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 Western rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s (51–60)
Karma ChameleonCulture Club
This song, included on the 1983 album Color by Numbers, spent three consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard chart.
The band was formed around Boy George, who was known for his flamboyant makeup and fashion, and as music videos became widespread at the time, they made a sensational global impact visually as well.
CenterfoldThe J. Geils Band
Formed in Boston in 1967, the band had a long career and was popular for its heavy rock, but the song they released in 1981, with its sexy music video and upbeat sound, became a global smash hit.
The band’s central member, J.
Geils, passed away in April 2017.
Hurts So GoodJohn Mellencamp
John Mellencamp, who achieved a major breakthrough in the early 1980s with a classic American rock sound, was known at the time as John Cougar.
He later changed his name twice—to John Cougar Mellencamp, and then to his real name, John Mellencamp.
Promises In The DarkPat Benatar
A song by American singer-songwriter Pat Benatar, who began her career as one of the few female rock singers at the time.
It starts like a beautiful ballad before shifting into an intense band sound, and her hard rock–style, gritty yet powerful vocals make it an energizing number.
Her high-tone voice—she rose to the rank of top singer in the U.S.
in the 1980s—is a must-hear.
Legendary Western rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s (61–70)
Purple RainNelson
Prince became a charismatic figure in the rock scene of the 1980s.
While his striking appearance—anchored by purple as his signature color—drew the eye, his unique sound, which blended rock, R&B, and jazz, was highly acclaimed and influenced many musicians.
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!
(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.