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.
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Top Foreign Pop Artists of the 1980s Ranking [2025] (91–100)
Can You Stand The RainNew Edition92rank/position
When discussing the R&B ballads that defined the music scene of the 1980s, New Edition’s “Can You Stand the Rain” is indispensable.
With emotionally rich lyrics and an excellent melodic line in perfect harmony, this song gently portrays the depth of a couple’s bond and has continued to be loved by many.
In particular, the contrasting charms of Johnny Gill’s and Ralph Tresvant’s vocals are striking, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
It’s truly a warm track that’s perfect for a rainy day!
Cold HeartedPaula Abdul93rank/position
This is the song “Cold Hearted” by Paula Abdul, a singer from the United States who colored the 80s.
It’s included on the album “Forever Your Girl,” released in 1988.
The intricately layered synthesizer sounds are remarkably well crafted.
Overall, it’s a very funky track that makes you want to start dancing.
Cum On Feel The NoizeQuiet Riot94rank/position
This is an irresistibly upbeat party anthem that epitomizes the frenzy of ’80s L.
A.
metal! Performed by the American band Quiet Riot, it practically transports you into the excitement of a live show just by listening.
A cover of a song originally released by Slade in the ’70s, its lyrics carry a simple yet powerful message: forget your everyday frustrations and let’s all go wild together.
Released in 1983, it was included on the landmark album Metal Health, the first heavy metal record in history to reach No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts.
Thanks to the massive success of this track, the band shot to stardom.
Also featured in the film Footloose, this song is the perfect companion for a drive or anytime you want to boost your mood!
Lay It DownRatt95rank/position
Known as an iconic glam metal anthem of the ’80s, this track stands out with its passionate lyrics and gritty guitar riffs, offering an alluring, uninhibited sensuality.
Released as a single from Ratt’s second album, “Invasion of Your Privacy,” it reached No.
40 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 1985.
It was also featured in the video game “Brütal Legend,” earning popularity across a wide audience.
The album sold over two million copies in the United States and was certified platinum.
A must-listen for anyone wanting to savor the essence of ’80s rock—or to turn up the heat on a summer night.
GhostbustersRay Parker Jr.96rank/position
Along with the theme song for the 1984 blockbuster film Ghostbusters, Ray Parker Jr.
’s track became so popular it turned into a social phenomenon.
From the memorable opening intro to the overall rhythmic sound, everyone found themselves stepping to the beat and pretending to be Ghostbusters—that is, ghost hunters.
It still sounds fresh even now.
BreakoutSwing Out Sister97rank/position
An iconic song that epitomizes the radiant synth-pop of the ’80s arrives from the British group Swing Out Sister.
Its exhilarating rhythm, brass section, and strings weave a sophisticated sound that brilliantly fuses synth-pop with jazz elements.
Conceived by band member Corinne Drewery while she was hospitalized after a riding accident, the track was released in September 1986 with an uplifting message, achieving a stellar performance of No.
4 in the UK and No.
6 in the US.
Featured on the album “It’s Better to Travel,” it also earned two Grammy nominations.
Breathing new life into disco, this track is perfect for nighttime drives or anytime you want to lift your spirits.
Love ShackThe B-52’s98rank/position
Introducing a signature track by The B-52’s, a band that epitomized the New Wave scene of the 1980s.
Formed in Athens, Georgia, their music is characterized by a distinctive style influenced by 1950s rock and roll and surf music.
Released in June 1989, this song appears on the album Cosmic Thing.
Its lyrics, which portray a journey to a place called the “Love Shack” as a symbol of love and joy following loss and renewal, are particularly striking.
It became the band’s biggest hit, reaching No.
3 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100 and No.
2 in the U.
K.
The music video won the “Best Group Video” award at the 1990 MTV Video Music Awards.
It’s a perfect track for parties and fun get-togethers.