You just can’t beat the smooth soft rock sounds of the early ’80s, and no one epitomized that era quite like Christopher Cross. His debut self-titled album swept the Grammys and produced some of the decade’s most iconic songs that still hold up today. Whether you’re feeling nostalgic or just in the mood for some light, melodic pop, Cross delivered hit after hit that most of us can’t get enough of.
From the iconic ‘Sailing’ to the heartfelt ballad ‘Arthur’s Theme,’ Cross captured the spirit of the times. His vocal style and songwriting chops made him a standout in the post-disco pop scene. Though his star faded too quickly, the music remains as breezy and wistful as ever.
Here we count down the top 10 Christopher Cross songs that take us right back to that golden age of yacht rock. As usual, your comments are welcome:
Sailing
Christopher Cross’s biggest hit, Sailing, is a smooth pop ballad that captures the feeling of being out on the open water. Released in 1980, this Grammy award-winning single topped the Billboard Hot 100 for a month and has endured as a yacht rock classic.
The gentle melody and Cross’s warm vocals paint a serene scene of escaping from the daily grind out into the peaceful solitude of the sea. Lyrics like “The canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see” conjure up images of the sun glistening on waves while seabirds soar overhead.
Ride Like the Wind
Christopher Cross’s biggest hit, Ride Like the Wind, is a pop-rock classic that radiates off a phenomenal adventurous feel. Released in 1980, this tune rocketed to number 2 on the Billboard charts, propelled by its catchy hook and melody.
The lyrics depict a man on the run from someone, racing into the night with a sense of urgency and adventure. You can almost feel the wind in your hair as you listen. The pulsing beat and rhythmic chorus will get stuck in your head for days.
Never Be the Same
Never Be the Same is arguably one of Christopher Cross’ most well-known and beloved songs. Released in 1979, this soft rock ballad topped the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks straight.
With its iconic synth intro and Cross’s smooth vocals, Never Be the Same embodies the melodic pop sound of the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. Lyrically, it’s a poignant story of lost love and longing for the past. In the chorus, Cross sings “We had magic, and you were my inspiration…but you found another situation.”
Think of Laura
One of Cross’ most well-known ballads is Think of Laura. This 1984 hit is a poignant song told from the perspective of a man who can’t stop thinking about a lost love named Laura. The piano-driven melody and Cross’s emotive vocals make it instantly recognizable.
The lyrics capture the anguish of losing someone who meant the world to you. In the first verse, the singer reflects on a past filled with happy memories of Laura: “The laughter, the tears, the memories we share. The moments of magic that I long to re-live again.” But in the chorus, the cold hard truth sets in: “As I think of Laura, I dream of Laura. I cry for Laura, I pray for Laura. As I think of Laura, she’s here.”
Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)
Released in 1981, Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do) is one of Christopher Cross’ most well-known and beloved songs. This ballad was written for the Dudley Moore film Arthur and ended up winning the Oscar for Best Original Song that year.
The gentle, melodic tune is a perfect match for the bittersweet story of a charming yet troubled playboy. Lyrics like “Once in your life you’ll find someone who will turn your world around / Bring you up when you’re feeling down” capture the movie’s message of following your heart.
Charm The Snake
Charm the Snake is one of Cross’ most underrated songs. Released in 1979 on his debut album, this tune showcases his smooth vocals and talent for crafting catchy soft rock melodies.
With a laidback beat and uplifting guitar hooks, Charm the Snake has an optimistic and romantic feel that’s quintessential of Cross’ signature sound. For any fan of ’70s yacht rock and west coast pop, this song deserves more recognition as one of the highlights of Christopher Cross’ discography.
Though not as well-known as megahits like Sailing or Arthur’s Theme, Charm the Snake showcases his talent as a songwriter and helps round out his debut album into a smooth, cohesive work of art.
A Chance For Heaven
Released in 1979, A Chance For Heaven is a classic Christopher Cross ballad. With its melodic synths, gentle percussion and Cross’s trademark falsetto vocals, this song tugs at the heartstrings.
Like many of Cross’s most well-known songs, A Chance For Heaven has an almost wistful, idealistic quality. His flawless melodies and harmonies give the song a dreamy, ethereal vibe.
For anyone who has loved and lost, this tune strikes a poignant chord. It’s a reminder of the bittersweet truth that in life and love, second chances are rare and precious. When we get them, we have to make the most of these fleeting moments in heaven.
No Time for Talk
No Time for Talk is a melancholy ballad about lost love and regret. Released in 1979, Cross sadly croons about a past relationship that ended too soon, with too much left unsaid.
The minimal instrumentation lets Cross’s heartfelt performance shine. This underrated ballad still tugs at the heartstrings of anyone who has loved and lost. Its timeless themes of regret and missed opportunities give it a lingering poignancy that has stood the test of time.
Say You’ll Be Mine ft Nicolette Larson
Say You’ll Be Mine was Cross’ first major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart in 1980. This breezy duet with Nicolette Larson is pure ’70s soft rock bliss. Larson’s sweet, breathy vocals are the perfect complement to Cross’ melodic piano and airy harmonies.
The simple but catchy chorus goes: “Say you’ll be mine, I’ll be there, whenever you call, I’ll be there, say you’ll be mine.” It’s a straightforward love song but sometimes simple is best. This light, romantic tune will take you back to lazy summer days of youth and first loves.
All Right
All Right is a fun, feel-good song that will lift your spirits. Released in 1979 on Cross’ debut album, this lighthearted track highlights his smooth vocals and melodic style.
The upbeat tempo and positive lyrics are instantly mood-boosting. Cross sings about taking a chance on love and how “it’s gonna be all right” with infectious optimism. His vocal delivery is both soothing and energetic as he dances along the climbing melody. The instrumentation, including piano, guitar and strings, provides a lush backdrop for Cross’ voice to shine.
There we have it, our list of best songs by Christopher Cross. What do you think about our picks? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below: