Join us as we travel down memory lane and bring back to life some of the best musicians the 1980s had to offer. Many names on this list are still performing, and have not said their last word, however, some, have already dropped their music sheets and left us with their final chord.
Roxette
Not many know but Roxette is one of the best Swedish bands the world has known. If you were alive during the 1980s, we bet you can still hear Marie Fredriksson's unique voice, singing the band's greatest hit, "It Must Have Been Love." The band was formed in 1986 and made its international breakthrough in the late 1980s.
Overall, the band had more than 40 hits including several number-ones. The electronic/dance due (Fredriksson and Per Gessle) performed together until early 2002 when they decided enough was enough. In 2009, the two reunited when Gessle was on his grand European tour.
Best hit: It Must Have Been Love
Frankie Goes to Hollywood
When the colorful and exciting 1980s kicked in, the Liverpudlian band Frankie Goes to Hollywood was formed. Holly Johnson, together with Paul Rutherford, Mark O'Toole, Brian Nash, and Peter Gill formed one of the most influential music bands of that era. In 1984, their debut album was released and introduced some of the greatest songs of the time.
For some, they were too provocative, for others, too controversial, but no matter how you categorize them, Frankie Goes to Hollywood left a mark on 1980s music history. They crossed every boundary and never feared to say (and sing) exactly what was on their minds.
Best hit: Relax
Fine Young Cannibals
In the UK, not only London and Liverpool have released great musicians. In 1984 Fine Young Cannibals entered the scene, and they came all the way from Birmingham (till this day they are probably the only world-class musicians from there.) Lead singer, Roland Gift, has such a different tone of voice and unforgettable appearance, that the band immediately stood out.
For almost two decades, Fine Young Cannibals released hit after hit, completing some of our teen soundtracks. Their album, "The Raw & the Cooked," which was released in 1989, is still considered one of the most influential pop albums ever created.
Best hit: She Drives Me Crazy
New Kids on the Block
We have a feeling there is no need to introduce this next band. Now, we know the music world has seen many boy bands over the years, however, as far as we are concerned, New Kids on The Block is the first real boy band as we describe it today.
In the late 1980s, they had it all and over the years have sold more than 80 million records, paving the path to success for many music bands who followed. NKOTB was formed in mid-1984, and believe it or not, they occasionally still performed up until late 2014. They joined other big names on stage and made their legacy live on.
Best hit: Step By Step
Salt-N-Pepa
When you think of Hip Hop during the 1980s, you have got to think of Salt-N-Pepa. In 1985 musicians Cheryl James (Salt) and Sandra Denton (Pepa) formed with DJ Spinderella the Hip Hop group that provided a new and daring sound that had previously been kept underground. They were the first female rap duo to earn gold and platinum status from the RIAA.
In 1987, Salt-N-Pepa released "Push It" which instantly became a huge hit and placed the musicians on the charts. During the 1980s and 1990s, the band released hit after hit and became a breaking point for female artists in the music industry.
Best hit: Push It
Madness
Although Madness was first formed in 1970, they are a pure symbol of the 1980s scenes and they grasped their success in that era too. The band's most successful years were between 1981 and 1986 where they spent 214 weeks on the single charts list.
At first, the UK-based band became very successful in their homeland and in Europe, however, they became equally successful in the USA, forming huge local fan clubs that are loyal to their music until this very day. Some of the band's songs have become timeless classics, emphasizing the innovative sound Madness introduced to the music world.
Best hit: One Better Day
The Cure
The Cure spanned into the roaring 1980s after rehearsing on the small stages of the UK for a couple of years beforehand. Robert Smith is the only original member of the band who remains a part of this controversial, unique, and, let's say... different type of music performance.
They were considered gurus of pure punk music, which was never the ongoing mainstream. However, they managed to introduce a number of hits that became everyone's new favorite songs overnight. The 1980s brought the band commercial success and one of their biggest hits, Boy's Don't Cry, is a classic until this very day.
Best hit: Friday I'm in Love
Eurythmics
Sweet dreams are made of Annie Lennox's voice and people who say anything else are simply lying. Lennox is known as the lead singer in the band Eurythmics who had their best days during the 1980s and early 1990s. Lennox, together with David Stewart presented a unique and striking visual. She had androgynous characteristics and the two were known to describe their type of music as "for intelligent dancers."
Although the band was greatly appreciated worldwide, this England native is even more appreciated in their homeland. Who needs an Oscar and four Grammys when the late Queen Elizabeth herself asked that you come to perform at Buckingham Palace?
Best hit: Sweet Dreams
INXS
INXS is the Australian entry on our list. For more than two decades, Michael Hutchence, who was the lead singer and responsible for most of the band's hits, led the group with his magnetic performance. They became one of the biggest names in the music industry.
The band started as a pop band, however, over the years they changed their style and became more of a funk band, adorned with dance music elements. In 1997 Michael Hutchence tragically passed away and the band continued to perform with various lead singers. They kept on going until the early days of 2012 and then decided to break up for good.
Best hit: Need You Tonight
Duran Duran
The music scene in the 1980s would not be the same without Duran Duran. The members of the band changed frequently until the early days of May 1980, when the band settled their most recognized lineup. Duran Duran was romantic and provided a more sweet and emotional color to the music scene.
They brought innovation to the new video clips which only then gained momentum and were one of the most talked about bands on 1980s new MTV. In 1982 the band released Hungry Like the Wolf and within no time, they became famous and very much appreciated all over the world.
Best hit: The Reflex
Wham!
Wham! was where Geroge Michael, this English singer-songwriter, leaped to the top of the pop charts, thanks to his unique brand of disco-dance pop music. Together with Andrew Ridgeley, the team came together in 1981 and became one of the most recognized music duos of the 1980s. They sold more than 30 million records in just four years.
They were influenced by funk and soul music and their first debut album, "Fantastic," paid respect to many issues youngsters were going through at the time. It talked about poverty and unemployment, things that were never discussed through music until those days.
Best hit: Last Christmas
Culture Club
Boy Geroge (George Alan O'Dowd) didn't have to do much to draw attention back in the 1980s. His unique and distinguished dress style was his hallmark and it caught the attention of the media instantly. He was (and is) definitely one of a kind. Culture Club became one of the most influential music bands and is responsible for great hits that are still appreciated and listened to today.
Illegal substances were no stranger to the members of the band, and are thought to be the reason for their breakup. By 1986 they all went their separate ways. Boy George carried on with his solo career and released some memorable songs that have turned into classics.
Best Song: Time (Clock of the Heart)
Simply Red
Michael James Hucknall was the lead singer (and his hair was the inspiration) of Simply Red. For more than three decades, and up until 2010, the band released new music and held concerts all over the world. Their huge hit, Fairground, which was released in 1995, was what brought them global fame.
Still, the band has a few big releases that were all presented in the 1980s and became an inspiration for other music groups to come. In 2009, Simply Red called it quits and ended a glorious career of 25 years. In 2016, Simply Red went on a reunion tour and they have not been heard of since.
Best hit: Fake
Toto
Known for a sound that mixes rock, pop, funk, soul, R&B, jazz, and blues, Toto is definitely a unique band. Formed in Los Angeles in 1977 (though they grasped fame in the early 1980s), the band was originally made up of Joseph Williams, Steve Porcaro, David Paich, and Steve Lukather, and touring members Shannon Forrest, Lenny Castro, Warren Ham, and Shem von Schroeck.
Toto gained huge commercial success in the '80s, starting with their debut album and then their widely popular 1982 album, "Toto IV." They've won several Grammys and sold over 40 million records worldwide. Band members came and went, but in 2010, Toto came back together and did a short tour in Europe to benefit former band member Mike Porcaro, who had a serious illness. In 2019, Toto announced they were going on an indefinite break.
Best hit: Africa
The Flaming Lips
The Flaming Lips were formed in 1983 and are still active to this very day, releasing their flaming hot hits for their loyal fans. There are over ten names who used to form this band, however, today, Wayne Coyne, Dave Kostka, and Richard English are the ones keeping the band together.
In 2009, one of the band's greatest number-one hits, Do You Realize, became Oklahoma's (the state) official rock number. Sounds like a title to be proud of. Their last album was released in late 2021, and according to them, they haven't said their last word.
Best hit: The Spark That Bled
Blondie
Pioneers in American new wave and punk rock in the late 1970s, Blondie was started by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein. Underground until "Parallel Lines" in 1978, over the next three years, they would achieve a number of hit singles. Blondie might have been born in the 1970s, however, there is no doubt that this is an 80s band!
The band has been on the road for decades and joined the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, having sold over forty million records worldwide. They're still active even today. Their eleventh studio album, "Pollinator," came out May 5th, 2017.
Best hit: The Tide Is High
Depeche Mode
In 1981 Depeche Mode released their first album and introduced the British new wave scene. During the 1980s Depeche Mode became a dominant name amongst electronic music fans and in 1988, they performed in front of 60 thousand people at Pasadena Rose Ball Stadium when they became one of the most successful bands in the world.
Over the years they have sold more than 100 million records, but their biggest claim to fame is their extraordinary and astonishing performances. Andy Fletcher, Dave Gahan, and Martin Gore stand on stage as if they haven't aged a bit, preserving their youth spirit with a 1980s flavor.
Best hit: Enjoy the Silence
Boston
The hard rock band from Boston was founded by multi-instrumentalist Tom Scholz and became a staple of classic rock over the years. Tom Scholz, who played most of the instruments in the band's debut album, helped create some of the band's most well-known songs, which include Rock and Roll Band, Smokin', Amanda, Peace of Mind, and many more.
Boston went on to sell over 75 million albums worldwide, which makes it one of the world's best-selling musical groups. A common theme in their album covers is a guitar-shaped spaceship with the band's name on it. The band still tours and performs after over 40 years of rocking and was ranked the 63rd-best rock artist by VH1.
Best hit: More Than a Feeling
The Cars
The Cars emerged from the new wave scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s and were at the forefront of merging guitar-oriented rock with synthesizer-driven pop. The Cars have a unique style that can be instantly recognized, even when hearing the briefest notes.
The Cars snagged the Best New Artist award from the Rolling Stone Reader's poll in 1978 and won Video of the Year at the first MTV Video Music Awards in 1984 with their music video for You Might Think. They got into the R&R Hall of Fame in 2018.
Best hit: Since You're Gone
Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd is undoubtedly one of the most epic bands to have ever played, and we need to praise the chops of drummer Nick Masson. Born in 1944, the English drummer and one of the founding members of the band is what we’d consider a colossus of music. He’s probably one of the most revered players in drumming and is the only band member to have appeared on all of their albums.
But while he could hold his own, he says he gets great joy from “that moment when the bass player plays, you set something out and the other musicians join in.” We love that electric moment too! Now although the band was active for more than three decades, their contribution to the music industry during 1980 was phenomenal, we had to put them on the list.
Best Hit: Another Brick in the Wall
Pantera
In 1981, the American heavy metal band Pantera was formed. Up until the mid-1980s, Pantera had released three albums, however, none of them were a great success. The band found it hard to climb up the ladder of success, however, they are still considered one of the most influential heavy metal bands that were around in the 1980s.
They took part in developing the heavy metal scene all over the world and at some stage were even considering working together with Metallica. The 1980s ended, and when the 1990s were introduced, Metallica became one of the biggest names in music history, leaving Pantera behind. Having said that, Panthera did have a few hits, even if not everyone recognizes them.
Best hit: Domination
The Ramones
Often cited as the first true punk rock band, the Ramones band members were all known for using pseudo-names ending with the surname "Ramone." The band was formed in Queens and disbanded in 1996 at an incredible farewell concert. The Ramones are often mentioned as one of the greatest rock bands of all time and were even ranked second on the Greatest Bands of All Time list by Spin magazine.
The group was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011. The band's musical style was loud, fast, and straightforward, primarily as a reaction to the heavily produced music that dominated pop charts at the time. "We decided to start our own group because we were bored with everything we heard," Joey once explained. "In those days everything was tenth-generation Elton John, or overproduced, or just junk. Everything was long jams, long guitar solos… We missed music like it used to be."
Best hit: I Wanna Be Sedated
Sonic Youth
Sonic Youth was founded back in 1981 in New York City by Thurston Moore, Lee Ranaldo, and Kim Gordon. The three members would remain in the band throughout its history, and they certainly made rock history. Using alternative tunings and feedback, Sonic Youth invented a new guitar sound that was simply exhilarating.
After the release of their first album, "Confusion Is Sex," in 1983, they gained a massive fan base and continued to climb the rock charts. Five years later, in 1988, they released "Daydream Nation," which was a huge commercial hit, along with their "Goo" and "Dirty" albums, released in the early '90s. The band had a nice run until 2001 when they officially disbanded.
Best hit: 100%
The Bangles
During the 1980s, the pop band The Bangles released hit after hit and for a moment there, audiences all over the world were convinced that they were here to stay. Some people believed otherwise, and in 1989, less than a decade after the band was formed, they all decided to spread their wings and go their separate ways.
Somewhere during the early 2000s, the band got back together again and continued to create music. An interesting fact about The Bagnles is that all members, Sussana Hoffs, Vicki Peterson, and Debbi Peterson, are talented and professional solo artists too. You go girls!
Best hit: Hazy Shade of Winter
Red Hot Chili Peppers
It's hard to pinpoint what the Red Hot Chili Peppers are exactly. The group's musical style has its foundation in rock but delves into other genres as well, such as funk, punk, psychedelic, and even hip-hop. They've won numerous awards, including several Grammys, and have sold over 80 million records worldwide. They have won numerous Grammys and other awards. Perhaps the best alternative rock band of all time, the group continues to make noise all around the world to this day.
The band's legendary song collection spans from the heavy Otherside to the popular Californication and all the way to many, many other great hits, such as Dani California, Can't Stop, Snow (Hey Oh), and even their recent 2016 single, Dark Necessities. Some of the Red Hot Chili Peppers' original founding members are still active today and include Anthony Kiedis as lead vocals and guitar and Flea with bass, backing vocals, trumpet, and piano.
Best hit: Soul to Squeeze
a-ha
Most people believe that the name of the Norwegian band is spelled with a capital A (A-ha), however, it is spelled with lowercase. The synth-pop band rose to fame during the mid-1980s and grasped global attention in 1985 with the release of their album, "Hunting High and Low." Until this very day, a-ha are best known for their phenomenal hit Take on Me.
No matter how many songs and albums they released after, nothing was as successful as this. After 11 albums and numerous concerts around the world, in 2010 they officially broke up, leaving many lyrics that we can't remember, except for one that we will never forget.
Best hit: Take on Me
Chicago
Chicago was formed way before but grasped global fame and recognition only when the 1980s kicked in. Chicago originally went by Chicago Transit Authority. They're a self-described “rock and roll band with horns.” In 2008, Billboard ranked Chicago at number thirteen and fifteen in a list of the top 100 artists of all time (in 2008 and 2015, respectively.)
Chicago has sold over 40 million albums in the U.S. alone and has produced twenty-three gold albums, eighteen platinum albums, and eight multi-platinum albums. In the early 1980s, the group had seven albums on the Billboard 200 simultaneously.
Best Hit: Hard to Say I'm Sorry
The Smiths
The Smiths are considered one of the most important bands imported from the UK during the 1980s. Morrissey, who was the band's lead singer is responsible for writing most of the band's songs alongside Johnny Marr, the bass player. Before the 1980s were over, the band had already broken up, however, they left behind many songs that will linger on for years.
It is not known what exactly made The Smiths so noticeable and so popular, but whatever the reason was, they influenced and keep influencing musicians today. They were the end of one music scene and the beginning of another and have left a significant mark, noticed even during these times.
Best hit: There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
KISS
Inspired by Alice Cooper and the glam hard rock of the New York Dolls, KISS was the idea of Gene Simmons (bass and vocals) and Paul Stanley (rhythm guitar and vocals). Well known for its members' face paints and stage outfits, which mimicked the appearance of comic book characters, the band went on to perform insane live feats like breathing fire, spitting blood, floating drum kits in the air, and all sorts of pyrotechnics.
The band went through different periods of more serious performances without masks and returned to masks after calls for nostalgia from fans. KISS's 2024 stage tour is considered to be their last tour ever. The band was ranked 9th by MTV in its Greatest Metal Bands of All Time list and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
Best hit: Beth
Europe
Just before the 1980s kicked in, a new Swedish band was introduced, called Europe. In 1982 they were one of the leading bands in Sweden and northern countries in Europe but it took them a little longer to expand and gain popularity outside of their homeland continent. 1986 is when their luck changed. They released "It's he Final Countdown" and overnight they became the next best thing.
The huge hit became number one in more than 25 countries and is considered to be their never-dying greatest hit. In 1992 the band decided to part, however, got back together in 1999. That reunion lasted just one year. In 2003 they felt the urge to perform together once more and they have been together since.
Best hit: The Final Countdown
Tears for Fears
If there is one 1980s music band we absolutely love, it has got to be Tears of Fears. The British duo got together in 1981. In 1983, they released their debut album, which instantly gained worldwide recognition. Now, if you ever wondered what the meaning of the name is, well, it was taken from the book "Prisoners of Pain" where they came across the phrase.
They have a big and loyal fan club who are active until this very day and have been an influence for many young musicians who follow. Fun fact: they wrote their huge hit Mad World in just 15 minutes.
Best hit: Shout
Scorpions
Scorpions came together in the late 1960s, however, no one really heard about them until much later. Over the years the lineup of the band changed on more than one occasion, however, by the time the 1980s were introduced, the lineup as we know it in recent years was formed.
So to most of us, when we think of Scorpions, we think of their huge hit Wind of Change, but they had many other big successes that were ranked number one for many weeks, all over the world. The Zoo and Still Loving You are only some of them, and we are sure that if you took a minute and flipped through the discography, you will find a few more that you recognize.
Best hit: Wind of Change
Dire Straits
1981 is when the crowds went wild. Dire Straits released one of their greatest songs, Romeo and Juliet, and from there, there was no going back. The Classic Rock magazine described the band as "The biggest British rock band of the 80s" and their world tour between 1985 and 1986 became one of the most talked about tours of the era.
They participated in the Live Aid concert and sold more than seven million tickets to their 1992 final concert. Brothers in Arms was the band's greatest commercial success and was the first album in the entire world to sell more than one million copies on compact disk.
Best hit: Sultans of Swing
Poison
In the late 1980s, Poison was huge and sold over 16 million records in the US only. Their quintessential 80s rock band look was the perfect match to their music. Can't get more 80s rock band style than these guys. The band's biggest hit was Every Rose Has Its Thorn.
Once the 1990s kicked in, they kind of went downhill, remaining relevant only to their loyal audience and not so mainstream. Poison has been named one of the best rock bands of the 1980s, and although they are still active today, it has been a while since they released a hit.
Best hit: Every Rose Has Its Thorn
Aerosmith
The band that managed to combine Led Zeppelin’s hard rock and The Rolling Stones’ smooth blues tones, Aerosmith was formed in Boston, Massachusetts. They are best known for their charismatic and outspoken lead singer Steven Tyler. One of the best-selling American hard-rock bands of all time, with over 150 million records sold worldwide, Aerosmith is one of those bands that every man, woman, and child has at least one favorite song from.
The band was originally influenced by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and others. What's interesting is that Aerosmith ended up becoming a major influence on many of the world's most famous bands. According to guitarist Joe Perry, Eddie Van Halen once told him that his band Van Halen "started out on the suburban L.A. club circuit, playing Aerosmith songs". Aerosmith is credited for being a huge inspiration to iconic bands such as Guns N' Roses, Metallica, and Mötley Crüe.
Best hit: Walk This Way
ZZ Top
Despite their on-stage antics and entertaining car videos, ZZ Top's amped-up blues-rock is the real reason fans are traveling in droves to this day just to watch the band play live. Hailing from Houston, Texas, ZZ Top is considered to be one of the best blues-inspired rock bands of all time.
The band has since progressed to new wave, punk rock, and dance-rock and has often been credited for hiding humorous lyrics in their songs using innuendos. ZZ Top's music has won them several awards, from being named "Official Heroes for the State of Texas" to getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.
Best hit: Cheap Sunglasses
The Police
A long time before Sting became Sting, there was The Police. Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner (AKA Sting) formed the band with Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland and the three stuck together until they decided to go their separate ways in 1984.
The Police were one of the most successful bands during the 1980s and Sting still performs with their songs in his live concerts and tours. They grasped various awards throughout the years, including six Grammys and an MTV music award. In 2003, almost 20 years after their breakup, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Best hit: Every Breath You Take
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden, one of the most iconic bands (in their niche) was born in East London. However, by 1982, they were already known all over the United States with their number one record, "The Number of the Beast." Their heavy metal sounds were difficult to embrace during the 1970s when they were first introduced, however, the 1980s welcomed them with a grin.
Iron Maiden were the pioneers of the British New Wave Heavy metal movement and although you don't hear too much of them nowadays, the band is still alive and kicking. They have a loyal fan club that has been devoted to the band for more than four decades.
Best hit: Run to the Hills
Megadeth
Megadeth is a thrash metal American band, best known for their out-of-this-world guitar-playing techniques. They are known as those who perform on stage and sing (or shout) about police, politics, religion, death, and many other personal and public issues. A fun fact about Megadeth is that they recorded a cover for These Boots Are Made for Walkin’, originally sung by Nancy Sinatra, however, it never made it to any of the band's albums.
In 1993 the band joined Aerosmith on stage and gave memorable concerts, often mentioned to this day. The band still performs and has not said their last word so if you are into loud, can't understand what you are singing kind of music, go to one of their concerts.
Best hit: Five Magics
Def Leppard
If you are ever asked who is the first rock band to ever appear on MTV, well we have the answer for you. It was Def Leppard. They started their way by playing in a school gym in front of about six people. Little did they know that soon enough they would become one of the better-known rock bands, and become a 1980s icon in the music industry.
Def Leppard is unique in many things they do, however, Rick Allen, the band's drummer, is the most unique of them all. He lost his left arm in a car crash but it did not prevent him from playing. He taught himself to play the drums with his legs and even created a special drum kit that he could adapt to. We are impressed!
Best hit: Heaven Is
U2
As this band is still ongoing and has been on top of the charts since we can remember, their prime and most glorious days were in fact during the 1980s. There isn't a soul in the world who doesn't know the lyrics of Beautiful Day, or I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For, and they are a piece of many of our youth soundtracks.
They have been playing together and touring the world for more than four decades and have sold more than 170 million records all over the world. If you ever wondered what is the story of choosing the name U2, well let us tell you. Out of all the options they had when they were thinking of a name, this was the one they hated the least.
Best hit: Bad
R.E.M.
R.E.M. needs no introduction, but here we are, introducing them nonetheless. The acronym stands for rapid eye movement, and it's the perfect way to describe this band's music. It is one of the first alternative rock bands, and Nirvana and Pavement viewed R.E.M. as a pioneer of the alternative rock genre.
Their 1991 album "Out of Time" received seven nominations at the 34th Grammys, and the album's lead single, Losing My Religion, was the band's hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100. The band retired in 2011.
Best hit: It's the End of the World
Journey
Like many bands on our list, Journey was formed in San Francisco by former Santana and Frumious Bandersnatch members. The band was most popular and successful between the late '70s and the late '80s. During this period, the band released some of their most famous songs, which included Don't Stop Believing, Open Arms, and Faithfully.
The band's style is regarded as a combination of arena rock, progressive rock, and jazz. In 2017, their unique talent and sound got Journey members Steve Perry, Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, Gregg Rolie, Ross Valory, Aynsley Dunbar, and Steve Smith inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Journey is often heard of or referred to in various films, TV shows, video games, and even theater. The band was featured in "The Sopranos," "Glee," and "Family Guy." USA Today ranked the band as the 5th best rock band in history.
Best hit: Don't Stop Believin'
Foreigner
Even though Foreigner was originally formed in New York City, its co-founding members, Mick Jones and Ian McDonald, were British. They came from quite prominent English rock bands themselves. They joined forces with American vocalist Lou Gramm and formed Foreigner, which would also include Al Greenwood and Ed Gagliardi.
Some of the chart-topping hit singles include "Waiting for a Girl Like You" and "I Want to Know What Love Is." With worldwide sales of over 80 million records, Foreigner is considered to be one of the best-selling bands in music history.
Best hit: I Want to Know What Love Is
Bon Jovi
From the uplifting rock ballad of "Livin' on a Prayer" to the romantic "Bed of Roses" and even the rebellious, "It's My Life," Bon Jovi has been consistently dominating the charts from the early '80s, when the band was initially formed in New Jersey, up to today, with the band still touring strong. Bon Jovi’s songs regularly appear in everything from films to video games, making them a household name.
The band has released a total of 14 studio albums, five compilations, and three live albums to this date, selling over 100 million records worldwide. Bon Jovi is one of the world's most active and long-running superbands and has performed in over 2,700 concerts for over 34 million fans. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
Best hit: Livin' on a Prayer
AC/DC
AC/DC was initially formed in the 1970s but only reached global fame status in the 1980s. It deserves a memorable place on this list. Malcome and Angus Young, two brothers from Australia established the band and together with Phill Rudd, Brian Jonson, and Stevie Young (somehow related), became one of the most recognized metal sounds of that era.
They are known for their daring lyrics and astonishing live shows, bringing together thousands of loyal followers. In 2003, AC/DC was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, making them one of the few metal bands to do so.
Best hit: You Shook Me All Night Long
Metallica
The pioneers of the thrash metal genre, Metallica, started with fast tempos, aggressive riffs, and intense musicianship that hasn't stopped. Jabbing forward with their first album, 'Kill 'Em All,' Metallica then followed up with 'Ride the Lightning', which turned the band into a household name.
Through their ten albums, Metallica has had all ten certified platinum by the RIAA, including one that was certified Diamond: "Metallica," released in 1991. They are also one of the few bands on this list that had a famous feud with a file-sharing platform (Napster), a problem that 80s bands obviously didn't face back in the day.
Best hit: Unforgiven
Queen
It is thought that Queen has always been around. If we look at the 1970s, it already existed, however, the audience they turned to was very specific and not mainstream at all. By the time 1980 was welcomed, "Another One Bites the Dust" was released.
Overnight, Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon became some of the most successful, praised, and sought-after musicians around. They were no longer underground and were categorized as a pop music band. Queen contributed one of the most significant moments in music history, with their performance in 1985 at the Live Aid concert.
Best hit: Bohemian Rhapsody
Nirvana
When you think of grunge, the first band that comes to mind has to be Nirvana. Formed in 1987 in Aberdeen, Washington, by lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain, the band went on to become a massive success and established itself as the best grunge band of all time. The band found international mainstream success with their single "Smells Like Teen Spirit," which sold over 30 million copies and elevated Cobain to the unofficial spokesman of the generation he was representing.
The band included other highly talented members, such as the legendary drummer Dave Grohl, who went on to found the popular Foo Fighters following Kurt Cobain's death and the band's breakup in 1994. Nirvana was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 — the first year they were eligible for it. The band was also ranked as one of the greatest musical groups of all time by various music magazines.
Best hit: Smells Like Teen Spirit
Guns N' Roses
Guns N' Roses combined numerous rock genres to create a unique, chugging, driving sound known worldwide. Their first album, "Appetite for Destruction," reached number one on the Billboard 200 and still is the best-selling debut album ever.
The band is also famous for its antics. Singer Axl Rose has been accused of various acts of aggression, people have died at concerts, and substance dependency ran rampant during the eighties, earning the band the moniker “the most dangerous band in the world.” Recommended Listening: There's no going wrong with their debut album. Make sure to hear the songs “Welcome to the Jungle,” “Sweet Child of Mine,” and “Paradise City."
Best hit: Sweet Child of Mine
Pixies
An alternative rock band formed in 1986 in Boston, the Pixies drew on punk rock and surf rock and created a sound known for its “loud-quiet” shifts and unique song structures. While they broke up in 1993, they reunited in 2004 for a sold-out world tour, which we are sure made their numerous fans very happy, as long as they were able to get a ticket.
They've produced seven albums, one certified gold, and one certified platinum. Song lyrics often include things like space, religion, relationships, hardships, and pop culture, and lyricist Black Francis has a noted obsession with characters from the Old Testament of the Bible.
Best hit: Tame
The Revolution
The Revolution was formed in 1979 (which in music history is practically the 1980s), in Minneapolis, Minnesota, by none other than legendary singer Prince. Although they're considered a rock band, they also fuse pop, funk, R&B, and even psychedelic rock. The Revolution got its claim to fame in the mid-1980s with their album, "Purple Rain," in 1984.
Their second studio album, "Around the World in a Day," had 6 top ten singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The band won three Grammy Awards and released two soundtracks and two videos on top of their two studio albums. Unfortunately, the band officially broke up in 1986.
Best hit: Let's Go Crazy
Mötley Crüe
Mötley Crüe has a known reputation for being one of the craziest, most depraved rock bands in history, known for wreaking havoc wherever they go. The band formed in 1981, in Los Angeles, with Nikki Sixx, Mick Mars, Tommy Lee, and Vince Lee. The group of five became the bad boys of Hollywood, with their huge metal hair and an insane partying attitude.
Shockingly, all the band members survived years of debauchery and managed to become one of the most successful bands in the world, with over 100 million albums sold worldwide. They've released nine studio albums with "Dr. Feelgood," "Theatre of Pain," "New Tattoo," and "Shout at the Devil" as some of the most famous.
Best hit: Wild Side
Green Day
Famous California rock band Green Day was formed by Billie Joe Armstrong and Mike Dirnt in 1987. Drummer Tré Cool joined the band in 1990, replacing the former drummer and recording the band's second album, "Kerplunk." Green Day was known in the '80s and '90s punk scene in California, where it got its roots.
The band's 1994 album, "Dookie," was a huge success and sold over 10 million copies. It became credited for being one of the American bands to revive punk rock to the mainstream public. Their seventh album, "American Idiot," was very popular among the younger generations. Their 2009 album, "21st Century Breakdown," catapulted the band to fame again. Green Day has won five Grammys and sold over 75 million records around the world.
Best hit: Basket Case
Marilyn Manson
Marilyn Manson, born Brian Hugh Warner, is an Ohio-born singer/songwriter, producer, actor, and visual artist. Famous for his controversial look and personality, Manson is the frontman for his self-titled band, which he formed with Daisy Berkowitz in 1989.
His 1990 albums, "Portrait of an American Family," "Antichrist Superstar," and "Mechanical Animals," earned him a worldwide reputation as an icon of industrial and hard rock and alternative metal. Three of his albums have been certified platinum, three more have been certified gold, and the band has been nominated for four Grammys. Fun fact: Marilyn Manson's stage name came from a combination of two of America's most famous cultural icons: Charles Manson and Marilyn Monroe.
Best hit: The Beautiful People
Radiohead
In 1985 Radiohead was presented to the world. Thom Yorke (lead vocals and many instruments), who to this day is one of the most influential musicians, was a pioneer of alternative rock. Radiohead had a new and exciting sound and when Creap came out, they broke all boundaries and introduced a new form of music for the world to fall in love with.
The band's original name was "On a Friday" because that was the only day the members of the band could get together and rehearse, but as time moved on, they comprehended that the name must be changed. So, since they were influenced by many other bands who were big at the time, Radiohead came to life.
Best hit: Creap
The Offspring
The famous rock band from Garden Grove, California, The Offspring, was founded in 1984. Originally called Manic Subsidal, the band started with Bryan "Dexter" Holland, who played the drums initially, and bassist Greg Kriesel who played in a garage. Doug Thompson and Jim Benton joined the band shortly after, and then in 1985, school janitor Kevin "Noodles" Wasserman joined the band.
The Offspring played for several decades, released nine studio albums, and swapped band members more times than we can count. The greatest thing about The Offspring is that it revived commercial interest in punk rock back in the '90s, and their third album, "Smash," sold more than 10 million copies worldwide. Their following albums were also widely successful, including "Ixnay on the Hombre," "Americana," "Conspiracy of One," "Splinter," "Rise and Fall," "Rage and Grace," and "Days Go By." They're set to release a new album in 2020 or 2021.
Best hit: You're Gonna Go Far, Kid
Huey Lewis & the News
The famous American rock band Huey Lewis and the News was formed in 1979 in San Francisco, California. The band released a number of hit singles in the 1980s and '90s, with their biggest claim to fame being the 1983 album, "Sports."
The album, whose videos also became wildly popular after being released on MTV, became famous around the world. And the album's hit single, The Power of Love, was featured in the 1985 blockbuster hit, "Back to the Future." The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles chart and got a nomination for an Oscar for Best Original Song.
Best hit: The Power of Love
Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
Everybody knows who Joan Jett is, and once she left the famous all-female rock band, The Runaways, she went on to form the Blackhearts in 1981. The Blackhearts were made of Ricky Byrd, Lee Crystal, and Gary Ryan. The band went on to release great albums during the '80s, with their single, I Hate Myself for Loving You, reaching the Top Ten charts in 1988.
The Blackhearts' fame continued throughout the '80s, but by the 1990s, they had significantly slowed down. Joan Jett, however, is still one of the most iconic American punk rock figures in music history.
Best hit: I Hate Myself for Loving You
No Doubt
No Doubt was formed in the 1980s, more than forty years ago. Vocalist Gwen Stefani led the band, alongside Tom Dumont, Tony Kanal (who dated Stefani for a while,) and Adrian Young, and up until 2015, they were all still rocking it hard on the stage.
It took No Doubt a few good years before making it big. It was only in 1995, after releasing the bold feminist rock anthem Just a Girl, that they became part of the mainstream and were played on radio stations all over the world. They have released numerous hits since.
Best hit: Don't Speak
Double Trouble
In 1978, Stevie Ray Vaughan formed Double Trouble together with Tommy Shannon and Chris Layton. They were at their peak in the mid-1980s and were responsible for influencing many other artists at the time. Their shade of blues and unique sound helped to bring to life many soft rock ballads incorporated with jazz and other elements.
In the early 1990s, they performed with top names in the industry, such as Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, and others, however, things came to an end following the sudden death of Stevie Ray Vaughan in 1990 at the age of 35.
Best hit: Street Stuff
The Pretenders
Although The Pretenders are considered an American-English band, in our eyes, they are all USA. Chrissie Hynde (an American) was one of the founding members of the band and performed as a lead singer, guitar player, and songwriter. So basically, no Chrissie, no band.
The remaining three members of the band, James Honeyman-Scott, Pete Farndon, and Martin Chambers, are all English. In 1980 they released their debut album, named "Pretenders" which was a high success both in America and in Europe. Back then, it was considered one of the best albums of all time.
Best hit: I'll Stand By You
Pavement
This indie rock band was formed in 1989. At first, the genre and the group didn't attract much attention and were mainly active underground, as you would expect the grungiest of bands to do. They gradually became more stable and polished.
With that, came recognition, and the band released a successful album in the late days of the last millennium. Cut Your Hair, which was released in 1994, was one of the band's greatest hits, and they were considered one of the best bands around in the 1990s. They disbanded in 1999 but have since reunited twice, in 2010 and in 2022.
Best hit: Cut Your Hair
Kansas
Kansas began in 1973 and has had plenty of different members over the years, however, when it reached the 1980 it had the solid members we are all familiar with, we had to squeeze some bands aside and make room for this. You almost certainly know Kansas from their song “Carry on Wayward Son,” but the band has achieved plenty more, including three multi-platinum albums.
Kansas combined hard rock, southern rock, and progressive rock and was inspired by Yes and Genesis, though guitarist Kerry Livgren also cited the 60's band Touch as foundational. The classic era lasted until the mid-80s when the band reformed as a somewhat harder pop metal band.
Best hit: Dust in the Wind
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Our next band originated in Florida. The band was led by Tom Petty, one of the finest and most accomplished songwriters to walk this earth. What most characterizes his writing style is a strong sense of authenticity and the relatability he brings to each song. Some of the band's greatest hits include Mary Jane's Last Dance, American Girl, Learning to Fly, and many more.
You can safely regard it as Southern rock, the same as Bruce Springsteen’s musical style. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers went on to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and have been in constant fights with record companies throughout most of the band's existence.
Best hit: The Waiting
Pearl Jam
Formed in Seattle, Washington, in 1989, no rock bands list can be complete without including the legendary Pearl Jam, who are known for being aggressively against popular music, the practice of making music videos, and even giving interviews. Pearl Jam first broke into the mainstream music scene with its 1991 debut album "Ten" and helped popularize grunge music in the early '90s.
The band, which consists of founding members Eddie Vedder (lead vocals, guitar), Mike McCready (lead guitar), Stone Gossard (rhythm guitar) Jeff Ament (bass), and Matt Cameron (drums), is widely considered to be one of the most influential of all time. Pearl Jam's music has been described as "modern rock radio's most influential stylists – the workman-like midtempo chug of songs like Alive and Even Flow are just melodic enough to get moshers singing along." The band is also known for often tackling tough topics such as the environment, foreign policy, and world hunger.
Best hit: Jeremy
Menudo
With a list so long, we have got to place at least one Latino band. Now, South and Central American music was not so influential in the United States and Europe during the 1980s, but Menudo had some kind of magic that kept them irresistible. They are known as the Most Iconic Latino Pop Music Band and some say they are the best boy band that ever existed.
Over the years, the band's lineup changed frequently, and at one stage included Ricky Martin (who you are more familiar with through his solo career.) Like most bands, they were given their share of scandals, illegal substances, and much more.
Best hit: Hold Me
Tony! Toni! Toné!
Tony Toni Toné lived soul music and R&B. The band's debut album, "Who?" came out in 1988 and earned them international fame. Now the band's name has a funny story behind it. Apparently, it all started with a joke. They thought it sounded sophisticated and chic and expressed what they thought about fashion and music, in a cynical way of course. The name stuck.
D'Wayne Wiggins, Raphael Saadiq, and Timothy Christian Riley not only sang all of their lyrics, but also played the musical instruments, and never had any guitar, keyboard, or drum players. The band was active for more than a decade, between 1986 and 1997, and in 2023 they got back together and decided to give it another chance.
Best hit: If I Had No Loot
Bros
Matt Goss, Luke Goss, and Craig Logan were Bros. They were two brothers and one good friend and they were one of the pioneer boy bands that came out one after the other in the heat of the 1980s.
In their first years, their songs were not such great hits, however, in 1987 they came out with When Will I Be Famous and the crowds were hooked. They had the look, they had the style, and they also had their fair share of scandals. In 1989 Craig Logan left the two brothers, and this was the beginning of Bros's end.
Best hit: Drop the Boy
Bananarama
Besides being the sound of the 1980s, Bananarama also holds a Guinness World Record. They have the world's highest chart entries by an all-female band. Without a doubt, Venus has to be their best song ever, and its success expanded worldwide. Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey, and Keren Woodward performed together for several years, however, in 1988 things changed.
Siobhan Fahey felt the direction Bananarama was going, was not suited to her style and her dreams, so she decided to take her business elsewhere and formed The Shakespears Sister. The trio became a duo and they are still performing, recording, and writing to this day.
Best hit: Cruel Summer
Shakespears Sister
Initially, Shakespears Sister was supposed to be a solo act however, the chemistry between former Bananarama member, Siobhan Fahey, and Marcella Detroit was so unique and incomparable to anything else, that it just had to be. The duo released two albums, each more successful than the other, and included the single 'Stay' which turned into one of the best singles released back then.
Detroit left in the early 1990s and Fahey found herself alone. This didn't last very long and the two were together onstage once again in 2019. They are still on stage, still releasing great hits, and maintaining a loyal fan group that is not a day younger than 40.
Best hit: Hello
UB40
The name UB40 has got nothing to do with people turning 40. In fact, it has got nothing to do with anyone turning any age. The name stands for Unemployment Benefit, Form 40, as a symbol to emphasize the working-class dudes who formed the band.
They started off as street musicians and eventually became a band worth more than 100 million albums, worldwide. On and off, they adorned the music charts for decades and contributed numerous hits to music history. In 2008, the band's original lineup was broken up, with frontman Ali Campbell leaving, followed by keyboardist Mickey Virtue.
Best hit: I Got You Babe
Hüsker Dü
Hüsker Dü is one of those bands that were never too familiar, however, it played an important part in the era's music pattern. At first, you would have thought Hüsker Dü was a Swedish or some other north European country band, but in fact, they are as American as can be, just with a foreign name.
The meaning of the name is 'Do you remember?' which was the name of a well-known Scandinavian game. During the 1980s they were all about punk and rock and in 1983 they released their debut album, "Everything Falls Apart." The band never reached extremely high success but did manage to release some songs that became independently very successful.
Best hit: Celebrate Summer
The Stone Roses
When the band released their album, "The Stone Roses" in the late 1980s, the music industry announced that this was by far the best British music album ever released. It was a blend of the conservative 1960s tunes and the wild 1970 spirit. It brought something new and it for sure left its mark.
The Stone Rose released numerous great hits and some have become all-time classics. Amongst them, we can find, I Wanna Be Adored, Fools Gold, I Am the Ressurection, and many more. After several lineups, in 1996 the band eventually broke up, though they got back together more than once, and are still jamming together these days.
Best hit: She Bangs the Drums
Erasure
Andy Bell and Vince Clarke formed back in 1985, the synth-pop duo, Erasure. Vince Clarke was the co-founder of Depeche Mode but was able to create music more of his style after he joined Bell. The two of them met after Bell placed an ad in a music magazine as he was eager to find a vocalist to sing the songs he wrote.
For over 34 years, the band released 18 albums, and some of them provided particularly successful hits. The band was at its peak mainly in Europe in the mid-1980s, and in 1988 they became internationally famous when they released A Little Respect.
Best hit: A Little Respect
Pet Shop Boys
In 1981 The Pet Shop Boys were born. Neil Tennant, with his distinguished voice, joined Chris Lowe, and together they brought synth-pop music to life. In total, they have sold more than 50 million albums and are considered the most successful duo in music history. The Pet Shop Boys's first greatest hit was West End Girls, however, it was mostly successful in Belgium and France.
Only after a cover was recorded, the song became a hit all over the world. Fun fact: at one point, PETA asked the band to rename itself as they insisted the name was encouraging people to go out and buy animals, instead of adopting stray ones.
Best hit: Being Boring
Alphaville
Just like us, you might read this name more than once, just to make sure there isn't any mistake. Well there isn't, and by the time you finish reading about this band, you will agree that a place for them on the list had to be preserved. Alphaville was a German band in the 1980s and at first was very successful only in their homeland.
It was one song that turned them overnight, from silent Germans to loud and astonishing and influential musicians. In 1984 the phenomenal hit Big in Japan was released. Soon to follow were Forever Young and Sounds like a Melody and Alphaville cherished their place on the greatest bands of the 1980s list.
Best hit: Big in Japan
Spandau Ballet
The Spandau Ballet is one of those bands where you can hear their lyrics while reading (or writing) about them. They came together just before the 1980s kicked in, and it took them some time before they gained any success.
The name of the band was suggested to them by a close friend who saw the writing Spandau Ballet on some wall in a Berlin nightclub. Apparently, it was slang for something, used back in the days of the First World War. The band's greatest hit was True and Gold, which are two classics, used in many soundtracks of Hollywood.
Best hit: Gold
The Communards
No matter how hard they tried, The Communards never managed to make it big with one of their own songs. They became globally famous after recording the hit Don't Leave Me This Way, a great song both for the lyrics and the music video. Lead singer Jimmy Somerville is known for his unique contra tenor voice, which is still very rare to find.
The band stuck together for just a little over three years, however, grasped fame as if they had been around for decades. The Communards have won our title of being the best band of the 1980s, which existed for less than five years.