1980s: Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Classic and Hit Songs
When it comes to the 1980s, it’s often called the “golden era” of Western rock music.
From the perspective of rock bands, it was a time when many veteran groups—still active today—made their debuts, and countless worldwide hits that went down in history were born.
This time, we’re spotlighting hit songs and classics by Western rock bands from that very 1980s!
Alongside energetic, quintessentially ’80s rock numbers and stadium-ready ballads, we’ve assembled a varied lineup that also reflects the era’s birth of the so-called New Wave—unbound by traditional rock—and the alternative rock that would lead into the 1990s.
- Legendary Western rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s
- Top Western Music Artists of the 1980s: Ranking [2025]
- [1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80's Best Hit Songs
- Nothing but classics! A nostalgic collection of ’80s Western ballads
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco
- Love songs in Western music that were hits in the 1980s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
- Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the 80s
- Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the ’90s
- [Grabs Your Heart] A Compilation of Western Songs with Cool Intros [2025]
- Hidden gems of Western music. Lesser-known songs.
- 90s Rock Revolution! A Collection of Masterpieces by Western Bands That Colored the 90s
- [Western Music] Cool Three-Piece Bands: Recommended Trios Roundup [2025]
- [A Collection of Classics] Nostalgic 70s Western Hit Songs
[1980s] Masterpieces and Hit Songs by Legendary Western Rock Bands (61–70)
Owner Of A Lonely HeartYES
“Owner Of A Lonely Heart” is a song released in 1983 by Yes, a band that had been a leading force in progressive rock.
Its accessible, pop-oriented style—completely different from their previous sound—surprised fans.
The song reached number one on the charts in many countries and added a new chapter to the band’s history.
I Want to Know What Love IsForeigner
Known as a work that shines brilliantly in the 1980s rock scene, this song is one of Foreigner’s signature tracks, powerfully voicing a soul’s cry in search of the essence of love.
Released in 1984 as the lead single from the band’s fifth album, Agent Provocateur, it reached No.
1 on both the US and UK charts and became a major hit worldwide, including in Australia and Canada.
Born from Mick Jones’s personal experiences, the song explores a universal theme—the pursuit of love’s true nature—that resonates with many and continues to captivate listeners without losing its luster.
It’s recommended not only for those struggling with matters of the heart but also for anyone standing at a crossroads in life.
Its heartfelt lyrics and sweeping sound will soothe your spirit and give you the courage to take a new step forward.
Mr. RobotoStyx
Styx is an American band.
They specialized in hard rock with progressive elements.
“Mr.
Roboto” is a distinctive song included on the 1983 album “Kilroy Was Here,” which drew attention for featuring Japanese lyrics.
Call MeBlondie
Blondie is an American new wave band fronted by the blonde beauty Debbie Harry.
With a unique blend of punkish energy and pop sensibility unlike other bands, they captivated many fans.
Call Me is one of their most famous songs, topping both the UK and US charts in 1980.
ViennaUltravox
Characterized by its grand synthesizer sound and Midge Ure’s emotional vocals, this classic track portrays a fragile yet passionate romance set against the backdrop of Cold War–era Vienna.
Released in October 1980, it reached No.
2 on the UK Singles Chart.
Its visually rich music video, evocative of the film The Third Man, also drew attention.
Blending the darkness of post-punk with the grandeur of classical music, it has a unique atmosphere that makes you want to listen while walking through the city at night.
It’s a recommended song for those feeling the end of a romance or a sense of loss.
Ghost TownCheap Trick
Cheap Trick is an American band formed in the 1970s.
Although they’re often associated with a lively, bouncy image, in the 1980s they also performed more mature ballads like this one.
It’s included on their 1988 album “Cheap Trick.”
ABRACADABRASteve Miller Band
The Steve Miller Band is an American band.
They were already formed in the 1960s and are said to still be active today, making them a remarkably long-running band.
In 2016, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
“Abracadabra” is their massive hit released in 1982.