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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Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists of the 1980s [2026] (71–80)
Naughty NaughtyJohn Parr78rank/position
There are plenty of so-called one-hit wonders in America—what we in Japan call ippatsu-ya—and John Parr is considered one of them.
That said, in addition to his massive movie theme hit “St.
Elmo’s Fire,” his debut single also reached No.
23 on the Billboard chart, so he was actually quite popular.
Right and a Wrong WayKeith Sweat79rank/position
Keith Sweat, a quintessential R&B singer of the 1980s, explores the complexities of love and relationships in his classic song.
Featured on the album “Make It Last Forever,” the track was released in 1987 and became a pioneer of the New Jack Swing sound.
With soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, it questions the true meaning of love and teaches the importance of respecting your partner.
It’s a perfect song to listen to on a long autumn night with someone special.
Ideal for those struggling with romance or looking to strengthen their bond with a partner.
CelebrationKool and The Gang80rank/position
With the staccato cutting guitar in the intro and that familiar melody played by the signature synthesizer, this is a smash hit by the iconic ’80s group Kool & The Gang.
While driven by a dance beat, the song features dramatic developments and flavors, making it a track that’s perfect both for dancing and for losing yourself in listening.
It’s an irresistibly danceable number that still carries the lingering vibes of the ’70s funk boom.
Top Western Music Artists of the 1980s Ranking [2026] (81–90)
ManiacMichael Sembello81rank/position
This is the song “Maniac” by American singer-songwriter Michael Sembello.
It became famous as part of the soundtrack for the film Flashdance.
It is included on the 1983 album Bossa Nova Hotel.
While the song is fast-paced and a high-energy dance number, it’s also a treasure trove of beautiful melodies.
Michael Sembello has a wild aura, yet his voice carries a delicate quality.
Let yourself be captivated by that contrast!
Smooth OperatorSade82rank/position
Sade is a British band that focuses on smooth soul and adult contemporary, earning extremely high praise from dedicated music aficionados.
Their catalog features many mature, sophisticated songs—perfect for autumn.
Among them, a standout recommendation is the classic Smooth Operator.
This track propelled their popularity worldwide and blends soul with smooth jazz to create a refined, adult atmosphere.
LukaSuzanne Vega83rank/position
Suzanne Vega, a singer-songwriter who represents the Greenwich Village folk scene, is known for her literary, intellectual style and maintains a devoted following in Japan.
Among her works, there’s a classic that perfectly suits the sentimental mood of autumn, included on her April 1987 album Solitude Standing.
Its breezy, accessible folk melody is striking, yet beneath it lies a heart-wrenching story told from a child’s perspective.
This contrast between brightness and poignancy curiously matches the faint loneliness of autumn’s air.
The song was a major hit, reaching No.
3 on the U.S.
charts.
It’s a perfect listen for a quiet autumn moment alone.
BreakoutSwing Out Sister84rank/position
An iconic song that epitomizes the radiant synth-pop of the ’80s arrives from the British group Swing Out Sister.
Its exhilarating rhythm, brass section, and strings weave a sophisticated sound that brilliantly fuses synth-pop with jazz elements.
Conceived by band member Corinne Drewery while she was hospitalized after a riding accident, the track was released in September 1986 with an uplifting message, achieving a stellar performance of No.
4 in the UK and No.
6 in the US.
Featured on the album “It’s Better to Travel,” it also earned two Grammy nominations.
Breathing new life into disco, this track is perfect for nighttime drives or anytime you want to lift your spirits.