Forgotten Gems: 5 Underrated Songs from the 80s and 90s You Need to Hear Again

The 80s and 90s were undeniably golden decades for music. These eras delivered chart-toppers that remain iconic to this day, but they also left behind a treasure trove of hidden gems. If you're a fan of rediscovering those tracks that might have slipped through the cracks, this list is for you. Here are five underrated songs that deserve another listen, along with a few extra discoveries to reignite your love for these decades.

Forgotten Gems: 5 Underrated Songs from the 80s and 90s You Need to Hear Again

1. Midnight Blue by Lou Gramm

Best known as the lead singer of Foreigner, Lou Gramm took a solo turn with "Midnight Blue," a passionate rock anthem that perfectly showcases his signature voice. Released in 1987, this song delivers a perfect blend of heartfelt lyrics and a driving beat that’s sure to take you back to a time when rock was all about raw emotion and powerful melodies. It’s a reminder of Gramm’s versatility and why his contributions to rock deserve more recognition.

2. Right on Track by Breakfast Club

"Right on Track" is a funky, synth-driven tune from the Breakfast Club, a lesser-known band from the 80s that briefly hit the spotlight. Released in 1987, this song’s catchy chorus and quirky rhythm make it an undeniable earworm. It's the kind of track that gets you moving, with a vibe reminiscent of a late-night dance party at a neon-lit club. Despite its infectious groove, "Right on Track" has remained on the fringes of nostalgia—until now.

3. Jammin' Me by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

This collaboration between Tom Petty and Bob Dylan doesn’t get as much love as some of Petty’s bigger hits, but it’s every bit as compelling. "Jammin' Me," released in 1987, is a biting critique of media overload with a raw, rock-and-roll energy that’s quintessentially Petty. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the noise of the world, this track’s fiery spirit might just hit the right note.

Forgotten Gems: 5 Underrated Songs from the 80s and 90s You Need to Hear Again

4. Fallen Angel by Poison

While Poison is widely celebrated for their glam-metal hits like "Every Rose Has Its Thorn," "Fallen Angel" showcases the band’s ability to combine storytelling with infectious hooks. Released in 1988, it’s a tale of ambition and heartbreak wrapped in soaring guitar riffs and Bret Michaels’s unmistakable vocals. This song stands out as a high-energy anthem that deserves a place on any 80s playlist.

5. Shake Me by Cinderella

Glam metal fans, rejoice! Cinderella’s "Shake Me" is an electrifying track that embodies the spirit of the 80s rock scene. Released in 1986, this song is a celebration of youthful rebellion and carefree fun, driven by high-octane guitars and Tom Keifer’s raspy vocals. If you’ve been craving a blast of energy, "Shake Me" delivers.

Bonus Tracks to Rediscover

• Let Me Go by Heaven 17: This synth-pop gem from the early 80s combines thought-provoking lyrics with a lush electronic arrangement, making it a standout track for fans of New Wave.

• Walking in L.A. by Missing Persons: A quirky, upbeat song that captures the unique spirit of 80s alternative rock, this track highlights the band’s playful creativity.

• Motorcycle Emptiness by Manic Street Preachers: Released in 1992, this hauntingly beautiful track blends poetic lyrics with a dreamy rock sound, making it one of the 90s most underrated treasures.

  
  

These songs prove that some of the best music doesn’t always top the charts. Whether you’re reliving memories or discovering these tracks for the first time, these underrated gems are worth adding to your playlist. You can hear these songs and more on Power88.FM, where forgotten favorites come to life. Don’t forget—you can even request your own hidden gems to share with fellow listeners. Which forgotten hits would you add to this list? Share your favorites in the comments!