Big Hair, Bigger Riffs: 1985’s Rock Milestones
As we mark 40 years since 1985, it’s remarkable to look back on a year that produced some of the most iconic and enduring rock songs in music history. From groundbreaking music videos to anthems that captured the spirit of a generation, 1985 was a pivotal moment for rock. This list highlights 40 songs that not only defined that year but continue to resonate decades later, showcasing the creativity, energy, and cultural impact of the era’s rock music. Also, be sure to check out “40 Rock Albums That Turn 40 in 2025.”
Dire Straits – “Money for Nothing”
With its iconic opening riff and biting commentary on the excess of 1980s consumerism, Brothers in Arms standout “Money for Nothing” became a cultural phenomenon. Boosted by its groundbreaking animated music video, it was one of the first major MTV hits, showcasing the era’s growing synergy between music and visual media.
Simple Minds – “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”
Immortalized as the theme for The Breakfast Club, “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” became synonymous with the teenage angst of the decade. Its anthemic melody and heartfelt lyrics reflected the growing importance of music in defining youth culture.
Tears for Fears – “Shout”
A bold, emotional anthem for empowerment, “Shout” turned Songs from the Big Chair into one of the defining albums of the mid-’80s. Its booming production and passionate vocals reflected the era’s growing fascination with grand, introspective pop-rock.
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Bryan Adams – “Summer of ’69”
An ode to nostalgia and youthful ambition, “Summer of ’69” captured the universal yearning for simpler times. Off the album Reckless, the track solidified Bryan Adams as a rock staple, blending storytelling with anthemic energy.
Bruce Springsteen – “Glory Days”
From Born in the U.S.A., this tongue-in-cheek reflection on the passage of time became one of Springsteen’s most relatable tracks. Its working-class rock ethos and energetic performance made it a quintessential ’80s anthem. Listen to Springsteen and more on BOB FM.
John Fogerty – “The Old Man Down the Road”
Fogerty’s swamp-rock roots shone on this track from Centerfield. Its gritty guitars and bluesy vibe reestablished him as a solo powerhouse, reclaiming his voice in the post-Creedence Clearwater Revival era.
Heart – “What About Love”
Heart embraced a polished, power-ballad sound with “What About Love”, a hit from Heart that showcased Ann Wilson’s soaring vocals. It marked their successful shift into the glossy production styles of the ’80s.
Mr. Mister – “Broken Wings”
A synth-driven meditation on healing and redemption, “Broken Wings” from Welcome to the Real World became a chart-topping hit, epitomizing the dreamy, introspective side of 1980s rock.
ZZ Top – “Sleeping Bag”
“Sleeping Bag,” from Afterburner, exemplified ZZ Top’s knack for combining their Texas blues roots with synthesizer-driven production. Its quirky lyrics and funky groove made it a unique entry in the band’s discography.
Starship – “We Built This City”
As one of the most debated anthems of the ’80s, “We Built This City” from Knee Deep in the Hoopla reflected the commercialization of rock. Despite its divisiveness, it became a cultural touchstone, embodying the glitz of the decade.
The Power Station – “Some Like It Hot”
This supergroup’s hit, featured on The Power Station, fused funk, rock, and new wave into a danceable groove. Its sleek production and bold energy made it a club favorite.
Phil Collins – “Take Me Home”
From No Jacket Required, “Take Me Home” combined Collins’ introspective lyrics with atmospheric production. Its haunting refrain made it a standout track in his solo catalog.
David Bowie and Mick Jagger – “Dancing in the Street”
This charity single, released during the Live Aid era, brought two legends together for a spirited cover. Its celebratory energy mirrored the global solidarity inspired by the event. Check out a a list of the best David Bowie songs.
Foreigner – “I Want to Know What Love Is”
An emotional powerhouse from Agent Provocateur, this ballad blended arena rock with gospel influences, becoming a worldwide hit that showcased Foreigner’s softer side.
Bon Jovi – “Runaway”
Bon Jovi’s breakout hit, from their self-titled debut album, introduced their brand of melodic hard rock. Its gritty narrative and hook-laden chorus hinted at the superstardom to come.
REO Speedwagon – “Can’t Fight This Feeling”
A cornerstone of power ballads, “Can’t Fight This Feeling” from Wheels Are Turnin’ became one of REO Speedwagon’s signature songs, cementing their ability to blend emotion with mainstream appeal.
The Hooters – “And We Danced”
With its infectious beat and accordion-driven melody, “And We Danced” from Nervous Night was a feel-good anthem that captured the carefree spirit of the mid-’80s.
Pat Benatar – “Invincible”
Featured in the film The Legend of Billie Jean, “Invincible” became a rallying cry for perseverance. Its fiery vocals and driving beat showcased Benatar’s rock prowess.
Don Henley – “The Boys of Summer”
From Building the Perfect Beast, this reflective track about love and loss encapsulated the melancholic undertones of the ’80s, blending Henley’s storytelling with lush production.
Loverboy – “Lovin’ Every Minute of It”
This energetic hit, off the album of the same name, encapsulated the exuberance of arena rock. Its driving beat and infectious chorus were tailored for live performances.
A-ha – “Take On Me”
With its innovative animated music video, “Take On Me” from Hunting High and Low crossed over from rock to pop, becoming an enduring symbol of ’80s creativity.
Corey Hart – “Never Surrender”
This inspirational anthem, from Boy in the Box, became Hart’s biggest hit. Its earnest lyrics and dramatic production made it a favorite among ’80s youth.
John Mellencamp – “Small Town”
From Scarecrow, “Small Town” celebrated Mellencamp’s Midwestern roots with heartfelt lyrics and a roots-rock sound that resonated with America’s heartland.
Sting – “If You Love Somebody Set Them Free”
Sting’s first solo album, The Dream of the Blue Turtles, launched with this jazz-infused track, showcasing his post-Police evolution and lyrical depth.
The Cars – “Tonight She Comes”
This sleek, synth-heavy track from Greatest Hits displayed The Cars’ mastery of blending rock with new wave while retaining their playful charm.
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Night Ranger – “Sentimental Street”
From 7 Wishes, this ballad highlighted Night Ranger’s softer side, blending heartfelt storytelling with their signature melodic rock style.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers – “Don’t Come Around Here No More”
Produced by Dave Stewart of Eurythmics, this psychedelic-inspired track from Southern Accents paired surreal lyrics with an equally trippy music video.
Prince – “Raspberry Beret”
This whimsical hit from Around the World in a Day showcased Prince’s genre-defying genius, blending pop, rock, and funk into an unforgettable tune.
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Survivor – “High on You”
Known for their anthemic sound, Survivor delivered another arena-ready hit with “High on You” from Vital Signs, combining upbeat lyrics with soaring melodies.
Dire Straits – “Walk of Life”
Another hit from Brothers in Arms, this rollicking tune brought an infectious energy to Dire Straits’ polished sound, celebrating the joy of music itself.
The Power Station – “Bang a Gong (Get It On)”
This electrified cover of T. Rex’s classic brought funk and rock together, with the band’s self-titled album elevating it to a bold reinterpretation.
Billy Joel – “You’re Only Human (Second Wind)”
A hopeful anthem about resilience, this track from Greatest Hits Vol. 1 & 2 spoke to listeners navigating the pressures of life in the fast-paced ’80s.
Eurythmics – “Would I Lie to You?”
This funk-infused rocker from Be Yourself Tonight showcased Annie Lennox’s commanding vocals, blending raw energy with soulful grooves.
Robert Plant – “Little by Little”
From Shaken ‘n’ Stirred, this track highlighted Plant’s willingness to experiment with synths and new wave sounds, pushing beyond his Led Zeppelin roots.
Bryan Ferry – “Slave to Love”
A lush, romantic track from Boys and Girls, “Slave to Love” epitomized Ferry’s sophisticated style, melding new wave with a timeless croon.
Talking Heads – “And She Was”
From Little Creatures, this quirky, upbeat track explored surreal themes with jangly guitars and David Byrne’s trademark eccentricity.
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Tears for Fears – “Everybody Wants to Rule the World”
This Songs from the Big Chair classic became an anthem of ambition and introspection, perfectly capturing the anxieties of the Cold War era.
Cheap Trick – “Tonight It’s You”
This power ballad from Standing on the Edge balanced Cheap Trick’s signature energy with a polished, radio-friendly sound.
The Outfield – “Your Love”
With its memorable opening riff and heartfelt lyrics, “Your Love” from Play Deep became an enduring sing-along favorite, blending rock energy with pop sensibilities.
Marillion – “Kayleigh”
This poignant ballad from Misplaced Childhood became a breakout hit for the British prog-rock band, blending emotional depth with melodic sophistication.
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