Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the 80s
When it comes to the music scene of the ’80s, it’s often said that here in Japan, Western music was at its most dazzling, and the era produced countless hit songs that remain vivid in both memory and record.
With the disco boom, the spread of synthesizers that brought glittering, flashy sounds, and the visual strategies built around music videos following the birth of MTV, a succession of legendary superstars emerged.
In this article, we’ve focused on summer hits from the ’80s, while also weaving in tracks with a summery feel and timeless songs that seem perfect for listening to in the summer.
For those who lived through the era, it’s nostalgic; for younger listeners, it’s fresh.
Enjoy this selection of hits!
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The Golden Age of Western Music! Recommended Summer Songs That Hit in the ’80s (’81–’90)
Coming UpPaul McCartney
This is the song Coming Up by Paul McCartney, a former member of the legendary rock band The Beatles.
It’s included on the album McCartney II, released during his solo career.
The track makes extensive use of synthesizers and vocal effects, showcasing the same experimental spirit he had in the Beatles era.
Its intricately interwoven rhythms are sure to get under your skin!
Eye Of The TigerSurvivor
It’s Survivor’s well-known “Eye of the Tiger.” That’s right—the BGM that always plays at the climax of TBS’s TV special “All-Star Thanksgiving” during the Akasaka 5-chome Mini Marathon.
The song was a huge hit as the theme for Rocky III.
Released in 1982, it topped the U.
S.
Billboard charts, reached number one in both the UK and Australia, and won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance.
SacrificeElton John
The song “Sacrifice,” known for its poignant lyrics about the breakup of a man and a woman, is a classic by Elton John, one of the United Kingdom’s most renowned singer-songwriters.
Released in 1989, it became his first song to reach number one on the UK charts and was a worldwide hit.
It features his signature blend of catchy yet laid-back sound.
For that reason, it’s recommended for those who want to spend the summer with a relaxed track.
You Belong to the CityGlenn Frey
If fellow Eagles member Don Henley’s summer song is “The Boys of Summer,” then Glenn Frey’s signature summer number would be “You Belong to the City.” Written specifically for the 1980s smash-hit crime drama Miami Vice, it was included on the show’s soundtrack and also became a hit single, reaching No.
2 on the U.
S.
Billboard chart.
It’s an urban AOR track you can enjoy for its evocative, romantic saxophone, and Glenn’s wistful vocals are superb.
Put on this mellow, urbane song—steeped in adult sophistication—while you’re driving, and you might just feel like a dashing man spending a hot summer in Miami, at least in spirit.
Wake Me Up Before You Go-GoWham!
Wham, a duo that’s hugely popular in Japan as well.
When you think of Wham, “Last Christmas” probably comes to mind, so many people associate them with winter.
But in fact, they’ve released quite a few tracks that are perfect for summer.
Among Wham’s summer-vibe songs, my top recommendation is “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.” The catchy intro and rhythmic vocals really give off a summery feel.
Be sure to use it as background music while traveling or enjoying leisure activities.
Sunset GrillDon Henley
No introduction is needed at this point, but Don Henley, the Eagles’ drummer and vocalist.
When it comes to his summer songs, it has to be the 1984 smash hit “The Boys of Summer.” On the other hand, “Sunset Grill” is also quite a gem.
It climbed to No.
22 on the U.
S.
charts in 1985.
Golden Age of Western Music! Recommended Summer Songs That Hit in the ’80s (91–100)
Sealed With A KissJason Donovan
Born in Australia.
Active since childhood as a child actor, and became an idol in her teens.
In the 1980s, she became popular in Japan through a duet with Kylie Minogue.
This song is an oldies number known in Japan as “Namida no Kuchizuke” (Tears of a Kiss).
Many artists, including Brian Hyland and The Lettermen, have covered it.