1. “Afternoon Delight” – Starland Vocal Band
This soft rock gem from the ’70s was a massive hit, but it seems to have faded into the background over the years. With its dreamy harmonies and suggestive yet playful lyrics, it’s a song that deserves more love in the streaming era. It’s the kind of tune that instantly transports you to a sunny afternoon, maybe with a picnic and a glass of something refreshing. The vocals blend so smoothly that you almost forget just how tricky those harmonies are to nail says GQ.
It might have been overplayed back in the day, but after decades of radio silence, it’s ripe for a revival. Maybe a big-budget commercial or a nostalgic movie scene could bring it back into the public eye. The lighthearted feel of the song makes it perfect for feel-good montages, and the right placement could make it a sensation all over again. Whatever the method, this song needs a second wind.
2. “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” – Starship
This power ballad dominated the airwaves in the ’80s, yet it rarely gets the recognition it deserves today. It’s the kind of song that instantly boosts your mood, making you feel like you can take on the world. Grace Slick and Mickey Thomas deliver powerhouse vocals that bring all the drama and emotion you want in an ’80s anthem. It has everything—a soaring chorus, an uplifting message, and just the right amount of cheesiness shares Billboard Philippines.
If any song deserves a spot in a modern feel-good playlist, it’s this one. Maybe it just needs a new movie moment to reignite interest, like how Bohemian Rhapsody made a major comeback after Wayne’s World. With the right exposure, younger generations could latch onto it just as tightly as those who grew up with it. Whatever it takes, this one deserves to be blasting from car speakers again.
3. “Kiss You All Over” – Exile
This sultry ’70s hit had all the makings of a timeless classic, yet it seems to have gotten lost in the shuffle. It’s got that slow-burning groove, the kind of melody that makes you sway without even realizing it. The lead vocals are smooth as silk, and the chorus is downright hypnotic. It’s surprising that it hasn’t had a major resurgence, considering how many modern pop songs play with similar sensual vibes explains Stereogum.
A well-placed cover by a current artist could easily remind people why this one was such a hit. It’s got just the right balance of romance and groove to work in any decade. It could be a perfect fit for a movie scene or even a viral TikTok trend. This song could absolutely find a home on today’s playlists.
4. “Black Velvet” – Alannah Myles
This bluesy rock anthem was everywhere in the late ’80s and early ’90s, but you don’t hear it as much anymore. The sultry vocals and moody guitar work make it a standout, and it’s hard to believe it doesn’t get more love. It’s one of those songs that instantly makes you feel cool just by listening to it. The slow build-up to the powerful chorus is pure magic, and it’s impossible not to sing along.
Considering how much modern artists love a good bluesy throwback, this song is a perfect candidate for a comeback. A TV show soundtrack or a major viral moment could easily do the trick. With the right push, it could be rediscovered by a whole new generation. It’s too good to be forgotten.
5. “Sentimental Lady” – Bob Welch
This soft rock masterpiece from the ’70s has such a warm, dreamy feel, yet it doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it should. Bob Welch’s gentle vocals and the ethereal melody create a song that feels like a peaceful daydream. It’s the kind of track that washes over you, making everything feel just a little bit more serene. The harmonies, courtesy of Christine McVie and Lindsey Buckingham, add an extra layer of magic, making it clear why this song was a hit in its time.
Despite its initial success, it hasn’t maintained the same level of recognition as other soft rock staples. It’s long overdue for a resurgence, whether through a heartfelt movie scene or a well-placed TV show moment. A younger generation would likely embrace it if given the chance. This one deserves to be rediscovered and cherished all over again.
6. “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” – England Dan & John Ford Coley
This song is pure ’70s soft rock perfection, and yet it’s strangely absent from most throwback playlists. It’s got that smooth, conversational feel that makes it endlessly singable. The lyrics paint such a vivid picture of a casual yet emotional reunion that it’s hard not to get caught up in the story. It’s exactly the kind of song that could be rediscovered through a TV show moment or a clever commercial.
The melody is so inviting that it’s surprising modern artists haven’t tried to bring it back in some way. It’s got a timeless charm that still feels fresh decades later. It could easily find a home in acoustic covers or even lo-fi remixes. This one deserves a second life.
7. “When I See You Smile” – Bad English
Power ballads like this don’t come around every day, and it’s a shame this one doesn’t get more attention. It’s packed with emotion, featuring vocals that soar in all the right places. The lyrics are simple but effective, making it a go-to for anyone who loves a good love song. It’s got that perfect balance of softness in the verses and a belting chorus that makes it feel huge.
With the resurgence of ’80s nostalgia, this song should absolutely be making the rounds again. It could easily find a place in a wedding playlist or a heartfelt movie montage. The world could use more songs like this. It’s time for a comeback.
8. “Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone)” – Glass Tiger
This one is a total earworm, but it doesn’t seem to get as much recognition as other ’80s hits. The melody is instantly catchy, and the vocals are filled with just the right amount of longing. It’s got that classic ’80s production with a big chorus that begs to be sung along to. The harmonies are killer, and the energy is infectious.
It’s surprising this one hasn’t been rediscovered by a new generation yet. It has all the elements of a song that could easily go viral with the right push. It just needs a little nudge to get back in the public consciousness. Someone give it the comeback it deserves.
9. “Heaven Knows” – Donna Summer & Brooklyn Dreams
Donna Summer is rightfully remembered for her disco anthems, but this late-’70s gem tends to be overlooked. “Heaven Knows” combines her signature powerhouse vocals with a smooth, almost yacht rock-inspired groove. The addition of Brooklyn Dreams’ harmonies gives the song a unique depth, making it stand out from her more well-known hits. It’s upbeat yet emotional, capturing that perfect mix of longing and joy that makes for a truly timeless song.
Despite its success at the time, it doesn’t get nearly as much airplay today as it should. A well-placed feature in a nostalgic film or TV show could easily remind people just how fantastic it is. It has all the elements of a feel-good song that deserves a second life. With the right push, “Heaven Knows” could absolutely find a home on today’s playlists.
10. “Love Will Find a Way” – Pablo Cruise
This song is pure feel-good energy, yet it often gets overlooked when people talk about yacht rock. The breezy melody and uplifting lyrics make it an instant mood booster. It’s the kind of song that fits perfectly on a summer playlist but doesn’t get the same love as others from its era. It’s smooth, effortless, and just catchy enough to stick with you.
A well-timed feature in a movie could bring it back in a big way. It’s too good to be forgotten. Someone needs to bring this one back into the mainstream. It’s the kind of song that deserves another moment in the sun.
11. “Your Wildest Dreams” – The Moody Blues
This dreamy, synth-filled ’80s hit has all the ingredients of a timeless classic, yet it doesn’t seem to get the same recognition as other songs from the era. The nostalgic lyrics about lost love and the passage of time hit hard, making it an incredibly emotional listen. The soaring chorus and lush instrumentation create an almost cinematic feel, which is probably why it still resonates with so many people who hear it. It’s a song that instantly transports you, blending rock and pop in a way that few bands have done as effectively.
With the continued love for all things ’80s, this song should absolutely be making a bigger comeback. It’s perfect for a movie soundtrack or even a sentimental commercial. The combination of heartfelt lyrics and atmospheric production makes it an easy candidate for rediscovery. It’s long overdue for a second wave of appreciation.
12. “Stronger Than Before” – Carole Bayer Sager
This heartfelt ballad from the ’80s is one of those songs that carries a quiet, powerful emotion, yet it has somehow faded into obscurity. Carole Bayer Sager’s delicate yet determined vocals bring out every ounce of feeling in the lyrics, making it a song that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever had to find their strength after heartbreak. The melody is simple but effective, building to a chorus that feels both triumphant and tender. It’s the kind of song that could easily find a new audience among fans of introspective, emotional music.
It’s surprising that “Stronger Than Before” hasn’t had a major revival, especially considering how well it would fit into today’s playlists centered around resilience and personal growth. A well-placed feature in a drama film or even a fresh cover by a modern artist could give it the recognition it deserves. The song’s message of perseverance is timeless, making it more relevant than ever. It’s time this beautiful track got another chance to shine.
13. “I Just Wanna Stop” – Gino Vannelli
This soulful ’70s hit was a massive success, yet it seems to have been overshadowed by other soft rock classics. The smooth, rich vocals and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect slow jam. There’s an effortless coolness to this song, blending pop, rock, and R&B influences in a way that feels completely unique. The emotional delivery in the chorus is stunning, and it’s the kind of song that sticks with you long after you’ve heard it.
With its timeless appeal, this song could easily find a new audience. A well-placed feature in a romantic movie or even a viral cover could bring it back into the mainstream. It has all the qualities of a classic that never should have faded away. It’s time to give it the love it deserves.