RAG MusicRock
Lovely rock

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.

AOR classics: Timeless, highly recommended hits (51–60)

The Year Of The CatAl Stewart

Al Stewart – Year of the Cat (Official Audio)
The Year Of The CatAl Stewart

“The Year of the Cat” is a 1976 work by singer-songwriter Al Stewart.

It features richly developed instrumentation, including a guitar solo, while still delivering a polished, pop-oriented vocal number.

One More ChanceAlias

Alias – One More Chance (AOR)
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.

Lonely FreewayLarry Lee

Larry Lee – Don’t Talk (1982)
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.

Goin’ DownGreg Guidry

Greg Guidry – Goin’ Down (Official Music Video)
Goin' DownGreg Guidry

“Goin’ Down” is a work by American singer-songwriter Greg Gidley.

Over a lavishly ringing twin-lead guitar backdrop, the interplay between lead vocals and backing vocals goes on and on.

It’s the kind of AOR track you’d want to casually have on in the background while you work.

AOR masterpieces: timeless recommended popular numbers (61–70)

Silhouette of LoveJim Photoglo

Jim Photoglo – We Were Meant To Be Lovers
Silhouette of LoveJim Photoglo

This slightly melancholic song is Jim Photoglo’s 1980 hit.

When it was first released in Japan, the artist’s name was written as “Photoglo.” Its sophisticated, sharp vocals and performance perfectly suit the atmosphere of a city night.

This Could Be the NightLoverboy

Loverboy – This Could Be the Night (Official Video)
This Could Be the NightLoverboy

It’s a song brimming with a powerful yet delicate charm.

Featured on the 1985 album “Lovin’ Every Minute of It,” this track captivated listeners and never let go.

The protagonist’s hopes for a special night are portrayed alongside a grand, sweeping sound.

In 1986, it reached the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10, becoming a beloved hit.

It also drew attention as a work that showcased a new side of Loverboy.

A heartwarming ballad perfect for spending special moments with someone important—it’s sure to resonate with you, too.

OceansSurvivor

A majestic song that evokes the vast ocean.

It’s a track by Survivor included on the album When Seconds Count, released in January 1986.

With its crystal-clear guitars and powerful vocals, it invites listeners on a musical journey.

The song explores the costs of protecting love and bonds, and the difficulty of recovering lost connections, symbolically expressing the complexity and fragility of human relationships.

The album When Seconds Count sold over 500,000 copies and was certified Gold.

It’s a perfect song for moments when you want your heart to be quietly stirred or to savor deep emotions.