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3 Classic Rock Songs That Remind 80s Teens of Being Young
The article looks back at three rock songs associated with the rebellious spirit of teenagers in the 1980s: Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Gonna Take It”, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts’ “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” and Scorpions’ “Rock You Like a Hurricane”. Their appeal came from forceful choruses and, in one case, controversy over whether the music was suitable for young listeners.
Twisted Sister’s 1984 anthem appeared on the Parents Music Resource Center’s “Filthy Fifteen” list and reached No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100. Jett’s 1982 version of “I Love Rock ‘n Roll”, originally recorded by Arrows in 1975, topped the Hot 100. Scorpions’ 1984 song reached No. 25 on the Hot 100 and No. 5 on the Mainstream Rock chart, while its music video received heavy rotation on MTV.
In short
- Three rock songs evoke 1980s teenage rebellion.
- Joan Jett’s version of “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” reached No. 1.
- Scorpions’ video helped keep “Rock You Like a Hurricane” popular.
Explained simply
In the 1980s, rock songs with loud guitars and defiant choruses became part of how many teenagers expressed their independence. Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Gonna Take It” was one example; its appearance on a list of songs criticised by a parents’ group drew attention to concerns about music aimed at young listeners.
Joan Jett’s hit version of “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” was first recorded by the British band Arrows in 1975. Scorpions’ “Rock You Like a Hurricane” also reached a wide audience, helped by frequent showings of its video on MTV, the music television channel that became influential during the decade.