![[Western Music] A roundup of male solo singers who were active in the ’80s](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/izGwDsrQ1eQ/maxresdefault.webp)
[Western Music] A roundup of male solo singers who were active in the ’80s
When you think of the Western music scene of the ’80s, many of you might picture the glamorous sounds of MTV’s golden age.
It was a time when countless albums and songs were released that achieved record-breaking sales in music history, and many artists emerged who continue to be remembered as legends.
In this article, we’re shining a spotlight on the male solo singers who colored the ’80s! We’ll be showcasing a wide range of artists, including those who had been building their careers since the ’60s and ’70s.
You might reunite with a nostalgic voice, or discover works you’ll want to revisit.
Take your time and enjoy!
[Western Music] A roundup of male solo singers who were active in the ’80s (1–10)
Careless WhisperGeorge Michael
As one of the defining talents of the 1980s pop scene, the first name that comes to mind is George Michael.
Hailing from London, he released his solo debut album Faith in 1987 after his work with Wham!.
It topped the US Billboard 200 and produced numerous hit songs.
He boasts a glittering list of accolades, including two Grammy Awards, five BRIT Awards, and four MTV Video Music Awards, and he is the only artist in history to have won Songwriter of the Year three times at the Ivor Novello Awards.
His appeal lies in his sophisticated sound that spans pop, R&B, and soul, as well as his exceptional creativity in writing, composing, and producing his own work.
Highly recommended for those seeking a high-caliber artist.
Another Day In ParadisePhil Collins
Phil Collins began his career in 1970 as the drummer for Genesis and took on lead vocal duties as well from 1975.
He made his solo debut in 1981, with the album Face Value and its tracks becoming major hits.
He went on to release landmark albums such as No Jacket Required and …But Seriously, achieving astonishing success with 13 U.S.
Top 10 hits in the 1980s.
Honored with numerous accolades including Grammys, an Academy Award, and Golden Globes, he captivated audiences worldwide with a wide-ranging musicality that spans pop, soul, and rock.
His sound—melding a drummer’s distinctive groove with deeply affecting vocals—is perfect for anyone who wants to revel in the vibrant sheen of the ’80s.
Beat ItMichael Jackson
Michael Jackson, who has etched his name in music history as the “King of Pop.” Born in Indiana, he began his career in childhood as the lead vocalist of the Jackson 5 and achieved major success as a solo artist with the 1979 album Off the Wall.
His landmark 1982 release Thriller went on to sell over 65 million copies worldwide, dominating the era with its innovative sound that fused pop, R&B, funk, and rock.
In 1984, he won a record-breaking eight categories at the Grammy Awards, cementing his status as a global superstar.
His groundbreaking dance performances and music videos have continued to exert immeasurable influence on subsequent artists.
Highly recommended for those who want to enjoy dazzling stagecraft and a commanding vocal performance.
Every Little StepBobby Brown
Hailing from Boston, soul/R&B singer Bobby Brown helped lead the New Jack Swing movement.
He began his career in 1978 as a founding member of New Edition, then went solo in 1985.
After debuting with his 1986 solo album King of Stage, his 1988 release Don’t Be Cruel hit No.
1 on the U.S.
charts and produced five Top 10 hits, including My Prerogative.
In 1990, he won the Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.
Blending hip-hop’s rhythmic punch with soulful vocals and powerful, dance-driven stagecraft, his style had a profound influence on later male R&B solo artists and boy groups.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience the boundary-crossing of dance-pop and R&B in the late ’80s.
Englishman In New YorkSting
Sting formed The Police in 1977 and rose to popularity with a diverse sound spanning rock, pop, and reggae.
After the band broke up, he released his solo debut album, The Dream of the Blue Turtles, in 1985, establishing a unique musical style that incorporated elements of jazz and world music.
The acclaimed 1987 masterpiece …Nothing Like the Sun further cemented his status as a leading solo artist of the 1980s.
A formidable talent, he has won numerous awards, including 17 Grammy Awards.
He is also deeply committed to human rights and environmental causes, founding the Rainforest Foundation in 1989.
Intelligent and elegant, with a socially conscious side, his music is recommended for those who seek sophisticated soundscapes and profound messages.
All Night Long (All Night)Lionel Richie
After making his mark in the 1970s as the lead singer of the Commodores, Lionel Richie launched his solo career in 1982.
Seamlessly blending soul, R&B, pop, and funk, his style became a defining presence in the music scene of the 1980s and was adored worldwide.
“Truly” from his debut album, Lionel Richie, was a massive hit, and its follow-up, Can’t Slow Down, sold over 20 million copies globally and won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
He also won an Academy Award for “Say You, Say Me.” His sweet, gentle voice and heartfelt melodies are perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a romantic mood.
Purple RainPrince
Prince, who etched his name in music history as a genius artist emblematic of the 1980s.
He debuted in 1978 with the album “For You” and went on to forge a unique style known as the Minneapolis Sound, fusing funk, rock, R&B, and pop.
He released a string of landmark albums—including “1999,” “Purple Rain,” and “Sign o’ the Times”—and showcased his multifaceted talent by handling everything from playing all the instruments to composing and producing himself.
He won seven Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, among many other honors.
With an innovative musicality that transcended genre boundaries, he has exerted immeasurable influence on subsequent generations of artists.
He is highly recommended for those who want to experience the work of an artist combining relentless musical curiosity with exceptional technical skill.