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 (51–60)
You Wouldn’t Know LoveMichael Bolton
A soft rock ballad by Michael Bolton filled with a bittersweet love story.
Its poignant message to someone who cannot truly understand love resonates alongside his powerful vocals.
Featured on the 1989 album “Soul Provider,” the song was released as a single in Europe and Australia, where it drew attention.
The delicate lyrics capture the inability to forgive because of past wounds and the difficulty of conveying the essence of love.
It’s the perfect track for those struggling in an important relationship or searching for true love.
Please, take a quiet moment and listen.
JojoBoz Scaggs
“Jojo” is a song by Boz Scaggs included on his 1980 album Middle Man.
Its urbane, stylish, and cool sound makes it a quintessential example of AOR.
The simple arrangement, which never grows tiresome no matter how many times you listen, is part of its appeal.
ReminiscingLittle River Band
A song by Little River Band released in 1978.
It features a gentle rock sound and heartwarming lyrics.
The song looks back on past memories and nostalgically recalls time spent with a loved one, offering a moving charm that resonates with listeners.
In the United States, it achieved major success, reaching No.
3 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It has also been used in various works, including the film “Knocked Up” and the TV series “Freaks and Geeks.” It’s a track you’ll want to enjoy on a calm night and share with someone special.
HimRupert Holmes
Rupert Holmes is an AOR singer also known for the U.S.
number-one hit “Escape.” This work also reached No.
6 on the charts.
With his sideburns, mustache, glasses, and gentle-looking smile, Rupert’s songs have the feel of a romantic drama.
Released in 1980.
AOR masterpieces: timeless recommended popular numbers (61–70)
One More ChanceAlias
A poignant wish that tugs at the heart—this is a classic AOR masterpiece.
It vividly portrays the emotions of a man who regrets his past mistakes and pleads for another chance with the one he loves.
Released in June 1990 on the Canadian rock band Alias’s debut album, Alias, this song made waves.
More Than Words Can Say, included on the same album, became a major hit, reaching No.
1 in Canada and No.
2 in the United States.
With its gentle tones and uplifting chorus, it’s a memorable track that’s also great for karaoke.
Recommended for when you want to heal the pain of a broken heart or reaffirm your bond with someone special.
That’s What Friends Are ForDionne Warwick
A classic that celebrates the importance of friendship, with Dionne Warwick’s warm vocals resonating deeply.
Featuring a star-studded collaboration with artists like Elton John and Stevie Wonder, the song’s lyrics and melody gently embrace the idea of friends supporting each other through good times and bad.
Released in 1985, it also drew attention as a charity single supporting AIDS research.
It spent four consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the U.S.
charts and became a massive hit, topping Billboard’s year-end chart in 1986.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to at life’s milestones or whenever you want to feel the bond of friendship.
Why not enjoy it at a relaxed pace while thinking of someone dear to you?
Stranger In ParadiseDwayne Ford
This is a single by Canadian artist Dwayne Ford, released in 1981.
Co-produced with David Foster, it appears on the album “Needless Freaking.” Its melodious AOR sound and delicate synthesizer arrangements stand out, and the lyrics—depicting a woman who, despite loneliness and inner conflict, strives to find love—are likely to resonate with many listeners.
The pleasant sound and profound lyrical world are captivating, making it perfect for relaxing or for a drive.
It’s a recommended track not only for AOR fans but also for those looking to get into Western pop music.