It’s amazing to think that after this year, with two of the biggest songs of the early 80s, Men at Work would be no more. Still, they have left us with indelible tunes that are still played today in many places. This one is no exception, as it’s both a Yacht Rock and 80s tribute staple. Arriving at #15 is Who Can it Be Now by Men at Work.
In the previous entry, I did mention that John Mellencamp’s breakthrough yielded two huge singles. This was the other. While these singles could be considered a tie in that they are both classics that go together, this one song edged itself out slightly by its great chorus and feel-good rock vibe. Our #16 song in the top 20 songs of 1982 countdown is Hurts so Good by John Mellencamp.
One of the most popular videos of 1992 came from this next song in our countdown. It also showed that after the David Lee Roth years and some good Sammy Hager years, Van Halen was clearly not done delivering some classic rock tracks. The song and video became staples on MTV and continued to give relevance to the rock giants as new bands became known. At #16 it’s Right Now by Van Halen.
Prince’s Love Symbol album is outstanding, and while his song 7 was a chart hit, it’s this track that showed just how daring Prince was and was going to continue to be. One of the funkiest tunes on the album, it’s subject matter was extreme at the time but it has managed to retain its power over the years. Funk out with this #17 song Sexy M.F. by Prince.
One of the most well-known American singer/songwriters today, John Mellencamp made his breakthrough in 1982 with American Fool which spawned two well-known hit singles, one of which is this one. The video of the mickey-mouse glove clapping hands was something I always remembered, but the track itself is still heard today in many places. Coming in at #17 is Jack & Diane by John Mellencamp.
1982 was really a coming out party for Stevie Nicks. The previous year’s duet with Tom Petty was a classic, her solo work spawned some great art as we just have seen, and she also delivered for Fleetwood Mac once again. This song was arguably the group’s biggest single for their Mirage album and it’s the song that introduced me to her when growing up. At #18 it’s Gypsy by Fleetwood Mac.