The 1980s saw dramatic changes—from technological advances to the birth of MTV—and produced many massive hit songs that made music history.
At the same time, a wide range of genres flourished, from new wave and soul to disco and pop, and it was also an era that saw the rise of many leading female singers.
This article highlights female Western artists who colored the era, focusing on those who debuted in the 1980s while also including artists who had been active since the 1970s.
Enjoy it together with the hit songs these women sang in the ’80s!
- Debut songs by female Western artists from the 1980s
- Love songs in Western music that were hits in the 1980s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco
- Nothing but classics! A nostalgic collection of ’80s Western ballads
- Top 1980s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- [Western Music] A Recommendation of the Lady of Soul: Wonderful Female Soul Singers
- [1990s] Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers in Western Music
- Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists of the 1980s [2026]
- [80s Western Music] A roundup of debut songs by girl bands
- Club Hits: Dance music from Western artists that energized the dance floors in the 1980s
- [1980s Western Music] Nostalgic 80's Best Hit Songs
- 80s Western pop hits featured in commercials. A roundup of nostalgic CM songs.
- 1970s Female Singer-Songwriters: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers of 80s Western Music (1–10)
MickeyToni Basil
Tony Basil is a multitalented artist who has long supported the entertainment world as a dancer and choreographer.
Her single “Mickey” from her 1981 debut album Word of Mouth became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 in the U.S.
and catapulting her to stardom.
The iconic music video, featuring her dancing in a cheerleader outfit, is a masterpiece that beautifully fuses her cheerleading background with her deep knowledge of street dance.
Beyond her singing career, she has earned high acclaim for her choreography in films and for major artists—her performances are the epitome of professionalism.
Her irresistibly bright, pop sound is perfect for anyone who wants an instant mood boost, no questions asked.
If you want to feel the heat of 80s MTV culture, be sure to check her out.
I Love Rock ‘N RollJoan Jett & The Blackhearts
Formed in 1980 with former Runaways member Joan Jett at the helm, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts are a rock band whose sound blends punk and hard rock, continuing to shine as pioneers among female rockers.
The self-titled single from their 1981 album “I Love Rock ’n’ Roll” became a worldwide hit and their signature song.
Their achievements are widely recognized, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015.
Their steadfast DIY spirit, sticking to their independent label, also underscores their cool factor.
They’re highly recommended for anyone who wants a burst of exhilaration or to be energized by powerful vocals.
Kiss Me DeadlyLita Ford
Rita Ford, who rose to fame as the guitarist for the legendary girls’ band The Runaways formed in 1975, went on to dazzle the ’80s hard rock scene as a solo artist after the group disbanded.
She made her solo debut in 1983 with the album “Out for Blood,” establishing herself as the “Queen of Metal” with her powerful vocals and masterful guitar work.
Her signature tracks include “Kiss Me Deadly” from the 1988 album “Lita,” as well as the acclaimed ballad “Close My Eyes Forever,” a duet with Ozzy Osbourne that reached No.
8 on the U.S.
charts.
As a pioneer among female guitarists, she received recognition including a Grammy nomination, and her trailblazing presence in the male-dominated rock world is truly a sight to behold.
If you’re craving that powerful ’80s sound, her music is irresistibly compelling!
Can’t Take My Eyes Off YouBoys Town Gang
Boys Town Gang is a dazzling dance project from San Francisco’s club scene, featuring the powerful vocalist Jackson Moore.
They reached their peak in the 1980s and, under the direction of DJ Bill Motley, ignited dance floors around the world with a high-energy sound.
The track that cemented their name was their cover of Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” included on their 1982 album Disc Charge.
It became a major hit, reaching No.
4 on the UK chart, and has continued to be loved in Japan as an emblematic song of the disco boom.
With a fluid lineup and a relentless pursuit of the joy of dance music, their songs are highly recommended for anyone who wants an instant boost of energy.
Manic MondayThe Bangles
The Bangles, known for songs like Manic Monday, the U.S.
No.
1 hit Walk Like an Egyptian, and Eternal Flame, were formed in Los Angeles in 1981 and captivated the world with their 60s-inspired sound and beautiful harmonies.
Their approach—where all members played instruments and sang—was groundbreaking at the time and opened up new horizons for female bands.
After going on hiatus in 1989, they restarted their activities following their involvement in the film Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me.
In 2018, original member Annette Zilinskas returned, and the band remains active today.
Highly recommended not only for fans of 80s Western pop, but also for anyone interested in tracing the history of girl bands!
Live to TellMadonna
Even now in the 2020s, she continues to run at the forefront as the Queen of Pop.
When she debuted in the ’80s, she fully embraced the then-new medium of music videos, and with her provocative style and innovative sound, she achieved explosive popularity—something that hardly needs explaining today.
While her genius for self-production is often discussed, her distinctive vocal tone—which lets her infuse both tender ballads and catchy pop songs with a uniquely Madonna flavor—is also one of her greatest charms.
Greatest Love of AllWhitney Houston
For those who didn’t grow up in her era, many might associate Whitney Houston primarily with “I Will Always Love You.” She was already a smash success with her 1985 debut album, Whitney Houston, and until her sudden passing in a tragic accident in 2012, the global diva experienced both glory and setbacks.
Her career can be seen as a chapter in the very history of popular music.
The extraordinary voice known as “The Voice” will never fade.