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The 1980s were a golden era for music, with the emergence of iconic bands and unforgettable hits that continue to resonate with audiences today. One distinctive element that defined many ’80s songs was the soulful sound of the saxophone. In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and explore the top 10 ’80s songs featuring mesmerizing saxophones solos that captured the essence of the era.
1. “Careless Whisper” by George Michael (1984)
George Michael’s “Careless Whisper” is a timeless classic that showcases the sultry saxophones solo by Steve Gregory. The smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics make it one of the most memorable ballads of the ’80s, earning it a well-deserved spot on our list.
2. “Urgent” by Foreigner (1981)
Foreigner’s “Urgent” is a rock anthem with a distinctive saxophone riff by Junior Walker. The electrifying combination of rock and jazz elements in this song propelled it to the top of the charts, cementing its status as an ’80s classic.
3. “True” by Spandau Ballet (1983)
Spandau Ballet’s “True” is a romantic ballad featuring a soulful saxophone solo by Steve Norman. The smooth instrumentation and heartfelt vocals capture the essence of ’80s pop, making it a beloved favorite among fans.
4. “Never Too Much” by Luther Vandross (1981)
Luther Vandross’s “Never Too Much” is a soulful groove with an infectious saxophone riff by Nat Adderley Jr. The uplifting melody and Vandross’s soulful vocals create a feel-good anthem that remains a staple of ’80s music playlists.
5. “The Power of Love” by Huey Lewis and the News (1985)
Huey Lewis and the News’ “The Power of Love” is an upbeat rock anthem with a memorable saxophone solo by Johnny Colla. The energetic rhythm and catchy lyrics make it a quintessential ’80s song that has stood the test of time.
6. “Smooth Operator” by Sade (1984)
Sade’s “Smooth Operator” is a sophisticated blend of jazz, soul, and pop, featuring a captivating saxophone solo by Stuart Matthewman. The seductive vocals and atmospheric instrumentation evoke a sense of elegance and allure that define the ’80s sound.
7. “Who Can It Be Now?” by Men at Work (1981)
Men at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?” is a new wave classic with a distinctive saxophone riff by Greg Ham. The quirky lyrics and infectious melody make it an iconic song of the ’80s that remains popular to this day.
8. “Baker Street” by Gerry Rafferty (1978)
Gerry Rafferty’s “Baker Street” may have been released in the late ’70s, but its iconic saxophone solo by Raphael Ravenscroft became synonymous with the sound of the ’80s. The haunting melody and introspective lyrics make it a standout track of the era.
9. “Maneater” by Hall & Oates (1982)
Hall & Oates’ “Maneater” is a catchy pop-rock anthem with a memorable saxophone riff by Charles DeChant. The infectious groove and catchy chorus make it an undeniable ’80s classic that still gets people dancing today.
10. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves (1983)
Katrina and the Waves’ “Walking on Sunshine” is an upbeat pop-rock anthem with a feel-good saxophone solo by Vince de la Cruz. The infectious energy and uplifting lyrics make it a staple of ’80s playlists and a timeless favorite for generations to come.
Conclusion
The ’80s produced some of the most memorable songs in music history, and the inclusion of saxophone solos added a unique and soulful dimension to many of these hits. From ballads to rock anthems, the saxophone became synonymous with the sound of the era, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape. These top 10 ’80s songs featuring saxophones continue to evoke nostalgia and captivate audiences, reminding us of the timeless appeal of ’80s music.
