3 Criminally Underrated 1980s Classic Rock Songs That Were Totally Forgotten

When you think of the 1980s, your mind probably jumps to leg warmers, VHS workout tapes, and synth-heavy pop songs that sound like they were mixed in a candy factory. But let’s not forget—classic rock was still alive and kicking during that wild decade. Sure, we all know the big ones like “Purple Rain” and “Welcome to the Jungle,” but plenty of underrated tracks flew under the radar.

So let’s hop in Doc Brown’s DeLorean and take a trip back to the days of big hair and even bigger guitar solos. Here are three classic rock songs from the ’80s that don’t always get the spotlight—but absolutely should.

“Making Flippy Floppy” – Talking Heads (1983)
Leave it to Talking Heads to give us a song title like “Making Flippy Floppy.” Weird name? Definitely. But the song itself? A brilliant mashup of funky rhythms, rock energy, and David Byrne’s eccentric magic.

The track appears on the Speaking in Tongues album and feels like a peek inside Byrne’s unpredictable, colorful brain. With its jerky groove and surreal lyrics, the song plays like a performance art piece disguised as a dance track. It’s quirky, cool, and catchy in the strangest way possible—and totally worth another listen.

“Janie’s Got a Gun” – Aerosmith (1989)
When you think of Aerosmith, hits like “Crazy,” “Cryin’,” or “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” probably pop up first. But hidden on their 1989 album Pump is one of their most powerful songs—“Janie’s Got a Gun.”

This moody, cinematic track doesn’t just rock—it tells a dark story. Steven Tyler’s haunting vocals bring the drama to life, making it feel like a crime novel set to music. It may not be the first Aerosmith song fans shout out, but it’s one that sticks with you long after the final note.

“Stand” – R.E.M. (1989)
R.E.M. always had a reputation for being a little more brainy than your average rock band. But they also knew how to craft a good hook, and “Stand” is proof. Released on their Green album, this bouncy, feel-good track doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves.

While most fans remember “Losing My Religion” or “It’s the End of the World As We Know It,” this song sneaks up on you. It’s upbeat, a little goofy, and super catchy. After a few listens, it’ll be stuck in your head like it’s 1989 all over again.