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 1980s Popular Western Music Artists Ranking [2026] (21–30)
Let’s DanceDavid Bowie21rank/position
David Bowie, the world-renowned British artist who constantly kept an eye on the times and changed his musical style like a chameleon.
The work that made his name echo around the globe was released in March 1983 at the height of the disco boom, with funk maestro Nile Rodgers brought on as producer, resulting in an irresistibly groovy dance tune.
Yet beneath the surface lies depth as well—through the image of “wearing red shoes and dancing the blues,” it hints at people who conceal sorrow and feign joy.
The fact that he enlisted the then-unknown Stevie Ray Vaughan also speaks volumes about Bowie’s extraordinary eye for talent.
It’s a perfect track for a night when you want to dance till dawn at a party.
Never Gonna Give You UpRick Astley22rank/position
Rick Astley, the England-born singer who debuted as a solo artist in 1987 and quickly captivated audiences worldwide, is known for his distinctive deep baritone that contrasts with his sweet looks.
Together with the producer team Stock Aitken Waterman, he created dance-pop sounds that remain beloved as emblematic music of the 1980s.
His debut album, Whenever You Need Somebody, achieved an astonishing 15 million in sales, propelling him into the ranks of top artists.
In 1989, he was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best New Artist, earning high acclaim around the world.
Since the 2000s, his smash hit Never Gonna Give You Up has regained the spotlight as the internet meme “Rickroll,” and in 2021 its music video surpassed 1 billion views.
Be sure to keep an eye on Rick, who continues to be active and is being rediscovered by younger generations.
Last ChristmasWham!23rank/position
When it comes to Christmas songs, many people probably think of “Last Christmas” first.
It’s a 1984 track by Wham, a pop act emblematic of the ’80s, and it’s been covered and loved by many artists in Japan as well.
The sound is like gently falling snow.
Why is it that, even though it’s a heartbreaking song about lost love, we still feel like humming along? The understated yet powerful drumming is also captivating.
An unfading, timeless classic—it touches the heart no matter when you listen.
Eye Of The TigerSurvivor24rank/position
Eye of the Tiger, the classic by Survivor used as the theme song for the boxing-themed film Rocky.
Released in 1982, the song became a global hit with its fiery lyrics and melody, and won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance.
With its motivating melody and lyrics, it’s perfect to listen to before heading to work, taking an entrance exam, or sitting for a test, don’t you think?
AngelAerosmith25rank/position
Aerosmith is a rock band that boasts high name recognition in Japan.
Even people in their teens or twenties have probably at least heard the name.
They’ve produced numerous classics, including the theme song for the movie Armageddon, but among them, a number that’s especially perfect for autumn and highly recommended is Angel.
It’s a rock ballad: while it’s wrapped in a bright melody, it’s characterized by a sense of fragility and poignancy.
Summer Of ’69Bryan Adams26rank/position
Bryan Adams is a rock singer from Canada.
He made his debut in 1980, and in his early years he gradually gained popularity with a harder rock-oriented style.
Then in 1984, he shot to stardom with the massive success of the album Reckless.
From this album came a string of hit songs, including Run to You, Heaven, and Summer of ’69, achieving the remarkable feat of topping the U.S.
charts.
His voice, with its sandpaper-like husky texture, radiates a unique charm that combines power and romance.
Excelling in both rock and ballads, Adams is the perfect artist for anyone who loves classic arena rock.
The Final CountdownEurope27rank/position
They are a pioneering and hugely popular Nordic metal band that had a massive hit in the 1980s.
The image of Nordic metal as “melodic tunes and high-pitched vocals” owes much to their success.
They reunited in the 2000s and are still active today.
Saving All My Love For YouWhitney Houston28rank/position
A passion hidden within a relaxed tempo.
This track is a song packed with Whitney Houston’s charm.
Though it explores the complex theme of an extramarital affair, her powerful vocals deeply move listeners.
Released in August 1985, it reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became the work that earned Whitney Houston her first Grammy Award.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on a long autumn night, reminiscing about someone dear.
Uptown GirlBilly Joel29rank/position
This song features a lively melody strongly influenced by 1960s doo-wop.
Billy Joel skillfully portrays a universal love story in which a working-class young man falls in love with a woman from high society.
Set to a bright, cheerful tune, the piece depicts a romance that transcends social class and was released as a single from the album An Innocent Man in September 1983.
It reached No.
1 in the UK and became a major hit, selling approximately 975,000 copies.
In 1984, it was nominated for an MTV Video Music Award and received high praise as a sophisticated pop tune.
Its upbeat rhythm and hopeful message encourage a positive outlook on love.
Take My Breath AwayBerlin30rank/position
This is the award-winning ballad that served as the love theme for the 1986 blockbuster film Top Gun, honored with an Academy Award.
It was performed by the American band Berlin, with the composition handled by disco maestro Giorgio Moroder.
Teri Nunn’s passionate, soulful vocals leave a strong impression.
The bittersweet yet burning emotions of falling in love—so overwhelming you can hardly breathe—resonate warmly alongside the majestic synthesizer tones.
Released in June 1986, the song reached No.
1 on the U.S.
singles chart.
It’s sure to make a romantic evening with someone special even more dramatic.