7 Classic Rock Duets That Took Over The ’80s

The 1980s were more than just big hair and guitar solos—they were also a golden era for unforgettable rock duets. During this decade, artists from different backgrounds came together to create tracks that combined raw emotion, electrifying vocals, and stadium-ready sound. These collaborations didn’t just top charts—they became part of the rock canon, shaping how we remember the decade’s music.

Duets in rock music brought something unique to the genre. They introduced contrast and chemistry, often blending vocal styles and personalities in ways that single-artist tracks couldn’t. Whether it was a gruff rocker paired with a silky-voiced crooner or two powerhouse vocalists trading lines in a climactic chorus, these songs stood out and demanded repeat listens.

The following list highlights seven classic rock duets that not only defined the 1980s but also proved how two voices could carry a single song to legendary status. From emotional ballads to fiery anthems, these tracks captured the spirit of collaboration—and the sound of a decade.

1. Ozzy Osbourne & Lita Ford – “Close My Eyes Forever” (1988)

“Close My Eyes Forever” stands out as an unexpected and hauntingly powerful ballad from two artists not typically associated with tender duets. The collaboration came together largely thanks to Sharon Osbourne, who managed both her husband, Ozzy, and former Runaways guitarist Lita Ford at the time. Her dual role made the pairing seamless and gave birth to one of the most iconic rock duets of the decade.

The song is a dramatic power ballad that explores themes of love, loss, and mortality. Ozzy’s gritty, haunting voice contrasts beautifully with Lita’s strong but melodic tone, creating a duet that’s equal parts vulnerable and intense. The emotional push and pull between their vocals added a dark edge that resonated with fans across the rock and metal spectrum.

“Close My Eyes Forever” became a surprising hit, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100—a rare feat for a metal-leaning ballad. It showcased a softer side of both artists without compromising their rock credibility, making it not only a commercial success but also a defining moment in both of their careers.

2. David Bowie & Mick Jagger – “Dancing In The Street” (1985)

When David Bowie and Mick Jagger joined forces to cover Martha and the Vandellas’ “Dancing In The Street,” the result was electric. The collaboration was more than just a star-studded duet—it was a philanthropic effort tied to the Live Aid movement. The song and its famously energetic music video helped raise awareness and funds for famine relief in Africa.

Bowie and Jagger, both giants in their own right, brought infectious energy to the track. Their version was more playful and theatrical than the original, with the two visibly enjoying themselves while performing. The spontaneity and charisma in the performance gave the song a new identity that reflected the flamboyance and freedom of the ’80s.

Despite receiving mixed critical reception for its over-the-top delivery, “Dancing In The Street” became a cultural moment. It topped the UK charts and remains a symbol of star power used for good. The duet proved that even a fun, hastily put-together project could leave a lasting mark on music history.

3. INXS & Jimmy Barnes – “Good Times” (1987)

Australia’s rock scene reached peak power with the explosive duet between INXS and Jimmy Barnes. Their rendition of “Good Times,” originally by The Easybeats, injected new life into the classic with a high-octane performance that showcased both the sleekness of INXS and the raw vocal energy of Barnes.

The collaboration wasn’t just about revisiting an old hit—it was about pushing the boundaries of Aussie rock. The duet captured the era’s adrenaline and was featured in The Lost Boys, a cult classic film that blended horror and teen rebellion. The placement of the track in the movie helped give it a broader international appeal.

“Good Times” remains one of the most beloved Aussie rock duets of all time. The chemistry between Barnes and INXS gave the song a dynamic edge that reflected the diversity and talent coming out of Australia’s rock scene in the ’80s. It’s a prime example of a cover done right—respecting the original while completely owning the reinterpretation.

4. Mike Reno & Ann Wilson – “Almost Paradise” (1984)

Few duets capture the essence of ’80s romantic drama quite like “Almost Paradise” by Mike Reno of Loverboy and Ann Wilson of Heart. Featured in the soundtrack of Footloose, the song instantly became a defining slow dance anthem, riding on the emotional highs and lows of the film’s storyline.

Reno and Wilson’s vocals are a perfect match—each powerful in their own right, but harmonizing to bring out the emotion behind every lyric. The track’s swelling production and lyrical sentimentality made it a go-to ballad for couples and prom playlists across the country.

Beyond its cinematic roots, “Almost Paradise” solidified both Reno and Wilson as more than just lead singers of their respective bands—it gave them a platform to explore storytelling through a different kind of intimacy. The duet’s enduring popularity is a testament to the emotional impact a well-crafted ballad can have.

5. Stevie Nicks & Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers – “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” (1981)

Stevie Nicks and Tom Petty’s iconic collaboration didn’t come out of nowhere—it was years in the making. Nicks, a massive fan of Petty’s songwriting, had long hoped to work with him. That dream became a reality when Petty gifted her a track that eventually became the standout lead single from her debut solo album, Bella Donna.

“Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” blends Nicks’ smoky, mystical aura with Petty’s laid-back, rockabilly sensibility. The track’s groove is undeniable, and the call-and-response format between the two gives it a conversational, almost confrontational tone that added to its appeal.

The song’s success helped launch Nicks’ solo career while also cementing her creative bond with Petty. It was more than just a one-off collaboration—it was a meeting of musical minds that gave fans a taste of something they never knew they needed until they heard it.

6. Queen & David Bowie – “Under Pressure” (1981)

What started as an impromptu studio jam turned into one of rock’s most recognizable anthems. “Under Pressure” emerged from a spontaneous session between Queen and David Bowie, two musical forces with massive creative personalities. What followed was a tug-of-war of ideas, egos, and ultimately, brilliance.

According to Brian May, the recording session was a bit of a battlefield. With Bowie taking over lyrically and Mercury pushing the vocal boundaries, the track became a layered, emotionally charged piece. Despite—or perhaps because of—the tension, the final product captured something raw and urgent that resonated with audiences.

“Under Pressure” has since become an enduring classic, covered and sampled by many, including in Vanilla Ice’s infamous “Ice Ice Baby.” But the original remains untouchable—a collaboration born out of chaos, driven by genius, and sealed by two of rock’s greatest voices.

7. Bryan Adams & Tina Turner – “It’s Only Love” (1985)

When Bryan Adams set out to record “It’s Only Love,” he knew it needed a certain kind of fire—and Tina Turner delivered exactly that. Her powerful, raspy vocals brought a shot of soul to Adams’ gritty rock edge, creating a duet that burned with intensity and passion.

The chemistry between Adams and Turner is palpable throughout the track. Their voices clash and merge with a kind of thrilling tension, elevating the song from a standard rock number to an unforgettable duet. It’s loud, unapologetic, and full of the kind of raw emotion that made ’80s rock so gripping.

“It’s Only Love” not only scored chart success but also became a staple in both artists’ live performances. The duet’s lasting appeal lies in its fearless energy—a perfect storm of two powerhouse performers coming together for a track that still hits hard decades later.