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 (51–60)
Just Like ParadiseDavid Lee Roth
One of the quintessential hits of the ’80s, wrapped in the sparkling vibe of summer.
Released as David Lee Roth’s solo single in January 1988, it became a major success, reaching No.
6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spending four consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Mainstream Rock chart.
Co-produced with guitarist Steve Vai, its refined sound and optimistic lyrics celebrating youth and freedom are irresistible.
The music video even features rock-climbing scenes shot in Yosemite National Park.
It’s a perfect track not only for young people eager to make summer memories, but also for adults looking to reminisce about the glory of their youth.
Wild Summer NightsEddie&The Cruisers
“Wild Summer Nights” is also a quintessential summer song of the ’80s.
John Cafferty wrote it specifically for the musical drama Eddie and the Cruisers.
It’s a rock track with pleasantly ringing guitars.
The lyrics depict young people cutting loose on summer nights, capturing their sense of invincibility and rising excitement.
A key point is that it also includes lines hinting that youth will eventually come to an end.
If This Is ItHuey Lewis & The News
When it comes to American bands that define the ’80s, this group has got to be it.
Their theme song for the movie Back to the Future, Power of Love, is famous, but this track is also a summer staple.
It’s a bittersweet love song where he pleads, “If we’re over, please just say it clearly,” yet the sound is endlessly happy.
Don’t You Want MeThe Human League
You can’t talk about the peak of British synth-pop without this song: The Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me.” It’s included on the 1981 album Dare.
Whether it’s the bassline or the vocal melody, once you hear it, it won’t leave your head—an irresistibly catchy track.
Also pay attention to the lyrics, which depict a major breakup unfolding from both male and female perspectives.
Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the 1980s (61–70)
Danger ZoneKenny Loggins
In the Western music scene of the 1980s, many people would probably name this song as one of the tracks that most evokes “summer.” Also famous as an insert song in the film Top Gun, this Kenny Loggins number is marked by an energetic, aggressive vibe.
The assertive drum sound that screams ’80s, the driving guitar riffs, and the powerful vocals all leave a strong impression.
Released in 1986, it reached No.
2 on the U.
S.
Billboard chart.
As a song written specifically for the film, it has remained vibrant and unfaded to this day.
It’s the perfect track for a summer drive or for those moments when you want to push your own limits.
CherishKool and The Gang
The intro, where the plaintive tones of a piano layer over an SE of seagulls calling and waves rolling, evokes a summer evening, doesn’t it? “Cherish” is a hit released in 1985 by Kool & the Gang, a group that has been active in the soul and funk scene since their formation in 1964.
Even among the many hits they churned out in the ’80s, this is likely the first number that comes to mind for many when you say “a summer song.” With lead vocalist J.
T.
Taylor delivering a sweet, soaring performance, this medium-tempo, pop-tinged urban soul classic boasts a beautiful, soothing melody.
Its subtly wistful sound is perfect for cooling down a body flushed by the midsummer heat.
Caribbean QueenBilly Ocean
Billy Ocean broke through with his 1984 album Suddenly.
This single, which was released from the album, made him a star.
He then followed it up with another hit, When the Going Gets Tough, the theme song for the adventure film The Jewel of the Nile starring Michael Douglas.