Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers of 1980s Western Music
The 1980s saw dramatic changes—from technological advances to the birth of MTV—and produced many massive hit songs that made music history.
At the same time, a wide range of genres flourished, from new wave and soul to disco and pop, and it was also an era that saw the rise of many leading female singers.
This article highlights female Western artists who colored the era, focusing on those who debuted in the 1980s while also including artists who had been active since the 1970s.
Enjoy it together with the hit songs these women sang in the ’80s!
Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers of 80s Western Music (1–10)
Live to TellMadonna
Even now in the 2020s, she continues to run at the forefront as the Queen of Pop.
When she debuted in the ’80s, she fully embraced the then-new medium of music videos, and with her provocative style and innovative sound, she achieved explosive popularity—something that hardly needs explaining today.
While her genius for self-production is often discussed, her distinctive vocal tone—which lets her infuse both tender ballads and catchy pop songs with a uniquely Madonna flavor—is also one of her greatest charms.
Greatest Love of AllWhitney Houston
For those who didn’t grow up in her era, many might associate Whitney Houston primarily with “I Will Always Love You.” She was already a smash success with her 1985 debut album, Whitney Houston, and until her sudden passing in a tragic accident in 2012, the global diva experienced both glory and setbacks.
Her career can be seen as a chapter in the very history of popular music.
The extraordinary voice known as “The Voice” will never fade.
Bette Davis EyesKim Carnes
Kim Carnes is an American singer-songwriter known for her husky singing voice.
With a unique style that fuses pop, rock, and country, she brightened the music scene of the 1980s.
She shot to stardom with a 1981 release that spent nine consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard chart and won both Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the Grammys.
Her wide-ranging musicality and profound lyrics are part of her appeal, and her duet with Kenny Rogers also drew attention.
As one of the defining female artists of 1980s Western pop, she continues to captivate many fans today.
Smooth Operator – Single VersionSade
For those unfamiliar, it’s easy to mistake it for a female singer’s name, but Sade is actually a British band fronted by female vocalist Sade Adu.
With a chic, urban vibe that blends elements of jazz into a modern sound and Adu’s mysterious vocals, they enjoy worldwide popularity.
Though their output is relatively sparse, as of 2020 they have released six albums—and every one of them has been a hit.
Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)Eurythmics
A duo that produced numerous hit songs in the UK during the 1980s.
The singer Annie Lennox, known for her trademark very short hair dyed in vibrant colors, is also recognized for her active involvement in social movements.
Her slightly fuller vocal timbre is powerful, expansive, and cool.
It offers a cool allure that differs from the glamorous atmosphere many associate with the ’80s.
Fast CarTracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman is a folk singer known for her powerful messages and rich, soulful voice.
She debuted in 1988 and achieved worldwide success with her self-titled album, Tracy Chapman, released the same year.
Her songs, which sharply address social issues, drew significant attention and earned her multiple Grammy Awards.
In 1995, she released the album New Beginning, which became another major hit.
Chapman’s music is characterized by a simple yet deeply resonant strength.
Her lyrics carry strong social messages, and her warm, expressive voice is part of her appeal.
She’s an artist recommended not only for fans of folk and blues, but for anyone seeking music that truly speaks to the heart.
Time After TimeCyndi Lauper
A global songstress who took the world by storm with a powerful, soaring voice that seems to energize you just by listening, along with her distinctive fashion.
In fact, before her solo debut she made a major-label debut with a band that failed and disbanded, enduring many hardships—she’s a late-blooming star.
Her vocal ability and positive attitude—effortlessly handling everything from exhilarating pop tunes to tender ballads—continue to be loved across generations.
The fact that she’s a great admirer of Japan is also a welcome point for Japanese fans.