80s Rock Music: An Ultimate Guide

Introduction to 80s Rock Music

The 1980s was a seminal decade for rock music, producing some of the most iconic songs, albums, and artists that still resonate today. 80s rock was characterized by big hair, eccentric fashions, guitar shredding solos, synthesizers, and larger-than-life personas. Building off the foundations of classic rock, punk, and metal, 80s rock evolved into various subgenres like glam metal, hair metal, arena rock, and alternative rock.

Bands like Van Halen, Guns N’ Roses, Bon Jovi, and Def Leppard came to define the bombastic 80s rock sound. Their pop metal hooks, guitar virtuosity, and flamboyant style encapsulated the excess and excitement of the 80s. Hard rock bands like AC/DC, Iron Maiden, and Ozzy Osbourne gained huge mainstream success. MTV and music videos became integral for promoting 80s rock stars and spreading their influence on fashion and pop culture.

In this ultimate guide, we will countdown the best 80s rock anthems, profile the most legendary bands, relive unforgettable moments, and explore the evolution and lasting impact of 80s rock. Get ready for some sweet guitar licks, power ballads, and big choruses as we dive into the iconic rock music of the 1980s.

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Top 10 80s Rock Songs

The 1980s produced some of the most iconic and enduring rock anthems of all time. Here are 10 of the biggest smash hits that defined the arena rock sound of the decade:

"Livin’ on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi

Released in 1986 from their massively popular album Slippery When Wet, "Livin’ on a Prayer" encapsulates everything great about 80s heartland rock. With its larger-than-life chorus, talk box guitar solo, and themes of love and perseverance, this fist-pumping arena rocker became Bon Jovi’s signature song and a karaoke favorite for decades to come.

"Sweet Child o’ Mine" by Guns N’ Roses

The opening riff of "Sweet Child o’ Mine" is one of the most recognizable in rock history. Featured on Guns N’ Roses’ 1987 debut Appetite for Destruction, this ballad showed the band’s soft side. Slash’s evocative guitar work and Axl Rose’s vocal range shine on this unexpected chart-topper.

"Don’t Stop Believin’" by Journey

Journey’s 1981 anthem "Don’t Stop Believin’" enjoyed a resurgence in popularity after being featured in the finale of The Sopranos. Its inspirational lyrics, keyboard riff, and guitar solo make it the quintessential arena rock song. It encapsulates the grand, melodic sensibilities of Journey.

"Paradise City" by Guns N’ Roses

The closing track on Appetite for Destruction, "Paradise City" captures Guns N’ Roses’ raw, dangerous energy. Between the dueling guitar solos and Axel Rose’s snarling vocals, this ode to Los Angeles has become a classic rock radio staple and one of the band’s signature songs.

"You Shook Me All Night Long" by AC/DC

AC/DC perfected their brand of hard-hitting, blues-inspired hard rock on their 1980 album Back in Black. "You Shook Me All Night Long" highlights Brian Johnson’s powerful vocals and Angus Young’s blistering guitar work. Its sexual innuendos also made it a fan favorite.

"Pour Some Sugar on Me" by Def Leppard

British glam rockers Def Leppard scored their first #1 US hit with this high-energy song from their 1987 album Hysteria. It exemplifies their radio-friendly hooks, vocal harmonies, and a pop sensibility that broadened hard rock’s appeal in the 80s. The innovative music video also got heavy rotation on MTV.

"Welcome to the Jungle" by Guns N’ Roses

The jarring opening of "Welcome to the Jungle" made it an unforgettable introduction to Guns N’ Roses as the bad boys of 80s hard rock. Released in 1987, this track captures the gritty Hollywood scene that shaped the band’s rebellious attitude. It remains a staple of sporting events and pumped-up playlists.

"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor

Featured on the Rocky III soundtrack, "Eye of the Tiger" helped catapult Survivor to stardom in 1982. With its anthemic chorus, inspirational lyrics, and subtle synth layering, this upbeat track perfectly captured the training montage and underdog spirit of Rocky. It became an instant sports arena favorite.

"You Give Love a Bad Name" by Bon Jovi

The lead single from Bon Jovi’s 1986 album Slippery When Wet, "You Give Love a Bad Name" provided the big, arena-ready sound that would define their career. With fist-pumping drums, a catchy guitar riff, and an unforgettable chorus, this power ballad about heartbreak topped the charts and got constant radio and MTV airplay.

"Crazy Train" by Ozzy Osbourne

As the lead single off his debut solo album, "Crazy Train" announced Ozzy Osbourne’s solo career with a bang in 1980. Featuring the guitar virtuosity of Randy Rhoads, Osbourne’s ominous vocals, and dark lyrics, this high-octane track became his signature song and a defining moment for heavy metal.

Legendary 80s Rock Bands

Van Halen

Van Halen burst onto the rock scene in the late 1970s and dominated the decade with their energetic live shows and guitar pyrotechnics. Led by virtuoso guitarist Eddie Van Halen, the band fused hard rock and heavy metal with pop hooks and showmanship. Their signature hits like "Jump" and "Panama" featured Eddie’s lightning-fast finger-tapping solos. With their party-all-the-time attitude and over-the-top image, Van Halen became icons of the 80s Sunset Strip scene.

Guns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses injected raw, dangerous energy into the late 80s rock scene. Fronted by mercurial lead singer Axl Rose, the band’s 1987 debut Appetite for Destruction remains one of the best-selling debut albums ever. Their gritty hard rock was epitomized in classic tracks like "Welcome to the Jungle" and "Sweet Child O’ Mine." Guns N’ Roses lived the rock n’ roll lifestyle to the fullest, with their hedonistic excess making them the most notorious band of the decade.

Bon Jovi

With their anthemic brand of arena rock, New Jersey’s Bon Jovi were one of the most commercially successful acts of the 80s. Powered by singer Jon Bon Jovi’s soaring vocals, the band scored multiple chart-topping hits including "Livin’ on a Prayer", "You Give Love a Bad Name", and "Wanted Dead or Alive." Their fist-pumping singalongs and Jon’s photogenic looks made them MTV darlings. Bon Jovi embodied the uplifting working-class spirit and pop metal polish that defined much of the decade.

Def Leppard

Def Leppard were leaders of the 80s pop-metal movement with their multi-platinum albums Pyromania and Hysteria. Their radio-friendly glam metal incorporated elements of pop, new wave, and traditional heavy metal. Songs like "Photograph", "Pour Some Sugar on Me", and "Love Bites" showcased their talents for crafting catchy hard rock hooks and vocal harmonies. Despite personal tragedies, Def Leppard remained dominant hitmakers throughout the decade.

R.E.M.

R.E.M emerged from the college rock scene to help pioneer the alternative rock genre. Their early records like Murmur and Reckoning drew critical acclaim for their jangly guitar-based sound and Michael Stipe’s mysterious abstract lyrics. As the decade progressed, R.E.M. found mainstream success with hits like "The One I Love" and "Stand" while still retaining their alternative edge. Their intelligent, roots-based style offered an antidote to cookie-cutter pop metal.

U2

Already established post-punk favorites, U2 blossomed into global superstars with their 1987 album The Joshua Tree. Their newfound grandeur, spirituality, and exploration of American roots music struck a chord with audiences worldwide. Powerful singles like "With or Without You", "I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For" and "Where the Streets Have No Name" catapulted them to new heights of fame. U2 embodied rock idealism on a grand scale in the 80s.

Motley Crue

Notorious Los Angeles hellraisers Motley Crue played a leading role in establishing the Sunset Strip’s riotous glam metal scene. Their raw, decadent brand of metal was perfectly encapsulated by hit albums like Shout at the Devil and Dr. Feelgood. With their teased hair, makeup and raunchy antics, Nikki Sixx, Vince Neil, Mick Mars and Tommy Lee became the poster boys for 80s excess. Songs like "Girls, Girls, Girls" and "Kickstart My Heart" glorified the band’s sex, drugs and rock n’ roll lifestyle.

Metallica

San Francisco thrash metal band Metallica were pioneers of the 80s underground metal movement. Their early albums like Kill ‘Em All and Master of Puppets showcased their innovative, progressive thrash style and instrumental virtuosity. While scoffing at the superficial hair metal dominating the mainstream, Metallica built a devoted cult following. Their 1986 album Master of Puppets was hailed as a masterpiece and opened the doors for their later crossover success.

Aerosmith

Veteran blues rockers Aerosmith enjoyed a major comeback in the late 80s after years of decline fueled by drug abuse. Power ballads like "Angel" and "I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing" became pop smashes, introducing Aerosmith to a new generation. Their amalgam of pop, blues and rock proved hugely influential on the next wave of rock bands. Aerosmith found a winning formula that delivered both commercial success and critical redemption.

Queen

Although formed in the 1970s, British rock gods Queen reached new heights in the 80s. Their 1981 Greatest Hits album became the UK’s best-selling album of all time. Later in the decade, Queen headlined the historic Live Aid benefit concert in 1985. Propelled by frontman Freddie Mercury’s unmatched showmanship, Queen created bombastic arena rock anthems like "We Will Rock You" that continue to inspire singers and crowds alike. Even today, Queen’s legacy as one of the greatest bands in rock history remains untouchable.

Evolution of 80s Rock Music

The 1980s saw the evolution and diversification of rock music into several new subgenres. Rock music built upon the punk, hard rock, and classic rock influences of the 1970s, but developed distinct sounds that came to define the 80s.

The Rise of Hair Metal and Glam Metal

In the early 80s, hair metal (also known as glam metal) exploded in popularity, blending the look and style of glam rock with heavy metal. Bands like Mötley Crüe, Poison, Bon Jovi, and Twisted Sister donned big hair, makeup, and flashy outfits while playing an upbeat, melodic, pop-influenced form of metal. Key hair metal albums included Poison’s Look What the Cat Dragged In (1986) and Bon Jovi’s Slippery When Wet (1986).

Thrash Metal and Heavy Metal

Thrash metal bands like Metallica, Slayer, Anthrax, and Megadeth gained devoted followings with their blistering guitar riffs and aggressive sounds. Metallica’s Master of Puppets (1986) was a landmark of the genre. Traditional heavy metal was kept alive by acts like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Ozzy Osbourne.

Hard Rock and Arena Rock

Groups like Van Halen, Def Leppard, Aerosmith, and Guns N’ Roses played a radio-friendly, hard-rocking style designed to fill arenas. Key albums included Def Leppard’s Pyromania (1983) and Guns N’ Roses’ Appetite for Destruction (1987).

Alternative and College Rock

Underground genres like alternative rock and college rock started to emerge with bands like R.E.M., The Cure, The Smiths, and Violent Femmes. While not yet mainstream, these groups would heavily influence the rock music of the 1990s. R.E.M.’s Murmur (1983) was an early landmark alternative rock album.

By the late 80s, hair metal dominated the charts. But the diversification of rock into subgenres laid the groundwork for the alternative rock explosion of the 1990s.

Unforgettable 80s Rock Moments

The 1980s produced many unforgettable moments that captured the energy and excess of the decade’s rock music culture. From outrageous music videos to chaotic live shows, these events left an indelible mark on pop culture.

Guns N’ Roses’ Performance at the MTV Video Music Awards

Guns N’ Roses delivered a raucous performance of "Welcome to the Jungle" at the 1989 MTV Video Music Awards that encapsulated the dangerous and rebellious spirit of 80s rock. Decked in ripped jeans, bandanas, and aviator sunglasses, the LA rockers thrashed around the stage with anarchic energy. At the end of the song, guitarist Slash soloed away as Axl Rose hurled his mic stand into a camera in a quintessential rock ‘n’ roll move. The chaotic performance cemented Guns N’ Roses as the bad boys of late 80s rock.

Van Halen’s Legendary US Festival Show

Van Halen’s 1983 headlining set at the US Festival in California has gone down as one of the most iconic live shows of the 80s rock era. Performing in front of over 350,000 people, Eddie Van Halen dazzled the crowd with his blazing two-handed tapping guitar skills on hits like "Runnin’ with the Devil" and "Panama." David Lee Roth was in top form, strutting across the massive stage and delivering his trademark quips. The band’s epic two-hour set in the sweltering heat epitomized their status as one of the decade’s greatest live acts.

Michael Jackson’s Groundbreaking "Thriller" Video

Though not straight-up rock, Michael Jackson’s 14-minute video for "Thriller" became a defining pop culture moment for 80s music. Directed by John Landis and featuring voiceover from horror legend Vincent Price, the mini-movie reinvented the music video format. State-of-the-art makeup effects transformed Michael Jackson into a werewolf in an homage to classic horror films. MTV played "Thriller" in heavy rotation, helping promote Jackson’s record-breaking album of the same name. The theatrical music video set a new precedent in scale and creativity.

Queen Steals the Show at Live Aid

Queen’s legendary performance at 1985’s Live Aid charity concert exemplified their mastery of the live arena. Freddie Mercury led the massive Wembley Stadium crowd through singalong anthems like "Radio Ga Ga" and "Hammer to Fall." The pinnacle came during "We Are the Champions" as Mercury conducted the audience with his bare hands. Queen’s colossal sound and charismatic frontman powered one of the most iconic sets in rock history. The performance was a highlight of the global music event and demonstrated Queen’s brilliance on the big stage.

Beastie Boys Wild Antics on Licensed to Ill Tour

The Beastie Boys’ 1987 Licensed to Ill tour was a raucous, rebellious spectacle that heralded hip hop’s entry into the rock scene. Inspired by wild 80s hair metal shows, the Beasties and their DJ Hurricane brought a punk rock edge to their sets, smashing instruments, spraying fans with beer hoses, and even occasionally stripping naked on stage. Female fans were invited to dance in cages during "Girls," delivering a shot of mischief and mayhem. The tour helped break down the racial barriers between rock and rap.

Influence and Legacy of 80s Rock

The influence and legacy of 80s rock music continues to be felt today in numerous ways. The decade produced a unique and iconic style of rock that left a lasting imprint on music, fashion, and pop culture.

Lasting Impact on Music

80s rock was a dominant force in music and many of its subgenres like glam metal, arena rock, and hair metal went on to inspire future generations of musicians. The big guitar solos, anthemic choruses, and flamboyant looks of 80s rock bands directly shaped the sound and aesthetic of hard rock in the 90s and 2000s. Groups like Guns N’ Roses, Bon Jovi, and Def Leppard showed the commercial potential of the genre. Their success paved the way for later bands like Aerosmith, AC/DC, and Metallica to achieve mainstream popularity. Even today’s rock and metal groups routinely pay homage to the excess and showmanship of 80s rock.

Influence on Fashion

The fashion of the 80s was intrinsically tied to the look of rock bands during the era. Trends like big hair, leather jackets, spandex, and band t-shirts originated from the desire of fans to emulate their idols. Icons like Madonna and David Bowie also exemplified the bold, experimental styles of 80s rock fashion. Elements of 80s fashion continue to manifest today in the clothing, hairstyles, and aesthetics of modern musicians and pop culture figures.

Lasting Pop Culture Presence

80s rock maintains a significant presence across today’s pop culture landscape. Tribute and cover bands thrive by exclusively playing hit songs from the era. Compilations like movie soundtracks and Spotify playlists help introduce 80s rock to new generations. References to iconic bands, songs, and moments are constantly made in TV shows, films, video games and more. The decade also enjoys nostalgia-fueled revivalism through 80s themed parties, concerts, and conventions.

Modern Artists Inspired by the Era

Many current music stars cite 80s rock as a core influence. Bands like The Killers and The Darkness emulate the pop songcraft and flamboyance of the decade. Solo artists like Lana Del Rey and Lady Gaga integrate 80s sonics and visuals into their music. Indie and alternative acts frequently borrow elements from 80s college rock bands and new wave groups. The fingerprints of 80s rock can be heard anytime a contemporary artist utilizes synth textures, guitar shredding, or big pop hooks in their songs. 80s rock has become part of the DNA of modern music.

80s Rock Playlists and Listening Guide

The 1980s produced some of the most memorable and iconic rock songs of all time. To fully appreciate the diversity of 80s rock music, curated playlists are a great way to immerse yourself in the different styles and hidden gems of the decade.

Here are some recommended 80s rock playlists to get you started:

Hair Metal Power Ballads

This playlist features epic, emotional ballads from the biggest hair metal bands. Songs like "Home Sweet Home" by Motley Crue, "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" by Poison, and "Love Bites" by Def Leppard capture the melodramatic essence of the glam metal era. Pour some sugar on me and rock out to these massive hits!

Underrated 80s Rock Deep Cuts

Beyond the classic hits, there are tons of underappreciated rock songs from the 80s waiting to be discovered. This playlist unearths album tracks and singles that should have been bigger hits from artists like Tom Petty, Bryan Adams, and Pat Benatar. Expand your 80s rock knowledge with these overlooked gems.

Ultimate 80s Hard Rock

For a dose of maximum energy, this ultimate 80s hard rock playlist will melt your face off. It covers the decade’s most intense guitar riffs, pumping drum beats, and lung-busting vocals. Get ready to headbang along to classics by Van Halen, AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, and more!

80s Rock Ballads

Slow it down with this collection of emotional 80s rock ballads. From sappy love songs to epic power ballads, these are the tunes to listen to when you need a good cry or want to feel all the feelings. Includes tearjerkers from Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, Whitesnake, and other masters of the 80s rock ballad.

When curating your own 80s rock playlists, dig into band discographies to unearth forgotten tracks and deep cuts. Seek out live versions, rare B-sides, and lesser-known singles from the era. Listen to full albums instead of just the hits. And don’t be afraid to make themed playlists around specific moods, genres, or events. The 80s rock catalog is deep and rewarding to explore.

Some tips for the optimal 80s rock listening experience:

• Play it loud! 80s rock was designed for volume. Crank up those speakers or headphones.

• Watch the music videos for the full audiovisual experience. So much iconic 80s imagery.

• Seek out live recordings to feel the raw energy of 80s rock concerts.

• Break out the vinyl records and cassette tapes for old school analog sound.

• Make it a multimedia event by pairing playlists with 80s music documentaries, concerts, or movies.

No matter your favorite style of rock, the 80s offered something special and worth rediscovering. These playlists are a gateway into the diverse, vibrant world of 80s rock music. Let the shredding guitar licks and big choruses transport you back in time. Just be careful not to tease that hair too much!

Resources for Exploring 80s Rock

The 80s produced a treasure trove of rock music worth diving into. Here are some recommendations for essential albums, artists, and resources to further explore the iconic music of the decade:

Essential Albums

• Guns N’ Roses – Appetite for Destruction. The 1987 debut album featuring classics like "Sweet Child O’ Mine" and "Welcome to the Jungle."

• Def Leppard – Pyromania. The 1983 album that made Def Leppard global rock superstars with hits like "Photograph" and "Rock of Ages."

• Bon Jovi – Slippery When Wet. The 1986 chart-topping album featuring "You Give Love a Bad Name" and "Livin’ on a Prayer."

• AC/DC – Back in Black. The classic 1980 album and tribute to late singer Bon Scott. Home to rock anthems like "Hells Bells" and the title track.

• Metallica – Master of Puppets. The 1986 thrash metal masterpiece that solidified Metallica’s reputation.

Overlooked Artists to Check Out

• Ratt – Glam metal hitmakers behind "Round and Round" and "Lay It Down." Worth exploring beyond the hits.

• Lita Ford – The "Queen of Metal" released hit albums like Lita (1988) and has guitar chops for days.

• Dokken – Featuring guitar virtuoso George Lynch, Dokken blended glam and shred. Don’t miss albums like Under Lock and Key.

• Queensrÿche – Progressive metal pioneers who had their breakout with 1988’s Operation: Mindcrime.

Documentaries and Films

• The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years – A seminal documentary on the 80s LA glam/hair metal scene.

• I Want My MTV – Chronicles the history and cultural impact of MTV in the 80s.

• Rock of Ages – Campy jukebox musical featuring 80s rock hits.

Tips for Listening

• Seek out high-quality vinyl pressings to hear 80s rock as it was meant to be heard.

• Attend local 80s rock and hair metal tribute concerts to experience the music live.

• Watch music videos from the decade on YouTube to see the visuals that defined 80s rock style.

• Make an 80s rock playlist and listen on a Bluetooth speaker, mixing in deep cuts with the hits.

The 80s left a wealth of classic rock music to dig into. Follow the above recommendations to keep the era’s spirit alive and rocking.

Key 80s Rock Genres

The 1980s saw the emergence and evolution of several influential rock music genres and subgenres. Here’s an overview of some of the most important 80s rock styles:

Glam Metal

Glam metal, also known as hair metal, was a genre that focused on a flashy, over-the-top aesthetic. Bands like Mötley Crüe, Poison, Twisted Sister, and Ratt epitomized the glam metal sound and look.

Glam metal was characterized by pop-influenced hooks, guitar riffs, flamboyant fashions like teased hair and makeup, and hedonistic lyrics. Key glam metal albums included Poison’s Look What the Cat Dragged In (1986) and Mötley Crüe’s Girls, Girls, Girls (1987).

Hard Rock

Hard rock became more mainstream and commercially successful in the 80s. Bands like Van Halen, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, and Guns N’ Roses took hard rock to new heights.

80s hard rock focused on catchy guitar riffs, soaring vocals, and big choruses, as exemplified in songs like "Livin’ on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi. Major 80s hard rock albums included Def Leppard’s Pyromania (1983) and Guns N’ Roses’ Appetite for Destruction (1987).

Pop Rock

Pop rock fused rock music with a slick, radio-friendly pop sensibility. Groups like Journey, REO Speedwagon, and Styx pioneered the pop rock sound in the 70s and had major hits in the 80s.

Hallmarks of 80s pop rock included synthesizers, keyboards, and polished production. Some of the most popular 80s pop rock songs were "Don’t Stop Believin’" by Journey and "The Best of Times" by Styx.

Alternative Rock

Alternative rock emerged as a response to the mainstream rock and pop of the era. Pioneering alternative bands like R.E.M., The Cure, and Depeche Mode gained popularity in the 80s.

The alternative rock sound was guitar-based but incorporated synthesizers and unconventional song structures. Landmark alternative rock albums from the 80s included R.E.M.’s Murmur (1983) and The Cure’s Disintegration (1989).

Conclusion

The 80s was a monumental decade that shaped the trajectory of rock music for generations to come. As we’ve explored throughout this guide, the 1980s gave rise to a diverse range of new rock genres and subgenres, from the excess of hair metal to the angst of alternative rock. It produced timeless anthems, legendary bands, and unforgettable moments that are still celebrated today.

While certain styles like glam metal and synth rock may sound dated now, the influence of 80s rock continues to be felt. Modern rock bands frequently pay homage to the iconic songs and seminal albums of the decade. Elements of the 80s rock aesthetic – from fashion to guitar solos – have become ingrained in pop culture. Even for those born after the 80s, the appeal and nostalgia of 80s rock endures.

For any music fan, delving into the songs, artists, and history of 80s rock offers an opportunity to discover an electrifying era of creativity and experimentation. The decade gave us a treasure trove of classics waiting to be unearthed by new generations of listeners. We hope this guide has inspired you to further explore the diverse landscape of 80s rock. Dive in, crank up the volume, and rock on in the spirit of the 80s!