Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists of the 1980s [2026]
You can still catch glimpses of the achievements of popular Western music artists from the 1980s, who left behind many great songs, in many places today.
They are still loved by many fans today, but aren’t you curious how they would rank by modern standards? We’ve compiled a ranking of popular Western music artists from the ’80s, so let us introduce it to you.
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1980s Popular Western Music Artists Ranking [2026] (61–70)
Owner of a Lonely HeartYES64rank/position
This is a superbly danceable dance-rock number by the British progressive rock band Yes.
Its unforgettable sound fuses razor-sharp guitar riffs with the then state-of-the-art sampler’s orchestral hits.
The song is an anthem for those carrying lonely hearts, packed with a powerful message: don’t fear the future—forge your own path.
Its perspective is unique: loneliness isn’t a bad thing; it’s far better than having your heart shattered.
Released in October 1983, the track appears on the classic album 90125 and was also featured in a Toyota commercial.
If you’re looking to surrender to the groove and enjoy a party night, this one’s perfect!
Come On EileenDexys Midnight Runners65rank/position
This is a masterpiece that epitomizes 80s pop at its peak.
It’s packed with a unique charm born from the fusion of Celtic folk and soul.
The song expresses the hopes of young people who won’t be defeated by poverty, through a cheerful rhythm and memorable melody.
Released in July 1982, it became the best-selling single of the year in the UK and a massive hit that topped charts around the world.
As Dexys Midnight Runners’ signature song, it still shines with undimmed brilliance.
Perfect for when you want to feel bright and positive, and highly recommended for anyone who wants to savor the atmosphere of the 80s.
Hurts So GoodJohn Mellencamp66rank/position
This is the song Hurts So Good by John Mellencamp.
It was included on the 1982 album American Fool and was also a hit single from that album.
It was used in the American musical film Footloose.
John Mellencamp also helped popularize heartland rock, a subgenre of country-influenced music.
Its simple blues feel is somehow nostalgic and really hits you in the chest.
It brings back memories of bittersweet youth.
I Miss YouKlymaxx67rank/position
Klymaxx is an all-female R&B band from Los Angeles whose members play their own instruments and handle songwriting and production.
This work is a gem of a ballad written by keyboardist Lynn Malsby, based on her own experiences.
The pure feeling of still not being able to forget someone you’ve grown apart from and longing to see them again is something anyone who’s suffered heartbreak can painfully relate to.
Lead vocalist Joyce Irby’s poignant voice blends with the beautiful tones of the synthesizer, drawing you into a sentimental world.
Released as a single from the classic album “Meeting in the Ladies Room” in November 1985, the song reached No.
5 on the U.S.
charts and remained a hit for 29 weeks.
It may be the kind of song that gently keeps you company on nights when you want to sit quietly with your thoughts.
GloriaLaura Branigan68rank/position
One of Laura Branigan’s signature songs, it was released as a single from her debut album “Branigan” in 1982 and became a hit.
In fact, it’s not her original song—the original was released in 1979 by Italian male singer Umberto Tozzi.
The original is sung in Italian and, with its repeated, memorable main phrase and light, piano-centered arrangement, has a stronger pop flavor.
Laura’s version, on the other hand, is a danceable track tailored to the era, showcasing her powerful vocals—said to span five octaves.
It’s fun to listen to both and enjoy the differences.
TrulyLionel Richie69rank/position
A tear-jerking love ballad, graced by a cleansingly beautiful piano tone, lush strings, and a vocal performance of stunning expressiveness.
It’s a track from Lionel Richie’s self‑titled solo debut album, released in 1982.
The lyrics vow eternal love, and Richie’s warm voice sinks deep into the heart.
The song topped the U.S.
charts for two consecutive weeks, becoming a massive hit that marked the beginning of his solo career.
It was also included on the 1997 best‑of album “Truly: The Love Songs,” and continues to be cherished across generations.
It’s the perfect song for spending special moments with someone important or creating unforgettable memories.
Funky TownLipps Inc70rank/position
Formed around Stephen Greenberg, who transitioned from being a wedding DJ, the American studio band Lipps Inc.
released this track as a single from their debut album “Mouth to Mouth” in March 1980.
It became a disco classic, conquering 28 countries worldwide and topping the Billboard chart for four consecutive weeks.
The song expresses a heartfelt desire to escape a dull everyday life and move to an energizing city.
Cynthia Johnson—who was crowned Miss Black Minnesota—delivers a powerful vocal performance that vividly conveys both a longing for the big city and an impatience with the status quo.
Many of you may remember it from its use in the film Shrek 2.
If you want to change your circumstances and take a step into somewhere new, this song will surely give you a push.