The 1980s was a transformational period for music in Glasgow with huge bands and artists emerging from the city’s vibrant music scene.
Music journalist Billy Sloan who was covering the beat at the time encapsulates the scene perfectly saying: “There seemed to be a period in the early 80s, where it almost seemed if you were walking down Sauchiehall Street with a guitar case, some A&R guy was going to jump out of a shop door with a cheque book and go ‘sign here, how much do you want?’”
We asked our audience to tell us their favourite tracks of the decade, and as always they didn’t disappoint. Almost 150 people got back in touch with us to tell us the songs they love best.
Here are 16 of the best songs written by Glasgow bands and musicians during the 1980s.
5. Happy Birthday - Altered Images
Altered Images released the single "Happy Birthday" in 1981. The song peaked at number two in the UK charts. | Getty Images
6. Somewhere in My Heart - Aztec Camera
Although Roddy Frame grew up in East Kilbride, Aztec Camera are inextricably linked with Glasgow's music scene. "Somewhere in My Heart" was released as the third single from their third studio album, Love. | © Harry Papadopoulos, courtesy Street Level Photoworks.
7. Rip It Up - Orange Juice
Orange Juice released "Rip It Up" as the second single from their 1982 album of the same name. Although the band were formed in Bearsden, they had a huge influence on Glasgow's music scene. | Getty Images
8. I Don't Want a Lover - Texas
"I Don't Want a Lover" is the debut single released by Glasgow rockers Texas. The track was released in January 1989 and peaked at number eight in the UK charts. | Getty Images