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)
Sowing the Seeds of LoveTears for Fears
Tears for Fears is a British duo consisting of Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith.
“Kokomo” is a single released in 1989 that reached No.
5 on the UK chart and No.
2 on the US chart.
It’s a high-quality work that skillfully blends a psychedelic feel with a pop sound.
In Between DaysThe Cure
The Cure is a British new wave band.
Their track In Between Days is a 1985 release.
The choppy strumming that follows the synthesizer melody is unconventional, yet it still has a solid groove.
It’s quite an addictive song, you know? They’re indispensable stars in the history of British rock, a band that has left behind numerous legendary tales and episodes of hardship.
[1980s] Masterpieces and hit songs by legendary Western rock bands (101–110)
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.
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.
I Wanna Be SomebodyW.A.S.P.
W.A.S.P.
is a heavy metal band from Los Angeles, USA, also known for their provocative stage shows.
Their debut song, which put their name on the global map, is a rock number that sings of the universal longing to “be somebody.” Their debut album, W.A.S.P., released in 1984 and featuring this track, is known as a classic and was certified Gold by the RIAA.
Its powerful guitars and catchy melodies are sure to stir the listener’s heart.
If you’re looking to break out of your current situation or reach for big dreams, this song will surely give you courage.
Its selection at No.
84 on VH1’s “100 Greatest Hard Rock Songs” also speaks to its appeal.
Cherry PieWarrant
A signature song from Warrant, a band that epitomized the American glam metal scene.
Vocalist Jani Lane reportedly wrote it in just 15 minutes at the request of the record label president.
It’s the title track of the album Cherry Pie.
The lyrics, which compare a loved one to a sweet and irresistible pie, are straightforward and passionate.
This track blends an uplifting, catchy guitar riff with an irresistibly singable pop chorus, letting you fully savor the glitzy world of LA metal.
Released in September 1990 as the lead single from the album of the same name, it became a major hit, reaching No.
10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Give it a spin when you want to crank up the mood—perfect for drives and parties!