Top Western Music Artists of the 1980s: Ranking [2025]
You can still catch glimpses of the achievements of popular Western music artists from the 1980s, who left behind many great songs, in many places today.
They are still loved by many fans today, but aren’t you curious how they would rank by modern standards? We’ve compiled a ranking of popular Western music artists from the ’80s, so let us introduce it to you.
- 1980s: Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Classic and Hit Songs
- Ranking of Western Music Artists Popular Among People in Their 50s [2025]
- [1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80's Best Hit Songs
- Western music artists popular among people in their 60s: Ranking [2025]
- Love songs in Western music that were hits in the 1980s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
- Legendary Western rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s
- Ranking of Western Music Artists Popular Among People in Their 40s [2025]
- Most Popular Western Music Bands Ranking [2025]
- Classic and hit Western pop songs from the 1970s
- Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers of 1980s Western Music
- Nostalgic or fresh? Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs from the 1980s
- [For people in their 60s] Western songs that get the crowd going at karaoke: Ranking [2025]
- Western music artists ranking popular among people in their 20s [2025]
Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists from the 1980s [2025] (81–90)
AlwaysAtlantic Starr85rank/position
A signature song by Atlantic Starr that sings the wonders of love.
Released in March 1987, it became their first No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Issued as the second single from the album “All in the Name of Love,” the track became the group’s biggest hit.
Its melody blends R&B and pop, paired with lyrics pledging eternal love to a cherished partner.
Frequently featured in films and TV shows, it’s a song perfect for a quiet autumn night—highly recommended to enjoy with someone special.
Eyes Without A FaceBilly Idol86rank/position
After performing with the punk rock band Generation X, the UK-born musician Billy Idol went solo and rose to worldwide fame.
Since going solo, the punk rock elements have receded, with his sound centering more on glam rock and new wave.
Among his works, one that’s especially perfect for autumn is Eyes Without A Face.
In a good way, it’s a track without dramatic highs and lows, maintaining a steady, gentle, and intriguingly new wave–style melody line.
It’s a smooth number that suits early autumn mornings or dusk.
Come On EileenDexys Midnight Runners87rank/position
This is a masterpiece that epitomizes 80s pop at its peak.
It’s packed with a unique charm born from the fusion of Celtic folk and soul.
The song expresses the hopes of young people who won’t be defeated by poverty, through a cheerful rhythm and memorable melody.
Released in July 1982, it became the best-selling single of the year in the UK and a massive hit that topped charts around the world.
As Dexys Midnight Runners’ signature song, it still shines with undimmed brilliance.
Perfect for when you want to feel bright and positive, and highly recommended for anyone who wants to savor the atmosphere of the 80s.
Sweet DreamsEurythmics88rank/position
Eurythmics, a duo representing the UK, are known for blue-eyed soul, new wave, and synth-pop, and they scored a string of major hits.
Among their works, the dance track that garnered particular popularity is “Sweet Dreams.” It’s a stylish song, with a sophisticated track and a repeatedly sung phrase that leaves a strong impression.
If you enjoy chic and slightly mysterious tunes, be sure to check it out.
I Love Rock ‘n’ RollJoan Jett & The Blackhearts89rank/position
Released in January 1982, this rock anthem cemented the popularity of American rock band Joan Jett & the Blackhearts.
It was a massive hit, dominating the U.
S.
singles chart at No.
1 for seven weeks.
The powerful guitar riff and rousing handclaps contain the kind of rock magic that gets your body moving before you even think about it.
The track is a single from the classic album “I Love Rock ’n’ Roll,” and some may remember it being featured in the film “10 Things I Hate About You.” Unconditional love for rock ’n’ roll and the joy of connecting with people through music—those pure feelings come straight to the heart, carried by a powerful vocal.
Why not give it a listen on a morning when you want to start your day on a high note?
Breaking The LawJudas Priest90rank/position
A track by Judas Priest, a metal band globally renowned by the moniker “Metal Gods.” Released as a single from their sixth album, British Steel, it features a hard-edged sound paired with melodious, catchy guitar work.
While comparatively simple in beat for Judas Priest, its aggressive vocals and sound sent metal fans around the world into a frenzy.
In under three minutes, this smash hit packs in everything that makes Judas Priest compelling—a song you’ll want to replay over and over.
Top Foreign Pop Artists of the 1980s Ranking [2025] (91–100)
Bette Davis EyesKim Carnes91rank/position
Released in 1981, this hit song won Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the Grammys the following year.
It’s a song about a so-called femme fatale who captivates men.
Love songs come in many forms, but dance music is often characterized by lyrics that exude an adult sensuality.
The woman at the center of this song is alluring, yet she might feel a bit thrilling—perhaps even dangerous—to the men she attracts.