The Best New Wave Bands
This New Wave bands list ranks the greatest New Wave singers and groups of all time by votes, with the order decided by fans internationally. A jazz fusion movement that took the music world by storm, New Wave music changed the landscape of popular music, ultimately serving as was one of the most important genres of the 1980s. With their mix of glam, punk, goth, electronica, and art rock, the top New Wave artists shaped pop culture and music history for decades to come. Furthermore, New Wave bands were aided by the growth of MTV, which helped visualize their songs and reach a broader audience. Thanks to such trailblazing music videos, many New Wave groups were able to capture the hearts and minds of young music fans. Even today, the best New Wave artists are still important, continuously selling out arenas and headline festivals around the world.
So, what are the best New Wave bands? Any list of New Wave musicians has to include British groups like The Cure, Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, Psychedelic Furs, Duran Duran, and The Police, just to name a few. With the constant 80s nostalgia across pop culture, mixed with these groups' iconic careers, it's not surprising that New Wave made a comeback in the early 2000s. Alternative rock acts like The Strokes, The Killers, and more are known for citing New Wave music as inspiration for their unique sounds.
That being said, "what are the best New Wave bands, duos, and singing groups of all time?" and "who is the greatest New Wave musician or vocalist ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the bands' music (i.e. albums and songs) and their overall influence, rather than just voting for the most popular or famous New Wave groups that you might've heard of, but never really listened to.
Emerging from the UK synth-pop scene, this innovative group took electronic music to new heights with their pioneering use of sampling and dark, brooding lyrics. Their knack for crafting catchy hooks and unforgettable melodies helped them achieve massive commercial success worldwide. With a career spanning four decades, they've continually pushed the boundaries of electronic music while influencing generations of artists in various genres.
With a distinctive blend of gothic and post-punk influences, this English band gained a devoted following for their moody, atmospheric sound and introspective lyrics. Fronted by the enigmatic Robert Smith, their ever-changing lineup evolved over time, experimenting with various musical styles while maintaining their dark aesthetic. They've left an indelible mark on pop culture through their iconic look and influential albums, inspiring countless other musicians along the way.
Formed from the ashes of Joy Division, this seminal British act seamlessly melded post-punk sensibilities with cutting-edge dance beats to create a groundbreaking fusion of rock and electronica. Their inventive use of technology and penchant for memorable basslines established them as trailblazers in both alternative music and club culture. Despite numerous lineup changes throughout the years, they continue to be revered for their enduring influence on modern pop music.
Led by the iconic Debbie Harry, this New York-based group effortlessly fused punk attitude with danceable beats and catchy melodies to create an irresistible blend that took the world by storm. Known for their genre-hopping musical approach and striking visual style, they broke down barriers between rock and disco while helping to lay the groundwork for both new wave and hip-hop. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their timeless appeal and groundbreaking contributions to modern music.
As one of the definitive bands of the MTV era, this stylish British quintet became synonymous with glamorous excess and infectious hooks. With their flamboyant fashion sense and provocative music videos, they helped define the visual aesthetic of the 1980s while leaving an indelible mark on pop culture. Their innovative blend of new wave, synth-pop, and rock has ensured their lasting influence on generations of artists to come.
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Blending power-pop hooks with new wave cool, this Boston-based quintet crafted a series of infectious hits that made them one of the most successful American acts of their time. Led by the late Ric Ocasek, their sleek, polished sound and offbeat sensibilities helped define the musical zeitgeist of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their enduring influence can be heard in countless modern bands who've drawn inspiration from their innovative approach to pop-rock.
This British duo rose to fame with their unique brand of sophisticated synth-pop that tackled complex themes such as childhood trauma and existential angst. Combining intelligent songwriting with lush, layered production, they crafted a series of hit albums that resonated with fans and critics alike. Their clever fusion of pop sensibilities and introspective lyrics have made them a touchstone for countless musicians in the years since.
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Led by the quirky David Byrne, this innovative New York outfit pushed the boundaries of rock music with their eclectic fusion of punk, funk, and world music influences. With their cerebral lyrics and unconventional song structures, they challenged the norms of popular music while garnering legions of fans in the process. Their groundbreaking work has left an indelible mark on the musical landscape, inspiring countless artists across numerous genres.
Hailing from London, this influential group blended punk aggression with lush melodies and poetic lyrics, creating an unforgettable sound that resonated with fans around the globe. Led by charismatic frontman Richard Butler, they became synonymous with moody romanticism and artful experimentation in their music. While never achieving mainstream superstardom, they remain critical darlings whose impact on alternative rock can still be felt today.
Fronted by charismatic singer-bassist Sting, this English trio combined punk energy with reggae rhythms to create a unique sound that captivated audiences worldwide. Their tight musicianship, sophisticated songwriting, and polished production set them apart from many of their contemporaries, catapulting them to global superstardom. Though their time together was relatively short-lived, their impact on popular music remains undeniable.
Emerging from Liverpool's vibrant post-punk scene, this enigmatic band captivated listeners with their atmospheric soundscapes and poetic lyricism. Fronted by the charismatic Ian McCulloch, they achieved critical acclaim for their evocative blend of swirling guitars and haunting melodies that transcended genre boundaries. Though their commercial success was somewhat limited, their influence on alternative rock and dream pop remains profound.
Fronted by the enigmatic Siouxsie Sioux, this influential British act combined punk ferocity with gothic overtones to create a darkly seductive sound that captivated listeners around the globe. Known for their theatrical stage presence and brooding aesthetic, they helped lay the groundwork for both post-punk and goth subcultures while leaving a lasting impact on alternative music as a whole. Their fearless experimentation and uncompromising vision continue to inspire new generations of musicians today.
Hailing from Sheffield, England, this synth-pop outfit pioneered electronic music with their catchy melodies and futuristic production techniques. Fronted by vocalist Philip Oakey, they achieved massive commercial success with their danceable beats and memorable hooks that made them one of the defining acts of their era. Their groundbreaking work in electronic music has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire musicians today.
Annie Lennox's powerful vocals and Dave Stewart's innovative production skills made this British duo one of the most successful acts of their time. Fusing soulful melodies with cutting-edge electronic experimentation, they crafted a series of unforgettable hits that remain influential today. With their striking visual aesthetic and unapologetic attitude, they helped redefine gender norms within pop culture.
With their quirky lyrics, infectious energy, and distinctive vocal harmonies, this Athens, Georgia-based group created a unique brand of party-ready new wave that earned them a devoted fanbase. Known for their colorful fashion sense and campy sensibilities, they brought a sense of fun and irreverence to the musical landscape. Their enduring appeal can be attributed to their timeless tunes and undeniable charisma.
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This Australian sextet combined rock swagger with infectious pop hooks to create a sound that resonated with fans around the world. Fronted by the charismatic Michael Hutchence, their fusion of new wave, funk, and dance elements made them one of the most successful acts of their time. Their tragic yet enduring story remains an integral part of popular music history.
As one of the most successful duos in pop music history, these British synth-pop pioneers have left an indelible mark on the genre with their clever songwriting and innovative production techniques. Combining catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics, they've consistently pushed the boundaries of what electronic music can be while maintaining a fiercely loyal fanbase throughout their decades-long career. Their influence can be heard in countless artists who've followed in their footsteps.
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With their offbeat humor and quirky aesthetic, this American band brought a unique sense of fun to new wave music while challenging conventional notions of what rock could be. Their innovative use of electronics and unconventional song structures made them a cult favorite among fans who appreciated their satirical take on modern society. Though they never achieved massive commercial success, their influence can be heard in countless bands who've embraced their adventurous spirit.
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Hailing from England's industrial heartland, this synth-pop duo crafted a unique sound that combined emotional vulnerability with technological innovation. Their moody, atmospheric tunes and intelligent songwriting made them one of the most revered acts within the genre, influencing countless artists in their wake. Despite never achieving mainstream superstardom, their contributions to electronic music have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
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Fronted by the fierce Chrissie Hynde, this Anglo-American outfit perfectly blended punk attitude with melodic hooks to create a sound that resonated with fans and critics alike. With their tight musicianship and passionate performances, they became one of the most respected acts of their time. Their potent combination of rock swagger and pop sensibilities has left a lasting impact on popular music.
Known for their distinctive hairstyles and futuristic sound, this Liverpool-based group became one of the quintessential acts of the early 1980s. Their innovative use of synthesizers and evocative melodies helped define the era's musical landscape while earning them legions of fans around the globe. Though their popularity waned in later years, their influence on electronic music remains undeniable.
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This British rocker successfully transitioned from punk frontman to global superstar with his distinctive sneer and infectious hooks that made him one of the most recognizable figures of his time. Combining gritty rock 'n' roll swagger with danceable new wave beats, he forged a lasting career that continues to resonate with fans today. His undeniable charisma and memorable music videos helped define the MTV era and solidify his place in pop culture history.
Emerging from Scotland's vibrant post-punk scene, this band evolved from experimental art-rockers to chart-topping hitmakers with their anthemic sound and passionate performances. Fronted by the charismatic Jim Kerr, they became one of the most successful acts of their time, known for their sweeping melodies and heartfelt lyrics that resonated with fans around the globe. Their enduring influence can be heard in countless modern bands who've drawn inspiration from their epic soundscapes.
As one of the most prolific songwriters of his generation, this British musician effortlessly blended punk energy with sophisticated lyrics and melodies to create a sound that defied easy categorization. Known for his biting wit and encyclopedic knowledge of musical genres, he continually reinvented himself throughout his career while maintaining a fiercely loyal fanbase. His remarkable body of work has left an indelible mark on popular music, influencing countless artists across various styles.
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This British trio became synonymous with 1980s synth-pop thanks to their infectious hooks, lush production, and memorable fashion sense. Their innovative use of electronics and penchant for catchy melodies earned them legions of fans around the globe, helping to define the era's musical landscape. Though they eventually disbanded in the early 1990s, their impact on pop culture remains undeniable.
As a pioneer of electronic music, this British artist captivated audiences with his futuristic soundscapes and enigmatic stage presence. With his innovative use of synthesizers and unconventional song structures, he helped lay the groundwork for both new wave and industrial music while inspiring generations of musicians to follow in his footsteps. Despite never achieving mainstream success in later years, his influence on modern music remains profound.
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Blending soulful vocals with lush orchestration and sophisticated songwriting, this British group brought a sense of elegance and glamour to the new wave scene. Fronted by the charismatic Martin Fry, they achieved commercial success with their polished sound and unforgettable melodies that made them one of the defining acts of their time. Their enduring appeal can be attributed to their timeless tunes and undeniable sophistication.
With their flamboyant fashion sense and infectious hooks, this British band brought a sense of theatricality and fun to the new wave scene. Fronted by the charismatic Adam Ant, they achieved massive commercial success with their unique blend of punk attitude and pop sensibilities that made them one of the defining acts of the early 1980s. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their memorable tunes and larger-than-life persona.
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Hailing from Swindon, England, this innovative group deftly combined punk energy with artful experimentation to create a sound that was wholly unique within the new wave scene. Known for their intelligent songwriting and eclectic musical approach, they earned a devoted fanbase who appreciated their restless creativity and refusal to conform to mainstream trends. Despite never achieving massive commercial success, their influence on modern music remains undeniable.
As one of the first all-female bands to achieve mainstream success, this Los Angeles-based quintet broke down barriers while crafting a series of infectious hits that resonated with fans around the world. With their sunny harmonies and punk-inspired energy, they became a symbol of female empowerment within the male-dominated world of rock music. Their enduring influence can be heard in countless modern bands who've drawn inspiration from their trailblazing spirit.
Led by the eccentric Danny Elfman, this American band fused rock energy with quirky new wave sensibilities to create a sound that was both unique and accessible. With their offbeat humor and penchant for catchy hooks, they earned a devoted fanbase who appreciated their fearless experimentation and refusal to conform to mainstream trends. Though they disbanded in the late 1990s, their impact on alternative music remains significant.
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Fronted by the talented Paul Weller, this British trio blended punk aggression with mod-inspired melodies to create a sound that was both timely and timeless. With their razor-sharp musicianship and socially conscious lyrics, they became one of the most respected acts of their time, influencing countless bands in their wake. Their potent combination of rock energy and pop sensibilities left a lasting impact on popular music.
After departing from progressive rock giants Genesis, this British musician embarked on a successful solo career that saw him embrace a more experimental approach to pop music. With his innovative use of world music influences and cutting-edge technology, he crafted a series of unforgettable albums that left an indelible mark on popular culture. His enduring influence can be heard in countless artists who've drawn inspiration from his genre-defying sound.
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This Norwegian trio captivated audiences around the world with their soaring melodies and innovative use of technology that made them one of the defining acts of the 1980s. Known for their memorable music videos and timeless hooks, they achieved global fame with a series of unforgettable hits that continue to resonate with fans today. Their contributions to electronic music have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
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Formed by former Depeche Mode member Vince Clarke and powerhouse vocalist Alison Moyet, this British duo crafted an unforgettable blend of electronic music and soulful vocals that captivated fans around the world. Their innovative use of synthesizers and emotive songwriting made them one of the most revered acts within the genre, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire musicians today. Despite their relatively short-lived partnership, their influence on electronic music remains profound.
As one of the leading lights of the UK's new romantic movement, this stylish quintet combined glamorous fashion with sophisticated pop to create a sound that was both elegant and accessible. With their polished tunes and memorable hooks, they became synonymous with the early 1980s while leaving a lasting impact on pop culture. Despite numerous lineup changes throughout the years, their influence on modern music remains profound.
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This English band gained a devoted following for their atmospheric blend of rock, synth-pop, and post-punk influences that struck a chord with fans around the world. Known for their evocative lyrics and moody soundscapes, they became critical darlings who consistently pushed the boundaries of new wave music. Though their commercial success was somewhat limited, their impact on alternative rock remains significant.
As pioneers of the post-rock movement, this British band evolved from synth-pop hitmakers to experimental visionaries with their groundbreaking fusion of ambient textures and avant-garde sensibilities. Led by the enigmatic Mark Hollis, they achieved critical acclaim for their fearless experimentation and uncompromising artistic vision that transcended genre boundaries. Though they disbanded in the early 1990s, their influence on modern music remains profound.
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As one of the most successful synth-pop duos of all time, these British musicians captivated audiences with their catchy hooks and heartfelt ballads that struck a chord with fans around the globe. Combining Vince Clarke's innovative production skills with Andy Bell's emotive vocals, they forged a lasting career that continues to resonate with listeners today. Their contributions to electronic music have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
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As one of the leading lights of the UK ska revival, this energetic septet combined infectious rhythms with witty lyrics to create a sound that was both danceable and thought-provoking. Known for their colorful personalities and high-energy performances, they became synonymous with good times while maintaining a biting social commentary that resonated with fans around the globe. Their enduring appeal can be attributed to their timeless tunes and relentless optimism.
- Soft Cell are an English synthpop duo who came to prominence in the early 1980s, consisting of vocalist Marc Almond and instrumentalist David Ball. The duo are principally known for their 1981 hit version of "Tainted Love" and their platinum-selling debut album Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret.In the United Kingdom, they had ten Top 40 hits including "Tainted Love" (#1 UK), "Torch" (#2 UK), "Say Hello, Wave Goodbye" (#3 UK), "What!" (#3 UK), and "Bedsitter" (#4 UK), and also had four Top 20 albums between 1981 and 1984. In 1984, the duo split but reformed in 2001 to tour and record new material, releasing their fifth studio album, Cruelty Without Beauty in 2002. Soft Cell's songs have been covered by various artists including Marilyn Manson, Coil, Nine Inch Nails, David Gray, Nouvelle Vague, and A-ha. Their track "Memorabilia" earned recognition for the band as pioneers of the synth-oriented techno genre. The duo have sold 10 million records worldwide.
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With their clever lyrics and catchy melodies, this British band became one of the most respected acts within the new wave scene thanks to their intelligent songwriting and memorable tunes. Led by the talented duo of Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, they earned critical acclaim for their witty observations and masterful storytelling that set them apart from many of their contemporaries. Despite never achieving massive commercial success, their influence on pop-rock remains significant.
- 43Berlin is an American new wave band. The group was formed in Los Angeles in 1978 by John Crawford. Band members included Crawford, Terri Nunn, David Diamond, Ric Olsen, Matt Reid and Rod Learned. Learned left during the first EU tour and was replaced by Rob Brill. The band gained mainstream-commercial success in the early 1980s with singles including "The Metro", "Sex", "No More Words" and then in the mid '80s with chart-topping single "Take My Breath Away" from the 1986 film Top Gun.
Hailing from Australia and New Zealand, this melodic rock band combined heartfelt songwriting with lush harmonies to create a sound that was both timeless and deeply emotional. Fronted by the talented Neil Finn, they achieved global fame with their unforgettable tunes and earnest performances that struck a chord with fans around the globe. Though their time together was relatively short-lived, their impact on popular music remains undeniable.
This British band achieved global fame with their moody, atmospheric sound that perfectly captured the spirit of the early 1980s. Fronted by the enigmatic Robbie Grey, they became synonymous with romantic longing and introspective lyrics that resonated with fans around the globe. Though their commercial success was relatively short-lived, their influence on dream pop and alternative rock remains profound.
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With his innovative use of synthesizers and thought-provoking lyrics, this British musician helped define the electronic music landscape of the 1980s while inspiring countless artists in his wake. His catchy hooks and memorable melodies earned him legions of fans around the world, solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures within the genre. Despite never achieving massive commercial success in later years, his contributions to electronic music remain undeniable.
Led by the charismatic Dale Bozzio, this American band combined new wave cool with pop-rock hooks to create a sound that was both danceable and thought-provoking. Known for their colorful fashion sense and infectious energy, they became synonymous with the early 1980s while leaving a lasting impact on pop culture. Though their commercial success was somewhat limited, their influence on the new wave scene remains significant.
Hailing from Australia, this enigmatic band captivated listeners with their atmospheric blend of jangle pop, psychedelia, and post-punk influences that struck a chord with fans around the globe. Known for their evocative lyrics and moody soundscapes, they became critical darlings who consistently pushed the boundaries of alternative music. Though their commercial success was somewhat limited, their impact on dream pop and indie rock remains significant.
This Scottish quartet blended anthemic rock with Celtic influences to create a sound that was both powerful and deeply emotional. Fronted by the talented Stuart Adamson, they achieved commercial success with their unforgettable tunes and passionate performances that resonated with fans around the globe. Though their time together was relatively short-lived, their impact on popular music remains undeniable.
Fronted by the androgynous Boy George, this British quartet blended soulful pop with reggae and world music influences to create a sound that was both unique and accessible. With their flamboyant fashion sense and memorable tunes, they became one of the most successful acts of the early 1980s, breaking down barriers of gender and genre in popular music. Their enduring appeal can be attributed to their timeless songs and groundbreaking contributions to pop culture.
- 51Ultravox (earlier stylized as Ultravox!) were a British new wave band, formed in London in 1973 as Tiger Lily. Between 1980–86, they scored seven Top Ten albums and seventeen Top 40 singles in the UK, the most successful of which was their 1981 hit "Vienna". From 1974 until 1979, singer John Foxx was frontman and the main driving force behind Ultravox. Foxx left the band in March 1979 to embark on a solo career and, following his departure, Midge Ure took over as lead singer, guitarist and frontman in October 1979 after he and keyboardist Billy Currie worked in the studio project Visage. Ure revitalised the band and steered it to commercial chart success lasting until 1988, at which time the group disbanded. A new line-up, led by Currie, was formed in 1992, but achieved limited success, with two albums failing to chart and one solitary single reaching 90 in the UK Singles Chart. The band's best-known line-up of Currie, Ure, bassist Chris Cross and drummer Warren Cann reformed in 2008 and performed a series of reunion shows in 2009 and 2010 before releasing a new studio album, Brill!ant, in May 2012 which reached 21 in the British Album Charts. In November 2013, Ultravox performed as special guests on a four date UK arena tour with Simple Minds. These shows proved to be Ultravox's last, as in 2017 both Currie and Ure indicated that Ultravox had run its course.
- 52The The () are an English post-punk band. They have been active in various forms since 1979, with singer/songwriter Matt Johnson being the only constant band member. The The achieved critical acclaim and commercial success in the UK, with 15 chart singles (seven reaching the Top 40), and their most successful album, Infected (1986), spent 30 weeks on the chart. They followed this with the Top Ten albums Mind Bomb (1989) and Dusk (1993).
Formed by former members of The Beat (known as The English Beat in North America), this British band combined ska rhythms with pop hooks to create a sound that was both danceable and socially conscious. Fronted by vocalists Dave Wakeling and Ranking Roger, they achieved moderate success in the mid-1980s while maintaining a loyal following among fans of their previous work. Despite disbanding in the early 1990s, their impact on ska and new wave music remains significant.
- David Ian "Joe" Jackson (born 11 August 1954) is an English musician and singer-songwriter. Having spent years of studying music and playing clubs, Jackson scored a hit with his first release, "Is She Really Going Out with Him?", in 1979. This was followed by a number of new wave singles before he moved to more jazz-inflected pop music and had a Top 10 hit in 1982 with "Steppin' Out". He is associated with the 1980s Second British Invasion of the US. He has also composed classical music. He has recorded 19 studio albums and received 5 Grammy Award nominations.
- The Specials, also known as The Special AKA, are an English 2 Tone and ska revival band formed in 1977 in Coventry. After some early changes, the first stable lineup of the group consisted of Terry Hall and Neville Staple on vocals, Lynval Golding and Roddy Radiation on guitars, Horace Panter on bass, Jerry Dammers on keyboards, John Bradbury on drums, and Dick Cuthell and Rico Rodriguez on horns. Their music combines a "danceable ska and rocksteady beat with punk's energy and attitude". Lyrically, they present a "more focused and informed political and social stance". The band wore mod-style "1960s period rude boy outfits (pork pie hats, tonic and mohair suits and loafers)". In 1980, the song "Too Much Too Young", the lead track on their The Special AKA Live! EP, reached No. 1 in the UK Singles Chart. In 1981, the recession-themed single "Ghost Town" also hit No. 1 in the UK.After seven consecutive UK Top 10 singles between 1979 and 1981, main lead vocalists Hall and Staple, along with guitarist Golding, left to form Fun Boy Three. Continuing as "The Special AKA" (a name they used frequently on earlier Specials releases), a substantially revised Specials line-up issued new material through 1984, including the top 10 UK hit single "Free Nelson Mandela". After this, founder and songwriter Jerry Dammers dissolved the band and pursued political activism.The group reformed in 1993, and have continued to perform and record with varying line-ups, none of them involving Dammers.
- The Bangles are an American pop rock band that were formed in Los Angeles in 1981. They recorded several hit singles during the 1980s, including "Walk Like an Egyptian" (Billboard magazine's number-one single of 1987), "Manic Monday," "A Hazy Shade of Winter," and "Eternal Flame." Their classic line-up consisted of Michael Steele on bass and vocals, founding members Susanna Hoffs on vocals and rhythm guitar, Debbi Peterson on drums and vocals, and Vicki Peterson on lead guitar and vocals. The band currently consists of Hoffs, Debbi and Vicki Peterson, and Annette Zilinskas.
- Fine Young Cannibals were a British rock music band formed in Birmingham, England, in 1984, by bassist David Steele, guitarist Andy Cox (both formerly of The Beat), and singer Roland Gift (formerly of the Akrylykz). Their self-titled 1985 debut album contained "Johnny Come Home" and a cover of "Suspicious Minds", two songs that were top 40 hits in the UK, Canada, Australia and many European countries. Their 1989 album, The Raw & the Cooked, topped the UK and US album charts, and contained their two Billboard Hot 100 number ones: "She Drives Me Crazy" and "Good Thing".In 1990 the band won two Brit Awards: Best British Group, and Best British Album (for The Raw & the Cooked). Their name came from the 1960 film All the Fine Young Cannibals starring Robert Wagner and Natalie Wood.
- Thomas Morgan Robertson (born 14 October 1958), known by the stage name Thomas Dolby, is an English musician, producer, entrepreneur and teacher. He came to prominence in the 1980s, releasing hit singles including "She Blinded Me with Science" (1982) and "Hyperactive!" (1984). He has also worked in production and as a session musician. In the 1990s he founded a Silicon Valley sound technology company, Beatnik, whose technology was used to create the Nokia tune. He was also the Music Director for the TED Conference. Currently on faculty at the Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University, Dolby leads Peabody’s Music for New Media program, which enrolled its first students in the fall of 2018.
- Men at Work was an Australian rock band, which formed in 1978. Their founding mainstay was Colin Hay on lead vocals; he formed the group with Jerry Speiser on drums and Ron Strykert on lead guitar. They were joined by Greg Ham on flute and keyboards and then John Rees on bass guitar. This line-up achieved national and international success in the early 1980s. In January 1983, they were the first Australian artists to have a simultaneous No. 1 album and No. 1 single in the United States Billboard charts – Business as Usual and "Down Under", respectively. With the same works, they achieved the same distinction of a simultaneous No. 1 album and No. 1 single on the Australian, New Zealand and United Kingdom charts. Their second album, Cargo was also No. 1 in Australia, No. 2 in New Zealand, No. 3 in the US, and No. 8 in the UK. Their third album, Two Hearts, reached the top 20 in Australia and top 50 in the US. At the Grammy Awards of 1983 they won the Best New Artist category; while at the ARIA Music Awards of 1994 they were inducted into the related Hall of Fame. Men at Work have sold over 30 million albums worldwide.
- The Romantics is a power pop and new wave band from Detroit, Michigan, United States, formed in 1977. The band adopted the name "The Romantics" because they formed on Valentine's Day. The Romantics achieved popularity in the United States, Canada, parts of Asia, Australia, Europe, and Hispanic America during the first half of the 1980s on the strength of the band's songs and music videos. They were influenced by 1950s American rock and roll and 1960s North American garage rock as well as British Invasion music.
- From the vibrant streets of Queens, New York, emerged an icon of pop culture, Cyndi Lauper. Born Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper on June 22, 1953, she would go on to make history with her distinctive image and a voice that resonated across the globe. Her journey began in a family that was deeply rooted in artistry - her mother was a waitress and an amateur singer, while her sister played records by The Beatles and Judy Garland, inadvertently shaping Cyndi's musical taste. Lauper's initial foray into the music industry was marked by tumultuous experiences. She dropped out of high school and worked various jobs before forming the band Blue Angel in the late 1970s. However, the band's disbandment and subsequent bankruptcy led Lauper to consider quitting music. But fate had other plans, and her solo album, She's So Unusual in 1983, became a global sensation. It featured the hit singles "Girls Just Want to Have Fun," "Time After Time," and "She Bop," tracks that remain timeless classics. This album earned Lauper the Best New Artist award at the 27th Grammy Awards in 1985. Lauper's career is not just confined to singing. She has also made a mark in the acting industry and as a tireless activist. Her filmography includes roles in movies like Vibes and Life with Mikey. Moreover, she made a significant impact on Broadway with the musical adaptation of the film Kinky Boots, which won six Tony Awards. As an activist, Lauper has been a steadfast advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has set up the True Colors United foundation to combat homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth. Cyndi Lauper's life and career are a testament to her resilience, talent, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.
- Men Without Hats are a Canadian new wave/synthpop group, originally from Montreal, Quebec. Their music is characterized by the distinctive baritone voice of their American-born Canadian lead singer Ivan Doroschuk, as well as their elaborate use of synthesizers and electronic processing. They achieved their greatest popularity in the 1980s with "The Safety Dance", a worldwide Top Ten hit (#3 in the United States) and "Pop Goes the World". After a hiatus for most of the 1990s and 2000s, Doroschuk reformed the band in 2010, and released Love in the Age of War (2012). The reformed group, based in Vancouver, has continued to perform, including a European tour in 2015 and Australia in 2016.
- Cocteau Twins were a Scottish rock band active from 1979 to 1997. They were formed in Grangemouth by Elizabeth Fraser (vocals), Robin Guthrie (guitars, drum machine), and Will Heggie (bass), with Heggie replaced by multi-instrumentalist Simon Raymonde in 1983. The group has earned critical praise for their distinctive ethereal sound and the soprano vocals of Fraser, whose lyrics often abandon recognisable language. They have been recognised as pioneering the 1980s subgenre dream pop, and were associated with the British record label 4AD for much of their career.
- Bronski Beat are an English synthpop trio which achieved success in the mid-1980s, particularly with the 1984 chart hit "Smalltown Boy", from their debut album The Age of Consent, which was their only US Billboard Hot 100 single. All members of the group were openly gay and their songs reflected this, often containing political commentary on gay-related issues. The initial line-up, which recorded the majority of the band's hits, consisted of Jimmy Somerville (vocals), Steve Bronski (born Steven William Forrest, keyboards, percussion) and Larry Steinbachek (keyboards, percussion). Somerville left Bronski Beat in 1985, and went on to have success as lead singer of The Communards and as a solo artist. He was replaced by new vocalist John Foster, with whom the band continued to have hits in the UK and Europe through 1986. Foster left Bronski Beat after their second album, and the band used a series of vocalists before dissolving in 1996. Steve Bronski, the only remaining original member, now leads a revived touring version of the band, and has recorded new material alongside 1990s member Ian Donaldson. Larry Steinbachek died in 2016.
- Frankie Goes to Hollywood were a British band formed in Liverpool, England in the 1980s. The group was fronted by Holly Johnson (vocals), with Paul Rutherford (vocals), Peter Gill (drums, percussion), Mark O'Toole (bass guitar), and Brian Nash (guitar). The group's 1983 debut single "Relax" was banned by the BBC in 1984 while at number six in the charts and subsequently topped the UK Singles Chart for five consecutive weeks, going on to enjoy prolonged chart success throughout that year and ultimately becoming the seventh best-selling UK single of all time. It also won the 1985 Brit Award for Best British Single. Their debut album, Welcome to the Pleasuredome, reached number one in the UK in 1984 with advanced sales of over one million. After the follow-up success of "Two Tribes" and "The Power of Love", the group became only the second act in the history of the UK charts to reach number one with their first three singles; the first being fellow Liverpudlians Gerry and the Pacemakers from the 1960s. This record remained unbeaten until the Spice Girls achieved a six-single streak in 1996–97. In 1985 the band won the Brit Award for British Breakthrough Act. Associated with the Second British Invasion of the US, they also received Grammy Award and MTV Video Music Award nominations for Best New Artist. Songwriters Johnson, Gill and O'Toole received the 1984 Ivor Novello Award from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors for Best Song Musically and Lyrically for "Two Tribes". In 2015, the song was voted by the British public as the nation's 14th favourite 1980s number one in a poll for ITV.
- 'Til Tuesday was an American new wave band formed in Boston in 1982. Its original lineup was bassist/vocalist Aimee Mann, guitarist/vocalist Robert Holmes, keyboardist Joey Pesce, and drummer Michael Hausman. They are best known for their top 10 smash "Voices Carry".
- Alphaville is a German group which gained popularity in the 1980s. The founding members were lead singer Marian Gold, Bernhard Lloyd, and Frank Mertens. The band was at first named "Forever Young" before being changed to "Alphaville". They achieved chart success with the singles "Big in Japan", "Jet Set", "Dance With Me" and "Forever Young".
- Love and Rockets were an English alternative rock band formed in 1985 by former Bauhaus members Daniel Ash (vocals, guitar and saxophone), David J (bass guitar and vocals) and Kevin Haskins (drums and synthesisers) after that group split in 1983. Ash and Haskins had recorded and performed in another band, Tones on Tail, between 1982 and 1984. Love and Rockets' fusion of underground rock music with elements of pop music provided an early catalyst for alternative rock. They released seven studio albums before breaking up in 1999 and reformed briefly in 2007 for a few live shows, before splitting again in 2009. They are perhaps best known for their 1989 single "So Alive", which reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- Bananarama are an English female pop music vocal duo, originally formed as a trio in London in 1981 by friends Sara Dallin, Siobhan Fahey and Keren Woodward. Their success on both pop and dance charts saw them listed in the Guinness World Records for achieving the world's highest number of chart entries by an all-female group. Between 1982 and 2009, they had 28 singles reach the Top 50 of the UK Singles Chart. The group's 10 UK Top 10 hits include "It Ain't What You Do..." (1982), "Really Saying Something" (1982), "Shy Boy" (1982), "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye" (1983), "Cruel Summer" (1983), "Robert De Niro's Waiting..." (1984) and "Love in the First Degree" (1987). In 1986, they had a U.S. number one with another of their UK Top 10 hits, a cover of "Venus". In total, they had 11 singles reach the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 (1983–88), including two in the Top 10, with "Cruel Summer" (1984) and "I Heard a Rumour" (1987). They are associated with the MTV-driven Second British Invasion of the US. The group featured on the 1984 Band Aid single, "Do They Know It's Christmas?". They topped the Australian ARIA albums chart in June 1988 with Wow! (1987), and earned Brit Award nominations for Best British Single for "Love in the First Degree", and Best Music Video for their 1988 hit cover of The Supremes single "Nathan Jones".Fahey left the group in 1988 and formed Shakespears Sister, best known for the UK number one "Stay" (1992). She was replaced by Jacquie O'Sullivan. This line-up had UK top five hits with "I Want You Back" (1988) and The Beatles track "Help!" (1989), recorded with comedy duo French and Saunders for the charity Comic Relief. In 1989 they embarked on their first world tour. After O'Sullivan's 1991 departure, Dallin and Woodward continued Bananarama as a duo, with hits including "Movin' On" (1992), "More, More, More" (1993) and "Move in My Direction" (2005). Fahey rejoined Bananarama in 2017 and they toured the UK in November/December 2017 and North America in February 2018. They performed their final dates as a trio in August 2018.
- Split Enz were one of the most successful New Zealand musical acts of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Formed in 1972 and featuring Phil Judd and Tim Finn and later Neil Finn, the band would go on to achieve chart success in New Zealand, Australia and Canada ‒ most notably with their 1980 single "I Got You" - and built a cult following elsewhere. Their musical style was eclectic, incorporating influences from art rock, vaudeville, swing, punk, rock, new wave, and pop. Split Enz established a reputation for a distinctive visual style, thanks partly to their colourful, offbeat costumes and hairstyles. The group's career falls into two phases. They began as an acoustic folk band in the early 1970s and by the time they recorded their first album they had changed to electric instruments and took on a progressive rock sound. From 1977 onwards, with the departure of songwriter/guitarist Phil Judd and the arrival of Neil Finn, Split Enz' sound began to move from progressive rock towards new wave and pop. The early 1980s proved the group's most commercially successful period, with a string of popular albums.
- Dead or Alive were a British new wave band from Liverpool, England. The group found success in the 1980s and had seven Top 40 UK singles and three Top 30 UK albums. They were the first group to have a number one single under the production team of Stock Aitken Waterman. Dead or Alive, which has variously included Pete Burns, Wayne Hussey, Mike Percy, Steve Coy, Timothy Lever, have released seven studio albums and five compilation albums, and became popular in Japan. Two of the group's singles reached the U.S. Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100; "You Spin Me Round" No. 11 in 1985, and "Brand New Lover" No. 15 in 1986. "You Spin Me Round" charted in 1985 in the UK, then again in 2003 and 2006 following Burns' appearance on the television reality show Celebrity Big Brother. The latter also became the first of two singles to top the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.The 14 Best 'Dead Or Alive' Games, Ranked By FansSee all
- 1Dead or Alive 371 Votes
- 2Dead or Alive 289 Votes
- 3Dead or Alive 583 Votes
- The Stranglers are an English rock band who emerged via the punk rock scene. Scoring some 23 UK top 40 singles and 17 UK top 40 albums to date in a career spanning four decades, the Stranglers are one of the longest-surviving and most "continuously successful" bands to have originated in the UK punk scene of the mid to late 1970s. Beginning life as the Guildford Stranglers on 11 September 1974 in Guildford, Surrey, they originally built a following within the mid-1970s pub rock scene. While their aggressive, no-compromise attitude identified them as one of the instigators of the UK punk rock scene that followed, their idiosyncratic approach rarely followed any single musical genre and the group went on to explore a variety of musical styles, from new wave, art rock and gothic rock through the sophisticated pop of some of their 1980s output. They had major mainstream success with their single "Golden Brown". Their other hits include "No More Heroes", "Peaches", "Always the Sun" and "Skin Deep". The Stranglers' early sound was driven by Jean-Jacques Burnel's melodic bass, but also gave prominence to Dave Greenfield's keyboards at a time when the instrument was seen as unfashionable.
- The Style Council were an English band formed in 1983 by Paul Weller, the former singer, songwriter, and guitarist with the punk rock/new wave/mod revival band The Jam, and keyboardist Mick Talbot, previously a member of Dexys Midnight Runners, The Bureau and The Merton Parkas. The band enabled Weller to take a more soulful direction with his music.. The permanent line-up grew to include drummer Steve White and Weller's then girlfriend, vocalist Dee C. Lee. Other artists such as Tracie Young, Tracey Thorn (Everything but the Girl), and drummer/percussionist Steve Sidelnyk (Madonna, Seal, Richard Ashcroft ) also performed and collaborated with the group. As with Weller's previous band, most of the London-based group's hits were in their homeland, where they scored seven Top 10 hits. The band also had hit singles and albums in Australia and New Zealand during the 1980s.
- Haircut One Hundred are a British New wave group formed in 1980 by Nick Heyward. The band had four UK Top 10 hit singles between 1981 and 1982, including "Favourite Shirts", "Love Plus One" and "Fantastic Day".
- The Alarm are a Welsh alternative rock/new wave band that formed in Rhyl, Wales, in 1981. Initially formed as a punk band, The Toilets, in 1977, under lead vocalist Mike Peters, the band soon embraced rock and included marked influences from Welsh language and culture. By opening for acts such as U2 and Bob Dylan, they became a popular alternative rock band of the 1980s. They retain a loyal following.The Alarm's highest charting single in Britain was 1983's "Sixty Eight Guns", which reached number 17 in the UK Singles Chart. Their 1984 album, Declaration, which contained "Sixty Eight Guns", peaked at number six in the UK Albums Chart.
- Wall of Voodoo was an American new wave group from Los Angeles best known for the 1983 hit "Mexican Radio". The band had a sound that was a fusion of synthesizer-based new wave music with the spaghetti western soundtrack style of Ennio Morricone.
- The Motels are an American new wave band from Berkeley, California that is best known for the singles "Only the Lonely" and "Suddenly Last Summer", each of which peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, in 1982 and 1983, respectively. In 1980, The Motels song "Total Control" reached No. 7 on the Australian chart (for two weeks), and their song "Danger" reached No. 15 on the French chart. Martha Davis, the lead singer, reformed a version of the band called "The Motels featuring Martha Davis" in 1998 and toured under that name with various line-ups of musicians. In 2013, the band was re-christened with a permanent name, Martha Davis and The Motels. That band is touring the world with a line-up of musicians that have been playing with Davis for over 10 years, longer than the original Motels.
- Tom Tom Club is an American new wave band founded in 1981 by husband-and-wife team Tina Weymouth and Chris Frantz, both also known for being members of Talking Heads.
- Bow Wow Wow are an English new wave band, created by manager Malcolm McLaren in 1980. McLaren recruited members of Adam and the Ants to form the band behind 13-year-old Annabella Lwin on vocals. They released their debut EP Your Cassette Pet in 1980, and had their first UK top 10 hit with "Go Wild in the Country" in 1982. The band's music was characterized by a danceable new wave sound that drew on a Burundi beat provided by Dave Barbarossa on drums, as well as the suggestive lyrics squealed into the mic by their teenage lead vocalist.
- Heaven 17 are an English new wave and synth-pop band that formed in Sheffield in 1980. The band were a trio for most of their career, composed of Martyn Ware (keyboards), Ian Craig Marsh (keyboards) (both previously of the Human League) and Glenn Gregory (vocals). Although most of the band's music was recorded in the 1980s, they have occasionally reformed to record and perform, playing their first ever live concerts in 1997. Marsh left the band in 2007 and Ware and Gregory continued to perform as Heaven 17.
- The Boomtown Rats are an Irish rock band originally formed in Dublin in 1975, that had a series of Irish and UK hits between 1977 and 1985. The group is led by vocalist Bob Geldof. The other members of the original line-up were Garry Roberts (lead guitar), Johnnie Fingers (keyboards), Pete Briquette (bass), Gerry Cott (rhythm guitar) and Simon Crowe (drums). The Boomtown Rats broke up in 1986, but reformed in 2013, without Johnnie Fingers or Gerry Cott.
- Dexys Midnight Runners (currently officially Dexys, their former nickname, styled without an apostrophe) are an English pop band with soul influences, who achieved their major success in the early to mid-1980s. They are best known in the UK for their songs "Come On Eileen" and "Geno", both of which peaked at No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, as well as six other top-20 singles. "Come On Eileen" also topped the US Billboard Hot 100, and with extensive airplay on MTV they are associated with the Second British Invasion.During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Dexys went through numerous personnel changes over the course of three albums and 13 singles, with only singer/songwriter/co-founder Kevin Rowland remaining in the band through all of the transitions and only Rowland and "Big" Jim Paterson (trombone) appearing on all of the albums. By 1985, the band consisted only of Rowland and long-standing members Helen O'Hara (violin) and Billy Adams (guitar). The band broke up in 1987, with Rowland becoming a solo artist. After two failed restart attempts, Dexys was reformed by Rowland in 2003 with new members, as well as a few returning members from the band's original lineup (known as Dexys Mark I). Dexys released their fourth album in 2012 and a fifth followed in 2016.
- Naked Eyes is a British new wave band that rose to prominence in the early 1980s. Originally a duo, the band is known largely for its four top 40 singles. The first, a cover of the Burt Bacharach/Hal David standard " Always Something There to Remind Me". The band had subsequent hits with their own compositions, "Promises, Promises", "When the Lights Go Out," and " In the Name of Love."
- The Vapors were an English new wave and power pop band, that existed between 1979 and 1982. They had a hit with the song "Turning Japanese" in 1980, which reached No. 3 in the UK Singles Chart, and No. 36 in the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- The Icicle Works are an English alternative rock band. Named after the 1960 short story "The Day the Icicle Works Closed" by science fiction author Frederik Pohl, The Icicle Works joined Liverpool's early 1980s 'neo-psychedelia' wave, which also propelled Echo & the Bunnymen and The Teardrop Explodes to stardom. They are best known in their home country for their only top 20 UK hit "Love Is a Wonderful Colour". In the US and Canada, they also had only one top 40 hit, but it was the 1984 single "Whisper to a Scream". Led by singer/songwriter Ian McNabb, the band released five albums from 1984 to 1990 before breaking up in 1991. McNabb later convened a revised line-up of the band in 2006 to play live shows; this revised Icicle Works line-up still plays sporadic live dates.
- 87The Buggles are an English new wave band formed in London, England, in 1977 by singer and bassist Trevor Horn and keyboardist Geoffrey Downes. They are best known for 1979 debut single "Video Killed the Radio Star", which topped the UK Singles Chart and reached number one in 15 other countries. The duo released their first album, The Age of Plastic, in January 1980 with "Video Killed the Radio Star" as its lead single. Soon after the album's release, Horn and Downes joined the progressive rock band Yes, recording and releasing Drama in the process. Following a tour to promote the album, Yes disbanded in 1981. That same year, on 1 August, the music video for "Video Killed the Radio Star" became the first ever shown on MTV in the US. The following year, the Buggles released a second album, Adventures in Modern Recording. Its lack of commercial success led to the break up of the group. Since 1998, Horn and Downes have occasionally performed the Buggles' songs. In October 2011, The Buggles reunited to play at the British Music Experience at the O2 Arena in London. At the 2016 Progressive Music Awards, the Buggles won an "Outer Limit Award".
- Kim Wilde, born as Kim Smith, is an iconic figure in the world of pop music. Born in Chiswick, London on November 18, 1960, she grew up in a household where music was deeply ingrained. Her father, Marty Wilde, was a famous rock 'n' roll singer in the 1950s and her mother, Joyce Baker, was part of the singing group, The Vernons Girls. This early exposure to music undoubtedly influenced Wilde's career trajectory. Wilde's breakthrough came in 1981 with the release of her debut single, "Kids in America." It soared to number two on the UK Singles Chart and reached the top 5 in many other countries. This marked the beginning of her successful music career which spans over three decades. Throughout her career, she has produced a multitude of chart-topping hits such as "You Keep Me Hangin' On," which topped the charts in the United States, and "Cambodia," that was immensely popular across Europe. In addition to her musical success, Wilde has also been recognized with prestigious awards including the BRIT Award for Best British Female Solo Artist in 1983. In the mid-1990s, Wilde shifted gears from music and pursued a career in gardening after studying at Capel Manor College. She has presented several television shows, penned books on the subject, and even won a gold award for her garden at the Royal Horticultural Society's Chelsea Flower Show in 2005.
- Gang of Four are an English post-punk group from Leeds. The original members were singer Jon King, guitarist Andy Gill, bass guitarist Dave Allen and drummer Hugo Burnham. There have been many different line-ups including, among other notable musicians, Sara Lee and Gail Ann Dorsey. After a brief lull in the 1980s, different constellations of the band recorded two studio albums in the 1990s. Between 2004 and 2006 the original line-up was reunited; as of 2013, Gill is the sole original member. The band plays a stripped-down mix of punk rock, funk and dub, with an emphasis on the social and political ills of society. Gang of Four are widely considered one of the leading bands of the late 1970s/early 1980s post-punk movement. Their later albums found them softening some of their more jarring qualities, and drifting towards dance-punk and disco. Their debut album, Entertainment!, ranked at Number 483 in Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, and is listed by Pitchfork Media as the 8th best album of the 1970s. David Fricke of Rolling Stone described Gang of Four as "probably the best politically motivated band in rock & roll."
- 90Level 42 are an English band formed on the Isle of Wight in 1979. They had a number of UK and worldwide hits during the 1980s and 1990s. Their most successful single in the UK was "Lessons in Love", which reached number three on the UK Singles Chart, and number 12 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, upon its release in 1986. The earlier single, "Something About You", was their most successful single in the United States, reaching number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. After much success as a live and studio band in the 1980s, Level 42's commercial profile diminished during the early 1990s following a series of personnel changes and musical shifts. After disbanding in 1994, the band reformed in 2001.
- Blancmange () are an English synth-pop band formed in Harrow, London, in 1979. The band were a duo for most of their career, composed of Neil Arthur (vocals) and Stephen Luscombe (keyboards). They came to prominence in the early 1980s releasing four singles that entered the Top 20 charts in the UK, such as "Living on the Ceiling", "Waves", "Blind Vision" and "Don't Tell Me", and they released three albums during that decade, Happy Families (1982), Mange Tout (1984) and Believe You Me (1985). The duo broke up in 1986 but reformed in 2011 and released their fourth album Blanc Burn (2011). Luscombe left following the release and since then Arthur has continued to perform under the Blancmange name. He has released three further studio albums and a number of compilations, including a re-recording of the band's debut album, titled Happy Families Too....
- China Crisis is an English pop/rock band. They were formed in 1979 in Kirkby, near Liverpool, Merseyside with a core of vocalist/keyboardist Gary Daly and guitarist Eddie Lundon. China Crisis were originally assimilated in the batch of new wave Liverpool acts of the late 1970s and early 1980s, led by OMD and also including Echo and the Bunnymen, The Teardrop Explodes, A Flock of Seagulls and Frankie Goes to Hollywood. China Crisis had moderate success in the United Kingdom in the 1980s with five Top 40 singles and three Top 40 albums, as well as commercial success in Western Europe, Australia and the Americas.
- 93The Call was an American rock band from Santa Cruz, California active from 1980 to 2000.
- 94Icehouse is an Australian rock band, formed as Flowers in 1977 in Sydney. Initially known in Australia for their pub rock style, they later achieved mainstream success playing new wave and synthpop music and attained Top 10 singles chart success in both Europe and the U.S. The mainstay of both Flowers and Icehouse has been Iva Davies supplying additional musicians as required. The name Icehouse, which was adopted in 1981, comes from an old, cold flat Davies lived in and the strange building across the road populated by itinerant people. Davies and Icehouse extended the use of synthesizers particularly the Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, Linn drum machine and Fairlight CMI in Australian popular music. Their best known singles on the Australian charts were "Great Southern Land", "Hey Little Girl", "Crazy", "Electric Blue" and "My Obsession"; with Top Three albums being Icehouse, Primitive Man and Man of Colours. Icehouse's iconic status was acknowledged when they were inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame on 16 August 2006. ARIA described Icehouse as "one of the most successful Australian bands of the eighties and nineties...
- 95Divinyls was an Australian rock band that was formed in Sydney in 1980. The band primarily consisted of vocalist Chrissy Amphlett and guitarist Mark McEntee. Amphlett garnered widespread attention for performing on stage in a school uniform and fishnet stockings, and often used an illuminated neon tube as a prop for displaying aggression towards both band members and the audience. Originally a five-piece, the band underwent numerous line-up changes, with Amphlett and McEntee remaining as core members, before its dissolution in 1996. In May 2001, the Australasian Performing Right Association, as part of its 75th Anniversary celebrations, named "Science Fiction" as one of the Top 30 Australian songs of all time. The band was inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame in 2006 and in late 2007 Amphlett and McEntee reconvened to record a new single and begin working on a new album. The band played a short series of live gigs in Australia in late 2007 and early 2008. Divinyls released five studio albums—four placed in the Top 10 Australian chart, while one reached No. 15 in the United States.
- The Knack was an American rock band based in Los Angeles that rose to fame with their first single, "My Sharona", an international number-one hit in 1979.
- The Dream Academy are an English folk rock, dream pop and sophisti-pop band, comprising singer/guitarist Nick Laird-Clowes, multi-instrumentalist Kate St John, and keyboardist Gilbert Gabriel. They are most noted for their hit single, "Life in a Northern Town".
- The Chameleons were an English post-punk band formed in Middleton, Greater Manchester in 1981. The band consisted of singer and bassist Mark Burgess, guitarists Reg Smithies and Dave Fielding, and drummer John Lever. They were called the Chameleons UK in North America because an American band had claim to "the Chameleons" name.The Chameleons released their debut album, Script of the Bridge, in 1983. They followed it with What Does Anything Mean? Basically and Strange Times in 1985 and 1986, respectively, before abruptly disbanding in 1987 due to the sudden death of the band's manager. After the split, Burgess and Lever formed the Sun and the Moon, while Fielding and Smithies formed the Reegs. Burgess also had a short solo career with backing band the Sons of God. The Chameleons reformed in 2000, releasing Strip (2000), Why Call It Anything (2001) and This Never Ending Now (2002) before separating again in 2003. Burgess alone continues to play Chameleons songs live under the name ChameleonsVox. Lever died in 2017. Known for their atmospheric, guitar-based sound and passionate lyrics, the Chameleons are regarded as one of the most underrated Manchester bands of the 1980s. They did not attain the commercial success of other groups from the Manchester scene but developed a cult following.
- Information Society (also known as InSoc) is an American band from Minneapolis, Minnesota, initially active from 1982 to 1997, primarily consisting of Kurt Harland Larson, Paul Robb, and James Cassidy; the latter two reconvened the band in 2006, initially with Christopher Anton as lead vocalist, then with Harland rejoining them as lead vocalist by 2008. The group's breakout single was 1988's "What's on Your Mind (Pure Energy)", a synth-pop and freestyle song, which spent 39 weeks on the dance chart, going straight to number one and would also peak at number three on the Hot 100 pop chart. The track included a vocal sample of Mr. Spock (Leonard Nimoy) from Star Trek, saying "pure energy".
- 100Aztec Camera were a Scottish pop/new wave band formed by Roddy Frame, the group's singer, songwriter, and only consistent member. Formed in 1980, Aztec Camera released a total of six albums: High Land, Hard Rain (1983), Knife (1984), Love (1987), Stray (1990), Dreamland (1993) and Frestonia (1995). The band garnered popular success for the songs "Oblivious", "Somewhere in My Heart" and "Good Morning Britain" (a duet with former Clash guitarist Mick Jones).
- 101Wang Chung are an English new wave musical group formed in 1980. The name Wang Chung means "yellow bell" in Chinese, and is the first note in the Chinese classical music scale. The group found their greatest success in the United States, with five Top 40 hits in the US, all charting between 1983 and 1987, including "Dance Hall Days", "Everybody Have Fun Tonight" and "Let's Go!".
- 102The Outfield is an English pop rock/power pop power trio based in Manchester, England. The Outfield is unusual for a British band in that it enjoyed commercial success in the U.S., but never enjoyed similar success in its homeland. The band began recording during the mid-1980s, and released its first album, Play Deep, in 1985 through Columbia Records. The album reached No. 9 on the Billboard 200 list and then reached triple platinum in America. The band's single "Your Love" reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 as well as No. 7 on the Mainstream Rock chart, and it became its signature song. It went on to be featured in a number of 80s-themed compilation albums, and over 1,000 covers and remixes by other artists have been released physically and/or online. The other singles "Say It Isn't So" and "Everytime You Cry" also made it into the top 20 on the Mainstream Rock chart. The band continued to record and tour through the 1980s and then into the early 1990s.
- 103Mr. Mister was an American pop rock band most popular in the 1980s. The band's name came from an inside joke about a Weather Report album called Mr. Gone where they referred to each other as "Mister This" or "Mister That", and eventually selected "Mr. Mister." Mr. Mister may be considered as representative of the melodic sound of 1980s pop rock. The band consisted of Richard Page on lead vocals and bass guitar, Steve George on keyboards/backing vocals, Pat Mastelotto on acoustic and electronic drums/percussion and Steve Farris on guitars/backing vocals. Mr. Mister was the successor to the band Pages, fronted by Page and George from 1978 to 1981.
- 104Cutting Crew are an English rock band formed in London in 1985. They are best remembered for their debut album Broadcast and hit singles, "(I Just) Died in Your Arms", "I've Been in Love Before", "One for the Mockingbird", and "Everything But My Pride".
- 105Book of Love is an American synthpop and electronic band, formed in 1983 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and later based out of New York City. Led by vocalist Susan Ottaviano, the band also includes keyboardists Ted Ottaviano, Lauren Roselli and Jade Lee. The band gained its first exposure as the opening act for two Depeche Mode tours in 1985 and 1986. The group has been described by the Houston Press as "forward thinking" for lyrics dealing with sexual orientation and gender roles. Their biggest success came on the US dance charts, placing seven singles in the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart between 1985 and 1993. The group's largest exposure on pop radio was with the song "Pretty Boys And Pretty Girls", one of the first songs to openly address the AIDS epidemic. The song, from the album Lullaby, was originally the second half of a medley with the group's version of Mike Oldfield's "Tubular Bells," the 1973 instrumental that served as the eerie theme music of the classic horror film The Exorcist. Edited down to single length, "Pretty Boys And Pretty Girls" became Book of Love's only Hot 100 entry, peaking at number 90 in 1988.
- Scritti Politti are a British band, originally formed in 1977 in Leeds, Yorkshire, England, by the Welsh singer-songwriter Green Gartside. He is the only member of the band to have remained throughout the group's history.Beginning as a punk-inspired collective of art students and squatters, Scritti Politti released several early post-punk recordings on Rough Trade Records before transitioning into a mainstream pop music project in the early to mid-1980s, enjoying significant success in the record charts in the UK and the US. The group's most successful album, 1985's Cupid & Psyche 85, spawned three UK Top 20 hits with "Wood Beez (Pray Like Aretha Franklin)", "Absolute", and "The Word Girl", as well as a US Top 20 hit with "Perfect Way". The band's 1988 album Provision was a UK Top 10 success, though it only produced one UK Top 20 hit single, "Oh Patti". After releasing two non-album singles in 1991, as well as a collaboration with B.E.F., Gartside became disillusioned with the music industry and retired to south Wales for more than seven years. Gartside returned in the late 1990s, releasing a new album, Anomie & Bonhomie, in 1999 (which included various rock and hip hop influences). In 2005, Rough Trade released the compilation Early, which collected the band's first releases. In 2006, Gartside released the stripped-down White Bread, Black Beer.
- The Plimsouls are an American rock band formed in Paramount, California in 1978.
- The Waitresses were an experimental post-punk band from Akron, Ohio. The group was led by guitarist/songwriter Chris Butler with lead vocals performed by Patty Donahue.
- 109Yello is a Swiss electronic band consisting of Dieter Meier and Boris Blank. Their single "Oh Yeah" featured in the films Ferris Bueller's Day Off and The Secret of My Success and the album "The Race" peaked at number 7 on the UK Singles Chart. The band was originally formed by Boris Blank and Carlos Perón in the late 1970s. Meier, a millionaire industrialist and gambler, was brought in when the two founders realised that they needed a singer. The new band name, Yello, was chosen as a pun based on a comment made by Meier, "a yelled Hello". Yello worked extensively with singers Billy Mackenzie and Shirley Bassey.
- 110Animotion is an American synthpop band from Los Angeles, California, best known for the songs "Obsession", "Let Him Go", "I Engineer", and "Room to Move".Formed in 1983 from the remnants of a retro science-fiction band called Red Zone, they signed a record deal with Mercury Records in 1984 and made four albums.
- 111Camouflage is a German new wave trio consisting of lead singer Marcus Meyn, Heiko Maile and Oliver Kreyssig. Their only Billboard Hot 100 hit was "The Great Commandment" which climbed to No. 59 in 1988, though it did spend three weeks at No. 1 on the US dance chart. They also had two additional minor dance hits in 1989.
- 112Arcadia were a new wave British group formed in 1985 by Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, and Roger Taylor of Duran Duran as a side project during a break in that band's schedule. The project was only active during 1985 and 1986 for just one album, So Red the Rose, which was certified Platinum in the United States and included the singles "Election Day", "Goodbye Is Forever", "The Flame" and "The Promise (ft. David Gilmour and Sting)". Drummer Roger Taylor appeared in only a few band photographs and in none of the music videos, and stated he was only to be involved in the recording side of the project (he also had minor involvement in The Power Station, the other Duran Duran splinter group formed by Duran Duran's Andy and John Taylor alongside Robert Palmer and Tony Thompson of Chic).The name of the band was reportedly inspired by the Nicolas Poussin painting Et in Arcadia ego (also known as "The Arcadian Shepherds").
- 113The Hooters are an American rock band from Philadelphia. By combining a mix of rock and roll, reggae, ska and folk music, The Hooters first gained major commercial success in the United States in the mid-1980s due to heavy radio and MTV airplay of several songs including "All You Zombies", "Day by Day", "And We Danced" and "Where Do the Children Go". Their popularity resulted in the band opening the Philadelphia portion of the Live Aid benefit concert in 1985. Bob Geldof has publicly stated that he didn't see the Hooters as a high-profile band suitable for Live Aid, but that the band was forced on him by the promoter of Live Aid in the United States, Bill Graham. Geldof let his feelings be known during an interview for Rolling Stone saying: "Who the fuck are The Hooters?" The Hooters do not appear on the officially released DVD of the concert. During the late 1980s and 1990s, The Hooters found significant commercial success internationally, especially in Europe, where they played at The Wall Concert in Berlin in 1990, before they went on hiatus in 1995.
- Katrina and the Waves were a British-American rock band best known for the 1985 hit "Walking on Sunshine". They also won the 1997 Eurovision Song Contest with the song "Love Shine a Light".
- 115Scandal is a rock band from the 1980s fronted by Patty Smyth. The band scored a hit in the United States with the song "The Warrior", which peaked at No. 7 in 1984. Their other major hits were "Goodbye to You", "Love's Got A Line On You", "Hands Tied", and "Beat of A Heart".
- The Teardrop Explodes were an English post-punk/neo-psychedelic band formed in Liverpool in 1978. Best known for their Top Ten UK single "Reward" (which is still a staple of 1980s alternative pop compilations), the group originated as a key band in the emerging Liverpool post-punk scene of the late 1970s. The group also launched the career of group frontman Julian Cope as well as that of keyboard player and co-manager David Balfe (later a record producer, A&R man and founder of Food Records). Other members included early Smiths producer Troy Tate. Along with other contemporary Liverpudlian groups, The Teardrop Explodes played a role in returning psychedelic elements to mainstream British rock and pop, initially favouring a modernised version of lightly psychedelic late '60s-influenced beat-group sound (sometimes described as "bubblegum trance") and later exploring more experimental areas. In addition to their musical reputation, the band (and Cope in particular) had a reputation for eccentric pronouncements and behaviour, sometimes verging on the self-destructive. These featured strongly in contemporary press accounts and were later expanded on in Cope's 1993 memoir Head On.
- 117Quarterflash is an American rock group formed in 1980 in Portland, Oregon. The band was originally made up of the only two current members, Rindy Ross, her husband Marv Ross, along with Jack Charles, Jon Propp, Rich Gooch, and Brian David Willis. Having a lead singer who also played the saxophone made Quarterflash notable. In a 1982 interview, Rindy Ross said that she viewed the saxophone as an extension of her voice, enabling her to express things she could not express with her voice alone.
- 118King Crimson, originally formed in London in 1968, revolutionized the music industry with its unique blend of rock, jazz, and classical influences. The band's original line-up included Robert Fripp, Michael Giles, Greg Lake, Ian McDonald, and lyricist Peter Sinfield. Over the years, the band has undergone numerous transformations, but what has remained constant is the enigmatic presence of guitarist Robert Fripp, who has been the only persistent member and the driving force behind the band's diverse musical explorations. King Crimson's debut album, In the Court of the Crimson King, released in 1969, is widely regarded as one of the pioneering works in the progressive rock genre. The album's innovative sound, characterized by Mellotron-driven symphonic arrangements, complex song structures, and poetic lyrics, had an immense impact on contemporary music. This was followed by multiple albums across the decades, each reflecting the band's evolving style and showcasing their willingness to experiment with different genres and sounds. However, it wasn't just their music that set King Crimson apart. They were known for their dynamic performances, which were as much about theatrics as they were about music. Their live shows were noted for their improvisation, complexity, and precision, often leaving audiences spellbound. Despite numerous disbandments and line-up changes, King Crimson has sustained a devoted following, testament to their enduring influence.
- 119Stanard "Stan" Ridgway (born April 5, 1954) is an American multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter and film and television composer known for his distinctive voice, dramatic lyrical narratives, and eclectic solo albums. He was the original lead singer and a founding member of the band Wall of Voodoo.
- Johnny Hates Jazz is a British pop rock band, presently consisting of Clark Datchler and Mike Nocito. In April 1987, they had international success with their first hit single "Shattered Dreams".
