Legendary Western rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s
Aerosmith, Queen, Bon Jovi, Van Halen, David Bowie, Ozzy Osbourne, AC/DC…
From the legendary Western rock that defined the 1980s, here are the classic and hit tracks recommended by our studio staff.
It’s a mighty playlist by rock giants who rewrote the history of music worldwide.
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Legendary 80s Western rock masterpieces and hit songs (71–80)
(Wish I Could Fly Like) SupermanThe Kinks
When you hear “the most quintessentially British band,” which group comes to mind? The Kinks are a defining act of the UK rock scene, and today we’re spotlighting their distinctive foray into disco rock.
This track is a thrilling number that cheekily answers the record label’s request for “a song that works in clubs,” filtered through the band’s own wit.
Its driving four-on-the-floor beat intertwined with crisp, choppy rock guitar riffs practically forces your hips to move.
Delve into the lyrics and you’ll find the protagonist’s grumblings as he wavers between hero-worship and harsh reality—exactly the kind of irony that showcases Ray Davies at his best.
Released as a single in January 1979, it reached No.
41 on the U.S.
charts.
It’s perfect for dancing at a party while savoring the deeper message beneath the groove.
Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)Phil Collins
In the 1980s, Phil Collins was hugely successful not only as Genesis’s drummer but also as a songwriter.
This song is a love ballad written as the theme for the film “Against All Odds,” and it became his biggest hit, earning him a Grammy Award.
Owner of a Lonely HeartYES
This is a superbly danceable dance-rock number by the British progressive rock band Yes.
Its unforgettable sound fuses razor-sharp guitar riffs with the then state-of-the-art sampler’s orchestral hits.
The song is an anthem for those carrying lonely hearts, packed with a powerful message: don’t fear the future—forge your own path.
Its perspective is unique: loneliness isn’t a bad thing; it’s far better than having your heart shattered.
Released in October 1983, the track appears on the classic album 90125 and was also featured in a Toyota commercial.
If you’re looking to surrender to the groove and enjoy a party night, this one’s perfect!
About A GirlNirvana
Nirvana, the band that emerged from Washington State in the late ’80s and brought a fresh breeze to the music scene.
Contrary to the intense sound typically associated with grunge, this track resonates with a poppy, beautiful melody reminiscent of the Beatles.
The small misunderstandings and frustrations of living with a partner come through painfully in Kurt Cobain’s languid yet gentle voice.
Included on their 1989 debut album Bleach, some may have discovered it through the 1994 acoustic live recording.
It’s a song that, when listened to at a time when a relationship has started to feel “normal,” can make you realize anew just how much the other person means to you.
You May Be RightBilly Joel
From the image of a stylish, urban-sounding songwriter who had hits in the late ’70s with ‘The Stranger’ and ’52nd Street,’ he made a sharp turn with 1980’s ‘Glass Houses,’ showcasing a new side with a sound strongly rooted in American rock.
Making Love Out Of Nothing At AllAir Supply
A song by an Australian soft rock band.
It was included on their 1983 release Greatest Hits and reached No.
2 on the Billboard chart.
Many artists, including Bonnie Tyler, have covered the song.
It was also used on the soundtrack of the film Mr.
and Mrs.
Smith.
Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)David Bowie
David Bowie is a legendary artist who, beyond his music, wielded immense influence across a wide range of fields—including his innovative style, philosophy, and ideas, as well as fashion and art.
In the realm of manga, he had a particularly significant impact in Japan from the 1970s to the 1980s, especially on the design of characters in shoujo manga.
Naturally, Bowie’s song titles are also referenced in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.
In Part 7, the Stand of Dr.
Ferdinand is named “Scary Monsters,” which is both the title of an album Bowie released in 1980 and its title track.
Bowie’s vocals sung in a Cockney accent and Robert Fripp of King Crimson on guitar make it a fantastic and stylish song—be sure to check it out!
