The Best Pop Artists of the 1980s
The 1980s was a huge decade in terms of breaking pop stars. 80s artists benefited from the rising popularity of cable television. MTV was a cultural phenomenon that became a kingmaker in terms of helping create larger than life 80s pop stars. Singers like Michael Jackson, Prince, and Madonna, largely considered three of the biggest 80s pop stars, were greatly impacted by these new outlets. Their trailblazing music videos revolutionized the way people consumed music.
In a sense, the 80s turned run of the mill musicians into major pop stars. Artists like Billy Ocean, Huey Lewis & The News, Rick Springfield, and Richard Marx all had brushes with fame during this decade—even becoming the top artists of the 80s. While the merits of their respective widespread fame and acclaim can be debated, no one can doubt or diminish their achievements as some of the biggest stars of the 1980s and most widely known and remembered 80s groups. Some of the decade's biggest pop artists and pop artists have endured to the present day. Bon Jovi, Journey, and the late Whitney Houston are examples of 80s singers whose music was able to endure and are considered classics from that time period.
Here is your chance to pick the best 1980s pop stars. This ultimate list will determine who was the greatest pop star of the decade, and it's up to you decide who takes the honor.
Earning the title "King of Pop," this groundbreaking artist revolutionized music with his innovative dance moves, iconic fashion, and unforgettable music videos. Throughout the decade, he released multiple chart-topping albums, solidifying his status as a global superstar and setting new records in terms of album sales. His impact on the world of music is immeasurable, inspiring countless artists to follow in his footsteps and leaving an indelible mark on pop culture.
This British rock band's unique fusion of opera, hard rock, and glam made them one of the most innovative and influential groups during this era. With their charismatic frontman Freddie Mercury at the helm, they delivered electrifying live performances and penned some of the most memorable anthems in music history. Their ability to constantly reinvent themselves kept them at the forefront of popular music throughout the entire decade.
With her incredible vocal range and powerful stage presence, this legendary singer set a new standard for pop divas everywhere. She dominated the charts with numerous hit singles and became one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Her influence can still be heard today in countless contemporary artists who cite her as their inspiration.
A truly unique talent in both his musicianship and visual style, this enigmatic artist defied genre boundaries by blending funk, rock, R&B, and pop into a sound that was unmistakably his own. He released several critically acclaimed albums throughout this period while simultaneously writing hits for other artists under various pseudonyms. His passion for innovation and boundary-pushing earned him a place among the greatest musicians of all time.
Fronted by Sting, this British trio seamlessly blended reggae, punk, jazz, and new wave to create their distinct sound that resonated with fans across the globe. Their string of hit singles showcased their impressive musical prowess while also tackling issues such as political unrest and social inequality. Their influence on subsequent bands is undeniable, as many artists continue to draw inspiration from their innovative sound.
Rising to fame in the 1960s alongside her then-husband Ike Turner, this powerhouse vocalist reinvented herself during this decade with a string of hit singles that showcased her powerful voice and unrelenting energy. Her triumphant comeback story resonated with audiences worldwide, making her an icon of resilience and strength. Her influence on female artists across various genres remains strong to this day.
