![[Western Music] A roundup of male solo singers who were active in the ’80s](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/izGwDsrQ1eQ/maxresdefault.webp)
[Western Music] A roundup of male solo singers who were active in the ’80s
When you think of the Western music scene of the ’80s, many of you might picture the glamorous sounds of MTV’s golden age.
It was a time when countless albums and songs were released that achieved record-breaking sales in music history, and many artists emerged who continue to be remembered as legends.
In this article, we’re shining a spotlight on the male solo singers who colored the ’80s! We’ll be showcasing a wide range of artists, including those who had been building their careers since the ’60s and ’70s.
You might reunite with a nostalgic voice, or discover works you’ll want to revisit.
Take your time and enjoy!
[Western Music] A roundup of male solo singers who were active in the ’80s (1–10)
Careless WhisperNEW!George Michael
As one of the defining talents of the 1980s pop scene, the first name that comes to mind is George Michael.
Hailing from London, he released his solo debut album Faith in 1987 after his work with Wham!.
It topped the US Billboard 200 and produced numerous hit songs.
He boasts a glittering list of accolades, including two Grammy Awards, five BRIT Awards, and four MTV Video Music Awards, and he is the only artist in history to have won Songwriter of the Year three times at the Ivor Novello Awards.
His appeal lies in his sophisticated sound that spans pop, R&B, and soul, as well as his exceptional creativity in writing, composing, and producing his own work.
Highly recommended for those seeking a high-caliber artist.
Never Gonna Give You UpNEW!Rick Astley
Rick Astley, the England-born singer who debuted as a solo artist in 1987 and quickly captivated audiences worldwide, is known for his distinctive deep baritone that contrasts with his sweet looks.
Together with the producer team Stock Aitken Waterman, he created dance-pop sounds that remain beloved as emblematic music of the 1980s.
His debut album, Whenever You Need Somebody, achieved an astonishing 15 million in sales, propelling him into the ranks of top artists.
In 1989, he was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best New Artist, earning high acclaim around the world.
Since the 2000s, his smash hit Never Gonna Give You Up has regained the spotlight as the internet meme “Rickroll,” and in 2021 its music video surpassed 1 billion views.
Be sure to keep an eye on Rick, who continues to be active and is being rediscovered by younger generations.
Beat ItNEW!Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, who has etched his name in music history as the “King of Pop.” Born in Indiana, he began his career in childhood as the lead vocalist of the Jackson 5 and achieved major success as a solo artist with the 1979 album Off the Wall.
His landmark 1982 release Thriller went on to sell over 65 million copies worldwide, dominating the era with its innovative sound that fused pop, R&B, funk, and rock.
In 1984, he won a record-breaking eight categories at the Grammy Awards, cementing his status as a global superstar.
His groundbreaking dance performances and music videos have continued to exert immeasurable influence on subsequent artists.
Highly recommended for those who want to enjoy dazzling stagecraft and a commanding vocal performance.
Every Little StepNEW!Bobby Brown
Hailing from Boston, soul/R&B singer Bobby Brown helped lead the New Jack Swing movement.
He began his career in 1978 as a founding member of New Edition, then went solo in 1985.
After debuting with his 1986 solo album King of Stage, his 1988 release Don’t Be Cruel hit No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts and produced five Top 10 hits, including My Prerogative.
In 1990, he won the Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.
Blending hip-hop’s rhythmic punch with soulful vocals and powerful, dance-driven stagecraft, his style had a profound influence on later male R&B solo artists and boy groups.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience the boundary-crossing of dance-pop and R&B in the late ’80s.
Summer Of ’69NEW!Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams is a rock singer from Canada.
He made his debut in 1980, and in his early years he gradually gained popularity with a harder rock-oriented style.
Then in 1984, he shot to stardom with the massive success of the album Reckless.
From this album came a string of hit songs, including Run to You, Heaven, and Summer of ’69, achieving the remarkable feat of topping the U.
S.
charts.
His voice, with its sandpaper-like husky texture, radiates a unique charm that combines power and romance.
Excelling in both rock and ballads, Adams is the perfect artist for anyone who loves classic arena rock.
Danger ZoneNEW!Kenny Loggins
After rising to fame in the 1970s as one half of a duo with Jim Messina, Kenny Loggins went solo in 1977.
Building on a sound rooted in soft rock and AOR, he became a dominant presence in film music during the 1980s.
He released a string of unforgettable songs forever linked with their movies, including the theme for 1984’s Footloose and a featured track in 1986’s Top Gun.
A two-time Grammy winner and an Academy Award nominee, his credentials are unquestionable.
With energetic rock arrangements and refreshingly clear vocals, he’s an artist who, for those who discovered Western pop through films of the ’80s, evokes both nostalgia and the era’s vibrant excitement.
All Night Long (All Night)NEW!Lionel Richie
After making his mark in the 1970s as the lead singer of the Commodores, Lionel Richie launched his solo career in 1982.
Seamlessly blending soul, R&B, pop, and funk, his style became a defining presence in the music scene of the 1980s and was adored worldwide.
“Truly” from his debut album, Lionel Richie, was a massive hit, and its follow-up, Can’t Slow Down, sold over 20 million copies globally and won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
He also won an Academy Award for “Say You, Say Me.” His sweet, gentle voice and heartfelt melodies are perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a romantic mood.