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 (21–30)
Start Me UpThe Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones are a band that has never disbanded and has continued to be active on the front lines from the 1960s to the present.
Over their long career, they have taken on a variety of styles, spanning a wide range that includes classic rock, hard rock, psychedelia, and blues rock.
Their hit song “Start Me Up,” released in 1981, is crafted as an exhilarating piece of dance music.
The Final CountdownEurope
It’s a 1986 release by the Swedish band Europe, their signature song that became a worldwide hit and made their name famous.
In Japan, it was used as the theme for TBS’s World Baseball Classic coverage, so you’ve probably heard it at least once.
In My DreamsDokken
A signature song by the American band Dokken that portrays a longing for a lover you can meet only in dreams.
The piece is captivating not only for Don Dokken’s wistful, high-toned vocals but also for George Lynch’s aggressive yet dazzling guitar solo.
The contrast between the heartrending melody and the intense guitar sound further accentuates the song’s dramatic atmosphere.
The album featuring this track, Under Lock and Key, was certified Platinum in April 1987.
Why not immerse yourself in the lyrical allure of hard rock while picturing a beautiful story?
Don’t Stop BelievinJourney
Formed in the early 1970s and still active today while evolving their musical style, Journey left its strongest vocal impression with Steve Perry among all their singers.
He delivered numerous hits with his vocals.
Here, we highlight Don’t Stop Believin’, a smash hit from their 1981 album Escape.
Dr. FeelgoodMötley Crüe
Mötley Crüe, a band that epitomizes the LA metal scene of the ’80s.
The title track from their landmark 1989 album Dr.
Feelgood became a signature song that powered the band to their first No.
1 on the U.S.
album chart.
Known for being created while the members were sober from drugs and alcohol, the song tells a story of the pleasures—and the ruinous dependency—brought by a figure known as the “doctor.” Riding on a blend of funky rhythms and heavy guitar riffs, you can practically see the protagonist getting drawn deeper into a dangerous world.
Why not immerse yourself in the heat of ’80s rock while experiencing the power and groove that defined LA metal?
Private EyesDaryl Hall & John Oates
A cool, urban Hall & Oates smash hit packed with AOR flavor.
It’s a single from their self-titled album released in 1981, and it spent two consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
They are often regarded as leading artists in the genre known as “blue-eyed soul.”
Don’t Stop Me NowQueen
The moment the piano intro starts, you’re swept up in a rush of excitement that makes your heart dance—this is one of the signature songs by the British band Queen.
Released as a single in 1979, it’s included on the classic album “Jazz.” Written by Freddie Mercury, the song brims with overwhelming energy and euphoria, declaring, “No one can stop me.” Guitarist Brian May reportedly had reservations at first about its unabashedly hedonistic content.
In Japan, it’s well known from commercials for Cosmo Oil and JR Central, as well as its use in the film “Shaun of the Dead,” and just listening to it makes you feel invincible.
It’s a timeless killer tune that’s perfect for pumping up a drive or a party.