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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Golden Age of Western Music! Recommended Summer Songs That Hit in the ’80s (111–120)
Pour Some Sugar On MeDef Leppard
This song features an ear-catching guitar riff and an unforgettable chorus that delivers a refreshing sensation, as if blowing away the summer heat.
It’s included on the 1987 album Hysteria and achieved major success, peaking at No.
2 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100.
The lyrics symbolically depict a sensual experience, sparking the listener’s imagination.
Combined with Joe Elliott’s powerful vocals, it’s a track that lets you fully savor the liberating feeling of summer.
It’s perfect for listening to on a hot summer night while driving with friends.
Ideal not only for classic rock fans but also for anyone looking for energetic music.
Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)Eurythmics
This is the song Sweet Dreams by Eurythmics, the charismatic duo of the British synth-pop scene.
It was included on the self-titled album released in 1983.
Major artists like Avicii and Marilyn Manson have released covers of it.
Even in different eras, something about the song must have resonated with them.
It has had a tremendous influence on many musicians.
And Annie Lennox—also known for her activism—delivers a powerful vocal performance that is undeniably captivating.
It’s a highly addictive track.
Paradise CityGuns N’ Roses
Guns N’ Roses is a hard rock band from the United States that racked up hit after hit in the 1980s and remains hugely popular in Japan.
They’ve released numerous classic songs, and among them, the one I especially recommend is Paradise City.
It’s a track from their 1987 debut album, Appetite for Destruction, and it was released as a single in November of the following year thanks to its exceptional quality.
At 6 minutes and 46 seconds, it’s a long song, but every phrase is crafted with such detail that you never get bored with its progression.
It stands as one of the finest works in the history of hard rock, so if you love rock music, be sure to check it out.
Flashdance… What A FeelingIrene Cara
The theme song from the 1983 film Flashdance.
Released by American singer-songwriter and actress Irene Cara, it reached No.
1 on charts around the world.
The track won a Grammy Award, an Academy Award, and a Golden Globe.
Crazy Crazy NightsKISS
When it comes to a feverish anthem that colored the summers of the ’80s, this track is indispensable.
The energetic anthem unleashed by KISS seems to embody those truly “crazy” summer nights.
With lyrics that cherish individuality and celebrate the power of music, it delivers a positive message perfect for the hot season.
Released in September 1987 as the first single from the album Crazy Nights, the song achieved the remarkable feat of reaching No.
4 in the UK.
Alongside Paul Stanley’s powerful vocals, Bruce Kulick’s guitar riffs leave a strong impression.
It’s a highly recommended track for amping up that free-spirited mood—whether on a summer drive or at a BBQ with friends.
All Night LongLionel Richie
Lionel Richie is a singer-songwriter and pop star who achieved extraordinary success not only in Black music but in the history of popular music as a whole.
Originally active with the group the Commodores, Lionel showcased not only his sweet, velvety vocals but also his talent as a composer, providing songs to other artists and earning high acclaim.
After going solo, he released his second album, Can’t Slow Down, in 1983, which became a massive hit—and it includes All Night Long (All Night).
This track topped the U.
S.
charts and is an upbeat, danceable pop tune perfect for energizing midsummer parties.
The percussion with a world music feel and the lyrics that sound like they’re in an African language make it a pure joy to listen to.
FunkytownLipps Inc
This song can be considered a quintessential disco hit that swept the world in 1980.
Its catchy synth riff and robot-like sound effects are unforgettable.
The lyrics expressing a desire to “move to a city that suits me” capture the aspirations and wishes of people at the time.
Featured on Lipps Inc.
’s debut album Mouth to Mouth, it reached number one in 28 countries and sold over eight million copies.
It remains a popular track frequently used in films and television shows.
Put it on at a summer party or BBQ and the energy will skyrocket.
It’s also perfect for anyone who wants to soak up the vibe of 1980s disco.