Rockin' Through the '80s: A Journey Through the Top 100 Albums of the Decade
The 1980s music scene was a diverse and vibrant era that went beyond the computerized sounds of MTV. It began with post-punk influences and classic rock acts from the '60s still dominating the charts. As MTV gained popularity, artists like Journey, Styx, and Fleetwood Mac continued to thrive. The mid-'80s saw the rise of Bruce Springsteen, Dire Straits, and Genesis, while rock music evolved into synthpop, alternative rock, and various forms of hard rock and heavy metal.
Bands like Motley Crue and Guns N' Roses emerged with a new sound, building on the success of AC/DC. Meanwhile, established acts like R.E.M., U2, and Kate Bush made significant contributions to the music scene. Hard rock saw exciting developments with bands like Iron Maiden and Metallica, while artists such as Don Henley, Aerosmith, and Paul Simon underwent transformations in their music.
The '80s also saw updates from iconic rock figures like Robert Plant, Van Halen, and Black Sabbath, as well as the emergence of new talents like Hall and Oates. The decade was a melting pot of musical styles and influences, with each artist contributing to the rich tapestry of '80s rock music. Explore the top 100 rock albums of the '80s in our staff-voted countdown for a journey through this dynamic musical era.