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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Bette Davis EyesKim Carnes96rank/position
Released in 1981, this hit song won Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the Grammys the following year.
It’s a song about a so-called femme fatale who captivates men.
Love songs come in many forms, but dance music is often characterized by lyrics that exude an adult sensuality.
The woman at the center of this song is alluring, yet she might feel a bit thrilling—perhaps even dangerous—to the men she attracts.
Cold HeartedPaula Abdul97rank/position
This is the song “Cold Hearted” by Paula Abdul, a singer from the United States who colored the 80s.
It’s included on the album “Forever Your Girl,” released in 1988.
The intricately layered synthesizer sounds are remarkably well crafted.
Overall, it’s a very funky track that makes you want to start dancing.
Lay It DownRatt98rank/position
Known as an iconic glam metal anthem of the ’80s, this track stands out with its passionate lyrics and gritty guitar riffs, offering an alluring, uninhibited sensuality.
Released as a single from Ratt’s second album, “Invasion of Your Privacy,” it reached No.
40 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 1985.
It was also featured in the video game “Brütal Legend,” earning popularity across a wide audience.
The album sold over two million copies in the United States and was certified platinum.
A must-listen for anyone wanting to savor the essence of ’80s rock—or to turn up the heat on a summer night.
GhostbustersRay Parker Jr.99rank/position
Along with the theme song for the 1984 blockbuster film Ghostbusters, Ray Parker Jr.’s track became so popular it turned into a social phenomenon.
From the memorable opening intro to the overall rhythmic sound, everyone found themselves stepping to the beat and pretending to be Ghostbusters—that is, ghost hunters.
It still sounds fresh even now.
Love ShackThe B-52’s100rank/position
Introducing a signature track by The B-52’s, a band that epitomized the New Wave scene of the 1980s.
Formed in Athens, Georgia, their music is characterized by a distinctive style influenced by 1950s rock and roll and surf music.
Released in June 1989, this song appears on the album Cosmic Thing.
Its lyrics, which portray a journey to a place called the “Love Shack” as a symbol of love and joy following loss and renewal, are particularly striking.
It became the band’s biggest hit, reaching No.
3 on the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100 and No.
2 in the U.K.
The music video won the “Best Group Video” award at the 1990 MTV Video Music Awards.
It’s a perfect track for parties and fun get-togethers.