[Western Music] A roundup of male singers who were active in the 1980s
When we think of the overseas music scene in the ’80s, it was an era that drew major attention to genres like New Wave and hip-hop as digital sounds began to be incorporated.
Of course, the pop scene also flourished, and it was a time when many legendary artists—whose popularity still hasn’t faded—made their mark.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of male singers who were active in the international music scene of the ’80s.
From artists everyone knows to acclaimed singers who might be less familiar to younger generations, we’ve picked out a diverse lineup—so be sure to find your new favorite!
- A Collection of Classic 80s Western Ballads with Male Vocals
- Top Western Music Artists of the 1980s: Ranking [2025]
- Recommended male artists and singers in Western music from the 1970s
- [Western Music] A roundup of male singers who were active in the ’90s
- [1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80's Best Hit Songs
- Must-listen! Recommended! Spotlight on male solo artists in Western music
- [80s Western Music] Debut Songs by Male Artists
- Recommended Western music for men in their 60s: world classics and popular songs
- Western music artists popular among people in their 60s: Ranking [2025]
- A popular, up-and-coming male singer-songwriter in Western pop music
- Ranking of Western Music Artists Popular Among People in Their 50s [2025]
- A roundup of debut songs by male Western artists/singers from the ’90s
- Western songs that men like: world classics and popular tracks.
[Western Music] A roundup of male singers active in the 80s (71–80)
Who’s JohnnyEl DeBarge
Included on the 1985 album “El DeBarge.” It was used in the 1986 film “Short Circuit.” Born in 1961, he is a singer-songwriter from Michigan.
A member of the family-based music group DeBarge, he released this single as his solo debut.
It features a highly pop-savvy melody and showcases his high tenor voice.
Listen to Your FatherFeargal Sharkey
A single released in 1984.
Born in 1958.
A singer from Northern Ireland.
This was his solo debut single, released after he left the British punk band The Undertones.
It’s a track where his husky voice pairs nicely with a cheerful pop melody.
Rock Me TonightFreddie Jackson
The title track from the 1985 album Rock Me Tonight.
Born in 1956, he’s an R&B singer from New York State.
He debuted in 1985 with the album featuring this song and went on to rack up hits throughout the ’80s.
I think his soulful vocals pair perfectly with the moody, mellow sound.
[Western Music] A roundup of male singers active in the ’80s (’81–’90)
I Found SomebodyGlenn Frey
Included on the 1982 album No Fun Aloud.
Born in 1948, a musician from Michigan and a member of the Eagles.
During the Eagles’ hiatus, he began a solo career like Don Henley, and this is the first single from his released album.
It’s a mid-tempo track with a moody, flavorful melody that leaves a strong impression.
New SongHoward Jones
Included on the 1984 album Human’s Lib.
Born in 1955.
A British musician.
This is his debut single, representing the genres of electropop and synth-pop.
Featuring a digital sound rich with synthesizers, it’s a track brimming with his distinctive pop sensibilities.
Naughty NaughtyJohn Parr
Included on the 1984 album “John Parr.” Born in 1952, he is a singer from the UK.
He became famous thanks to his U.
S.
number-one hit, the movie theme “St.
Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion),” released in 1985.
This track leans more toward an American rock sound.
ChangeJohn Waite
Included on the 1982 album Ignition.
Born in 1952.
A singer-songwriter from the UK and the vocalist of The Babys and Bad English.
This is a single cut from his solo album released after The Babys disbanded.
Its simple, straightforward sound makes for a cool rock number.