Top ’80s Rock Ballads
CMM May 21st, 2008
During my morning drive, I flipped off of HHH during a commercial and settled on a classic rock station. A signature rock ballad of the ’80′s was playing, and it made my morning that much brighter. When I say ’80′s power ballad I don’t mean punk, heavy metal or mod-rock. Nothing against these rock-n-roll siblings of the ’80′s (and after all, The Clash -is- the only band that matters), but I mean Boston, Journey, Van Halen, Poison, Aerosmith, etc. Now, I know some folks are probably thinking “80′s rock… eeeuuuuw.” Well, while few ’80′s rock ballad stretched the barriers of musical theory, they are just plain fun to listen to with the windows rolled down, playing drums on your steering wheel, and humming the lyrics. Besides, if we could peek into your iPod I’m sure we’d find a power ballad or two– they’re everyone’s dirty little musical pleasure.
So, for those of you that love big hair, pastel colors, and dualing guitar solos… I salute you. Here are my top 5 rock ballads of the ’80s:
1. Journey– “Don’t Stop Believing”
2. Motley Crue– “Home Sweet Home”
3. Posion– “Something to Believe In”
4. Guns N Roses– “November Rain”
5. Billy Idol– “White Wedding”


Ahhh I love your style, where would Sister Christian by Night Rider rank on your list?
They are definately an honorable mention… and likely on a different list– ’80′s One Hit Wonders. I’m thinking Mr. Big, Sister Christian, etc.
I know a few who would definitely agree with you choice for #1.
I love your music choices as there is nothing better then 80′s music! But i do have to mention that GNR’s November Rain didn’t come out til 1991…great song as I am a HUGE GNR fan!!
Check out The Sacrifice by Symphony X. Now that is the true definition of a Rock Ballad.
The best ballad is The Flame – Cheap Trick.
nice list…
gd list but man where would the scorpions rank on this list??
gd list but man where would the scorpions rank on this list??
where the hell is the BON JOVI, GIANT, FIRHOUSE,WINGER ETC. THIS IS A TYPICAL LIST OF SOMEONE WHO LIKE POPULAR MUSIC AND KNOWS NOTHING OF THE GOOD STUFF.
PEACE