No way you can just do top 10 for 80s. Too many genres: rock, new wave, punk, R&B, hard rock,metal,hip hop, glam rock, goth. You would have to do 10 of each at least.
@@DA-zh5wo you can't be serious saying that about Madonna she was a cultural phenomenon girls started dressing like her I mean come on and she started getting airplay on the east coast in 83 and by the way I didn't see anybody getting sting haircuts. love the police but you can compare the two!!!!✌
Frederick Franchi I mean the police have better music and have had a lasting impact that Madonna hasn’t so I’d put them over her. She’s not bad by any means just that her influence hasn’t lasted as long as some 80’s bands even if they weren’t around the entire decade.
@@etheneinspenner3950 look whatever you think of Madonna she's the queen of Pop just look at her record sales I'm not saying she's better than the police, but she been around far longer than the police and has influence many artists and her influence on the public in the 80s surpassed the police buy miles, come on now do some research!!!!✌
We are doing a stand alone metal series, trust me, as a metal fan, objectively metal artists weren't as defining to the decade as we'd like. Signed Mr X
This list is so damn American!! What about The Smiths, Iron Maiden, Pet Shop Boys, Simply Red and The Cure!? Spot on with Madonna and MJ, but come on, Def Leppard?
The cure and definitely the smiths should be on a serious list but who fkn cares? If you want a real list go to the music sites and avoid pleb-land rollingstone.
Yeah I've heard of couple of their songs, but I've never heard their name until this list. If they wanted someone to represent hard rock I would have definitely gone for Iron Maiden over Def Leppard. I think they have had more impact for people who weren't alive in the 70s.
Michael Jackson deserved to be Number 1. He rulled the 80s with Thriller, Beat It, Billie Jean etc videos Billie Jean Motown 25th Anniversary Performance Breaking Down Racial Barriers on MTV and His Videos for example Billie Jean, Beat It Say Say Say Thriller etc got Heavy Rotation ( Several Times a day ) on MTV and the most imitated artist, male artist of the 80s.
These comments make me want to say Weird Al should be number 1. Eat It, Like A Surgeon, Fat, and more show that Weird Al was the true #1 of the 80s. He has done so much, even Cheese Sandwich on My Little Pony.
I would say Prince did more to define the 80's music scene. He released more albums (he wasn't hibernating for 5 years between albums) was mixing rock and soul before Micheal, released more albums, he was breaking social, cultural norms and defining how a rock star was supposed to behave during the decade of decadence. Add in writing huge hits for The Bangles (Manic Monday), Sinead OConner (Nothing Compares to You), The Time (Jungle Love) and Chaka Khan (I Feel for You) and it is obvious that Prince's Purple footprint is all over the 80's music landscape.
There are so many great acts in that decade, it is not an easy task to put a list together. No one can deny MJ on the top and Madonna. However I think that Queen, The Cars, Depeche Mode, The Cure and many others were omitted. Again it is really hard to pick only ten numbers from that era.
Don't miss the rest of the videos in this series - Top 10 Decade Defining Musical Acts: 1950s Top 10 Decade Defining Musical Acts: 1960s Top 10 Decade Defining Musical Acts: 1970s Tuesday: Defining Acts of the 1990s Wednesday: Defining Acts of the 2000s Thursday: Defining Acts of the 2010s
WHAT!?! What happend to Motorhead? You really messed this one up guys. The influence and stayingpower is beyond almost all other bands that has ever been. Going strong since the 1970's and still on tour today, still have the same sound and is just as brilliant as when they started out.
Duran Duran only a honorable mention? Really? They had loads of hits in the 80's and were one of those bands that revolutionized music videos. All members extremely talented musicians with very innovative music.
@@bearmouse1000 1 or 2 hit wonder? Hardly. Let's see, just off the top of my head, Duran Duran had a ridiculous amount of hits in the US: "Hungry Like The Wolf", "Girls On Film", "Rio", "Save A Prayer", "Union Of The Snake", "The Reflex", "A View To A Kill", "Notorious", "I Don't Want Your Love" to name a few. That's not even taking into account that they were one of the acts that defined MTV and music videos in general in the 80's...
@@panrick The Smiths and Joy Divison weren't influential, but fucking Bon Jovi was? Come on man 🤣 I'd also throw The Speicals in. They created a whole new genre (Two Tone) and are hugely influential to this day. Nobody is trying to sound like Bon fucking Jovi, but loads of bands have tried to copy The Smiths and The Specials. Def Leppard made it onto the list and they're one of the shittest English bands ever. They're considered a joke in England. Dire Straits were bigger and better than them in the 80s, and have far more credibility (If we had to pick a traditional rock band from England from that era).
The best sounding decade. I wish I were an 80's teenager. Like everything was amazing: music, fashion, movies and tv... Everything. And Michael Jackson was, is and will ever be the best.
Every time I see Prince perform live I get so speechless. He's been my favorite artist for a long time! He is so talented. In my opinion I think he is more musically talented than most of these singers. His first song was on the piano at the age of 7 and he mastered 20 instruments at the age of 12! If you take the time to truly listen to his music through the years, you will see that he has mastered just about every element of music (any genre). The way he perfects his sound, programs his drums, etc. It's a lesson to aspiring artists. We need a class on him. Just saying. I also love his movie Purple Rain, if you haven't seen it yet I suggest you to check it out! It's really good.
He mastered 20 instruments, but did he mastered them so well, because for sure there are much better guitarists and pianists than him. And actually, in all world class music is mastered every element of music
@@getsensusnot so much better stop with the disrespectful bullshit prince was arguably the best guitarist since hendrix and a great pianist no one was as versatile as prince as instrumentalist that's why prince was the greatest
90s (Possible mentions) - Cypress Hill, Nirvana, Oasis, 2Pac, Biggie, Outkast, R Kelly, A Tribe Called Quest, Dr Dre, Rage Against the Machine, Wu-Tang Clan, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Radiohead
Radiohead fits more into the 2000s than the 90s. OK Computer and The Bends are great albums no doubt, but it's their 2000s albums (Kid A, In Rainbow, Hail to the Theif, and Amnesiac) where they best defined both their music and the decade
WatchMojo.com that's not fair. although I love every single Metallica album, the 80's had their best. dam. you couldn't even put them in the honorable mention in this one.
Top 10 decade defining musical acts not in this top 10: 1. Genesis members (Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel & Mike [+ the Mechanics] Rutherford) 2. Beastie Boys 3. Public Enemy 4. The Ramones 5. The Pixies 6. The Cure 7. R.E.M. 8. The Smiths 9. Metallica 10. Pet Shop Boys
The 80s had such an explosion of music that they really should have done one list for Top 10 New Wave/ Synth/ Pop and then a Top 10 for 80s Hard Rock/ Metal and Top 10 for Hip Hop/Rap. Overall this was a solid list. What an AWESOME freakn' decade for music!!!!
Thought Phil Collins (Genesis) should have been in this list. If not in the Top 10 (because there were so many greats!) at least put him in the Honorable Mentions.
Yeah, Phil Collins sold so many records and had so many hits in the 80s. I like some of his stuff, but not a huge fan, and even I would say he's comfortably a top 5 "defining" artists of that era. Couldn't escape his music in the 80s 🤣
How much more LOVE should we have shown Michael so that he's stop disfiguring himself after thriller? I think his inclusion here (best selling of all time and the downfall) is a cautionary tale...
+joseangel125 unfortunately they are not on the list :(( they just put u2 from the alternative bands. Like really??? people also listened to alternative music in the 80s not just pop and hard rock. They didn't even bother to put metallica which is one of the most popular heavy metal bands ever! I'm saying that even though i don't even listen to metallica, this list sucks
The 60's were known as the British Invasion decade...Beatles, Dave Clark V, Kinks, Stones, Zombies, Animals, Herman's Hermits, Cream, Hollies, Yardbirds, Van Morrison, The Who, Peter and Gordon, Chad and Jeremy, Gerry and the Pacemakers, The Troggs, Donovan, Petula Clark, Lulu and so many others.
@@susieq9801 and the 80s was known as the second British invasion. Only one British band on this list*. Duran Duran, Phil Collins, The Police, Genesis, Depeche Mode, The Smiths, The Cure (plus so many more) were better than, and outsold, acts like Run DMC, who did make it onto this list. *Deff Leppard - who are considered a joke in England. Awful band.
@@jamesmason8436 - I know. I'm 70 and was around for both eras. Saw many of the bands live, The Beatles, Stones, DCV, Animals, Kinks and others and from the later crop saw Elton John, Phil Collins, ELO, Police and others. I wouldn't pay to see anyone around now. All the best.
Phil Collins deserves to be in the top 5 or more likely top 3. If you merely count how many hits he had as a solo artist and how many were movie hits that were played everywhere, he is in. How many times did you hear his voice on the radio EVERY year of the 80s and every day often times 2 songs on the charts at once? He was quite ubiquitous. PLUS the Genesis songs. Also, In the Ar Tonight was on the radio the entire 80s and on TV w/ Miami Vice. He had about the same amount of big hits as Jackson. Include both The Jacksons and Genesis hits in the 80s, and Phil comes out ahead. Count the 1979 album Off the Wall, Jackson is just slightly ahead. He also played both Live Aid shows in London and Philly.
Theyre not mainstream! Its okay they sold alot more records the most of the artist in this candy ass list! And still touring sold out stadium & arena around the globe.
If you didn't notice, their list always suck. Name one list with at least half of them right. The only thing on this list that should be on there AND has the right place, is Michael Jackson.
The single stupidest thing anybody could say about MJ as an artist is that he's "overrated". He didn't get internationally famous all over the world for nothing. He's %100 responsible for his infamously amazing songs being infamously amazing. He sang like a legend, danced like no other, so many of his songs sound unique and timeless, created some of the most influential and exhilarating music videos of all time, wrote most of his songs, and did in fact play instruments unlike what many people say. He deserves his fame and praise. There are reasons why he earns nearly a billion every year, while all he does is lay in his grave. RIP
Hmmm maybe you should have mentioned that this is America's top 10. In Europe we had very different favorites... Depeche Mode... Erasure... Pet Shop Boys... Duran Duran... OMD... A-Ha... ABC... Ultravox... I guess Synth Pop and New Wave were much more popular here than in the US...
_"maybe you should have mentioned that this is America's top 10. In Europe we had very different favorites"_ Simple Minds, The Cure, Tears For Fears, The Smiths, Genesis, Dire Straits. Also some US acts are obviously missing such as Cyndi Lauper and Diana Ross, certainly Cyndi epitomises the 80s.
A-Ha is my ALL-TIME FAVORITE band! I was sad not to see them on the list but not really surprised. They are still known only as a one-hit wonder here, even with their obvious influence on U2 & Coldplay & so many others. Truly underrated talent.
OmarSunAndLights Her debut album was released in the same year as Madonna. And she had 5 TOP 5 hits in the 80's with True Colors, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Time After Time, She Bop and All Through The Night. So you're argument is invalid.
OmarSunAndLights i'll take Cyndi Lauper over the overrated madonna anyday. Surprised Tears for Fears ,Motley Crue, and Pat Benatar weren't on the list. I think the 80's needs a top 10 for each genre.
I know! I'm so upset! not even an honorable mention! and no Aerosmith either, except in Run DMC's slot, as if Steven Tyler's merely a backup singer. grrr!!
If you lived through the 80's, there was zero doubt about #1 or #2. You could shuffle the bottom 8; make it a top 50; or do 10 videos with the same theme. Madonna and MJ would always come out on top. There may be other artists/groups who were more influential over time, or had more longevity, but no one else defined the 80's better than those two.
Madonna couldn't sing from day one and I believe she slept up to the top of the music industry because there is no other way she could have got there because she definitely couldn't sing. Only thing about her is she could dance and that's all.
Aaron Mesa Honorable Mention. While I prefer Rush's 70's work a bit more, Most of their biggest songs were in the 80's (Tom Sawyer, Limelight, Freewill, Spirit of Radio). It's not hard to observe, when they show honorable mentions, in most cases, that artist does not show up in the next decade's list (it appears Metallica may be an exception to that).
METALLICA NOT EVEN AN HONORABLE MENTION, that's bullshit if he is on the 90's list. They were formed in the eighties and became popular in the eighties.
We just have to understand that the 80s had a HUGE explosion of insanely popular artists of all different genres. Everything from the pop music of Michael Jackson and Madonna to the thrash heavy metal of Metallica, Slayer, Iron Maiden, ect. Everything was changing and all types of music was being introduced, popularized, and accepted for a long time to come. Putting all of them into just ten spaces is difficult! And while trying to include all genres! Sorry that was long 😂
@@therock3640 Well it's still nice to give other people credit considering Madonna dominated the 80s too. In fact, several publications named her the artist of the decade of the 80s. Plus, she had more hits. Michael just sold big with his albums.
@@nathanieljohnson5908 Yes more sales tell that people felt his music more. She had more hits because she released more than MJ. Now I remember arguing with you and I gave you the proof video of the sales of thriller and in the end you were like both of them are great so don't argue on it. MJ has been awarded artist of the decade as well as century at AMA's. Give me your source which publication said Madonna is the artist of the decade. I don't trust you at all last time you didn't show a proof and disappeared.
@@therock3640 MTV named Madonna artist of the decade. And you should know that considering Michael got jealous and had to have an award named after him
I'm surprised that Iron Maiden didn't even get an honourable mention! Considering they're one of the most successful Heavy Metal bands of all time, and practically defined the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement in the 80s, they were prety damn influential.
If you're shocked that MJ is #1, what planet, no, other universe are you from? It's Michael Jackson! If that was over your head, it's Thriller! Bad?! His first and last name alone is bigger than most artist.
I'm not shocked because MJ was the most successful artist of the 80s. Of that there is no doubt. But did he define the decade musically for me. No, he didn't. And I don't think I'm alone in this. For me, the British/Irish bands did - Depeche Mode, The Cure, Pet Shop Boys, U2, Duran Duran, Siouxsie & the Banshees etc.
@Fahad Amin Cyndi Lauper and Phil Collins are 70s to you? Queen and Bowie were active in the 80s notably Queen with such hits as "Radio Ga Ga", "I Want to Break Free", "Another One Bites the Dust", "Under Pressure" (with David Bowie) as well as film songs such as "Flash" for Flash Gordon and "A Kind of Magic" and "Who Wants to Live Forever" for Highlander. I would say that's a packed decade.
utubegirl best selling female artist in the world, world's most successful solo touring artist, most successful artist on Billboard charts and the world's richest recording artist...
Andrew Phillips michael Jackson is the single most overrated artist in history. Didn't play single instrument; therefore didn't create any music and wrote less then half his songs. All he did was sing and dance. Wow
Richard Lynch Michael was known for composing his music almost entirely in his head. He was praised by his comrades for his ability to replicate an instrument's sound using his voice. Billie Jean, for example, he wrote on his own and composed almost completely in his head.
@@daveskinner25 its weird responding to someone after 2 years.. but in Israel it seems like they're one of the most overrated bands ever. They're so mentioned in pop colture and have a huge fan base.
@@user-pj7bh8mq3t They're not really mentioned that much here in the US. Jusr Can't Get Enough, People Are People, and Enjoy The Silence are the only hits mentioned mostly.
IceJJfish2511 Let me define the word 'overrated.' The word overrated means that the entertainers get way too much praise which is exactly why Michael Jackson and Madonna fall into that catergory. It does not mean good; it does not mean bad. So if you wanna give me an education as to why you think otherwise, be my guest.
They deserve all of the praise they get it doesn't matter if you like them or not especially Michael Jackson. Michael Jackson literally changed the world and there is no way you can deny that. Madonna set the mold for every female popstar since. So no I don't need you to teach me anything. Just give credit what credit is due.
IceJJfish2511 I never said I did not like Michael Jackson; I never said I did not like Madonna. I am just sick of all the attention they get. Especially since Michael Jackson is dead.
Where’s Queen? They were a huge band in the 1980’s especially at live aid 1985. Also I was surprised to see that Talking Heads wasn’t on there list, they were definitely extremely experiment and defined the sound of the 80’s. Other bands include The Police and Dire Straits which should have been higher. Michael Jackson deserves number one for sure though. Rock On!
I miss the 80's where the music came from the heart rather than the sex appeal. Meaning you were there for the music rather than who performs better nearly naked.
Boys V.S. Girls 1. I just said better be on the list 2. I love Nirvana 3. Metallica is a really great band that defined a genre and generation. 4. Shut the fuck up
I hope Nirvana isn't number one for the 90's, they're only known for one song. I don't like Tupac, but he should be number one for the next list. And PLEASE leave Eminem off the next list and put him on the 2000's. He bacame popular in the 2000's
I do not understand how a 1980s top 10 list cannot include a single new wave act and only 1 alternative band. Now, there were a lot of one-hit wonders in New Wave, but there were plenty of New Wave acts that had hits throughout the entire decade: Duran Duran (at least they got an honorable mention) Tears For Fears R.E.M. Talking Heads Oingo Boingo B-52s Depeche Mode Eurythmics Why was Guns and Roses on the list? they did not become popular until '88; if you had to swap them out with a rock group I would have thought Van Halen deserved mention as they had hits throughout the entire decade as opposed to the last 2 years of the 80s. This was supposed to be acts that had music that defined the decade yet when I think of the 80s and music, I do not think of heavy metal.
Carlos Aguilar First Black Sabbath album was released in 1970. But Ozzy's first solo album was in 1980. Iron Maiden first Album was released in 1980. Metallica first album was released in 1983. You sir, are an idiot.
You clearly have a preference for heavy metal. Which is cool, but this is a list about 80's defining acts. I don't think any of those acts defined the 80's at all. They were great acts of the 80s though.
Michael Jackson owned the eighty's I agree with that but yeah I do agree Metallica should have been number two at least. Thrash owned the eighty's for rock/metal. And they were the best for a lot of people. Megadeth are my personal choice though, but if were speaking the most popular then yes Metallica .
Van Halen, Def Lepard, Bon Jovi can substitute each other. They were basically the same thing with pussy metal with their tight jeans showing their crotches. It was the fad of the generation. Same shit. Different toilet.
TrampolineLemons because that would mean music snobs would have to acknowledge Sammy. (Whom I thought was great)... but Sammy/Vh must be on this list. I can’t drive55, Panama, Jump, hot for teacher, the entire 5150 album, OU812, give to live...so many more. The combo of Van Halen and Sammy were as hot as almost anyone except for maybe MJ how they are not on here is beside me.
Here's my list. 10: Paula Abdul or Def Leppard. 9: Hall and Oates, or Bruce Springsteen or David Bowie. 8: Journey or Stevie Wonder or Van Halen. 7: Phil Collins or Whitney Houston. 6: Bon Jovi or U2 or George Michael. 5: Janet Jackson or Guns 'n' Roses. 4: Lionel Richie. 3: Prince. 2: Madonna. 1: New Kids on the Block. JUST KIDDING!! 1, for real, of course: The King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
The art of The Smiths, The Cure, Depeche Mode, Pixies, Sonic Youth, Ministry, REM, Elvis Costello and Talking Heads defining more the 80s decade then the regular, obvious, poppy songs of Michael Jackson.
Queen in 80s 1 album topped the chart in usa. The game album. 2 albums topped the chart in uk. 2 songs topped the chart in usa. Another one bites the dust and crazy little thing called love. Under pressure topped the chart in uk. Radio gaga topped the chart in 19 country. I want to break free was a big hit. They have done the soundtrack for the movie highlander. They made the greatest performance in live aid. 1985. They have done many concerts with a high number of audiences. Sometime more than 100 thousand. Magic tour 1986. 🤔🤔 at least they deserve a honorble mention.
No way you can just do top 10 for 80s. Too many genres: rock, new wave, punk, R&B, hard rock,metal,hip hop, glam rock, goth. You would have to do 10 of each at least.
Without a doubt agree.
Yes, someone who likes hard rock may not like new wave. It all comes down to the individual's musical taste.
Greatest music decade of all time -- the 80s
Total agree
Agreed. The eighties has way too much variety for one list
The Police should have been in the top five, not an honorable mention.
sorry only out for half a decade can make the top 10 when you're only there half the time✌😃
@@frederickfranchi6408 Madonna wasn't there for the entire decade either, many who were listed weren't
@@DA-zh5wo you can't be serious saying that about Madonna she was a cultural phenomenon girls started dressing like her I mean come on and she started getting airplay on the east coast in 83 and by the way I didn't see anybody getting sting haircuts. love the police but you can compare the two!!!!✌
Frederick Franchi I mean the police have better music and have had a lasting impact that Madonna hasn’t so I’d put them over her. She’s not bad by any means just that her influence hasn’t lasted as long as some 80’s bands even if they weren’t around the entire decade.
@@etheneinspenner3950 look whatever you think of Madonna she's the queen of Pop just look at her record sales I'm not saying she's better than the police, but she been around far longer than the police and has influence many artists and her influence on the public in the 80s surpassed the police buy miles, come on now do some research!!!!✌
As we can all remember, MJ is the Artist of the 1980s.
Our hero!
One of my personal favorites! MJ!
@Ross Moriarty 60s and 70s you uncultured swine
He emerged as the most successful music artist in 80s.
50s- Elvis
60s- The Beatles
70s- Led Zeppelin
80s- Michael Jackson
90s- Nirvana
@@TheKestevon Highly agree with the list
Billy Joel surely deserves more than an honourable mention
Piano Man, The Stranger and 42nd street both came out in the 70s.....
The lack of 80s metal on this list disturbs me.
We are doing a stand alone metal series, trust me, as a metal fan, objectively metal artists weren't as defining to the decade as we'd like.
Signed
Mr X
I don't trust you watch mojo...
That's because hair metal was the popular metal style as lead by Bon Jovi and Def Leppard.
Yeah. Iron Maiden, Metallica, Judas Priest, Megadeth. It's not like there was a shortage of names to choose from.
*****
All the names named in this list really mean something to me and i only know metaliica as 80s metal so yes mr x is right.
This list is so damn American!! What about The Smiths, Iron Maiden, Pet Shop Boys, Simply Red and The Cure!? Spot on with Madonna and MJ, but come on, Def Leppard?
I KNOW
U2 is Irish; Def leppard is English. I agree with inclusion of the smiths though.
The cure and definitely the smiths should be on a serious list but who fkn cares? If you want a real list go to the music sites and avoid pleb-land rollingstone.
Nothing wrong with Def Leppard...they're my fave band of all time
Yeah I've heard of couple of their songs, but I've never heard their name until this list. If they wanted someone to represent hard rock I would have definitely gone for Iron Maiden over Def Leppard. I think they have had more impact for people who weren't alive in the 70s.
I miss The Cure and Depeche Mode.
they are not"american".
+Denise Maria Branquinho U2 isn't American
+Denise Maria Branquinho Being American was not a requirement for this list
Nancy O'Malley are you sure?
It simply said Top 10 Decade Defining Musical Acts 80's No mention of National origin!
Michael Jackson deserved to be Number 1. He rulled the 80s with Thriller, Beat It, Billie Jean etc videos Billie Jean Motown 25th Anniversary Performance Breaking Down Racial Barriers on MTV and His Videos for example Billie Jean, Beat It Say Say Say Thriller etc got Heavy Rotation ( Several Times a day ) on MTV and the most imitated artist, male artist of the 80s.
Okay but Madonna truely deserves to be #1 if you really look at her track record :)
These comments make me want to say Weird Al should be number 1. Eat It, Like A Surgeon, Fat, and more show that Weird Al was the true #1 of the 80s. He has done so much, even Cheese Sandwich on My Little Pony.
@@stdylan Ha! No, she doesn't. MJ was bigger than her, wgether you like it or not.
@@BlanchestarlightUwU Mj was very international
True MJ
The 80s needs a bigger list, way too many great acts, but can't argue with the top spot, MJ was king of the 80s.
I would say Prince did more to define the 80's music scene. He released more albums (he wasn't hibernating for 5 years between albums) was mixing rock and soul before Micheal, released more albums, he was breaking social, cultural norms and defining how a rock star was supposed to behave during the decade of decadence. Add in writing huge hits for The Bangles (Manic Monday), Sinead OConner (Nothing Compares to You), The Time (Jungle Love) and Chaka Khan (I Feel for You) and it is obvious that Prince's Purple footprint is all over the 80's music landscape.
@@conniethesconnie Prince should have been higher on list, Iot of impact, but Michael has to be #1 for sure
@@conniethesconnie no
In fact no name in music bigger than MJ
@@TheKestevon true
Where was Cyndi Lauper, 80's icon
She was overshadowed by madonna, even back then!
Yeah even Debbie Gibson..
THANK YOU!! I was wondering the same damn thing!
I agree
Yep, the 80s without Cyndi Lauper are not the 80s!
WHERE IS DEPECHE MODE??????
In Hell? 👹
There are so many great acts in that decade, it is not an easy task to put a list together. No one can deny MJ on the top and Madonna. However I think that Queen, The Cars, Depeche Mode, The Cure and many others were omitted. Again it is really hard to pick only ten numbers from that era.
Don't miss the rest of the videos in this series -
Top 10 Decade Defining Musical Acts: 1950s
Top 10 Decade Defining Musical Acts: 1960s
Top 10 Decade Defining Musical Acts: 1970s
Tuesday: Defining Acts of the 1990s
Wednesday: Defining Acts of the 2000s
Thursday: Defining Acts of the 2010s
Amazingly put together list good job guys!
Depeche Mode??? No??
I hope they will be in the next video about 90s))
TOP 10 FOREIGNER SONGS
WHAT!?! What happend to Motorhead? You really messed this one up guys. The influence and stayingpower is beyond almost all other bands that has ever been. Going strong since the 1970's and still on tour today, still have the same sound and is just as brilliant as when they started out.
RadioactiveSheepHerd don't worry, lemmy will make them pay
Duran Duran only a honorable mention? Really? They had loads of hits in the 80's and were one of those bands that revolutionized music videos. All members extremely talented musicians with very innovative music.
But they were a one hit or like two hit wonder. They hit the top charts a couple times.
They had about 13 songs in the UK's top 10 and like 9 on US.
They should definitely be in the Top 5 at LEAST. And...where are Eurythmics?
@@bearmouse1000 1 or 2 hit wonder? Hardly. Let's see, just off the top of my head, Duran Duran had a ridiculous amount of hits in the US: "Hungry Like The Wolf", "Girls On Film", "Rio", "Save A Prayer", "Union Of The Snake", "The Reflex", "A View To A Kill", "Notorious", "I Don't Want Your Love" to name a few. That's not even taking into account that they were one of the acts that defined MTV and music videos in general in the 80's...
They are the MTV. And MTV is the 80s. I miss them too. At least in the top 3.
Whitney Houston should be in top 5. Biggest debut album of all time, 7 consecutive #1 hits, and I Wanna Dance With Somebody was everywhere.
The Smiths?
Joy Division/New Order?
The Stone Roses?
all good bands but they didn't have the same influence.
It's US centric. just like every "best moments in sports" etc videos
@@panrick The Smiths and Joy Divison weren't influential, but fucking Bon Jovi was? Come on man 🤣
I'd also throw The Speicals in. They created a whole new genre (Two Tone) and are hugely influential to this day.
Nobody is trying to sound like Bon fucking Jovi, but loads of bands have tried to copy The Smiths and The Specials.
Def Leppard made it onto the list and they're one of the shittest English bands ever. They're considered a joke in England. Dire Straits were bigger and better than them in the 80s, and have far more credibility (If we had to pick a traditional rock band from England from that era).
definitely in the British version but for America they weren't half as popular. British music= the best
@@panrick they weren’t influential? The Smiths influenced a lot the new wave movement and Joy Division influenced grunge and alternative.
The best sounding decade. I wish I were an 80's teenager. Like everything was amazing: music, fashion, movies and tv... Everything.
And Michael Jackson was, is and will ever be the best.
I feel u gal
I love Michael Jackson he just had natural talent even when he sang without music he sounded good.
How does Van Halen not even get an honorable mention?!
So true
I know
List is crap.
..because they're shit?
@@xiphocostal as if you could play guitar like that
The 80s is always going to be the most argued decade on which genre ruled the decade
But not arguable for the top artist....
Fr Michael was hands down the top artist of that decade there is no argument there ...
In my country 80s was the decade of hard rock. All the youths back then banging their heads listening to hard rock and metal.
@@TheKestevon tbh what 80s did for the metal was insane, as basically 3/4 of all the main genres appeared in that period
Every time I see Prince perform live I get so speechless. He's been my favorite artist for a long time! He is so talented. In my opinion I think he is more musically talented than most of these singers. His first song was on the piano at the age of 7 and he mastered 20 instruments at the age of 12! If you take the time to truly listen to his music through the years, you will see that he has mastered just about every element of music (any genre). The way he perfects his sound, programs his drums, etc. It's a lesson to aspiring artists. We need a class on him. Just saying. I also love his movie Purple Rain, if you haven't seen it yet I suggest you to check it out! It's really good.
The best artist of modern era
@@gabrielp1826 that’s MJ
@@gabrielp1826 if you mean in terms of talent? Yeah, the guy had a 5 octave range and was an amazing multinstrumentalist
He mastered 20 instruments, but did he mastered them so well, because for sure there are much better guitarists and pianists than him. And actually, in all world class music is mastered every element of music
@@getsensusnot so much better stop with the disrespectful bullshit prince was arguably the best guitarist since hendrix and a great pianist no one was as versatile as prince as instrumentalist that's why prince was the greatest
90s (Possible mentions) - Cypress Hill, Nirvana, Oasis, 2Pac, Biggie, Outkast, R Kelly, A Tribe Called Quest, Dr Dre, Rage Against the Machine, Wu-Tang Clan, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Radiohead
Good choices, but I'd add Daft Punk, Björk and The Prodigy for electronic artists
Personally, i'd add tool to that list, but that might just be me.
Radiohead fits more into the 2000s than the 90s. OK Computer and The Bends are great albums no doubt, but it's their 2000s albums (Kid A, In Rainbow, Hail to the Theif, and Amnesiac) where they best defined both their music and the decade
Mariah Karie will be number 1
The Spice girls might be in there somewhere
and possibly Green Day
Also maybe Green Day
Watchmojo, have you seen Metallica's live concert in Seattle from 1989? How can you not include Metallica?!?!?
Tune in tomorrow
***** totally, u2 does not have half of the influence of the pixies and they aren't even a mention
WatchMojo.com I understand that Metallica will be in the 90s list. I am saying that their peak was in the 80s.
***** musically their peak was totally in the 80's, but commercially was in the 90's, with the black album and the more radio friendly sound
WatchMojo.com that's not fair. although I love every single Metallica album, the 80's had their best. dam. you couldn't even put them in the honorable mention in this one.
That list of honourable mentions set is a top 10 list in itself.
Duran Duran, The Police, Lionel Ritchie, Tina Turner, ACDC
duran is only honourable?
@@_Talik I know right!!!
Those bands you listed were spill overs from the 70s. They didn't define the 80s. ( Except for Duran Duran)✌
Can't believe they left out Phil Collins. His pairing with Miami Vice made him a music icon apart from Genesis.
@@alaskau9175yes Collins was everywhere in the 80's.
Top 10 decade defining musical acts not in this top 10:
1. Genesis members (Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel & Mike [+ the Mechanics] Rutherford)
2. Beastie Boys
3. Public Enemy
4. The Ramones
5. The Pixies
6. The Cure
7. R.E.M.
8. The Smiths
9. Metallica
10. Pet Shop Boys
The ramones were in ther list for the 70s
Foreigner was better than all of these chums
All of there lists are a joke all of them no exceptions.
You missed Modern Talking on the list
Bryan Adams
The 80s had such an explosion of music that they really should have done one list for Top 10 New Wave/ Synth/ Pop and then a Top 10 for 80s Hard Rock/ Metal and Top 10 for Hip Hop/Rap.
Overall this was a solid list. What an AWESOME freakn' decade for music!!!!
They did do list for Hip Hop and different types of Rock
RckerMom87 Oh really? Just for the 80s or overall?
They can't. They're American.
Thought Phil Collins (Genesis) should have been in this list. If not in the Top 10 (because there were so many greats!) at least put him in the Honorable Mentions.
DisneyEndings Oh man, for SURE! And I HATED Phil Collins in the 80's except for the Face Value album. Yet I STILL think he should be on this list.
Heck they barely mention The Police- when it was really Sting's solo decade.
Yeah, Phil Collins sold so many records and had so many hits in the 80s.
I like some of his stuff, but not a huge fan, and even I would say he's comfortably a top 5 "defining" artists of that era. Couldn't escape his music in the 80s 🤣
@@shawnuelwhat is wrong with you all Phil Collins was and still is great.
@@LovelyPicturesqueLake-jj1ee I guess what is wrong with me is that I have different musical taste than you do.
Michael Jackson
Rhys Watson was thinking the same thing
Hell Yes!
I'm with you.
How much more LOVE should we have shown Michael so that he's stop disfiguring himself after thriller? I think his inclusion here (best selling of all time and the downfall) is a cautionary tale...
@TheNewyorkdragon but Bon fucking Jovi does? 🤣
If there is no The Smiths or The Cure in this list I will cry in a corner, now I'll start the video
+joseangel125 unfortunately they are not on the list :(( they just put u2 from the alternative bands. Like really??? people also listened to alternative music in the 80s not just pop and hard rock. They didn't even bother to put metallica which is one of the most popular heavy metal bands ever! I'm saying that even though i don't even listen to metallica, this list sucks
I like Duran Duran but the smiths or the cure could have took that place
I know!! The Smiths should have been #1
Tru
Liliana Smith Robert Smith should have been on N1
Hall and Oates wouldn't crack the top ten, I know, but not even an honorable mention?
Who else knew michael would top the list?
I forgot about Michael but he earned it.
Yeah I think everyone who knows about Michael in the eighties would have expected it, I know I did
Who else would?
Alex Morgan duhhhh
Of course. He IS the man on the 80s, no doubt.
The 80s was know for the British invasion of music this looks like America's top 10
The 60's were known as the British Invasion decade...Beatles, Dave Clark V, Kinks, Stones, Zombies, Animals, Herman's Hermits, Cream, Hollies, Yardbirds, Van Morrison, The Who, Peter and Gordon, Chad and Jeremy, Gerry and the Pacemakers, The Troggs, Donovan, Petula Clark, Lulu and so many others.
@@susieq9801 yes i know the 60s were and then the 80s as the 70s was mainly American stuff
@@susieq9801 and the 80s was known as the second British invasion. Only one British band on this list*.
Duran Duran, Phil Collins, The Police, Genesis, Depeche Mode, The Smiths, The Cure (plus so many more) were better than, and outsold, acts like Run DMC, who did make it onto this list.
*Deff Leppard - who are considered a joke in England. Awful band.
@@jamesmason8436 - I know. I'm 70 and was around for both eras. Saw many of the bands live, The Beatles, Stones, DCV, Animals, Kinks and others and from the later crop saw Elton John, Phil Collins, ELO, Police and others. I wouldn't pay to see anyone around now. All the best.
@@susieq9801 Wow. I'm 20 and comments like yours just make me so nostalgic for times I wasn't even around to experience. 'Wish I had.
Phil Collins deserves to be in the top 5 or more likely top 3. If you merely count how many hits he had as a solo artist and how many were movie hits that were played everywhere, he is in. How many times did you hear his voice on the radio EVERY year of the 80s and every day often times 2 songs on the charts at once? He was quite ubiquitous. PLUS the Genesis songs. Also, In the Ar Tonight was on the radio the entire 80s and on TV w/ Miami Vice. He had about the same amount of big hits as Jackson. Include both The Jacksons and Genesis hits in the 80s, and Phil comes out ahead. Count the 1979 album Off the Wall, Jackson is just slightly ahead. He also played both Live Aid shows in London and Philly.
The Smiths, The Cure, Depeche Mode, Pixies... hmm... I must have dreamed their critical and commercial acclaim...
Some of my most favorite bands for sure (have all The Cure albums), but they weren't actually mainstream.
um.... never heard of them. Sorry!!
They just went for most popular- David Bowie didn't even get an honorable mention. Tom Petty was mysteriously absent as well as George Michael.
Agree agree agree!!!
@@deborahhanna6640 see... three more great ones!.
.they shudda done 10 from each genre/subgenre....SO MUCH MORE THAN THAT went on in the 80!s!
Next video: Top 10 excuses why WatchMojo didn't include Bowie on this list.
I would say 70s as much appropriate for Bowie.
Wouldn't Bowie be more 70s than 80s?
He wasn’t on 70s either though. Not even an honorable mention
I want the 80s music back!
I want mikey outta billys pants
Me too!!
Depeche Mode?
And no mention of Motley Crue.
Theyre not mainstream! Its okay they sold alot more records the most of the artist in this candy ass list! And still touring sold out stadium & arena around the globe.
If you don't put Metallica in the 1990's list please don't make any more music based lists
Well, you should be a happy camper now...
They were best in the 80's
neutron564 THANK YOU!!
They were more famous in the 90s but I personally think they were best in the 80s.
that is legit
Metallica? Dio? Maiden? Anthrax? Thrash Metal? Heavy Metal?
This list was covering all genres that were popular in the 1980s; if it was strictly metal bands from that era, they probably would make the cut...
zendaddy621 Dude the 80's was Thrash at its finest.
Even tho i love iron maiden, I don't think it was popular enough to be in this list.
If you didn't notice, their list always suck. Name one list with at least half of them right. The only thing on this list that should be on there AND has the right place, is Michael Jackson.
Jakromha Personal opinions, though. You really can't please everyone. Try making a list of your own and see how far you go.
The single stupidest thing anybody could say about MJ as an artist is that he's "overrated". He didn't get internationally famous all over the world for nothing. He's %100 responsible for his infamously amazing songs being infamously amazing. He sang like a legend, danced like no other, so many of his songs sound unique and timeless, created some of the most influential and exhilarating music videos of all time, wrote most of his songs, and did in fact play instruments unlike what many people say. He deserves his fame and praise. There are reasons why he earns nearly a billion every year, while all he does is lay in his grave. RIP
I'm glad to see Duran Duran on honorable mention, but where's Tears for Fears, Depeche Mode, Aha, Cyndi Lauper?
The 80s was a killer decade filled with great music the spanned almost every genre.
Of course I agree, even when bilie jean started I got involved with the sound of his music, until now Michael is a legend, one of kind
????
Hmmm maybe you should have mentioned that this is America's top 10. In Europe we had very different favorites... Depeche Mode... Erasure... Pet Shop Boys... Duran Duran... OMD... A-Ha... ABC... Ultravox... I guess Synth Pop and New Wave were much more popular here than in the US...
_"maybe you should have mentioned that this is America's top 10. In Europe we had very different favorites"_
Simple Minds, The Cure, Tears For Fears, The Smiths, Genesis, Dire Straits. Also some US acts are obviously missing such as Cyndi Lauper and Diana Ross, certainly Cyndi epitomises the 80s.
A-Ha is my ALL-TIME FAVORITE band! I was sad not to see them on the list but not really surprised. They are still known only as a one-hit wonder here, even with their obvious influence on U2 & Coldplay & so many others. Truly underrated talent.
Only U2 come saving Europe in this video, and some honorable mentions.
Too much metal
Def Leppard is such a great American band.
@@BlunderCity they mentioned Deff and Bon Jovi but not Motley Crue....strange!
Where was George Michael, Cyndi Lauper, Duran Duran, Bryan Adams, Eurythmics and Culture Club?!
Hall and Oates, Phil Collins?
Iron Maiden, Madness, The Jam?
I'm surprised Cyndi Lauper is not on here.
She had like 2 relevant songs. Stills a Madonna wannabe.
OmarSunAndLights Her debut album was released in the same year as Madonna. And she had 5 TOP 5 hits in the 80's with True Colors, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Time After Time, She Bop and All Through The Night. So you're argument is invalid.
OmarSunAndLights i'll take Cyndi Lauper over the overrated madonna anyday. Surprised Tears for Fears ,Motley Crue, and Pat Benatar weren't on the list. I think the 80's needs a top 10 for each genre.
She should of least got honorable mention
dinobot02
80's had a lot of great artist and songs
Since he didn't make it into the 70s or 80s I guess Watchmojo isn't gonna mention David Bowie "sigh" :-\
Yes, the lack of Bowie is surprising. Then again, KISS didn't make the '70s or '80s lists.
I know! I'm so upset! not even an honorable mention! and no Aerosmith either, except in Run DMC's slot, as if Steven Tyler's merely a backup singer. grrr!!
***** It's an outrage! No KISS, AC/DC, or Aerosmith?!? These lists are an abomination.
No the cure, really???
The cure was a total decade defining act, so was Cindi Lauper (or Laupner I forgot lol) and way more!!!
If you lived through the 80's, there was zero doubt about #1 or #2. You could shuffle the bottom 8; make it a top 50; or do 10 videos with the same theme. Madonna and MJ would always come out on top. There may be other artists/groups who were more influential over time, or had more longevity, but no one else defined the 80's better than those two.
Madonna couldn't sing from day one and I believe she slept up to the top of the music industry because there is no other way she could have got there because she definitely couldn't sing. Only thing about her is she could dance and that's all.
Rush?
Journey?
Huey Lewis and the News?
Hall and Oates?
You forgot some.
They had put Rush in the 70's list
thats true journey was one of the biggest acts in the 80s not even in honorable mention? People still sing dont stop believin today
Aaron Mesa Honorable Mention. While I prefer Rush's 70's work a bit more, Most of their biggest songs were in the 80's (Tom Sawyer, Limelight, Freewill, Spirit of Radio). It's not hard to observe, when they show honorable mentions, in most cases, that artist does not show up in the next decade's list (it appears Metallica may be an exception to that).
METALLICA NOT EVEN AN HONORABLE MENTION, that's bullshit if he is on the 90's list. They were formed in the eighties and became popular in the eighties.
Yep. Sad but true.
Horrible music, that is prolly why they didn't make it.
***** if you think they are horrible you need your hearing checked
***** Shut up
Stéphane Pierrejeu BATTERY will ensue
NO david Bowie!!!???? WHAT!
Evelyn Morales 70s
Bryan Adams
Why am I not surprised. King Of Pop
We just have to understand that the 80s had a HUGE explosion of insanely popular artists of all different genres. Everything from the pop music of Michael Jackson and Madonna to the thrash heavy metal of Metallica, Slayer, Iron Maiden, ect. Everything was changing and all types of music was being introduced, popularized, and accepted for a long time to come. Putting all of them into just ten spaces is difficult! And while trying to include all genres! Sorry that was long 😂
Who didn't know Michael would top the list? He freaking dominated the 80s.
I love you WatchMojo
Madonna was the top female
@@nathanieljohnson5908 Female not the top act. No debate between them
@@therock3640 Well it's still nice to give other people credit considering Madonna dominated the 80s too. In fact, several publications named her the artist of the decade of the 80s. Plus, she had more hits. Michael just sold big with his albums.
@@nathanieljohnson5908 Yes more sales tell that people felt his music more. She had more hits because she released more than MJ. Now I remember arguing with you and I gave you the proof video of the sales of thriller and in the end you were like both of them are great so don't argue on it. MJ has been awarded artist of the decade as well as century at AMA's. Give me your source which publication said Madonna is the artist of the decade. I don't trust you at all last time you didn't show a proof and disappeared.
@@therock3640 MTV named Madonna artist of the decade. And you should know that considering Michael got jealous and had to have an award named after him
This list should have been called: Top Ten *Mainstream* Musical Acts of the 80's
I mean, mainstream success is a good eay to judge their relevance in the 80s. Cmon dawg...
@@leetorry But likely not the best. However, it would be hard to develop a defining list in this category without specific parameters.
Duran Duran helped define the 80's music and style.
It's not even the most mainstream. If it were then Phil Collins would be on there. He outsold half the people on this list in the 80s.
It was pretty much what it was about.
the cure? Depeche Mode? The Human League? Iron Maiden???
I'm surprised that Iron Maiden didn't even get an honourable mention! Considering they're one of the most successful Heavy Metal bands of all time, and practically defined the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement in the 80s, they were prety damn influential.
Absofuckenlutely!!!
And AC/DC's Back in Blak is still the second best selling record ever
Dan Mccarthy The Beatles are first followed by the stones and Rush
Who else knew when clicking on this video, MJ was gonna own this? :D
It was too obvious that MJ is #1
I'm a metal head and still to this day love me some Def Leppard!
And Prince was the man! On another level.
If you're shocked that MJ is #1, what planet, no, other universe are you from? It's Michael Jackson! If that was over your head, it's Thriller! Bad?! His first and last name alone is bigger than most artist.
I thought Weird Al was going to top the list.
@@nickname527 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
I'm not shocked because MJ was the most successful artist of the 80s. Of that there is no doubt. But did he define the decade musically for me. No, he didn't. And I don't think I'm alone in this. For me, the British/Irish bands did - Depeche Mode, The Cure, Pet Shop Boys, U2, Duran Duran, Siouxsie & the Banshees etc.
I can take no Ozzy, Iron Maiden, or Metallica but i draw the line when you exclude Queen.
Queen is on the '70's list.
@@CYBERVISIONSdotCom Queen was still kicking butt through the 80s too!
my God! where is Freddy Mercury, Sindy Lauper, David Bowie, Phil Collins? Are you getting crazy?
70s
@Fahad Amin
Cyndi Lauper and Phil Collins are 70s to you? Queen and Bowie were active in the 80s notably Queen with such hits as "Radio Ga Ga", "I Want to Break Free", "Another One Bites the Dust", "Under Pressure" (with David Bowie) as well as film songs such as "Flash" for Flash Gordon and "A Kind of Magic" and "Who Wants to Live Forever" for Highlander. I would say that's a packed decade.
Michael and Madonna are the King and Queen of Pop! The ultimate pop stars who shaped modern music! I love them both forever!!
utubegirl best selling female artist in the world, world's most successful solo touring artist, most successful artist on Billboard charts and the world's richest recording artist...
Andrew Phillips michael Jackson is the single most overrated artist in history. Didn't play single instrument; therefore didn't create any music and wrote less then half his songs. All he did was sing and dance. Wow
Richard Lynch I'd like to see you sing or dance as good??
Richard Lynch Michael was known for composing his music almost entirely in his head. He was praised by his comrades for his ability to replicate an instrument's sound using his voice. Billie Jean, for example, he wrote on his own and composed almost completely in his head.
Richard Lynch Yes Michael Jackson beat boxed a lot of his music and songs like who is it and tabloid junkie are actually made of him beat boxing!!
If you thought anyone other than MJ would be number 1 you deserve to be disappointed and ashamed.
Depeche Mode should've made the list
exactly
honorable mention alongside New Order would be nice...
"See, the thing about Gary Numan right, is he's a pop star but he's also got a pilot's license, imagine that!"
Why isn't Depeche Mode on this list?
Depeche Mode is always left out. They are the most underrated band.
DM iis fine without being on this shit list! They still tour around the globe sold out stadiums and arena!
@@daveskinner25 its weird responding to someone after 2 years.. but in Israel it seems like they're one of the most overrated bands ever. They're so mentioned in pop colture and have a huge fan base.
@@user-pj7bh8mq3t They're not really mentioned that much here in the US. Jusr Can't Get Enough, People Are People, and Enjoy The Silence are the only hits mentioned mostly.
@@daveskinner25 yes it always seemed to me that their popularity in Israel is way bigger than their popularity worldwide
I'm probably saying this because my father was a punk, but surely sex pistols deserved at least an honorable mention
Agree and im not even a punk
Sex Pistols were mainly a 70's act!
Ellthom Mainly? They actually disbanded in '78.
I have one thing to say about Michael Jackson and Madonna: OVERRATED!!!!
How so ?
Madonna: Maybe
Michael Jackson: Hell No!
IceJJfish2511 Let me define the word 'overrated.' The word overrated means that the entertainers get way too much praise which is exactly why Michael Jackson and Madonna fall into that catergory.
It does not mean good; it does not mean bad. So if you wanna give me an education as to why you think otherwise, be my guest.
They deserve all of the praise they get it doesn't matter if you like them or not especially Michael Jackson.
Michael Jackson literally changed the world and there is no way you can deny that.
Madonna set the mold for every female popstar since.
So no I don't need you to teach me anything. Just give credit what credit is due.
IceJJfish2511 I never said I did not like Michael Jackson; I never said I did not like Madonna. I am just sick of all the attention they get. Especially since Michael Jackson is dead.
Where’s Queen? They were a huge band in the 1980’s especially at live aid 1985.
Also I was surprised to see that Talking Heads wasn’t on there list, they were definitely extremely experiment and defined the sound of the 80’s.
Other bands include The Police and Dire Straits which should have been higher.
Michael Jackson deserves number one for sure though.
Rock On!
This should be Top20! Because a lot of deservings artists did not make the list. In my opinion, tears for fears should be included.
I miss the 80's where the music came from the heart rather than the sex appeal. Meaning you were there for the music rather than who performs better nearly naked.
Um madonna?
Tom Noack This comment was funnier than it should've been :')
Tom Noack That was just a bonus. lol
***** i do what i can
metallica better be there in the 90's with the Black Album.
forecast says... LIKELY!
WatchMojo.com Yay Watch Mojo responded with a positve teaser.
fuck Metallica, we all Nirvana will be #1 as they should be!
Boys V.S. Girls 1. I just said better be on the list
2. I love Nirvana
3. Metallica is a really great band that defined a genre and generation.
4. Shut the fuck up
Master of Puppets is better.
The Smiths that is all I have to say.....
I realize their popularity plummeted in the USA in the 80's, but outside of North America nobody could touch Queen's record sales.
Where's depeche mode?????
Depeche Mode should've been in the top five, they totally defined the alternative genre and took the 80s to a whole new level!
Missed a chance to see Depeche Mode in the 80s- still regret it
I'm surprised George Michael didn't get a mention, he was massive in the 80s.
it is true, i loved him with all my heart in that time. But did you note that the vast majority here is American?
True but then he was very popular in the States as well. He had the first album by a solo white artist to hit No.1 on the US R&B charts.
@@denisebranquinho2377 American? What about U2? They aren’t American, they’re irish
@@aqeeftaa6170 I know, U2 I know...
@@denisebranquinho2377 oh ok
This is back when music was great! Nothing like 80’s music! My childhood!
I hope Nirvana isn't number one for the 90's, they're only known for one song. I don't like Tupac, but he should be number one for the next list. And PLEASE leave Eminem off the next list and put him on the 2000's. He bacame popular in the 2000's
We all know Nirvana will be number one anyway. And yes i agree, although they have other hit songs but smells like teen spirit has a pop tune to it.
Nirvana is known for more than just one song
You think Tupac has more songs known to the masses than Nirvana?
Luis Verdugo They are know in mainstream music by one song, and Tupac represents the 90's more than Nirvana.
The whole 'Nevermind' album was a Masterpiece
Even if you don't like Michael Jackson, you do have to say he did completely dominate the 80's.
Why the fuck was Whitney Houston only at number 9?!
Duran Duran defined THE 80'S.
lol
Nope, for me it was U2 and the Cure
Nope, MJ
Since when? Madonna and MJ were clearly the biggest.
they practically cemented any idea that the British can do something decent - englishman here
I do not understand how a 1980s top 10 list cannot include a single new wave act and only 1 alternative band. Now, there were a lot of one-hit wonders in New Wave, but there were plenty of New Wave acts that had hits throughout the entire decade:
Duran Duran (at least they got an honorable mention)
Tears For Fears
R.E.M.
Talking Heads
Oingo Boingo
B-52s
Depeche Mode
Eurythmics
Why was Guns and Roses on the list? they did not become popular until '88; if you had to swap them out with a rock group I would have thought Van Halen deserved mention as they had hits throughout the entire decade as opposed to the last 2 years of the 80s. This was supposed to be acts that had music that defined the decade yet when I think of the 80s and music, I do not think of heavy metal.
No Depeche Mode? Unacceptable!
George Michael didn't even get an honorable mention?
The 80's are my favourite decade of music! Totally agree with number 1!!
WTF?!? No Ozzy, Iron Maiden, Metallica?!?
Ozzy's best era was 60's with Black Sabbath. Maiden was 70's and Metallica 90's.
Carlos Aguilar First Black Sabbath album was released in 1970. But Ozzy's first solo album was in 1980. Iron Maiden first Album was released in 1980. Metallica first album was released in 1983. You sir, are an idiot.
You clearly have a preference for heavy metal. Which is cool, but this is a list about 80's defining acts. I don't think any of those acts defined the 80's at all. They were great acts of the 80s though.
soccerj75 lol then I'm sure you'll hate they made it onto the 90s list
Michael Jackson owned the eighty's I agree with that but yeah I do agree Metallica should have been number two at least. Thrash owned the eighty's for rock/metal. And they were the best for a lot of people. Megadeth are my personal choice though, but if were speaking the most popular then yes Metallica .
Not putting Van Halen here - and mentioning that Def Leppard was chosen in place of them - is pure lunacy.
Van Halen, Def Lepard, Bon Jovi can substitute each other. They were basically the same thing with pussy metal with their tight jeans showing their crotches. It was the fad of the generation. Same shit. Different toilet.
and yet they got more girls going after them than you ever will in your lifetime :P
There’s just so, so, so, so, so, soooooooo many damn good acts of the 80’s. It’s impossible to choose. This must of been super hard to pick.
True the 80s deserved a top 20
The fact that Hall & Oats wasn't even't mentioned is a crying shame.
Explain why Bon Jovi and Def Leppard are on the list but not Van Halen?
TrampolineLemons because that would mean music snobs would have to acknowledge Sammy. (Whom I thought was great)... but Sammy/Vh must be on this list. I can’t drive55, Panama, Jump, hot for teacher, the entire 5150 album, OU812, give to live...so many more. The combo of Van Halen and Sammy were as hot as almost anyone except for maybe MJ how they are not on here is beside me.
80's music for all preferences, great bands, great singers, great moments, great life!
Here's my list.
10: Paula Abdul or Def Leppard.
9: Hall and Oates, or Bruce Springsteen or David Bowie.
8: Journey or Stevie Wonder or Van Halen.
7: Phil Collins or Whitney Houston.
6: Bon Jovi or U2 or George Michael.
5: Janet Jackson or Guns 'n' Roses.
4: Lionel Richie.
3: Prince.
2: Madonna.
1: New Kids on the Block.
JUST KIDDING!!
1, for real, of course: The King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
He's in my top 15, actually.
I know. I actually love Billy Joel. As you know, he's still in my top 15.
Guns?
Oh my god! There's no way I forgot Guns 'n' Roses. How foolish of me to forget Guns 'n' Roses. Those guys are epic! They kick ass!
David Bowie and George Michael in 10 th? Are you getting crazy? they were the BEST in 80's.
The art of The Smiths, The Cure, Depeche Mode, Pixies, Sonic Youth, Ministry, REM, Elvis Costello and Talking Heads defining more the 80s decade then the regular, obvious, poppy songs of Michael Jackson.
Smashing Pumpkins
REM in the 80's as defining band?
really strange.
no new order?
Madonna still thinks its 1980, she still thinks everyone loves her.
Long lived Madonna Madonna forever
Queen in 80s
1 album topped the chart in usa. The game album.
2 albums topped the chart in uk.
2 songs topped the chart in usa. Another one bites the dust and crazy little thing called love.
Under pressure topped the chart in uk.
Radio gaga topped the chart in 19 country.
I want to break free was a big hit.
They have done the soundtrack for the movie highlander.
They made the greatest performance in live aid. 1985.
They have done many concerts with a high number of audiences.
Sometime more than 100 thousand.
Magic tour 1986.
🤔🤔 at least they deserve a honorble mention.
No doubt Queen were the biggest band of the 80s... Compared to them every other band seems like a child's endeavor... The truly soul of music....
I came here to see Michael.