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)
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.
Primitive PaintersFelt
Neo-acoustic, a music movement said to have evolved from post-punk, was indispensable in the ’80s.
The band that became a leading figure of this neo-acoustic boom was Felt.
With dreamy melodies and performances, and a clean, non-distorted guitar sound, they are a rock band that stands as a quintessential representative of this boom, which also reached Japan.
[1980s] Masterpieces and hit songs by legendary Western rock bands (101–110)
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?
Cum On Feel The NoizeQuiet Riot
This is an irresistibly upbeat party anthem that epitomizes the frenzy of ’80s L.A.
metal! Performed by the American band Quiet Riot, it practically transports you into the excitement of a live show just by listening.
A cover of a song originally released by Slade in the ’70s, its lyrics carry a simple yet powerful message: forget your everyday frustrations and let’s all go wild together.
Released in 1983, it was included on the landmark album Metal Health, the first heavy metal record in history to reach No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
Thanks to the massive success of this track, the band shot to stardom.
Also featured in the film Footloose, this song is the perfect companion for a drive or anytime you want to boost your mood!
To Hell With The DevilStryper
Stryper, the American band known for their striking yellow-and-black visuals.
This song, which embodies their beliefs, carries a powerful message of rejecting every temptation and staying on the right path.
Beyond the lyrical world, the dramatic progression woven by Michael Sweet’s soaring high-tone vocals and the heavy guitar sound is equally captivating.
It’s the title track from the classic album To Hell with the Devil, released in October 1986, and the album achieved the landmark of becoming the first Christian metal record to be certified Platinum in January 1988.
When you want to accomplish something or fire yourself up, listening to it might give you great courage.
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.
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)