Recommended masterpieces and popular songs of Western electro-pop and synth-pop

CarsGary Numan

Gary Numan – Cars

Gary Numan from the UK took the world by storm with his android-like, inhuman look and cutting-edge electropop sound.

He began his career in his teens with a band called Tubeway Army, and after the band split, he went solo.

His solo debut single, Cars, released in 1979, was an instant smash, hitting No.

1 in the UK and No.

3 in the US.

Looping synth phrases, mechanical beats, vocals stripped of any human warmth—his sound had a profound influence on the artists who followed.

Gary himself has openly said he’s a fan of Ultravox and John Foxx, so it’s fun to listen while comparing their sounds.

The Look Of LoveABC

ABC – The Look Of Love

Listening to this song probably brings back memories for many of you of hitting the disco night after night.

With their instantly memorable name, ABC is a quintessential band from the UK’s so-called New Romantic scene.

While not pure electropop, their sound—lavishly incorporating disco elements and synth textures—was produced by the legendary Trevor Horn, a figure indispensable to any discussion of the 1980s music scene.

Taking that into account, this track surely stands as one of the quintessential synth-pop classics.

I recommend enjoying it together with its flashy music video, which perfectly encapsulates the peak era of MTV!

1901Phoenix

Phoenix – 1901(Official Video)

Phoenix, France’s finest rock band.

They’re deeply versed in a vast range of music from around the world and keep producing works of overwhelming polish, so you can’t simply lump them into electropop or synth-pop.

That said, let’s spotlight 1901, the track released in 2009 that put their name on the global map.

It’s a wonderful classic, bursting with irresistible pop energy and glittering ’80s-style synth tones that spark excitement.

Even fans of electropop and synth-pop should find it a great fit.

The album that features the song, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix, has a strong synth-pop character as well, so give it a listen and you’ll be glad you did!

RunningComputer Magic

Computer Magic – Running

Computer Magic is the solo project of Danielle Johnson, a charming home-recording artist from New York.

Also known by her nickname Danz, she is a multitalented artist who single-handedly handles songwriting, composition, and arrangement, and also works as a DJ and graphic designer.

Her electropop sound—born from a DIY approach and tinged with a subtly retro vibe—is filled with timeless melodies and an irresistible charm that appeals to everyone.

If you’re new to her music, start with Running, which was featured in a Lexus commercial, and experience the allure of Computer Magic!

CloserTegan and Sara

Tegan and Sara – Closer [OFFICIAL HD MUSIC VIDEO]

A twin-sister duo from Canada who made their debut on a label run by the legendary artist Neil Young.

Even Taylor Swift has publicly declared herself a fan.

Their early sound leaned toward alternative rock and indie folk with a rustic feel, but they gradually shifted styles and fully embraced synth-pop with their 2013 album Heartthrob, which became a hit—not only in Canada but also reaching No.

3 on the U.

S.

charts.

The lead single Closer was featured on the popular American TV show Glee, helping propel them to a full-fledged breakthrough.

It’s a masterpiece where brilliant pop sensibilities, shimmering synths, and bittersweet melodies and lyrics fuse together perfectly!

Maybe YouSay Lou Lou

Say Lou Lou – Maybe You (official video)

Say Lou Lou is a duo of strikingly beautiful twin sisters with Australian and Swedish heritage.

They originally performed under the name Saint Lou Lou, later changing to their current moniker.

Their nomination for the BBC’s “Sound of 2014,” which spotlights promising new artists each year, quickly boosted their profile.

The track introduced here is effectively their debut single, released under their previous name.

Their refined, dreamy synth-pop sound—where elegant, floating melodies are woven from hazy synth textures and impeccably tight sibling harmonies—still boasts remarkable quality today.

Pay attention to the subtly cool, Nordic atmosphere and their melodic sensibility that avoids being overly catchy.

Body Back ft. Maia WrightGryffin

Gryffin – Body Back ft. Maia Wright (Official Music Video)

The collaborative track by American DJ/producer Gryffin and Swedish singer-songwriter Maia Wright is a captivating song that blends emotive dance-pop with tropical house.

Sparkling beats and Maia’s passionate vocals fuse exquisitely, and the stirring melody lifts the listener’s emotions.

Released in October 2019 as part of the album Gravity, it became a hit in several countries, reaching number 14 in New Zealand.

Perfect for summer drives or relaxing by the beach, it’s recommended for those who enjoy both electronic and organic sounds.