Lovely Western music

[Western Music] A roundup of male solo singers who were active in the ’80s

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

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 (11–20)

Rebel YellBilly Idol

Billy Idol – Rebel Yell

Rebel YellBilly Idol

Billy Idol rose from the London punk scene to New York and became a star emblematic of MTV’s golden age.

Making his solo debut in 1982, he built on punk and new wave to forge a distinctive sound that blended hard rock and pop rock.

The many hits born from the classic albums Billy Idol and Rebel Yell were honed through his close collaboration with guitarist Steve Stevens, and together with his striking look—bleached spiked hair and leather-and-studs—they left an indelible mark on the rock scene of the 1980s.

A recipient of MTV VMA honors, he remains a rare figure who combines punk’s rebellious spirit with the catchiness of American pop, continuing to captivate rock fans to this day.

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In conclusion

The appeal of male singers from 80s Western music never fades with time.

Their powerful vocals and memorable melodies still deliver a fresh sense of wonder today.

Add your favorite male 80s artists to your playlist and bring the unique energy of that era into your daily life.

You’re sure to discover a track that makes your heart dance.