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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- Songs That Make You Cry: Heart-Wrenching Western Music—from Timeless Classics to the Newest Hits
- Recommended youth songs for people in their 80s: A collection of nostalgic classics
- Nostalgic or fresh? Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs from the 1980s
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- [2025 Updated Edition] Western songs to listen to in summer: recommended summer tracks
- Classic Western hip-hop songs recommended for summer
Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that hit in the ’80s (121–130)
Toy SoldiersMartika
A track that sings about drug addiction.
It was released in 1989 by American singer-songwriter Martika and became a hit worldwide.
It was sampled in Eminem’s 2004 track “Like Toy Soldiers.”
Summer of LoveThe B-52’s
The B-52’s are known for their pop sound featuring keyboards.
When it comes to their summer love songs, “Summer of Love” comes to mind.
It’s a track included on the album “Bouncing Off the Satellites,” and it’s a dance number about a summer romance.
The lively keyboard sound and harmonies will lift your spirits.
With its fresh, cool vibe, it’s perfect for hot days.
I’m So ExcitedThe Pointer Sisters
A pop-groove track released in 1982 by the American R&B group The Pointer Sisters.
It became a hit in the United States and various European countries.
The track has been featured in many films, including Summer Lovers.
What’s Love Got To Do With ItTina Turner
Tina Turner, an American singer-songwriter who gained popularity for her musical style that added a rock flavor to Black music, had a powerful voice and was also very popular in Japan.
Among her works, a song especially recommended for summer is What’s Love Got To Do With It.
This track strongly reflects adult contemporary and R&B elements, giving it an overall mature vibe.
The golden age of Western pop! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the 80s (131–140)
Don’t Stop BelievinJourney
Journey is a rock band that enjoyed immense popularity in the 1980s rock scene.
They’re also extremely popular in Japan and still have many fans today.
Among Journey’s many classic songs, one I especially recommend is Don’t Stop Believin’.
Released in 1981, it pairs a fresh, energetic melody with story-style lyrics.
Its sound is perfect for a morning or midday drive, so be sure to add it to your leisure soundtrack!
In conclusion
The 1980s—when music, fashion, and culture were all flashy and glamorous—are a perfect match for summer, aren’t they? As you’ve probably gathered from this article, we’ve prepared not only uptempo tracks to heat up the hot summer, but also gentle, romantic songs.
Find the perfect track for your summer, use it as your BGM, and enjoy a wonderful summer life!