Top Western Music Artists of the 1980s: Ranking [2025]

Walk Like an EgyptianThe Bangles50rank/position

The Bangles – Walk Like an Egyptian (Official Video)

The Bangles are a female band that produced numerous hit songs in the 1980s.

They specialized in alternative rock and pop rock.

These genres are seldom used as dance music nowadays, but back then, rock was also popular as dance music.

Among their songs, “Walk Like an Egyptian” was especially popular.

If you’re looking for danceable rock music, be sure to check it out.

Still Loving YouScorpions51rank/position

Scorpions – Still Loving You (Official Video)

A masterful power ballad whose poignant yet powerful melody resonates deep in the heart.

The earnest feelings of a man trying to win back a lost love are conveyed through Klaus Meine’s distinctive vocals.

Included on the 1984 album “Love at First Sting,” the song became a worldwide hit.

In France it even turned into a social phenomenon, with anecdotes claiming it contributed to the 1985 baby boom.

The guitar’s delicate tone and the gradually swelling sound gently embrace those troubled by love.

It’s a track you’ll want to play on nights when you look back on memories with someone special—truly a classic ’80s ballad.

TrueSpandau Ballet52rank/position

Spandau Ballet – True (HD Remastered)

When it comes to the signature work of Spandau Ballet, the British band that lit up the pop scene of the 1980s, this song surely stands out.

Gary Kemp’s poetic lyrics blend beautifully with Tony Hadley’s smooth vocals in this exquisite love song that portrays a mature romance.

Released in February 1983, the track is also known as the title song of the band’s third album.

It conveys the complexities of love and the difficulty of speaking the truth, making it a perfect listen for long autumn nights.

It’s a masterpiece I’d highly recommend to anyone struggling with love or looking to deepen their bond with someone special.

Mr. RobotoStyx53rank/position

Styx – Mr. Roboto (Official Video)

A band representing American progressive hard rock that has been active since the 1970s.

In the 1980s, this song—part of the rock opera “Kilroy Was Here” and featuring Japanese lyrics—quietly drew attention in Japan, where it was treated somewhat like a novelty.

Rock the CasbahThe Clash54rank/position

The Clash – Rock the Casbah (Official Video)

Many references to Western music in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure include punk bands, and a representative example is the Stand name “Clash” used by Squalo in Part 5, Golden Wind.

It’s said to be based on The Clash, one of the defining British punk bands of the 1970s, known for their aggressive performances, their genre-blending music that incorporated reggae and dub, and their socially conscious stance.

As mentioned, not only their early punkish sound but also their later albums, which show musical evolution, are all compelling—so I recommend giving them a listen, even if you’re not a dedicated punk fan.

You Spin Me RoundDead Or Alive55rank/position

Dead Or Alive – You Spin Me Round (Like a Record) (Official Video)

Dead or Alive, the British band often cited as pioneers of Eurobeat and Hi-NRG.

Released as a single in 1984, this track became their first global hit.

The lyrics, likening an intense possessiveness toward a love-at-first-sight crush to a record spinning at high speed, are particularly striking.

Pete Burns’s powerful vocals fused with synths carrying a rock-like aggressiveness make for a sensational sound.

Also featured on the classic album Youthquake, the song reached No.

9 on the UK Albums Chart.

If you love dance numbers that set the floor on fire, this is an unmissable track.

Add it to your party playlist and you’re guaranteed to get everyone dancing.

Money For NothingDire Straits56rank/position

Dire Straits – Money For Nothing (Official Music Video)

It topped the U.

S.

charts in 1985.

It was the very first song aired when MTV Europe launched in 1987.

When the music video’s computer graphics appeared, many music fans were astonished.

The song is also known for having Sting as a co-writer; he was reportedly invited to join the recording while he happened to be vacationing on the island of Montserrat.