The Most Nostalgia-Inducing Songs From The 80s

The 80’s were challenging times for rock music. Disco and new wave genres were gaining popularity with the masses, as did electronic and hiphop music. (bullfrogspas.com) Rock was resilient though, and gave birth to some of the most memorable tracks of the decade. It even paved the way for hard rock and metal variants to proliferate, like glam rock and thrash metal. As artists were learning to adapt to the pop music formula, but implemented with rock, arena rock was served to the masses who were craving for emotional and dramatic anthems to sing along to. Here are some of the most memorable rock tracks that definitely screams 80’s.

I Love Rock N’ Roll – Joan Jett and The Blackhearts

Nothing beats Joan Jett and The Blackhearts’ rendition of this classic by the Arrows. The rock queen’s signature sound breathed new life into this original, making for a sing-along tune that’s recognized by many.

Jump – Van Halen

For neophytes who don’t know Van Halen, this is the most recognizable tune by them that made it to pop mainstream. The energy-filled track is an enjoyable anthem that’ll make you scream “Jump!” with it.

Money For Nothing – Dire Straits

The iconic computer-generated music video was the first of its kind, with Mark Knopfler’s iconic riff that’s just as recognizable as Deep Purple’s own “Smoke On The Water”. This fun track even has Sting as backing vocals for that added dimension.

Another Brick in The Wall, Part II – Pink Floyd

From the iconic The Wall album, this protest anthem against a certain educational system was taken to heart by fans and critics alike, yielding different interpretations from the main thought. The funk-laden track is paired with the iconic music video, showing Pink Floyd’s artistry in every aspect of their work.

Livin’ On A Prayer – Bon Jovi

The charismatic Jon Bon Jovi gives inspiration with this arena rock anthem, with its signature progression and hard-hitting chorus that got fans singing the title at the top of their lungs. Fun fact: the song almost wasn’t released because Jon hated the original version, but was finally convinced by Richie Sambora to redo the track to his liking.

Eye Of The Tiger – Survivor

Popularized in the Rocky Balboa franchise, the iconic track busts out the memorable riff that reminds us of pure grit and determination. Survivor’s masterpiece would later find its way on workout playlists around the world, making for a perfect pump-up song.

Pour Some Sugar On Me – Def Leppard

Built on the single line “Love is like a bomb…” which was probably misheard as well, this iconic track shows Def Leppard’s peak musicianship, with even producer Mutt Lange pushing for its creation, after hearing the initial version of the riff. The crystal-clear rockiness of the track appealed to even pop music fans of the era.

Another One Bites The Dust – Queen

While the 80’s marked Queen’s “downfall”, they produced some of their best tracks in the decade as well. Underrated bassist John Deacon showcased the disco influence with his infectious bassline in this rocker.

Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey

Another arena rock anthem that was widely received by the masses, Journey’s ability to arrest the listener with their emotional yet driven tracks is summed up with this song. Perry’s vocals soar sky high with the melodic rock masterpiece, unparalleled till today.

The Final Countdown – Europe 

This epic anthem connected with listeners around the world, with the intense keyboard intro that melted into the hearts and minds of rock fans. With lyrics inspired from Bowie’s “Space Oddity”, the track blasted off to Venus with its catchy progression and energy-filled ensemble.