Top Asia Songs of the '80s

By Steve Peake
Updated on 01/01/18

British progressive/arena rock supergroup Asia has withstood its share of mockery in pop culture circles over the years, but the truth is the band forged a unique blend of instrumental bombast and irresistible hooks that certainly has its moments. In its original and most impressive incarnation, the group produced only three studio albums during the first half of the '80s. Nevertheless, Asia's best work finds distinctive ways of demonstrating both the power and majesty of rock when it dares employ equal parts guitars, synthesizers and fist-pumping, grandly melodic flourishes. Here's a chronological look at Asia's best songs of the '80s.

01
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"Heat of the Moment"

British arena rock supergroup Asia perform live in Germany in 1982 [L-R Steve Howe (guitar), Carl Palmer (drums), Geoff Downes (keyboards), John Wetton (bass, lead vocals).
Ellen Poppinga/K & K/Redferns/Getty Images

Aside from its clear status as Asia's most famous song and biggest pop hit, this rousing arena rock anthem also features an irresistible power chord riff that novice guitar players (one of whom shall remain nameless) certainly played a few times during the '80s. It also happens to be a tight arrangement and a genuinely passionate lyrical take on the dangers of... well, too much passion. The track perfectly combines the precise guitars of ex-Yes axeman Steve Howe with Geoff Downes' grand keyboard layers, and the vocals of John Wetton prove unmistakably that he was and is one of music's greatest clear-voiced, straight-ahead rock singers of the past 45 years.

02
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"Here Comes the Feeling"

Arena rock supergroup Asia made a major splash with its 1982 debut.
Album Cover Image Courtesy of Geffen

While certainly a lesser single when compared with Asia's most well-known songs, this epic synth-guitar romp from the band's 1982 debut LP definitely has its moments of transcendence. Wetton's impassioned vocals work incredibly well here, and the constantly shifting time signatures help promote the progressive rock elements of the tune quite effectively. Musically speaking, the nearly six-minute running time allows Downes and Howe to spread out comfortably and present their respective talents without restriction. That means prog lovers surely appreciate the lead guitar, synth and electric piano meandering. Even better, the lively chorus and particularly moving verse melody make for an enjoyable pop music experience as well. Another fine example of Asia's special type of fusion.

03
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"Only Time Will Tell"

As the second successful single from 1982's top-selling LP 'Asia,' the melodically rich "Only Time Will Tell" nearly equals the anthemic punch of its slightly better-known singles predecessor.
Single Cover Image Courtesy of Geffen

Somehow this song failed to become a major American pop hit (peaking at just No. 17), but that's certainly not the fault of its powerhouse keyboard riff that begins the track and remains its steadfast foundation throughout. Much of the attention given to this band certainly has tended toward frontman Wetton and well-regarded guitar technician Howe, but Downes provides much of the style and theatrical charisma to Asia's music. This song is a celebration, to be sure, of its cowriters (Downes and Wetton) and their seam-bursting sonic vision, but it's also just a damn fine complex rock song that manages to hold very few dated musical elements. "It really comes as no surprise / To find that you planned it all along." Overall, a highly satisfying, multi-instrumental thrill ride.

04
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"Sole Survivor"

The album track "Sole Survivor" serves as a progressive rock link to fans partial to Asia's instrumental prowess.
Single Cover Image Courtesy of Geffen

Another sprawling effort that reaches far beyond the typical length of a rock single, this muscular track features powerful musicianship from all four members. Particularly noticeable is the rhythm section in this case, as Carl Palmer's intense pounding on the drums coupled with Wetton's chugging bass help keep the machine rumbling along nicely. Of course, Downes and Howe have their moments as well, maintaining the comfort and satisfaction of fans who love the virtuoso element of Asia. As usual for this band, the anthemic chorus pales a bit to the melodic heights reached in the verses, but this is undoubtedly prime Asia for those inclined to appreciate the group beyond merely the big hits.

05
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"Don't Cry"

Asia's follow-up 1983 album - 'Alpha' - generated one major hit but also signified the decline of the band's commercial fortunes.
Album Cover Image Courtesy of Geffen

This romantically opulent power ballad became Asia's second and final Top 10 pop hit in 1983, and soon after its release, the band's momentum began to plummet. Nevertheless, despite a somewhat simplistic title phrase and a chorus that is a bit of a letdown probably even for the band's most staunch defenders, this is another fine example of a skilled blend of ambitious progressive rock impulses and direct melodic rock. Like "Only Time Will Tell," this track boasts an exemplary musical intro that serves as the central theme for everything to follow. That's more than enough to make for a compelling listening experience for all but the most calloused and rigidly principled of mainstream rock fans. There's nothing experimental or rebellious to be found here, but those not demanding such flourishes will not be disappointed.