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!
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Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers of 80s Western Music (1–10)
Total Eclipse of The HeartBonnie Tyler
She is a Welsh-born female singer with a long career dating back to the 1970s, known for her distinctive husky vocals.
Although she enjoyed only moderate hits in her early years, her 1982 album The Speed of Night became a massive success, propelling her to the top tier of artists.
While the song Total Eclipse of the Heart, written by Meat Loaf’s composer Jim Steinman, is famous, it’s interesting that Holding Out for a Hero is actually more popular in Japan.
Running Up That HillKate Bush
Kate Bush, a pioneering figure in art rock who brought a fresh breeze to the UK music scene, made her debut in 1978 at just 19, captivating many listeners with her distinctive voice and poetic lyrics.
Her signature song, Wuthering Heights, is a gem inspired by Emily Brontë’s novel.
The 1985 album Hounds of Love remains highly acclaimed as one of her defining works.
In 2013, she was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her contributions to music.
Her innovative musicality and deeply insightful lyrics are perfect for fans with an artistic bent.
Giving You the Best That I Got – Single VersionAnita Baker
A female R&B singer from the United States who epitomized the 1980s.
Although she released relatively few works, the many classic songs that supported the Black Contemporary sound popular in the ’80s are still loved in 2020.
Her urbane, sophisticated sound and Anita’s vocals are nostalgic for those who know the era well, and likely sound fresh to younger music fans.
Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers of 80s Western Music (11–20)
Heaven Is A Place On EarthBelinda Carlisle
As an American songstress who colored the music scene of the ’80s, Belinda Carlisle actually began her musical career as a drummer in a punk band.
She then made her major debut in 1978 as the lead singer of The Go-Go’s.
After leaving the band in 1984 to start her solo career, she released her solo debut album, “Belinda,” in 1986.
The songs included on her 1987 album “Heaven on Earth” achieved great success, with 19 Top 40 hits in the United States.
Her powerful yet warm voice and her vocal ability to master a wide range of genres—from pop to punk—continue to captivate many people.
Only in My DreamsDebbie Gibson
An American songstress who took the world by storm as a teen pop star in the late ’80s.
She released her debut album, “Out of the Blue,” in 1987 and quickly rose to fame.
Singles like “Only in My Dreams” and “Shake Your Love” successively reached the Billboard Top 5.
She also earned a Guinness World Record as the youngest artist to achieve a Billboard No.
1 single with “Foolish Beat,” leaving a brilliant legacy.
With her musical talent on piano and keyboards and her poppy, catchy tunes, she captivated many fans.
Debbie Gibson’s bright, refreshing vocals are a perfect encapsulation of the ‘80s pop vibe.
Let’s Hear It for the BoyDeniece Williams
A shining presence in the American soul, R&B, and gospel scenes.
Born in 1950, Deniece Williams is known for her soft, emotive vocals.
Her 1976 debut single “Free” drew attention for a soprano reminiscent of Minnie Riperton.
Centered on soul and R&B, her appeal lies in a musical style that spans a wide range of genres, from pop to dance.
In 1982, she topped the Billboard Hot 100 with “It’s Gonna Take a Miracle.” She has an illustrious track record, including a Grammy win for her 1986 album So Glad I Know.
She’s a recommended songstress for anyone seeking to be soothed by a sweet, gentle voice.
When I Think Of YouJanet Jackson
She is an American singer and dancer who dominated the pop music scene of the 1980s.
She signed with A&M Records in 1982, launching her music career, and quickly rose to stardom with the albums Control and Rhythm Nation 1814.
Her innovative sound—blending R&B, funk, disco, and more—paired with socially conscious lyrics captured the hearts of many young listeners.
She has won numerous awards, including five Grammys, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019.
Her sophisticated stage performances and powerful vocals continue to captivate audiences to this day.