Most Influential 80s Artists Shaping Music History

The 1980s were a vibrant decade for music, producing legendary artists who left lasting impacts on various genres. Who were the most influential 80s artists that shaped the music scene and captured the hearts of millions? These artists didn’t just make popular songs; they defined an era with their unique styles and groundbreaking innovations.

Emerging from different backgrounds, these influential figures dominated the charts and became cultural icons. Their contributions continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans. This article highlights ten of the most pivotal musicians from that unforgettable decade.

1. Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson, often called the “King of Pop,” was a defining artist of the 1980s. He revolutionized the music industry with his innovative approach to pop, rock, and R&B. His influence extended beyond music to fashion, dance, and music videos.

Jackson’s album “Thriller,” released in 1982, remains the best-selling album of all time. Hits like “Billie Jean” and “Beat It” showcased his extraordinary talent and electrifying performances. He became the first artist to win eight GRAMMYs in one night in 1984.

His ability to connect with a global audience made him a beloved figure worldwide. His groundbreaking music videos for songs like “Thriller” and “Smooth Criminal” set new standards for the medium.

Notable Songs

• “Billie Jean”
  • Album: Thriller
  • Release Date: January 2, 1983
• “Beat It”
  • Album: Thriller
  • Release Date: February 14, 1983
• “Thriller”
  • Album: Thriller
  • Release Date: January 23, 1984

Why we included these songs on the list

“Billie Jean” featured a signature bass line and was crucial for its story of deception and intrigue. “Beat It” was a powerful anthem against violence, featuring Eddie Van Halen’s iconic guitar solo. “Thriller” redefined music videos, blending music and horror elements.

Interesting or fun facts about the songs

• “Billie Jean” became one of the best-selling singles worldwide.
• “Beat It” won two GRAMMYs and is often covered by artists across genres.
• “Thriller”‘s music video is often considered the greatest music video ever made, with groundbreaking special effects.

2. Madonna

Madonna is often considered one of the most influential artists of the 1980s. She revolutionized pop music with her unique style and constant reinvention. Her career took off with the release of her debut album in 1983, and she quickly became a household name.

Why we included this song on the list:

This song solidified Madonna’s status as a pop icon. It topped the charts and became an anthem of the 1980s.

Interesting or fun facts about the song:

The music video was controversial for its provocative imagery, but it remains one of Madonna’s most iconic performances.

“Material Girl”

• Album: Like a Virgin


• Release Date: 1984

Why we included this song on the list:

“Material Girl” reflects the consumerism of the era and showcases Madonna’s ability to blend catchy tunes with social commentary.

Madonna’s 50 Greatest Songs showcases how she has been breaking boundaries for more than three decades. Her influence is undeniable, and her music continues to be celebrated worldwide. For more information on one of her best-ranked songs, check out this greatest songs list.

3. Prince

Prince was a monumental figure in the music world during the 80s. His eclectic style and boundary-pushing sound made him a standout artist of the decade.

Some of his most iconic songs include:

• “Purple Rain”

  • Album: Purple Rain
  • Release date: 1984

• “When Doves Cry”

  • Album: Purple Rain
  • Release date: 1984

• “1999”

  • Album: 1999
  • Release date: 1982

Why we included this song on the list

“Purple Rain” is considered one of Prince’s most powerful ballads. It perfectly showcases his musical versatility and emotional depth. “When Doves Cry,” with its unique structure and lack of a bassline, revolutionized pop music. “1999” became an anthem for a generation, embodying the party spirit of the 80s.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

“Purple Rain” was both a movie soundtrack and a chart-topping album, cementing Prince’s place in pop culture history. “When Doves Cry” was the top-selling single of 1984, staying at No. 1 for five weeks. “1999” was one of the earliest tracks that featured Prince’s future band, The Revolution.

For more about Prince’s influence on music, you can visit Rolling Stone’s Essential Prince Songs or Smooth Radio’s Greatest Prince Songs.

4. Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston was a powerhouse vocalist in the 1980s. Her voice and talent made a lasting impact on music. She released numerous hits that showcased her incredible range and emotion.

Some of her most famous songs from the 80s include:

• “You Give Good Love”
  • Album: Whitney Houston
  • Release Date: February 22, 1985
• “Saving All My Love for You”
  • Album: Whitney Houston
  • Release Date: August 13, 1985
• “How Will I Know”
  • Album: Whitney Houston
  • Release Date: November 22, 1985
• “Greatest Love of All“
  • Album: Whitney Houston
  • Release Date: April 1986
• “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)”
  • Album: Whitney
  • Release Date: May 2, 1987

Why we included these songs on the list

• “You Give Good Love”: This was her debut single, showcasing her vocal talent and earning her first major success.
• “Saving All My Love for You”: It won Houston her first Grammy Award, establishing her as a leading artist.
• “How Will I Know”: A lively and upbeat song that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
• “Greatest Love of All”: A powerful ballad that resonates deeply with many listeners.
• “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)”: This upbeat track became one of her signature songs and a dance anthem.

Interesting or fun facts about the songs

• “You Give Good Love”: This song helped Whitney earn her first Grammy nomination.
• “Saving All My Love for You”: Originally recorded by Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. in 1978.
• “How Will I Know”: The song’s video featured Houston dancing in a colorful, MTV-friendly style.
• “Greatest Love of All”: The song was initially released by George Benson in 1977.
• “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)”: This song won a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1988.

5. Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen, known as “The Boss,” is one of the most influential artists of the 1980s. His music often reflects the struggles and hopes of ordinary people.

Notable Songs

• “Born in the U.S.A.”

  • Album: Born in the U.S.A.
  • Release Date: 1984

• “Dancing in the Dark”

  • Album: Born in the U.S.A.
  • Release Date: 1984

• “Hungry Heart”

  • Album: The River
  • Release Date: 1980

Why we included this song on the list

“Born in the U.S.A.” captures the struggle of Vietnam War veterans returning home. Its upbeat tempo contrasts with its somber lyrics, making it powerful and memorable.

“Dancing in the Dark” is significant for its reflection on frustration and the desire for change, resonating with many listeners.

“Hungry Heart” showcases Springsteen’s talent for blending catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics, making it a standout track.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

“Born in the U.S.A.” was often misunderstood as a patriotic anthem, though it criticizes the treatment of Vietnam veterans.

“Dancing in the Dark” was a late addition to the Born in the U.S.A. album after Springsteen’s manager requested a hit single.

“Hungry Heart” was originally written for The Ramones, but Springsteen’s manager convinced him to keep it for himself.

6. David Bowie

David Bowie was one of the most influential artists of the 80s. His ability to reinvent himself and experiment with different sounds made him stand out.

Top 10 Songs:

• “Ashes to Ashes”
  • Album: Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)
  • Release Date: 1980
• “Fashion”
  • Album: Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)
  • Release Date: 1980
• “Let’s Dance”
  • Album: Let’s Dance
  • Release Date: 1983
• “China Girl”
  • Album: Let’s Dance
  • Release Date: 1983
• “Modern Love”
  • Album: Let’s Dance
  • Release Date: 1983
• “Under Pressure” (with Queen)
  • Album: Hot Space
  • Release Date: 1981
• “Blue Jean”
  • Album: Tonight
  • Release Date: 1984
• “Absolute Beginners”
  • Album: Singles Collection
  • Release Date: 1986
• “Loving the Alien”
  • Album: Tonight
  • Release Date: 1984
• “This Is Not America” (with Pat Metheny Group)
  • Album: The Falcon and the Snowman (soundtrack)
  • Release Date: 1985

Why we included this song on the list:

David Bowie’s music in the 80s showed his knack for blending pop with other genres. Songs like “Let’s Dance” and “China Girl” became major hits and defined the sound of the decade. “Under Pressure,” a collaboration with Queen, became an anthem of the era.

Interesting or fun facts about the song:

• “Ashes to Ashes” references Bowie’s earlier work “Space Oddity” and became one of his major hits.
• “Under Pressure” was created during an impromptu jam session.
• “Let’s Dance” was produced by Nile Rodgers, adding a distinct funk and dance vibe to Bowie’s sound.

David Bowie continued to inspire and influence many artists across various genres throughout his career, making him a lasting icon in music history. His impact during the 80s remains undeniable.

7. U2

U2 is one of the most influential rock bands of the 80s. Formed in 1976, the band consists of Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr.

They gained worldwide fame with albums like The Joshua Tree, which featured a blend of rock and roll with social and political themes.

The band is known for their powerful live performances and distinctive sound, characterized by The Edge’s guitar playing and Bono’s vocal style.

Notable Songs

• “With or Without You”
  Album: The Joshua Tree
  Release Date: March 1987

• “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”
  Album: The Joshua Tree
  Release Date: May 1987

• “Where the Streets Have No Name”
  Album: The Joshua Tree
  Release Date: August 1987

Why We Included These Songs

• “With or Without You” showcases U2’s emotional range and became one of their biggest hits.
• “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” reflects the band’s spiritual and introspective lyrics.
• “Where the Streets Have No Name” is noted for its intricate guitar work and anthemic quality, becoming a live show staple.

Interesting or Fun Facts About the Songs

• “With or Without You”: This song was U2’s first number-one hit in the United States.
• “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”: Inspired by gospel music, it won a Grammy for Best Rock Performance.
• “Where the Streets Have No Name”: The music video was famously filmed on a Los Angeles rooftop, causing a traffic jam.

8. The Police

The Police were a major force in the music scene of the 1980s. The band consisted of Sting, Andy Summers, and Stewart Copeland. Their unique blend of rock, reggae, and jazz set them apart from other bands of the time.

Some of their most memorable songs include:

• “Every Breath You Take”

  • Album: Synchronicity
  • Release Date: 1983

• “Roxanne”

  • Album: Outlandos d’Amour
  • Release Date: 1978

• “Message in a Bottle”

  • Album: Reggatta de Blanc
  • Release Date: 1979

Why we included this song on the list

• “Every Breath You Take”: This song features a haunting melody and lyrics that speak to obsessive love. It’s often misunderstood as a romantic song.

• “Roxanne”: Known for its infectious rhythm and compelling story of unrequited love, this song became an anthem for many.

• “Message in a Bottle”: With its catchy guitar riff and relatable theme of loneliness and hope, it resonated with a wide audience.

Interesting or fun facts about the song

• “Every Breath You Take”: Despite its seemingly romantic nature, Sting wrote it during a dark period following his divorce. It won the Grammy for Song of the Year in 1984.

• “Roxanne”: Inspired by the red-light district in Paris, the song’s title is based on the name of a character from the play Cyrano de Bergerac.

• “Message in a Bottle”: It was the band’s first UK number one hit. Sting wrote it in a remote part of Ireland, drawing inspiration from his surroundings.

The Police’s ability to fuse different musical elements and their impactful lyrics have cemented their place in the history of 1980s music. Their songs still resonate with audiences today, proving their lasting appeal.

9. Duran Duran

Duran Duran was one of the most iconic bands of the 1980s. Known for their catchy songs and stylish music videos, they helped shape the sound and look of that decade.

They started in Birmingham, England, and quickly became famous. Their music often mixed rock, pop, and electronic elements, which appealed to a wide audience. Their videos played a big part in their success, getting heavy rotation on MTV.

Notable Songs

• “Hungry Like the Wolf”

  • Album: Rio
  • Release Date: 1982

• “Rio”

  • Album: Rio
  • Release Date: 1982

• “Save a Prayer”

  • Album: Rio
  • Release Date: 1982

Why we included these songs on the list

“Hungry Like the Wolf” is a prime example of Duran Duran’s energetic and infectious style. Its memorable riff and catchy chorus made it a major hit.

“Rio” showcases the band’s blend of pop and rock, with an unforgettable music video that epitomizes ’80s excess and fun.

“Save a Prayer” is a softer, more reflective side of the band, demonstrating their versatility and depth.

Interesting or fun facts about the songs

• “Hungry Like the Wolf” was heavily influenced by the band’s time in pubs and clubs, resonating with many fans around the world.

• The video for “Rio” featured the band members sailing and dancing on a yacht, which became one of MTV’s most played videos.

• “Save a Prayer” was unusual in being a ballad released as a single by a band known for their more upbeat songs. The video was shot in Sri Lanka and added to its exotic appeal.

For more on Duran Duran’s top songs, you can check the A.V. Club’s list of their 30 best songs.

10. Cyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper emerged as a colorful and influential artist in the 1980s. Her unique voice and style captured the hearts of many, making her one of the era’s unforgettable icons.

Her debut album, She’s So Unusual, released in 1983, included several hit singles that still resonate today. Songs like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” and “Time After Time” made a significant impact.

Lauper’s versatility is showcased across her discography, which spans many genres. Her music videos, combined with her distinctive fashion sense, further solidified her place in pop culture.

Notable Songs

• “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”

  • Album: She’s So Unusual
  • Release Date: 1983

• “Time After Time”

  • Album: She’s So Unusual
  • Release Date: 1983

• “True Colors”

  • Album: True Colors
  • Release Date: 1986

Why We Included These Songs on the List

These songs highlight Lauper’s ability to create catchy, timeless music. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” became an anthem for female independence and joy. “Time After Time” showcases her softer, emotional side. “True Colors” carries a powerful message about self-acceptance.

Interesting or Fun Facts About the Songs

• 
  

  “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” was originally written by Robert Hazard but was famously adapted by Lauper.

• “True Colors” was initially written for Anne Murray, who passed on the song before it was offered to Cyndi.

• “Time After Time” remains a beloved classic and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.

Cultural Impact of 80s Music

The 1980s was a decade of significant cultural shifts, driven by music that defined and transformed various aspects of society. The era saw notable changes in popular music and a strong influence on fashion and aesthetics.

Transformation of Popular Music

The 1980s marked a pivotal change in the landscape of popular music. Artists like Prince and Whitney Houston became household names, setting new standards for musical performance and production.

Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” album broke sales records and highlighted the importance of music videos, propelling MTV into popularity.

Bands like Metallica and Guns N’ Roses revolutionized rock music, introducing heavier, more aggressive sounds that appealed to a wide audience.

Hip-hop also began to gain mainstream attention during this decade. Artists such as Run-D.M.C. brought the genre to a broader audience and laid the groundwork for future generations.

Synth-pop and electronic music, popularized by bands like Depeche Mode, created new sonic landscapes that influenced music production for years to come.

Fashion and Aesthetic Influence

The music of the 80s did more than just entertain; it shaped fashion and aesthetics in ways that are still evident today.

Madonna, with her eclectic and bold style, became a fashion icon. Her use of lace, bold colors, and layered clothing set trends that defined the decade.

Michael Jackson’s signature single glove and red leather jacket from the “Thriller” music video became iconic pieces.

The glam metal scene, with bands like Bon Jovi and Def Leppard, popularized big hair, makeup, and flashy clothing, which became synonymous with the 80s rock scene.

New wave bands, including The Cure, influenced the goth and alternative fashion scenes. The aesthetic was characterized by dark clothing, dramatic hairstyles, and heavy makeup.

These musicians didn’t just create sounds; they created looks and styles that permeated fashion and cultural norms of the time.

Technological Advances in 80s Music

The 1980s saw huge technological jumps in the music industry. These advances transformed how music was created, recorded, and shared with the world.

Rise of Music Videos

Music videos became a crucial part of the music industry in the 1980s. With the launch of MTV in 1981, artists had a new platform to showcase their songs. Videos didn’t just promote singles; they became an art form themselves.

Artists like Michael Jackson used music videos to stand out. His “Thriller” video is still iconic today for its storytelling and production value. Duran Duran also made waves with their cinematic videos.

Not only did music videos help sell records, but they also allowed musicians to experiment with visual storytelling. This change meant artists needed to think not just about how their music sounded, but also how it looked on screen.

Innovations in Recording Techniques

The 1980s introduced digital recording, which brought about clearer and more polished sound. Before this, most recordings were done on analog tape, which had its limits in terms of sound quality. Digital recording allowed for more complex productions with fewer technical restrictions.

Synthesizers became popular during this decade. Instruments like the Yamaha DX7 were widely used and gave artists like Steve Winwood new sounds to explore.

Producers also used drum machines more frequently. The Roland TR-808 drum machine, for example, became a staple in many hit songs. These machines made it easier to create consistent and catchy rhythms.

These innovations made the 1980s a decade full of rich and varied musical landscapes.

Legacy of 80s Artists

The 1980s was a decade that produced some of the most iconic and influential musicians. These artists not only shaped the sound and culture of their era but also left a lasting legacy that continues to impact music and media today.

Influence on Modern Musicians

The 1980s artists have had a profound impact on today’s musicians. Many modern artists draw inspiration from the pioneering sounds of bands like Metallica and synth-driven groups like Depeche Mode. Michael Jackson’s innovative dance moves and production techniques set a high bar that many performers still aim to reach. Prince’s eclectic style and musical genius continue to inspire genres ranging from R&B to pop and rock. The influence of these 80s legends is evident in the sampling, covers, and nods to their work in current chart-topping hits.

Enduring Popularity in Media

The music of the 80s remains popular in movies, TV shows, and advertisements. Songs by bands like Bon Jovi and Foreigner are often used to evoke nostalgia or add energy to a scene. Documentaries and biopics about artists like Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson draw large audiences, highlighting the timeless appeal of these icons. The continued resurgence of 80s fashion and music in media underscores the era’s lasting cultural impact. Streaming platforms also see a steady demand for 80s hits, showing that their popularity endures across generations.