![[1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80's Best Hit Songs](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/VdQY7BusJNU/maxresdefault.webp)
The 1980s brought changes to music history and had a huge influence on later musicians.
Cyndi Lauper, Culture Club, Madonna, Earth, Wind & Fire.
.
.
Even those who didn’t live through the era can sink into a sense of nostalgia that feels familiar somehow.
Compared to modern songs, the classics of the ’80s often boast purer song quality and stronger musical structure—or, seen another way, the larger market meant bigger budgets, letting you enjoy luxuriously produced sounds.
Find a favorite track and really dive into it!
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[1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80’s Best Hit Songs (1–10)
Time After TimeCyndi Lauper
A female singer who churned out a string of big hits in the 1980s with her distinctive “seven-colored” singing voice, unique fashion, and outstanding vocal ability.
She’s also known as a New Japan Pro-Wrestling fan and even appeared on the Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
Now over 60, she continues to be active with great energy.
Don’t Stop Believin’Journey
It can be considered one of Journey’s signature songs.
With the message of “don’t stop believing,” its vibe fits perfectly.
The band has continued to thrive while evolving their musical style through member changes, a breakup, and a reunion.
Later, in Japan, it became a classic that many remembered again when it was featured in a Nissan Elgrand commercial.
Heaven is a Place on EarthBelinda Carlisle
This song by Belinda Carlisle is included on her second studio album, released in 1987, and it reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Its lyrics convey that heaven exists here on earth and that love truly matters.
It’s often used in commercials and TV programs in Japan as well.
It’s one of those soothing, comforting songs, isn’t it?
Take My Breath AwayBerlin
This is the award-winning ballad that served as the love theme for the 1986 blockbuster film Top Gun, honored with an Academy Award.
It was performed by the American band Berlin, with the composition handled by disco maestro Giorgio Moroder.
Teri Nunn’s passionate, soulful vocals leave a strong impression.
The bittersweet yet burning emotions of falling in love—so overwhelming you can hardly breathe—resonate warmly alongside the majestic synthesizer tones.
Released in June 1986, the song reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
singles chart.
It’s sure to make a romantic evening with someone special even more dramatic.
I Miss YouKlymaxx
Klymaxx is an all-female R&B band from Los Angeles whose members play their own instruments and handle songwriting and production.
This work is a gem of a ballad written by keyboardist Lynn Malsby, based on her own experiences.
The pure feeling of still not being able to forget someone you’ve grown apart from and longing to see them again is something anyone who’s suffered heartbreak can painfully relate to.
Lead vocalist Joyce Irby’s poignant voice blends with the beautiful tones of the synthesizer, drawing you into a sentimental world.
Released as a single from the classic album “Meeting in the Ladies Room” in November 1985, the song reached No.
5 on the U.
S.
charts and remained a hit for 29 weeks.
It may be the kind of song that gently keeps you company on nights when you want to sit quietly with your thoughts.
I Love Rock ‘n’ RollJoan Jett & The Blackhearts
Released in January 1982, this rock anthem cemented the popularity of American rock band Joan Jett & the Blackhearts.
It was a massive hit, dominating the U.
S.
singles chart at No.
1 for seven weeks.
The powerful guitar riff and rousing handclaps contain the kind of rock magic that gets your body moving before you even think about it.
The track is a single from the classic album “I Love Rock ’n’ Roll,” and some may remember it being featured in the film “10 Things I Hate About You.” Unconditional love for rock ’n’ roll and the joy of connecting with people through music—those pure feelings come straight to the heart, carried by a powerful vocal.
Why not give it a listen on a morning when you want to start your day on a high note?
Livin’ On A PrayerBon Jovi
They are one of the most successful rock bands in the world.
In Japan in particular, they have enjoyed tremendous popularity since their debut in 1986, and in 2003 they became the first act, domestic or international, to successfully complete a five-dome tour.
The band’s leader, Jon Bon Jovi, is also active as an actor.