[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!
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- 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 1980s (51–60)
Too Late for GoodbyesJulian Lennon
Julian Lennon drew major attention when he debuted as an artist—the son of the legendary John Lennon.
This debut single even reached No.
5 on the Billboard chart, and he appeared in TV commercials in Japan.
However, perhaps because his strong resemblance to his father became a stumbling block, his subsequent career has been relatively low-key.
I Believe in LoveKenny Loggins
Kenny Loggins is an American musician.
After releasing numerous hit songs in the early 1970s as part of the duo Loggins & Messina, he began his solo career in 1977.
He is best known for major hits like the title track from the film Footloose and “Danger Zone,” the theme song for Top Gun.
His solo debut was the 1977 album Celebrate Me Home.
Although it was his debut, the album became a hit and was certified Platinum in the United States.
The featured video is for “I Believe in Love,” a track from the album.
Darling PrettyMark Knopfler
As the frontman of Dire Straits, Mark Knopfler produced hit songs like “Sultans of Swing” and classic albums such as “Brothers in Arms.” His guitar solo also leaves a strong impression on this debut single, “Darling Pretty.”
ThrillerMichael Jackson
Michael Jackson, an artist loved in many countries as the King of Pop, captivated the world with his distinctive dance performances based on tap dance and his catchy musical style.
His signature work, Thriller, became so popular that it is essential when discussing music of the 1980s.
It is a quintessential piece that perfectly embodies the spirit of entertainment in that decade.
Be sure to check it out.
[Western Music] A roundup of male singers active in the ’80s (61–70)
Got to Be ThereMichael Jackson
Michael Jackson, known as the “King of Pop,” continues to be respected by many people even after his passing at a young age.
With countless hits such as “Rock with You,” “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” and “Black or White,” his debut solo release was the 1971 single “Got to Be There.” You can hear Michael’s beautiful tenor voice from before his voice changed.
I Keep Forgettin’Michael McDonald
Michael McDonald rose to fame as a member of The Doobie Brothers, but he had already been active as a session musician before that.
On this debut track as well, his associates—TOTO members Greg Phillinganes, Steve Lukather, and Jeff Porcaro—provide the backing.
Iron Out the Rough SpotsPaul Young
Paul Young is a singer-songwriter from the UK who gained popularity across Europe in the 1980s.
Known for his soulful voice, he was also well-loved in Japan as one of the representative blue-eyed soul singers of the ’80s.
While his signature hit is the Hall & Oates cover “Everytime You Go Away,” today’s feature is on his debut single, “Iron Out the Rough Spots,” released in 1982.
The track is also included on his debut album No Parlez, which topped the UK charts and became a major hit, but at the time of its single release, it didn’t even make the charts and received little attention.
In fact, the song is a cover of a 1966 track by soul musician Don Covay.
There’s also a 1970 version by R&B singer-songwriter Nolan Porter.
It’s fun to listen to each version and compare them!