In the 1980s, female artists made striking debuts on the global music scene.
Their debut songs have transcended time and continue to resonate with many people today.
From powerful rock vocals to delicate ballads, their first tracks radiate a wide range of charms.
Along with dazzling stage outfits, they showcased strong individuality and brought a fresh breeze to the music world.
Here, we present a selection of brilliant debut songs that captivated music fans around the world in the 1980s.
The excitement from back then is sure to well up in your heart once more.
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Debut songs by female Western artists from the 1980s (1–10)
Only In My DreamsDebbie Gibson
Included on the 1987 album “Out of the Blue.” A singer-songwriter born in 1970 from the state of New York.
This is her debut single, released by a major label when she was just 16.
It’s a track with a poppy, catchy melody brimming with youthful energy, and it’s turned out really well.
Girls Just Want To Have FunCyndi Lauper
By the time she finally made her solo debut after a long apprenticeship, Cyndi Lauper was already over 30.
It was a late-blooming debut, but there’s no need to explain how massively her first single, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” hit.
As an anthem for women aimed at elevating women’s social status, it resonated with many.
Of course, Cyndi’s energetic, soaring vocals and melodies can lift the spirits of listeners of all ages, anytime.
Tell It to My HeartTaylor Dayne
The title track from the 1987 album “Tell It to My Heart.” Born in 1962, a singer from New York State.
In the late ’80s, this debut single became an instant hit, propelling the artist to stardom.
The soulful vocals laid over a brisk, danceable melody make for a great finish.
Knocked OutPaula Abdul
Included on the 1988 album “Forever Your Girl.” Born in 1962, she’s a singer and dancer from San Francisco.
She also worked as a choreographer for Janet Jackson, and this is her debut single as a singer.
The track features a danceable, catchy pop melody that perfectly suits her dancer background.
You’re the Best Thing YetAnita Baker
One of the defining R&B female singers, Anita Baker originally performed as part of a band starting in the 1970s.
She made her solo debut in 1983, releasing her first album, The Songstress.
Although her big commercial breakthrough came with her next album, Rapture, her musical style was already firmly established on her debut.
Her urban, mellow soul music—centered on live instrumentation and set apart from the digital sound of the ’80s—always sounds stylish no matter when you listen.
Young LoveJanet Jackson
Included on the 1982 album “Janet Jackson.” Born in 1966, a musician from the state of Indiana.
This is her debut single from 1982, which has influenced many artists—including Japan’s Namie Amuro—since its release.
It’s a track notable for its light, refreshing sound.
EverybodyMadonna
Madonna, known as the “Queen of Pop,” is an artist who has changed both her fashion and musical style with each era.
Interestingly, her debut single never made it into the top 100 of the U.S.
Billboard chart, but it did gain popularity on the dance chart.
The 12-inch single’s jacket features a street-style collage and doesn’t include her image.
It’s a fascinating design that shows which audience they were trying to appeal to.