Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists of the 1980s [2026]

FootlooseKenny Loggins36rank/position

Kenny Loggins – Footloose (Official Video)

This dynamic dance tune, marked by energetic guitar riffs and a vibrant rhythm, stands as an iconic anthem of the 1980s.

Created by American artist Kenny Loggins, the track brims with a refreshing sense of exhilaration that perfectly captures the spirit of its era.

Released in January 1984, it drew immediate attention as the theme song for the film of the same name, and it went on to receive nominations for both the Academy Awards and the Grammys.

Its powerful melody, aligned with the film’s storyline, and its liberating sound have made it a timeless classic that continues to energize dance floors around the world.

The irresistibly poppy sound is perfect for lifting your mood or igniting a party scene.

Experience this track packed with the irresistible appeal of disco music—guaranteed to get your body moving.

Heaven Is a Place On EarthBelinda Carlisle37rank/position

Belinda Carlisle – Heaven Is A Place On Earth (Official Music Video) (4K Remaster)

This is the song “Heaven Is a Place on Earth,” released in 1987.

It’s sung by Belinda Carlisle, a singer who was extremely popular in Japan at the time.

Her soaring, electrifying voice captivated the world.

Although it was released in 1987, it’s still a classic that you often hear on TV and elsewhere even today!

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Do They Know It’s Christmas?Band Aid38rank/position

Band Aid – Do They Know It’s Christmas? (Official Video) [4K]

It was recorded in November 1984 as a charity single for famine relief in Ethiopia and released the following month on December 3.

It spent five weeks at number one on the UK charts, selling over one million copies in its first week alone—an astonishing achievement.

Because the song carries a strong message, it’s worth taking the time to understand the lyrics rather than just singing it for the vibe.

It’s great fun to sing in harmony with a few people, of course, but it’s also satisfying to sing solo since there are parts you can really belt out.

Each singer in the original has their own distinctive style, but don’t worry too much about that—singing in your own voice is best! Place a hand on your chest and try singing while resonating your voice.

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Kubota Mami

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RelaxFrankie Goes To Hollywood39rank/position

Frankie Goes To Hollywood – Relax (Official Video)

A track released by Frankie Goes to Hollywood that electrified dance floors in the ’80s.

It’s known for its provocative, sexually suggestive lyrics and distinctive sound, and was banned by many broadcasters.

However, the controversy only fueled its fame, and it reached No.

1 on the UK Singles Chart.

After appearing on a BBC TV program in January 1984, its popularity surged.

Numerous remixes and versions exist, with single re-releases featuring new remixes in 1993 and 2001.

Two versions of the music video were also produced, both generating buzz.

Carrying a message that encourages release from tension, the song is often interpreted in connection with the social backdrop of the 1980s.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to let loose on the dance floor, shouting along with the riff’s hook.

99 LuftballonsNena40rank/position

NENA | 99 Luftballons [1983] [Offizielles HD Musikvideo]

A landmark of 80s synth-pop that blends shimmering synthesizers with an anti-war message.

Released as a single in 1983 by Germany’s Nena, it tells a surreal story in which balloons trigger an international misunderstanding that escalates into war, reflecting the tension of the Cold War era.

Its catchy melody, infused with synth-pop and new wave elements, paired with powerful drum beats, leaves a strong impression.

The song reached No.

2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and earned gold and platinum certifications in over 40 countries.

In 2024, Goldfinger’s cover was featured in the film Sonic the Hedgehog 3, winning over a new generation of listeners.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want both your heart and body to dance, or when you want to etch a prayer for peace into your soul.

Can’t Fight This FeelingREO Speed Wagon41rank/position

REO Speedwagon – Can’t Fight This Feeling (Official HD Video)

REO Speedwagon, a band that won popularity in the 1980s with catchy lyrics and emotionally stirring sounds.

Although they debuted in 1971, they spent nearly a decade without major success.

Amid that, the track included on their 1984 album “Wheels Are Turnin’” is a heart-fluttering song that portrays the shift from friendship to love.

There’s even an anecdote that Kevin Cronin took ten years to write and compose it.

It topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985 and achieved international success.

It’s a perfect recommendation for long autumn nights, for those who want to face the honest feelings within their hearts.

Don’t You Want MeThe Human League42rank/position

The Human League – Don’t You Want Me (Official Music Video)

This is a bittersweet love song by The Human League, a synth-pop band emblematic of the ’80s.

Sung as a male–female duet, it portrays the misalignment of two people who once loved each other.

The man’s earnest feelings and the woman’s cooling heart intersect in a perfectly balanced tension.

Sparkling synthesizer tones and the mechanical beat of the Linn LM-1 drum machine enhance the sweet-and-sour flavor of young love.

Released in November 1981, it spent five consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the UK charts.

A massive hit during the Christmas season, the song also topped the UK’s year-end single sales.

It’s a must-listen not only for those troubled by love, but also for anyone nostalgic for ’80s music.