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

Open ArmsJourney1rank/position

Journey – Open Arms (Official Video – 1982)

Journey, the legendary band that defined an era in the ’80s.

They’ve produced many timeless songs, but among them, “Open Arms” stands out as a bittersweet yet heartwarming ballad that has earned widespread acclaim.

Steve Perry’s crystalline vocals and the song’s warm melody have touched countless listeners, winning enduring love not only in the United States but also in Japan.

Since its 1982 release, it has garnered glowing praise, even taking the top spot on VH1’s “25 Greatest Power Ballads,” a testament to its undeniable quality.

If you’re looking to dive into rock ballads, be sure to give it a listen.

Time After TimeCyndi Lauper2rank/position

Cyndi Lauper – Time After Time (Official HD Video)

Speaking of legendary songs that defined an era, Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” comes to mind.

Her voice, graceful yet powerful, gently stirs a quiet emotion in listeners.

The fact that it has remained beloved by artists around the world since its 1984 release attests to a universal appeal that goes far beyond a simple ballad.

Born from the talent she cultivated through overcoming hardship, this song stands as a monumental ballad that colored the 1980s.

It remains cherished in Japan as well, an unforgettable classic that continues to shine without fading even today.

Every Breath You TakeThe Police3rank/position

The Police – Every Breath You Take (Official Music Video)

The song that dominated the Billboard chart at No.

1 for eight consecutive weeks following its 1983 release was The Police’s “Every Breath You Take.” It’s a beautiful ballad featuring a uniquely voiced arpeggiated guitar phrase, and its suggestive lyrics—expressing overflowing feelings for “you”—drew attention.

Sting, who wrote the lyrics and composed the music, is said to have completed the song in 30 minutes.

At the 1984 Grammy Awards, it won Song of the Year and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group.

Take On Mea-ha4rank/position

a-ha – Take On Me (Official Video) [4K]

It’s a masterpiece that could be called a monument of 80s synth-pop, distinguished by its shimmering, sparkling synthesizer tones! This memorable track was the debut single released in 1985 by Norway’s a-ha, a landmark song that catapulted the group to global stardom.

Their debut album, Hunting High and Low, which includes this song, also achieved international success, reaching No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts with a boost from heavy rotation on MTV.

Evoking the radiant spirit of the 1980s, this work captivates with its catchy melody and soaring high vocals, and can also be enjoyed as a coming-of-age anthem about taking a positive, proactive approach to love.

Livin’ On A PrayerBon Jovi5rank/position

Bon Jovi – Livin’ On A Prayer

Bon Jovi is a band that represents American hard rock.

Within hard rock, there are a variety of styles.

Bon Jovi’s hard rock often has a sharp edge, and even listeners who aren’t used to heavy sounds can take it in smoothly.

Their hit song “Livin’ On A Prayer,” released in 1986, garnered huge popularity.

In Japan, it’s also known as the theme song of Nakayama Kinnikun.

Private EyesDaryl Hall & John Oates6rank/position

Daryl Hall & John Oates – Private Eyes (Official HD Video)

Here lies a masterpiece that electrified dance floors in the 1980s.

The opening handclaps are catchy, and the rhythmic groove that grabs the audience and won’t let go is the very essence of ’80s pop.

The lyrics explore trust and doubt in romance, skillfully using the metaphor of a detective.

Featured on Daryl Hall & John Oates’ tenth studio album and released in September 1981, the track spent two consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It was frequently aired on MTV and became one of their signature songs.

Perfect for anyone feeling nostalgic or looking to rediscover the charm of ’80s music.

Beat ItMichael Jackson7rank/position

Michael Jackson – Beat It (Official 4K Video)

Known as one of the defining hit numbers of the 1980s, this song is distinguished by its sharp guitar riffs and powerful beat.

Michael Jackson’s soaring vocals blend spectacularly with Eddie Van Halen’s breathtaking guitar solo, captivating listeners.

The lyrics, which emphasize the importance of choosing peaceful solutions over violence, reflect the social issues of the time while conveying a universal message.

Released in 1983 as a single from the album Thriller, it spent three consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and also won a Grammy Award.

It’s a perfect track to light up the dance floor or boost your confidence.