Underrated Songs from the ’80s
Of course, there are the hits, but there are some underrated songs from the ’80s that really deserve more love and attention. – Author: Anne Erickson, Tom Keifer band photo by Tammy Vega
The 1980s are known for their blockbuster hard rock and hair metal songs that shot up the charts during the decade. But, there are some underrated songs from the ’80s that really deserve more love and attention. Sure, the huge hits, such as Bon Jovi with “Living on a Prayer” or Motley Crue with “Dr. Feelgood,” are fun and legendary. But, what about some of the songs that didn’t get their due?
As a tribute to those songs that were amazing but not radio hits, Audio Ink Radio is counting down the tally of some of the most underrated songs from the ’80s.
Songs From the ’80s That Should Have Been Hits
Cinderella, “Heartbreak Station”
Cinderella was certainly a blockbuster band from the 1980s, but not all of their hits were huge. One of those songs that was a great power ballad but didn’t quite top the charts was “Heartbreak Station.” Sure, Cinderella are known for “Nobody’s Fool” and “Don’t You Know What You Got Til’ It’s Gone,” but don’t forget this blues-rock gem.
Great White, “Save Your Love”
Great White is a celebrated band from the 1980s, but their ballad “Save Your Love” isn’t a hit for which they’re known. With the powerful vocals of the late Jack Russell and a big of fierce energy, this is a song that should have been bigger during the heyday of ’80s ballads.
Madness, “Our House”
Madness came out with “Our House” in 1982, so this track also has a little bit of a ’70s flair. This upbeat song from the British rockers has a charming blend of pop and ska, and it has a catchy hook, too. It could have been big in the 1980s but was overshadowed by the blooming glam rock scene.
The Chameleons, “Up the Down Escalator”
Unlike some of the bands on this tally, the Chameleons were simply a band that wasn’t big enough. They go beyond having one of the more underappreciate songs from the ’80s and are really one of the unsung bands of the decade. If you’re never heard them, listen to 1983’s “Up the Down Escalator” as a starter, if just for the song’s great guitars and unique lyrics.
The Psychedelic Furs, “Love My Way”
The Psychedelic Furs released “Love My Way” in 1982, so because it was so early in the decade, it still had a bit of that 1970s vibe. For whatever reason, it didn’t take off as much as it should have. The song has a very unique melody and personal lyrics, and it’s a new wave classic that should have been bigger.
The Replacements, “Left of the Dial”
The Replacements really stood out in the ’80s landscape with their smart songwriting and too-cool-for-school image. These guys just sounded different from the rest, and on 1984’s “Left of The Dial,” vocalist Paul Westerberg wore his heart on his sleeve and wrote about heartbreak to great accord. The song was big on college radio but never went mainstream. But, it’s one of the most underrated songs from the ’80s.
Did you know the 1980s had grunge music, too? Check out Audio Ink Radio’s tally of the best grunge songs from the decade.
While you’re at it, check out Audio Ink Radio’s interview with Jeff Pilson of Foreigner below.
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