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)
RioDuran Duran
When it comes to the British rock band Duran Duran, their appeal surely lies in their new wave sound.
In particular, they’re regarded as pioneers of the New Romantic genre that emerged from new wave.
Their trendy sound, which likely had a major influence on Japanese musicians and J-pop, evokes the mood of the 1980s.
ForeverKISS
Kiss is a band that has been hugely active from the early days of hard rock to the present.
Despite their distinctive visuals, they are highly regarded by music enthusiasts around the world for their solid, fundamentals-based playing and catchy sound.
Their hit song “Forever,” released in 1989, was their second single from the album yet reached No.
8 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It remains a hard rock classic that continues to influence many artists today.
Wake Up DeadMegadeth
In February 2023, Megadeth—one of the Big Four of thrash metal and one of the most important bands in the history of heavy metal—played their first show at the Nippon Budokan, a performance that also made headlines for featuring former member Marty Friedman.
Their relationship with Metallica is so famous it’s practically a part of metal history itself, and when discussing the metal and rock scenes of the 1980s, their songs are absolutely indispensable.
Wake Up Dead is a classic that opens their breakthrough second album, Peace Sells…
but Who’s Buying?.
Its intricate and complex structure sets it apart from more straight-ahead thrash, perfectly embodying what central figure Dave Mustaine himself calls “intellectual thrash metal.”
[1980s] Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Masterpieces and Hit Songs (’81–’90)
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.
ViennaUltravox
Characterized by its grand synthesizer sound and Midge Ure’s emotional vocals, this classic track portrays a fragile yet passionate romance set against the backdrop of Cold War–era Vienna.
Released in October 1980, it reached No.
2 on the UK Singles Chart.
Its visually rich music video, evocative of the film The Third Man, also drew attention.
Blending the darkness of post-punk with the grandeur of classical music, it has a unique atmosphere that makes you want to listen while walking through the city at night.
It’s a recommended song for those feeling the end of a romance or a sense of loss.
Lay It DownRatt
Ratt, a rock band that was a leading force in the LA metal genre, debuted in 1981 and disbanded in 1992.
They later reunited in 1997 and have continued to perform ever since.
Their hit song Lay It Down, released in 1985, reached No.
11 on the mainstream rock chart.
For fans of LA metal and glam metal, this is an irresistible track.
Be sure to check it out.
Don’t Dream It’s OverCrowded House
This is one of the iconic songs that defined the 1980s and lit up MTV.
With its melodic, catchy pop-rock sound and hopeful lyrics, it’s an irresistible track.
Released in January 1986, it became a major hit, reaching No.
2 on the Billboard charts.
Featured on the band’s debut album, it’s known as their signature song that brought them international success.
It also won Best New Artist in a Video at the MTV Video Music Awards in the United States.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to feel the bonds of friendship and a sense of hope, wrapped in heartfelt lyrics and a warm melody.