Rock Songs That Defined Childhood Memories for 1980 Kids

If you were a kid in 1980, you grew up during a major musical transition.

The smooth sounds of the ’70s were beginning to fade, and the bold, experimental styles of the ’80s were starting to take over. It was a time when radio stations played everything from ska to heavy metal, and a few songs from that year still resonate with listeners today. Here are three tracks that defined the era — and just might bring back some serious nostalgia.

“Twist and Crawl” – The English Beat
“Twist and Crawl” comes from The English Beat’s (also known simply as The Beat) 1980 debut album, I Just Can’t Stop It. If you remember the infectious energy of ska music from the UK, this track might still be stuck in your head. With its upbeat tempo and driving rhythm, it’s one of the album’s standout songs.

The band distinguished itself not only with its sound but also with its message. Known for promoting inclusivity and standing against misogyny through their Go Feet label, The Beat brought people together through music, and “Twist and Crawl” remains one of their most iconic tracks.

“Mr. Crowley” – Ozzy Osbourne
In 1980, Ozzy Osbourne officially parted ways with Black Sabbath and launched a solo career that would become legendary. One of the standout tracks from his debut solo album, Blizzard of Ozz, is “Mr. Crowley.” The song features a haunting keyboard intro by Don Airey and a now-iconic guitar solo by Randy Rhoads — considered one of the most recognizable solos in heavy metal history.

Ozzy’s distinctive vocals and the song’s eerie atmosphere have helped “Mr. Crowley” remain a metal staple decades after its release.

“When the World Is Running Down…” – The Police
The title may be a mouthful, but this new wave classic from The Police is hard to forget. “When the World Is Running Down, You Make the Best of What’s Still Around,” from their 1980 album Zenyatta Mondatta, captures the edgy, rhythmic style that defined the band’s early sound.

With its driving beat and hypnotic repetition, the track remains a fan favorite — and even the 2000 remix found success, proving its lasting appeal.