Love songs in Western music that were hits in the 1980s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
The 1980s—a decade that gave birth to countless masterpieces.
Many of the hit songs from that era were incredibly impactful and are still used across various media today.
This time, we’re introducing works that became mega-hits in the ’80s!
We’ve picked selections from a wide range of genres—R&B, rock, pop, and more—so you’re sure to find a favorite.
Even if you didn’t grow up in the ’80s, there are plenty of songs you’ll recognize, especially if you’re in your teens or twenties.
Young listeners, be sure to check them out!
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Love songs in Western music that were hits in the 80s. World-famous and popular songs (31–40)
AlwaysAtlantic Starr
“Always” is a song released by Atlantic Starr in 1987.
It was a big hit at the time, reaching number one on the Billboard charts.
In Japan, it’s often used as a wedding song.
It’s a beautiful love song featuring harmonies between male and female vocals.
JoannaKool and The Gang
“Joanna” is a song released by Kool & The Gang in 1983.
It’s a sweet, slow number that became a big hit at the time in both the United States and the United Kingdom, and its title is the name of a woman, Joanna.
The lyrics, which directly express tender feelings for the woman named Joanna, are part of its appeal.
Every Little Thing She Does Is MagicThe Police
This masterpiece gently sings of the bittersweet feelings of a man captivated by unrequited love, its uniquely Police-style, inventive arrangement striking a deep chord.
The melancholic yet romantic lyrical worldview is beautifully balanced with a bold sound that fuses new wave and reggae.
Released in 1981 as a single from the album Ghost in the Machine, it topped the charts in the UK and several other countries, and its forward-thinking use of piano and synthesizers also drew attention.
It’s a perfect choice for conveying pure love—whether as a wedding performance or in a proposal to someone special.
TrulyLionel Richie
When it comes to love songs from the 1980s, you can’t leave out Lionel Richie.
After his success as a member of the Commodores, he made his solo debut in 1982, captivating many with catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
This song, included on his solo debut album “Lionel Richie,” is a romantic ballad filled with deep affection.
Richie’s warm vocals and lyrics pledging passionate love resonate deeply with listeners.
With its message of eternal love, the song became a massive hit, dominating the U.
S.
charts.
As one of the defining love songs of the ’80s, it continues to be cherished by many to this day.
Up Where We BelongJoe Cocker & Jennifer Warnes
“Up Where We Belong” is a song released in 1982 by Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes.
It served as the theme song for the film “An Officer and a Gentleman” and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
As a duet featured in a film with romantic elements, it is also popular as a love song.
Love songs in Western music that were hits in the 80s: World-famous and popular songs (41–50)
Almost ParadiseMike Reno & Ann Wilson
“Almost Paradise” is a song performed by Mike Reno and Ann Wilson, released in 1984.
It was used as an insert song in the film Footloose and became a hit.
This ballad love song drew attention for its luxurious pairing—a duet between Mike Reno, the vocalist of Loverboy, and Ann Wilson, the vocalist of Heart.
In conclusion
While selecting the songs this time, I got the impression that many Western songs from the 1980s are still played widely across various media today.
I think there were many tracks that even teenagers would recognize.
At Lug Music, in addition to this article, we also feature Western music from various decades such as the 70s and 90s, so please check those out as well.