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 hits (31–40)
Arthur’s ThemeChristpher Cross

This song is known as the theme for the 1981 film “Arthur.” Christopher Cross’s clear, airy vocals further enhance its appeal.
The lyrics, depicting a story of love, self-discovery, and the search for life’s meaning, perfectly capture the film’s worldview.
The work received high acclaim, winning both Academy and Grammy Awards.
It also reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it a pivotal track in Cross’s career.
Portraying the emotional struggle between dreams and reality, this song may be perfect for anyone feeling lost in life.
Minute by MinuteThe Doobie Brothers

The early Doobie Brothers were a rock-oriented band with a gritty, earthy feel.
However, around the late 1970s, when Michael McDonald joined, their sound shifted markedly toward AOR.
This track is the title song from their 1978 album Minute by Minute, and its breezy harmonies and keyboard-driven sound give it a distinctly urban vibe.
Is it you?Lee Ritenour

Released in 1981.
Lee Ritenour is extremely famous as a fusion guitarist, and Eric Tagg contributes vocals on this album.
Thanks to the strong songwriting, it became a cross-genre hit and remains a work that is still frequently heard today.
St. Elmo’s FireJohn Parr

The song that became a worldwide hit in 1985 is known as the popular theme with the same title as the film.
Featuring John Parr’s powerful vocals and energetic guitar sound, this track made a strong impression.
It topped the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100, earned Gold certification in Canada, and Silver in the UK, receiving high acclaim across multiple countries.
The lyrics depict a young person’s journey of growth and self-realization, conveying a strong message about never giving up and continuing to fight toward one’s goals.
It’s a recommended listen not only for film fans but also for anyone who loves ’80s music.
SaraFleetwood Mac

“Sara” is a song by Stevie Nicks, the female vocalist of Fleetwood Mac, included on their 1979 double album Tusk.
I think you’ll be captivated by Fleetwood Mac’s brilliant arrangement and the contrast between Stevie Nicks’s beautiful appearance and her wild voice.
AOR classics: Timeless recommended hits (41–50)
Livin’ It UpBill LaBounty

Released in 1982.
This is a track you simply can’t leave out when talking about AOR.
From the moment you hear the electric piano in the intro, you’re drawn straight into the song’s world.
It’s a superb piece with a well-balanced structure that never sags from the opening to the very end.
Lonely FreewayLarry Lee

A song that hits perfectly when you’re driving with the window down, feeling the wind.
The original title is “Don’t Talk,” but the Japanese title “Lonely Freeway” certainly captures the vibe of the track well.
The original release was in 1982.


