1980s: Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Classic and Hit Songs
When it comes to the 1980s, it’s often called the “golden era” of Western rock music.
From the perspective of rock bands, it was a time when many veteran groups—still active today—made their debuts, and countless worldwide hits that went down in history were born.
This time, we’re spotlighting hit songs and classics by Western rock bands from that very 1980s!
Alongside energetic, quintessentially ’80s rock numbers and stadium-ready ballads, we’ve assembled a varied lineup that also reflects the era’s birth of the so-called New Wave—unbound by traditional rock—and the alternative rock that would lead into the 1990s.
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[1980s] Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Classic and Hit Songs (71–80)
DriveThe Cars
The Cars are a rock band from the United States.
The frontman, Ric Ocasek, has a uniquely captivating voice.
“Drive” is an emotional ballad included on their 1984 album Heartbeat City.
This Charming ManThe Smiths
Despite being active for only about five years, The Smiths are regarded as one of the most important bands in 1980s Britain and have a large, fervent fanbase.
They didn’t necessarily achieve record-breaking commercial success, but countless musicians have been influenced by them, and they enjoy a cult following among Japanese music fans who love British rock.
Among the many wonderful classics born from the songwriting partnership of frontman Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr, let’s look at one of their signature tracks, “This Charming Man.” Released in 1983 as their second single, it became a breakthrough hit, reaching number 25 on the charts despite not being included on an album.
There’s no need to belabor the excellence of Morrissey’s refined vocals and Marr’s inventive guitar work, which stands apart from simple power chords—but the song’s melodic, singing bass line and light, sprightly drumming are also truly outstanding.
The lyrics, with their narrative quality, are quintessentially Morrissey—bookish and suggestive—inviting a variety of interpretations.
Never EnoughL.A. Guns
L.A.
Guns from the U.S.
are a band with full-on dirty, sleazy charm, yet their lyrics are pretty intense—this addictive track has captivated many with that very gap.
Sung over powerful guitar riffs and a catchy melody is a theme of human desire that can never be satisfied.
That slightly decadent, ravenous message is a major part of the song’s appeal.
Back in 1989, their second album Cocked & Loaded, which includes this track, reached No.
38 on the U.S.
charts and was certified Platinum.
If you want to experience the wild, glitzy world of LA metal, this is a perfect place to start.
[1980s] Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Masterpieces and Hit Songs (’81–’90)
Love ShackThe B-52’s
Introducing a signature track by The B-52’s, a band that epitomized the New Wave scene of the 1980s.
Formed in Athens, Georgia, their music is characterized by a distinctive style influenced by 1950s rock and roll and surf music.
Released in June 1989, this song appears on the album Cosmic Thing.
Its lyrics, which portray a journey to a place called the “Love Shack” as a symbol of love and joy following loss and renewal, are particularly striking.
It became the band’s biggest hit, reaching No.
3 on the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100 and No.
2 in the U.K.
The music video won the “Best Group Video” award at the 1990 MTV Video Music Awards.
It’s a perfect track for parties and fun get-togethers.
Shout To The TopThe Style Council
This is a single released from the Style Council’s third album, Our Favourite Shop, which came out in 1986.
The band is led by Paul Weller, formerly of The Jam.
You’ve probably heard it, as it was used for the opening of the morning variety show Sukkiri.
West End GirlsPet Shop Boys
The Pet Shop Boys are a pop duo from the United Kingdom.
Although they’re known as a pop duo, their style is remarkably diverse, and they’ve also released rock tracks like dance rock.
Their hit song “West End Girls” blends a dance-rock foundation with an adult contemporary vibe.
It was released in 1984, but it’s still a classic that continues to be used in many forms of media today.
Do You Believe In LoveHuey Lewis & The News
Huey Lewis & The News were characterized by a bright, quintessentially American band sound.
Built on simple, hard-hitting rock, their frontman Huey’s rugged, husky vocals and the smooth, pleasing harmonies feel quintessentially ’80s.
“Do You Believe in Love” is a track released in 1982.