Rock Bands From The 80s – Vol 2
Guitar Lessons for Iron Maiden, Men At Work, Midnight Oil & More

From the new wave sound of Men At Work to the blazing riffs of Iron Maiden, this lineup showcases the diversity that made 80s rock unforgettable.

Whether you're strumming along with heartfelt anthems like “To Be With You” or ripping into the galloping metal of “The Trooper,” you'll find each of these songs offers something unique to learn and play.

Let’s dig into these timeless tracks and relive a decade where guitar-driven music ruled the charts.

The Trooper is a fan favorite from Piece of Mind (1983), “The Trooper” is based on the Charge of the Light Brigade.

Known for its aggressive tempo, iconic riff, and harmonized leads, this track is ideal for intermediate players ready to tackle classic metal techniques.

Kayleigh was released in 1985 on the album Misplaced Childhood, and “Kayleigh” was Marillion’s breakout hit, peaking at #2 in the UK.

The track blends melodic prog-rock with emotional lyrics and a haunting lead riff — a must-learn for players who enjoy expressive solos.

Land Down Under is a track from Business as Usual (1981) and topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became a cultural anthem.

With reggae-inspired rhythms and catchy chords, “Down Under” offers a lighthearted groove and fun strumming patterns for acoustic players.

Beds Are Burning was a hit 1987 song by Midnight Oil, from their album Diesel and Dust. It topped charts in New Zealand, South Africa, and Canada, and ranked high in several other countries.

It's recognized as one of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll, and was listed on VH1's 100 Greatest One Hit Wonders of the 80s and Triple J Hottest 100 of All Time in 2009.

This politically charged anthem is known for its chugging rhythm and call-to-action chorus. “Beds Are Burning” is a driving track great for developing steady strumming and timing.

Beggar On A Beach Of Gold is a track from the 1995 album of the same name by Mike And The Mechanics.

The song peaked at #33 in the UK and charted in Germany also. Paul Carrick and Paul Young were both in this group at the time.

To Be With You is actually a 90's song but I put it here because Mr Big is an 80s band.

This acoustic ballad topped the charts worldwide in 1992 (from the 1991 album Lean Into It).

It’s a stripped-down tune with a simple but beautiful chord progression, ideal for beginners looking to improve their fingerpicking and vocal-accompaniment skills.

Sister Ranger is a single from the 1984 album Midnight Madness and peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

One of the most iconic power ballads of the 80s, “Sister Christian” climbed to #5 on the Billboard Hot 100.

From the 1983 album Midnight Madness, it builds from piano-led verses into a dramatic chorus, and the solo provides a great melodic phrasing study.