The 1980s was a decade of significant musical evolution and experimentation, with various genres, sub-genres, and styles emerging and evolving rapidly. One of the defining features of the 1980s music scene was the emergence of iconic male singers who captured the spirit of the time and became symbols of a generation.
These singers came from a variety of backgrounds and genres, from pop to rock, new wave, and hip hop. They were known for their unique vocal styles, dynamic stage presence, and their ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Some of these male singers also became known for their flamboyant fashion sense, as well as their contributions to the visual aesthetics of music videos.
The popularity of these male singers was driven in part by the emergence of new technologies such as MTV, which brought music videos to a wider audience and helped to shape the cultural zeitgeist of the time. The 1980s also saw the rise of the superstar singer, with many male singers achieving global fame and becoming household names.
Overall, the male singers of the 1980s represented a diverse and exciting era in music history, and their impact on the music world can still be felt today.
1. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and pop culture icon who is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Born in Gary, Indiana in 1958, Jackson began his music career as a child, performing with his brothers in the Jackson 5. He quickly gained popularity as a solo artist in the 1980s and 1990s, and his innovative music videos, electrifying live performances, and unique vocal style made him one of the biggest stars in the world.
Jackson’s music is characterized by its catchy pop hooks, innovative production techniques, and soulful vocals. He was a prolific songwriter, and his songs often addressed themes such as love, social justice, and personal transformation. He was also an accomplished dancer, and his iconic moves, such as the moonwalk, have inspired generations of performers.
Jackson’s legacy is not only defined by his music, but also by his cultural impact. He broke down racial barriers in the music industry, and his humanitarian work and charitable efforts earned him a reputation as a compassionate and generous person. His sudden death in 2009 at the age of 50 shocked the world, but his music and legacy continue to inspire and influence musicians and fans around the world today.
2. Freddie Mercury
Freddie Mercury, born Farrokh Bulsara, was a British singer, songwriter, and musician who is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential performers in the history of rock music. Born in Zanzibar in 1946, Mercury rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the rock band Queen.
Mercury’s distinctive vocal range and flamboyant stage presence helped to define Queen’s sound and style, and his powerful performances earned him a reputation as one of the greatest live performers of all time. He wrote many of the band’s biggest hits, including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” and “We Are the Champions.”
In addition to his musical talents, Mercury was known for his theatrical fashion sense, and his influence on fashion and popular culture is still felt today. He was also a charismatic and enigmatic figure, with a larger-than-life personality and a unique sense of humor.
Sadly, Mercury passed away in 1991 at the age of 45 due to complications from AIDS. However, his legacy as a rock icon and musical pioneer continues to inspire and influence generations of artists and fans alike. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001, and his impact on the music world is still being celebrated and recognized today.
3. Boy George
Boy George, born George Alan O’Dowd in 1961, is a British singer-songwriter, DJ, and fashion icon. He rose to fame in the 1980s as the lead singer of the band Culture Club, known for hits such as “Karma Chameleon” and “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?”.
George’s unique and flamboyant fashion sense, which often included androgynous clothing, heavy makeup, and bright colors, became a signature of the band’s image. He also garnered attention for his distinctive voice, which blended soulful and reggae-influenced tones with a powerful pop sensibility.
In addition to his music career, Boy George has also been a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community. He has been open about his sexuality and gender identity and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights for many years. He has used his platform to raise awareness and support for issues such as HIV/AIDS and same-sex marriage.
Overall, Boy George is a talented and influential musician who has left a lasting impact on the pop culture landscape. His unique style and voice, combined with his advocacy for social justice, have inspired generations of fans and musicians.
4. Prince
Prince Rogers Nelson, known professionally as Prince, was an American singer, songwriter, and musician who was one of the most innovative and influential artists of his generation. Born in Minneapolis in 1958, Prince’s music was a blend of rock, funk, pop, and R&B, and he was known for his virtuosic guitar playing, distinctive falsetto vocals, and provocative stage presence.
Prince’s breakthrough album, “1999,” released in 1982, established him as a major force in pop music, and his follow-up album, “Purple Rain,” released in 1984, was a massive critical and commercial success. He continued to release hit albums throughout the 1980s, including “Sign o’ the Times” and “Lovesexy,” and his music was known for its sexually charged lyrics, innovative use of technology, and boundary-pushing approach to gender and sexuality.
In addition to his music, Prince was also a prolific songwriter, producing hits for other artists such as “Manic Monday” for The Bangles and “Nothing Compares 2 U” for Sinead O’Connor.
Prince was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, and his impact on music and popular culture continues to be felt today. He passed away in 2016 at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest and most influential musicians of all time.
5. George Michael
George Michael, born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou in 1963, was an English singer-songwriter, record producer, and philanthropist. He first rose to fame in the 1980s as a member of the pop duo Wham!, known for hits such as “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper”.
Michael’s solo career was even more successful, with numerous hits including “Faith”, “Father Figure”, and “Freedom! ’90”. He was known for his powerful vocals, soulful ballads, and infectious pop hooks. He was also a prolific songwriter, often addressing themes such as love, heartbreak, and personal struggles in his music.
In addition to his music career, Michael was also known for his philanthropy. He supported a number of charities throughout his life, including organizations focused on AIDS research and relief efforts for children in need.
Michael’s untimely death in 2016 at the age of 53 shocked the world, but his legacy lives on through his music and humanitarian work. He is remembered as a talented and influential musician who left a lasting impact on the pop culture landscape.
6. Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel is an English singer, songwriter, and musician known for his innovative and experimental approach to music. He rose to fame as the lead singer and flautist of the progressive rock band Genesis in the 1970s, before embarking on a successful solo career.
Gabriel’s solo work was characterized by a unique blend of rock, world music, and electronic influences, as well as his powerful and emotive vocals. He is known for hits such as “Sledgehammer”, “In Your Eyes”, and “Shock the Monkey”. His music often addressed political and social issues, as well as personal struggles and relationships.
Gabriel’s influence on the music industry extends beyond his own work as a musician. He founded the WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) Festival in 1982, which celebrates the diversity of global music and culture. He was also an early adopter of music videos as an art form, producing a number of innovative and visually stunning videos for his own music.
Overall, Peter Gabriel is a talented and influential musician who has left a lasting impact on the music industry. His innovative approach to music, combined with his commitment to social and cultural issues, have inspired generations of fans and musicians.
7. Rick Astley
Rick Astley is an English singer, songwriter, and radio personality, best known for his hit song “Never Gonna Give You Up”. He began his music career in the 1980s, signing with the record label RCA Records and releasing his debut album “Whenever You Need Somebody” in 1987.
Astley quickly rose to fame as a pop icon, known for his boyish good looks, soulful voice, and catchy, upbeat music. His music videos, which often featured him performing energetic dance routines, also became iconic of the era.
Despite a brief hiatus from the music industry in the 1990s, Astley has remained an active musician throughout his career, releasing numerous albums and touring regularly. In recent years, he has gained a new wave of popularity through the internet meme known as “Rickrolling”, where unsuspecting internet users are directed to Astley’s music video for “Never Gonna Give You Up”.
Overall, Rick Astley is a beloved and enduring figure in the music industry, known for his catchy pop hits and infectious energy. His music has had a lasting impact on popular culture, and he continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
8. John Cougar Mellencamp
John Cougar Mellencamp is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and actor known for his heartland rock sound and socially conscious lyrics. Born in Indiana in 1951, Mellencamp began his music career in the 1970s, releasing his first album under the stage name Johnny Cougar. He achieved commercial success in the 1980s with hits like “Jack & Diane”, “Hurt So Good”, and “Pink Houses”, which captured the spirit and struggles of the American working class.
Mellencamp’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition, with a particular focus on the experiences of those living in rural and small town America. He has been praised for his ability to capture the spirit of the heartland in his music, as well as his commitment to social and political issues.
Over the course of his career, Mellencamp has released over 20 albums and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He continues to tour and record new music, and remains an important and influential figure in American rock music.
9. Sting
Sting, born Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner, is an English singer, songwriter, and musician who first rose to fame as the lead vocalist and bassist of the band The Police. Born in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1951, Sting’s music draws from a wide range of genres, including rock, jazz, reggae, and world music.
Sting’s distinctive voice and musical style helped to define the sound of The Police, and the band’s hits, including “Every Breath You Take,” “Message in a Bottle,” and “Roxanne,” have become classics of the rock genre. After the band’s breakup in 1984, Sting went on to have a successful solo career, releasing a string of hit albums and singles, including “Fields of Gold,” “Shape of My Heart,” and “Englishman in New York.”
In addition to his music, Sting is also known for his activism on environmental and social issues. He has been involved in numerous charitable organizations, and his support for causes such as rainforest preservation and human rights has earned him widespread respect and admiration.
Sting has won numerous awards throughout his career, including 16 Grammy Awards, and he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Police in 2003. With a career spanning several decades, Sting remains one of the most enduring and influential figures in rock music.
10. Paul Simon
Paul Simon is an American singer-songwriter and musician, known for his influential and diverse body of work spanning several decades. Born in New Jersey in 1941, Simon first gained fame as one half of the folk rock duo Simon & Garfunkel, with hits like “The Sound of Silence” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water”.
After the duo’s breakup in 1970, Simon embarked on a successful solo career, exploring a wide range of musical genres including rock, pop, world music, and jazz. His solo hits include “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover”, “Graceland”, and “You Can Call Me Al”.
Simon is also known for his commitment to social and political issues, with songs that address topics like racism, poverty, and environmentalism. He has been a vocal advocate for various causes over the years, and has used his music as a platform to promote awareness and change.
Throughout his career, Simon has won numerous awards and accolades, including 16 Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He remains a highly respected and influential figure in American music, known for his innovative approach to songwriting and his ability to connect with audiences across generations.
11. Don Henley
Don Henley is an American singer, songwriter, and musician best known as a founding member of the Eagles, one of the most successful rock bands of all time. Born in Texas in 1947, Henley began his music career in the late 1960s, playing in several local bands before joining the Eagles in 1971.
As a member of the Eagles, Henley’s distinctive voice and songwriting skills helped to define the band’s sound, and hits like “Hotel California,” “Desperado,” and “Take It Easy” have become classics of the rock genre. After the Eagles disbanded in 1980, Henley went on to have a successful solo career, releasing a string of hit albums and singles, including “The Boys of Summer,” “All She Wants to Do Is Dance,” and “The End of the Innocence.”
In addition to his music, Henley is also an environmental activist and advocate for various social causes. He has been involved in organizations such as the Walden Woods Project and the Caddo Lake Institute, and his support for issues such as climate change and conservation has earned him widespread respect and admiration.
With a career spanning several decades, Henley remains one of the most influential and enduring figures in rock music, and his impact on the genre continues to be felt today.
12. Phil Collins
Phil Collins is an English musician, singer-songwriter, and producer known for his distinctive voice and eclectic music style. Born in London in 1951, Collins first gained prominence as the drummer and vocalist for the progressive rock band Genesis. With Genesis, Collins became known for his creative drumming and unique vocal style, contributing to hits such as “Invisible Touch” and “Land of Confusion”.
In addition to his work with Genesis, Collins also had a successful solo career, producing hit songs such as “In the Air Tonight”, “Against All Odds”, and “Another Day in Paradise”. He is known for his emotional and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of love, loss, and social issues.
Collins is also a talented multi-instrumentalist, playing piano, guitar, and drums in his music. He has collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career, including Eric Clapton, Robert Plant, and Quincy Jones.
Collins has received numerous accolades for his contributions to music, including seven Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He remains a highly respected and influential figure in the music industry, known for his unique sound and enduring popularity.
13. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who has had a profound impact on the world of music. Born Stevland Hardaway Judkins in Michigan in 1950, Wonder began his music career as a child prodigy, and by the age of 11, he had signed a record deal with Motown Records.
Over the course of his career, Wonder has produced a wide range of music, drawing on influences from soul, R&B, funk, jazz, and pop. His hits, including “Superstition,” “Isn’t She Lovely,” and “Sir Duke,” have become classics of the music industry and continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.
In addition to his music, Wonder is also an activist and advocate for social justice causes. He has been involved in organizations such as the United Nations and the American Foundation for AIDS Research, and his support for issues such as racial equality and disability rights has earned him widespread respect and admiration.
With a career spanning several decades and numerous awards, including 25 Grammy Awards, Wonder remains one of the most influential and beloved figures in music, and his contributions to the industry have helped to shape the sound of modern popular music.
14. Steven Tyler
Steven Tyler is an American musician, songwriter, and actor, best known as the lead singer of the legendary rock band Aerosmith. Born in 1948 in New York, Tyler began his music career in the late 1960s, performing with various bands before forming Aerosmith in 1970.
As the frontman of Aerosmith, Tyler became known for his powerful and dynamic vocal range, as well as his energetic and charismatic stage presence. The band produced numerous hit songs, including “Dream On”, “Sweet Emotion”, and “Walk This Way”, and has sold over 150 million records worldwide.
Tyler is also a talented songwriter, co-writing many of Aerosmith’s biggest hits. He has also released several solo albums and has collaborated with various artists throughout his career.
In addition to his music career, Tyler has also dabbled in acting, appearing in films such as Wayne’s World 2 and The Polar Express.
Known for his flamboyant style and signature scarves, Tyler remains a beloved and influential figure in rock and roll, known for his powerful voice, showmanship, and ability to connect with audiences.
15. Kenny Loggins
Kenny Loggins is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist who rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s with a string of hit songs that have become classics of the pop and rock genres. Born in Washington in 1948, Loggins began his music career in the late 1960s, playing in several local bands before forming a duo with Jim Messina in the early 1970s.
As part of Loggins and Messina, Loggins produced hits such as “Your Mama Don’t Dance” and “Danny’s Song,” before embarking on a successful solo career in the late 1970s. His solo hits, including “Footloose,” “Danger Zone,” and “I’m Alright,” have become synonymous with the soundtracks of popular movies and continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.
In addition to his music, Loggins has also been involved in various social causes and philanthropic organizations, including the Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation and the Children’s Health Environmental Coalition.
With a career spanning several decades and multiple awards, including two Grammy Awards, Loggins remains an influential and enduring figure in the world of music, and his contributions to the industry have helped to shape the sound of modern pop and rock music.
16. Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and guitarist who first rose to fame in the 1980s with a string of hit songs that became classics of the rock and pop genres. Born in Ontario in 1959, Adams began his music career in the late 1970s, playing in local bands before embarking on a successful solo career in the early 1980s.
Over the course of his career, Adams has produced numerous hits, including “Summer of ’69,” “Heaven,” and “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You,” which became one of the best-selling singles of all time. He has also collaborated with other notable musicians, including Sting, Tina Turner, and Rod Stewart.
In addition to his music, Adams is also a respected photographer and activist, working to promote various social and environmental causes. He has been involved in organizations such as Greenpeace and Amnesty International, and his work in these areas has earned him numerous accolades and awards.
With a career spanning several decades and multiple awards, including 20 Juno Awards, Adams remains an influential and enduring figure in the world of music, and his contributions to the industry have helped to shape the sound of modern rock and pop music.
17. Rick Springfield
Rick Springfield is an Australian-American musician, songwriter, and actor, known for his pop and rock music hits in the 1980s. Born in Sydney, Australia in 1949, Springfield began his music career in the late 1960s and achieved his first U.S. Top 10 hit with “Speak to the Sky” in 1972.
Springfield’s biggest breakthrough came in the early 1980s with his album “Working Class Dog”, which featured the hit singles “Jessie’s Girl” and “I’ve Done Everything for You”. He went on to release several more successful albums, including “Success Hasn’t Spoiled Me Yet” and “Living in Oz”.
In addition to his music career, Springfield is also a successful actor, known for his role as Dr. Noah Drake on the daytime soap opera General Hospital in the early 1980s. He has also appeared in various films and television shows, including Ricki and the Flash and True Detective.
Throughout his career, Springfield has been recognized for his songwriting and musicianship, and has won several awards, including a Grammy for his hit single “Jessie’s Girl”. He remains a beloved figure in pop and rock music, known for his catchy hooks and dynamic stage presence.
18. Billy Joel
Billy Joel is an American singer-songwriter and pianist who has been active since the late 1960s. Born in New York City in 1949, Joel grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at a young age. He gained popularity in the 1970s with a string of hit songs, including “Piano Man,” “Just the Way You Are,” and “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song).”
Joel’s music is characterized by his skillful piano playing and his ability to tell stories through his lyrics. He has released numerous albums throughout his career, including the critically acclaimed “The Stranger” and “52nd Street,” which won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
Joel’s music has been enjoyed by millions of fans worldwide, and his songs have become iconic in popular culture. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Long Island Music Hall of Fame. In addition to his music career, Joel has also been recognized for his philanthropic work, including his support of music education programs.
19. Eddie Money
Eddie Money was an American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s with a series of popular rock hits. Born in New York City in 1949, Money began his music career as a member of several local bands before signing a recording contract in the late 1970s.
Over the course of his career, Money produced numerous hits, including “Two Tickets to Paradise,” “Baby Hold On,” and “Take Me Home Tonight,” which became one of his most successful singles. He was also known for his energetic live performances and his ability to connect with audiences through his music.
In addition to his music career, Money was also an actor, appearing in several films and television shows throughout his career. He also appeared on reality television shows, including “The Surreal Life” and “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.”
With a career spanning several decades, Money was a beloved and respected figure in the world of rock music, and his contributions to the industry helped to shape the sound of modern rock and pop music. He passed away in 2019 at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
20. Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen, also known as “The Boss,” is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who has become one of the most iconic figures in rock music history. Born in New Jersey in 1949, Springsteen’s music is known for its poetic lyrics, energetic guitar riffs, and powerful storytelling.
Springsteen’s early music was heavily influenced by the rock and roll and rhythm and blues of the 1950s and 1960s, and he quickly gained a reputation for his intense live performances and charismatic stage presence. He rose to fame in the 1970s with albums such as “Born to Run,” “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” and “The River.”
Springsteen’s music has been praised for its exploration of the American experience, from the struggles of working-class life to the complexities of relationships and identity. He has released numerous critically acclaimed albums throughout his career, including “Born in the USA,” “Tunnel of Love,” and “The Rising.”
In addition to his music, Springsteen has been involved in social and political activism, advocating for causes such as workers’ rights, racial justice, and LGBTQ rights.
Overall, Bruce Springsteen’s influence on rock music and popular culture is significant, and his legacy as one of the greatest American music artists of all time is secure. He remains a beloved figure in the music world, and his contributions to both music and social causes will continue to inspire and influence future generations.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
