8 Rock Songs from 1981 That Felt Dated by the End of the Decade

The music scene in 1981 was filled with rock songs that were hits at the time. Yet, as the decade progressed, some of these tracks started to feel outdated. Here are eight rock songs from 1981 that didn’t seem to stand the test of time by the end of the decade.

“Keep on Loving You” by REO Speedwagon

“Keep on Loving You” by REO Speedwagon was a massive hit in 1981. The ballad about enduring love was popular, but as the 80s moved forward, its sound began to seem old-fashioned. The band’s signature style of emotional rock started to get overshadowed by newer trends in music.

Though still appreciated by fans, “Keep on Loving You” didn’t have the same fresh appeal as other songs by the late 80s. Its soft rock style, once a favorite, began to feel out of place as musical tastes shifted toward edgier and more modern sounds.

“Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield

Rick Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl” was a chart-topping rock anthem in 1981. Its story of unrequited love and catchy tune made it a favorite. However, as the decade progressed, it started to feel dated. The song’s style didn’t evolve with the changing musical landscape of the late 80s.

Despite its initial success, “Jessie’s Girl” struggled to maintain its relevance. The straightforward rock sound of Springfield’s hit was increasingly seen as out of step with the more complex and varied music emerging later in the decade.

“Urgent” by Foreigner

Foreigner’s “Urgent” featured a saxophone solo and a pulse-pounding beat that were very much in vogue in 1981. The song was a huge hit, but by the end of the 80s, this style seemed outdated. The once-popular sax solo became less common as other musical elements took center stage.

The band’s approach didn’t change much as the decade progressed, making songs like “Urgent” feel left behind in a fast-evolving music world. What once was innovative started to sound typical and less exciting by the decade’s end.

“Bette Davis Eyes” by Kim Carnes

Kim Carnes’ “Bette Davis Eyes” had a unique sound that helped it top the charts in 1981. Its haunting melody and distinct vocals were a hit. But, as the 80s went on, the song’s style felt less fresh. The sharp, electronic sound of early 80s pop began to lose its edge.

While still a memorable track, “Bette Davis Eyes” didn’t keep up with the rapidly changing music trends. The song’s initial charm felt more and more old-fashioned as new music styles began to emerge.

“You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates

Hall & Oates found major success with “You Make My Dreams” in 1981. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics made it an instant hit. However, by the end of the decade, this tune started to feel like a relic. Its bright, pop-rock sound was overshadowed by more contemporary music.

The duo’s formula, while effective in the early 80s, didn’t evolve enough to stay relevant. “You Make My Dreams” became a nostalgic favorite rather than a song that continued to influence the music scene.

“Centerfold” by The J. Geils Band

The J. Geils Band scored a hit with “Centerfold” in 1981. Its playful lyrics and catchy beat made it popular. Yet, as the decade continued, the song’s novelty wore off. The light-hearted rock sound that initially charmed listeners seemed simplistic compared to newer, more diverse music.

“Centerfold” came to represent an earlier, more innocent era of rock. By the late 80s, its style felt out of step with the more serious and varied music that was gaining popularity.

“Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” by The Police

“Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” by The Police was a standout track in 1981. Its blend of rock and reggae was fresh and innovative. However, as the decade progressed, this blend started to feel less unique. The band’s earlier success made this style seem a bit repetitive.

By the late 80s, “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” felt like part of an older sound. Though still appreciated, the song didn’t have the same groundbreaking impact as it did when first released.

“I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts hit it big with “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” in 1981. Its straightforward rock sound and rebellious lyrics made it an anthem. But, by the end of the decade, this no-frills rock style felt a bit outdated. Newer rock tracks had started incorporating more varied influences.

While “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” remained a classic, its simple rock style became less common in a music landscape that was evolving with new sounds and techniques.