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 were hits in the ’80s (41–50)
Little JeannieElton John
A track released as a single by Elton John in 1980.
It was written together with his songwriter friend Gary Osborne.
The track reached No.
1 on the charts in the United States and Canada and was certified Gold.
Golden Age of Western Music! Recommended Summer Songs That Hit in the ’80s (51–60)
Summer’s HereJames Taylor
I’d like to introduce “Summer’s Here” as a song that lets you feel the arrival of summer.
It’s a work by singer-songwriter James Taylor.
As the title suggests, it portrays the coming of summer and the enjoyment of the season.
The sound has a relaxed vibe with hints of jazz.
Combined with the laid-back vocals, it puts listeners at ease.
It seems perfect for relaxing at the beach or by the pool.
ManiacMichael Sembello
This is the song “Maniac” by American singer-songwriter Michael Sembello.
It became famous as part of the soundtrack for the film Flashdance.
It is included on the 1983 album Bossa Nova Hotel.
While the song is fast-paced and a high-energy dance number, it’s also a treasure trove of beautiful melodies.
Michael Sembello has a wild aura, yet his voice carries a delicate quality.
Let yourself be captivated by that contrast!
Jessie’s GirlRIck Springfield
A track released as a single in 1981 by Australian singer Rick Springfield.
It reached No.
1 on the charts in the United States and Australia and won a Grammy Award.
It was used in the 2004 film “13 Going on 30.”
Papa Don’t PreachMadonna
A single released from the 1986 album True Blue.
It reached number one on the U.
S.
Billboard charts; the literal translation of the title is “Papa, stop lecturing me.” The lyrics tell the story of a young, unmarried girl who becomes pregnant and decides to have the baby, and its socially charged focus on the risks of teenage romance sparked widespread discussion.
GhostbustersRay Parker Jr.
This is the theme song of the long-beloved movie Ghostbusters.
It’s sung by American musician Ray Parker Jr.
I’d say it’s no exaggeration to call it the 1980s version of “Obake nante nai sa”! The whole track brims with playfulness and a bit of cheeky mischief.
Ray Parker Jr.
’s rich, low vocals are incredibly sexy—absolutely fantastic!
The One That You LoveAir Supply
When you think of Air Supply, the soft rock group from Australia, the AOR boom of the ’80s brings to mind romantic summer scenes.
Known widely in Japan by the title “Seaside Love,” this song is the title track from their sixth album, The One That You Love, released in 1981.
Both the album and the single were major hits, and many people will recall the hot air balloon on the album cover.
The song features a beautiful melody colored by crystal-clear high tones and skillful choral work, along with an elegant band ensemble.
Interestingly, the lyrics don’t actually include any summery words.
Even so, the mood of the song and its Japanese title somehow match perfectly—a charmingly ’80s kind of quirk.