[1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80’s Best Hit Songs
The 1980s brought changes to music history and had a huge influence on later musicians.
Cyndi Lauper, Culture Club, Madonna, Earth, Wind & Fire…
Even those who didn’t live through the era can sink into a sense of nostalgia that feels familiar somehow.
Compared to modern songs, the classics of the ’80s often boast purer song quality and stronger musical structure—or, seen another way, the larger market meant bigger budgets, letting you enjoy luxuriously produced sounds.
Find a favorite track and really dive into it!
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[1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80’s Best Hit Songs (91–100)
Oh GirlBoy Meets Girl
The duo of George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam, who are now divorced.
Their signature work from the ’80s is undoubtedly “Waiting For A Star To Fall,” which was in heavy rotation on the radio back then.
This song, released as their first single in 1985, is also a mellow and breezy pop tune.
Live To TellMadonna
It hit No.
1 in the U.S.
in 1986.
It was the lead single released ahead of the album True Blue.
I actually think this might be the song that became a turning point allowing Madonna to sustain such a long career.
At the time, it wasn’t well received by people who wanted the breezy dance beats typical of Madonna.
Even for ballads, they felt it wasn’t “Madonna-like” unless it was something sweet like Crazy for You.
But this is a masterpiece that deepens the more you listen.
I believe the lyrics are by her and the music by her co-writer, P.
Leonard, and Madonna’s greatness lies in having the breadth to embrace a song like this.
Can’t Fight This FeelingREO Speed Wagon
Reached No.
1 in the U.S.
in 1985.
A massive hit ballad in a style they excel at.
They were once dubbed “the most famous band in America that doesn’t sell,” but their steady dedication to live performances paid off when Keep On Loving You became a surprise No.
1 hit in the U.S.
in 1981.
For some reason, they’re a band that makes you feel “if you work hard, you’ll be rewarded.” It doesn’t have much to do with the lyrics, but the music video, which reflects on a person’s life, makes me cry every time I watch it.
Sweet Child o MineGuns N’ Roses
Formed in 1985, Guns N’ Roses has continued their activities despite numerous lineup changes.
They scored many hits in the late 1980s and became a globally popular band, but among their songs, “Sweet Child o’ Mine” was especially beloved.
The memorable guitar intro and Axl Rose’s distinctive vocals further elevate the appeal of this track.
Don’t Answer MeThe Alan Parsons Project
In the 1980s, the heyday of MTV, this music video was especially impactful.
It’s a ballad by The Alan Parsons Project, known for their hit “Eye in the Sky.” The comic book–style visuals pair perfectly with the nostalgic melody—a classic that epitomizes a bright, optimistic era.
Cum On Feel The NoizeQuiet Riot
After the band’s founder Randy Rhoads left to join Ozzy Osbourne, they began activities with a revamped lineup.
In 1983, this cover of a Slade song became a massive hit, making them the first heavy metal band to reach No.
1 in the U.S., but they struggled afterward and disbanded in 1989.
Crazy for YouMadonna
Madonna, the American singer known as the “Queen of Pop.” This work is a signature ballad that reinvented her image and led her into new territory.
It was the first time the dance-pop star delivered a tender love song, expressing in a straightforward way the uncontrollable, passionate feelings of falling head over heels for someone.
Produced in March 1985 as the theme song for the film Vision Quest, it reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts in May of the same year.
It also became the milestone that earned Madonna her first Grammy nomination.
If you listen to it while experiencing a bittersweet romance, it will surely resonate with your heart.
Its sweet, romantic melody evokes the dazzling nights of the 1980s.