[Adult-Oriented Rock] A roundup of artists and bands that represent AOR
A polished, urban ensemble performed by masterful players, smooth melodies, and a sophisticated, grown-up vibe—that’s the image many of us have of the AOR genre.
AOR reached its peak from the late 1970s to the 1980s, but interestingly, the term is actually a Japanese coinage meaning “Adult-Oriented Rock.”
It’s also fascinating that in Japan, albums and songs by artists and bands from a variety of genres—rock, fusion, soul music, and more—are popularly labeled as “AOR.”
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of artists and bands that represent AOR.
If you’re new to the genre, be sure to check them out.
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[Adult Rock] A summary of representative AOR artists and bands (1–10)
After The Love Is GoneAIRPLAY
Airplay is an American AOR unit formed in 1980 by David Foster and Jay Graydon.
Classified under rock, AOR, and fusion, the group added Tommy Funderburk as lead vocalist and released their sole, self-titled album that same year, Romantic.
Foster and Graydon were already established as studio musicians and producers, and the recording featured members of TOTO alongside other prominent West Coast musicians.
Although the project did not attract major attention in the United States, it earned high acclaim and popularity in Japan as a classic of 1980s West Coast rock and AOR.
Its urbane, sophisticated ensemble playing by masterful musicians, coupled with soothing melodies and a mature atmosphere, still makes it a compelling listen for fans of AOR and West Coast rock today.
Gotta Get Back To LoveBill Champlin
Bill Champlin is a powerhouse American musician who combines the talents of singer, keyboardist, and guitarist, active across a wide range of genres.
His versatile musicality—spanning pop, rock, R&B, jazz, and blues—has been on full display throughout his career with the Sons of Champlin, which he formed in 1965; his tenure with the rock band Chicago from 1981 to 2009; and his solo work.
Beginning with 1978’s Single, his ambitious solo albums throughout the 1990s—such as No Wasted Moments and Burn Down the Night—and his co-writing of two Grammy-winning songs highlight his prowess as a songwriter.
He is a distinguished vocalist especially recommended for adult AOR fans.
Heart to HeartKenny Loggins
American singer-songwriter Kenny Loggins is especially well known in the soft rock genre.
He debuted in the early 1970s as one half of the duo Loggins & Messina with Jim Messina, releasing seven albums and gaining popularity particularly through live performances on American college campuses.
He launched his solo career in 1977, earning a platinum record with the album “Celebrate Me Home.” In the 1980s, he scored a string of major hits with songs like the theme from “Footloose” and the theme for “Top Gun,” earning him the nickname “the king of movie soundtracks.” He also won a Grammy Award for “What a Fool Believes,” a collaboration with Michael McDonald.
He’s a recommended artist for fans of city pop and AOR.
[Adult Rock] A roundup of artists and bands representing AOR (11–20)
On And OnStephen Bishop
Stephen Bishop is a skilled singer-songwriter from the United States.
His music is generally categorized as pop/rock and AOR, and he began his career in the late 1970s.
He is known for hit songs like “On and On” and “Save It for a Rainy Day,” and his romantic sound can be said to epitomize the California pop scene.
“Separate Lives” was written for a film and received high acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination.
With a catalog of over 650 songs and a track record of being covered by renowned artists, his achievements are truly impressive.
His music—urban and stylish, yet tinged with nostalgia—is a gem that adult AOR fans in particular should not miss.
Escape (The Pina Colada Song)Rupert Holmes
Rupert Holmes, a singer-songwriter from the United Kingdom, began his career in the late 1970s and has gained popularity for his intelligent lyrics and narrative-driven songs.
He is best known for hits like “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” and “Him,” characterized by their romantic orchestration.
Discovered by Barbra Streisand, he contributed songs to her albums as well.
In addition to music, he has earned high acclaim as a playwright, receiving honors such as the Tony Award and the Edgar Award.
Please enjoy his sophisticated AOR sound and lyrics brimming with humor.
Under The Jamaican MoonNick Decaro
Known for his sophisticated arrangements and soothing melodies, Nick DeCaro was an American arranger, record producer, and singer-songwriter.
Working primarily in the AOR genre, he handled vocals and keyboards.
He made major contributions to the A&M Records catalog starting in 1967, and his 1969 album “Happy Heart with Nick DeCaro and Orchestra” showcased his multifaceted talent to the fullest.
His 1974 album “Italian Graffiti,” featuring David T.
Walker and others, became a classic that highlights Nick’s signature luxurious string arrangements, ranging from pop bossa to edgier sounds.
Throughout his career, he arranged and produced for a roster of distinguished artists including James Taylor and Maria Muldaur, and he is also recognized as an influential figure who impacted the Carpenters, Tatsuro Yamashita, and Keiko Maruyama.
His sound—combining refinement and comfort—continues to shine without losing its luster.
I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near)Michael McDonald
Michael McDonald is an artist who demonstrates exceptional talent as both a vocalist and a keyboardist.
An American singer-songwriter, he is one of the artists known for creating a sophisticated, urbane AOR sound.
He began his career in the mid-1970s as a member of the rock band the Doobie Brothers, making his mark with hits like “Takin’ It to the Streets” and “What a Fool Believes.” As a solo artist, he scored hits such as “I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near)” and “Sweet Freedom,” consistently releasing superb AOR tracks that blend soulful vocals with rich keyboard textures.
Having won multiple Grammy Awards, Michael’s illustrious achievements and musicality continue to be loved across generations.