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’ Masterpieces and Hit Songs (91–100)
Let’s Go CrazyPrince & The Revolution
Prince, the legendary artist whose sophisticated musicality has earned him extremely high acclaim from dedicated music aficionados around the world.
Prince and The Revolution is the band he produced and performed with, releasing numerous hit songs.
Their hit “Let’s Go Crazy,” released in 1984, blends genres such as R&B, rock, disco, and funk—a sound that captured popularity worldwide.
Raining BloodSLAYER
Among the Big Four of thrash metal, Slayer stands out for having the most evil and ferocious sound.
Featured on their legendary 1986 masterpiece “Reign in Blood,” this track is one of the band’s signature numbers.
From the ominous opening of rain and thunder to the blisteringly fast riffs that assault every listener, it’s relentless.
Yet it’s not merely fast for its own sake—you can sense the sophisticated musicianship, making it one of the finest songs in metal history.
It has also influenced pop culture, appearing in the video game Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and the TV show South Park.
Highly recommended for those drawn to intense sounds and dark atmospheres.
Somebody Save MeCinderella
It’s a classic by the American band Cinderella that captures a cry from the heart seeking freedom and escape from everyday constraints.
Tom Keifer’s raspy vocals intertwined with bluesy guitar riffs create a driving, irresistibly cool sound.
In the lyrics, the protagonist, while longing for someone to save them, dashes into the night determined to enjoy it to the fullest.
The album Night Songs, which features this track, was released in 1986 and sold over three million copies in the U.S.
The song itself was released as a single in April 1987 and was frequently played on MTV.
When you feel the need to break free from something, why not surrender yourself to this straightforward rock ’n’ roll?
Armageddon ItDef Leppard
A band representing the UK’s NWOBHM scene, this song was included on their fourth album, Hysteria, released in 1987, and it was put out as a single and became a hit.
In Japan, it became famous on the TV segment “Soramimi Hour.” The misheard line “Ama geride— umi ni derenē— kesa mo geride—” is a masterpiece, isn’t it? (lol)
InnuendoQueen
Here we have “Innuendo,” which is also the title track of their 14th album.
Although the album was released in 1991, it was produced in 1989.
It’s a complex number created by stitching together different sections, a method said to be a return to Queen’s roots.
With an unexpected flamenco solo and a switch to 3/4 time right after, it’s a truly engaging listen! It’s also the last album from Queen, the mega-stars of the ’80s.
The Killing MoonEcho & the Bunnymen
Known as a masterpiece of 80s neo-psychedelia, this song remains one of Echo & The Bunnymen’s signature tracks, beloved by many fans to this day.
Released in January 1984, it reached No.
9 on the UK Singles Chart, earned a Gold certification, and sold over 400,000 copies.
It’s marked by its dreamy atmosphere, wistful melody, and profound lyrics symbolizing fate and the cosmos.
Featured in the 2001 film Donnie Darko, it stunned a new generation as well.
It’s a perfect track to listen to in the stillness of the night.
Don’t You (Forget About Me)Simple Minds
If we had to pick one anthemic song that defines the ’80s, it would be this one.
Catapulted to fame by its use in the film The Breakfast Club, it remains Simple Minds’ signature track, radiating a timeless appeal.
The lyrics, which speak to changing relationships and the fear of being forgotten, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Hitting No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in May 1985 and topping the charts in Canada as well, the song became the band’s breakthrough in America.
Jim Kerr’s striking vocals and the memorable “la-la-la-la” ending make it a track you’ll want to revisit alongside memories of your youth.