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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Top Western Music Artists of the 1980s Ranking [2026] (81–90)
ShoutTears for Fears85rank/position
A duo consisting of Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith.
A single released in 1984, it became a massive hit, reaching No.
2 in the UK and No.
1 in the US.
With its exotic, sultry, reverb-drenched synthesizer sound and a catchy chorus introduction, it’s a track with a mesmerizing quality that sticks in your head after just one listen.
KokomoThe Beach Boys86rank/position
The Beach Boys are a band that has been active since the 1960s.
From rock and roll to experimental music, the breadth of their sound is immeasurable, and each era has its share of their classic songs.
Among their career highlights, the 1988 hit “Kokomo” is a track that evokes a tropical vibe.
You can really sense the depth of a band that has outlasted The Beatles by far.
It’s Raining MenThe Weather Girls87rank/position
This track features an energetic, dance floor-shaking beat and stunningly powerful vocals.
It playfully—and sexily—brings to life the quirky idea of men falling from the sky.
A song that showcases The Weather Girls at their best, it became a huge hit on the disco scene after its April 1982 release, topping the U.S.
dance chart and earning a Silver Disc in the UK.
It was also embraced by the gay community and has become a Pride event staple.
Perfect for instantly lifting the mood at parties and weddings.
Making Love Out Of Nothing At AllAir Supply88rank/position
“Making Love Out of Nothing at All” is a song released by Air Supply in 1983.
In Japanese, it is titled “Nagisa no Chikai.” It is one of Air Supply’s signature songs.
The track is notable for its striking piano intro and the soaring high notes in the chorus.
It has also been covered by various artists, including Bonnie Tyler.
AlwaysAtlantic Starr89rank/position
A signature song by Atlantic Starr that sings the wonders of love.
Released in March 1987, it became their first No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Issued as the second single from the album “All in the Name of Love,” the track became the group’s biggest hit.
Its melody blends R&B and pop, paired with lyrics pledging eternal love to a cherished partner.
Frequently featured in films and TV shows, it’s a song perfect for a quiet autumn night—highly recommended to enjoy with someone special.
Eyes Without A FaceBilly Idol90rank/position
After performing with the punk rock band Generation X, the UK-born musician Billy Idol went solo and rose to worldwide fame.
Since going solo, the punk rock elements have receded, with his sound centering more on glam rock and new wave.
Among his works, one that’s especially perfect for autumn is Eyes Without A Face.
In a good way, it’s a track without dramatic highs and lows, maintaining a steady, gentle, and intriguingly new wave–style melody line.
It’s a smooth number that suits early autumn mornings or dusk.
Top Foreign Pop Artists of the 1980s Ranking [2026] (91–100)
SailingChristopher Cross91rank/position
Singer-songwriter Christopher Cross has been active since the late 1970s.
He released his self-titled debut album, Christopher Cross, in 1979, and it became a massive hit across the United States the following year.
At the 1981 Grammy Awards, he made history by sweeping the four major categories simultaneously, winning a total of five awards.
He also won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for the theme from the film Arthur.
His appeal lies above all in his refined, urban sound.
As a leading figure in genres known as soft rock, AOR, and yacht rock, he continues to captivate many fans with his smooth vocals and meticulous guitar work.
Highly recommended for those who want to be wrapped in soothing melodies.