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 80s [2026] (1–10)
AfricaTOTO8rank/position
TOTO is an American rock band formed in 1976.
Throughout their career, they have changed their musical style several times, exploring pop rock, AOR, hard rock, progressive rock, and soft rock.
Among their works, a song I especially recommend is Africa.
Released in 1982, it features a distinctive melody that feels like a blend of the AOR boom of the 1970s and the pop rock trend of the 1980s.
Karma ChameleonCulture Club9rank/position
When it comes to Culture Club’s signature song, it has to be this number.
Featured on their 1983 album “Colour by Numbers,” it topped the charts in 16 countries worldwide and became the best-selling single of 1983 in the UK.
Boy George’s distinctive vocals, combined with a sound that incorporates elements of reggae and calypso, captivate listeners and won’t let go.
The lyrics convey themes of instability in human relationships and a warning against living a life that betrays one’s true self.
It’s a track where an upbeat, dancefloor-ready rhythm and a profoundly meaningful message blend in perfect balance.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to enjoy 80s music or sink into a nostalgic mood.
Sweet Child o’ MineGuns N’ Roses10rank/position
Guns N’ Roses, the legendary rock band that has sold over 100 million records worldwide.
In Japan, anyone who likes rock will know this famous band.
Their appeal lies, above all, in their classic hard rock sound.
Their straightforward lyrics and sound are especially compelling for those who love hard rock.
Sweet Child o’ Mine is one of their signature songs, released in 1987.
Top Western Music Artists of the 80s Ranking [2026] (11–20)
JumpVan Halen11rank/position
Van Halen is a rock band that epitomizes hard rock and heavy metal.
They’re extremely popular in Japan as well, and if you’re into rock—even if you’re young—you’ve probably heard of them.
One of their signature tracks is Jump.
Chances are you’ve heard this song at least once through some form of media.
Its memorable synthesizers blend perfectly with its crisp rock sound, making it an ideal BGM choice for enjoying time at leisure facilities in the summer.
Like A VirginMadonna12rank/position
An iconic song by the queen of ’80s pop, centered on themes of purity and rebirth.
It captures the sensation of being reborn through new love, expressed with Madonna’s signature sexy and provocative vocals.
The sophisticated dance sound, produced by Nile Rodgers, took the club scene by storm at the time.
Released in November 1984 as the lead single from the album Like a Virgin, it spent six consecutive weeks at No.
1 in the U.S.
Her shocking performance at the MTV Video Music Awards is still talked about today.
It’s recommended for those who want to savor the thrill of new romance or immerse themselves in the vibe of ’80s disco.
Hard To Say I’m SorryCHICAGO13rank/position
This is a signature work by the American brass-rock band Chicago, depicting the pain of heartbreak alongside an elegant piano melody.
Released in September 1982 and produced by David Foster, the song elevates the rich musicality of the brass section into a pop arrangement.
It topped the U.S.
singles chart for two consecutive weeks.
Chosen as the ending theme for the film “Blue Lovers,” it also became familiar in Japan as a commercial song for Osaka Gas and Toyota.
The lyrics portray a man who, after being told goodbye by his lover, regrets his past behavior—feelings that many listeners can surely empathize with.
AloneHeart14rank/position
A captivating song that resonates with a sentimental atmosphere and a powerful melody.
The Wilson sisters’ strong vocals brilliantly convey the feelings of a protagonist suffering from loneliness and love.
Released in May 1987, it reached number one in the United States and Canada, spending three consecutive weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
Featured on the album “Bad Animals,” this track became a popular hit and was nominated for a Grammy Award.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when spending a long autumn night alone or when thinking of someone special.
Perfect for anyone carrying hidden feelings in their heart.