Top 15 Aussie Songs of 1988: The Year of Big Voices and Bigger Ambition
1988 was the year Australian music flexed its muscles. Amid Bicentennial festivities — tall ships, Harbour fireworks, and nationwide pride — local artists delivered a soundtrack of confidence and polish. John Farnham’s comeback was the story of the year, INXS solidified their global status, and a fresh crop of bands showed the scene was diversifying beyond pub rock.
Right at the top sits John Farnham’s “Age Of Reason”. Written by Todd Hunter and Johanna Pigott, produced by Ross Fraser, it hit number one for three weeks in August and became the defining anthem of resurgence. Farnham’s voice — powerful, emotive — turned it into more than a hit; it was a statement. Paired with “Two Strong Hearts”, the album Age Of Reason ruled the charts and reminded everyone why he was untouchable.
Crowded House followed closely with “Better Be Home Soon”, Neil Finn’s heartfelt ballad of longing. Produced by Mitchell Froom, its warm melodies and emotional honesty made it a radio staple and a sign of the band’s maturing songcraft.
1927’s “If I Could” was the sleeper — written by Garry Frost, produced by Charles Fisher and Jim Bonnefond, it charted for an astonishing 30 weeks and peaked at number two. That soaring chorus captured the year’s romantic side perfectly.
INXS delivered double trouble with “New Sensation” and “Devil Inside” from Kick — slick, groove-driven tracks produced by Chris Thomas that kept the band at the forefront of international rock. Their charisma and tight sound made them Australia’s biggest export story.
Jimmy Barnes roared through Percy Sledge’s “When A Man Loves A Woman”, turning the classic into raw, barnstorming soul with his unmistakable grit. James Reyne’s “Motor’s Too Fast” brought cinematic urgency and that signature drawl to his solo era.
Little River Band’s “Love Is A Bridge” offered classic harmony-rich soft rock, while Daryl Braithwaite’s “As The Days Go By” gave us smooth, reflective pop. Noiseworks’ “Touch” aimed straight for the arenas with its big-hearted chorus, and Chantoozies’ “Wanna Be Up” kept dance floors moving with bright, harmonious fun.
Big Pig’s “Breakaway” stood out with its tribal percussion and bold energy — nothing else sounded like it on the radio. Mental As Anything had a blast covering Chuck Berry’s “Rock And Roll Music”, injecting their quirky charm into the classic.
Johnny Diesel & the Injectors burst in with “Don’t Need Love”, a gritty debut that promised more pub-rock fire ahead.
Taken as a whole, 1988’s hits blend power ballads, rock grooves, pop polish, and soulful covers. It was a year when Australian artists weren’t just competing locally — they were setting the pace, filling stadiums, and eyeing the world. These fifteen tracks capture that moment of peak ambition and pure enjoyment.