Just Wanna StopGino Vannelli
Released in 1978.
While not very well-known in Japan, he’s a Canadian, highly skilled singer who’s indispensable in AOR.
He’s also known as a “musicians’ musician,” respected by his fellow artists.
This album is a masterpiece brimming with romanticism.
On The BeachChris Rea
“On The Beach” is a number written by British singer-songwriter Chris Rea, released as a single from his 1986 album of the same name.
With a languid rhythm reminiscent of heat haze shimmering over a hot beach, the track stands out for its Latin flavor and an improvisational, jazz-like ending.
Let’s fall in love.Carole Bayer Sager
A song included on the 1978 album “TOO.” It’s also known for being covered by Michael Jackson (whose Japanese title was “Sore ga Koi Dakara,” meaning “Because That’s Love”).
Note the star-studded lineup as well, with Michael McDonald on backing vocals and Steve Lukather on guitar.
Hard to Say I’m SorryCHICAGO
“Hard to Say I’m Sorry” is a song released in 1982 by the American rock band Chicago.
It topped the U.S.
singles chart for two weeks.
The track is included on the album Chicago 16.
She’s Out With A Gun AOR Melodic Rock City LightsVAN ZANT
Released in 1985, VAN ZANT’s song is characterized by its beautiful melody and striking lyrics.
The story-rich words, depicting a heartbroken woman’s desire for revenge, leave a deep impression on listeners.
Featured on the album “Van-Zant,” the track is highly regarded among AOR and melodic rock fans.
VAN ZANT’s clear, soaring vocals blend seamlessly with the refined production, making it a quintessential emblem of the 1980s music scene.
It offers a pleasant listening experience that’s perfect for driving or as background music on a quiet night.
Jo JoBoz Scaggs
This is a song included on the 1980 album “Middle Man.” Boz Scaggs has so many hits that it’s hard to pick his best, but compared to the super-famous ballad “We’re All Alone,” this one exudes an even more mature sensuality.
It’s mid-tempo, crisp, and a well-balanced piece.
A Woman like youRuss Ballard
A gem of a love song whose sweet, aching vocals resonate deep in the heart.
This work is packed with Russ Ballard’s passion and is included on his 1984 album “Russ Ballard.” It’s a song that expresses deep love and trust for a beloved person, filled with straightforward declarations of affection.
Released on the EMI America label, it came out in various formats around the world.
If you find it hard to put your feelings into words, listening to it with your partner might be a subtle way to convey how you feel.