80s Rock Bands From The 80s – Vol 4:
Acoustic Guitar Lessons for Classic Hits

Volume 4 continues our deep dive into some of the most unforgettable bands of the decade — from White Lion to Warrant — bringing you guitar-friendly arrangements of their best-known hits.

Whether you're revisiting these songs from your youth or discovering them for the first time, this collection keeps the spirit of rock alive with strum-ready classics you can learn and play.

And She Was is a quirky track from the album Little Creatures (1985). This song tells the surreal story of a levitating woman.

With its groovy feel and upbeat melody, it became a Top 30 hit in the U.S. and is a fun rhythm practice piece for guitar players.

Psycho Killer is one of the band’s earliest hits and  appeared on their 1977 debut Talking Heads: 77.

With its minimalist riff and haunting vocals, it became a cult classic and remains a favorite at live shows.

Take Me To The River is an Al Green cover from More Songs About Buildings and Food (1978) and was released as a single in 1979.

It’s drenched in funky soul and new wave stylings, making it a fantastic groove-based tune for intermediate players.

End Of The Line is a feel-good closer from their debut album Vol. 1 (1988). The song features contributions from all five Wilburys and became a global hit.

Its relaxed rhythm and optimistic message make it a perfect campfire-style tune to play and sing along with.

Handle With Care is also from the Vol 1 album from 1988  and was originally written as a B-side. This supergroup’s debut track quickly became their signature hit.

With George Harrison on lead vocals and a mix of rock royalty behind him, “Handle With Care” blends folk, rock, and charm like no other.

You Took My Breath Away is a lesser-known gem that highlights Roy Orbison’s stunning vocal range that hails from their Vol 3 album.

Though not as commercially successful as the other tracks, it’s a standout for its emotional delivery and rich arrangement—great for players looking to explore dynamics.

Red Red Wine is actually a Neil Diamond song which he first released back in 1967. UB40 decided to cover this number and included it as a track on their 1983 album Labour Of Love.

The song topped the charts in the UK and made it to #34 in the US. Neil Diamond liked the Reggae so much that he now performs that version in his concerts instead of the acoustic ballad version he originally recorded.

With its laid-back groove and singable melody, “Red Red Wine” is an essential crowd-pleaser and a great intro to reggae rhythm on guitar.

I Saw Red was released in 1990 on Cherry Pie, this power ballad stands out for its raw vulnerability and acoustic foundation.

Peaking at #10 on the Billboard charts, it’s one of the band’s most emotional tracks and ideal for expressive guitar playing.

When The Children Cry is a heartfelt ballad from Pride (1987) showcased White Lion’s softer side.

A surprise hit, the song hit #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a poignant reminder of and 80s rock’s melodic diversity.