80s Rock Bands: The Greatest of All Time

Poison was among the most popular glam metal bands in the 1980s. They were known for their energetic sound and flamboyant style. Their music was a mix of hard rock with elements of catchy pop hooks. Poison’s image and sound epitomize the glam metal era with high-energy performances and catchy, radio-friendly songs.

HIT ALBUMS

“Open Up and Say…Ahh!” (1988)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Talk Dirty to Me” (1987)

Ratt blended elements of hard rock with the glam metal popular in that era. Heavy guitar riffs, anthemic choruses, and flawless production characterize their sound. Ratt’s songs explore themes of romance, rebellion, and the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. Ratt’s impact on glam metal was significant; their catchy songs and stage presence helped them solidify their place among the best 80s American rock bands.

HIT ALBUMS

“Out Of The Cellar” (1984)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Round and Round” (1984)

Queensrÿche is a progressive metal band known for its complex compositions, good lyrics, and lead singer Geoff Tate’s distinctive vocal style. The band gained popularity among hard rock fans in the 1980s and later in the 1990s. With “Operation: Mindcrime,” Queensrÿche “tested the waters” for a metal/rock opera. It showcased the band’s ability to mix narrative and music.

HIT ALBUMS

“Operation: Mindcrime” (1988)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Eyes of a Stranger “(1988)

Cinderella was a hard rock glam metal band formed in the 80s. In the beginning, Cindarella’s sound featured glam metal elements, but later, it shifted toward hard and blues rock. Cinderella’s music featured catchy choruses, fantastic guitar solos, and almost flawless production.

HIT ALBUMS

“Long Cold Winter” (1988)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Gypsy Road” (1988)

The sound of Styx is a fusion of progressive, hard, and pop rock. The band was known for complex musical compositions, powerful vocal harmonies, and theatrical performances. Their music often features a combination of heavy guitar riffs and keyboard solos, creating a superb and melodic sound.

HIT ALBUMS

“Paradise Theatre” (1981)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Too Much Time On My Hands” (1981)
“Mr. Roboto” (1983)

Formed in 1979 in San Francisco, Huey Lewis and the News quickly became famous for their distinct blend of rock, pop, and blue-eyed soul. They achieved significant popularity in the 1980s with a series of hits characterized by catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and brass instruments. Huey Lewis and the News’ music is marked by its radio-friendly appeal, often featuring tight, punchy arrangements and infectious hooks.

HIT ALBUMS

“Sports” (1983)

NOTABLE SONGS

“The Heart Of Rock And Roll” (1983)

Sonic Youth is a pivotal band in the alternative rock scene. They are known for experimenting with different guitar tunings, using feedback, and playing techniques. Their sound is a strong mix of dissonance and melody, combining elements of punk rock, noise rock, and avant-garde music. Sonic Youth’s music often features extended instrumental passages, unusual tunings, and a heavy use of feedback and distortion, creating a dense, layered sound.

Sonic Youth inspired countless bands in the alternative, indie, and noise rock scenes.

HIT ALBUMS

“Daydream Nation” (1988)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Teen Age Riot” (1988)

Depeche Mode came into the limelight as a synth-pop, new wave, and alternative rock band. Their dark lyrics and experimental use of electronic sounds made them recognizable. Initially, the band was influenced by the early electronic music scene. After Vince Clarke’s departure and Martin Gore’s subsequent involvement as the primary songwriter, their music evolved into a more mature and complex style.

Depeche Mode’s influence extends across multiple music genres. They impacted the development of electronic music as well as alternative rock.

HIT ALBUMS

“Music for the Masses” (1987)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Enjoy the Silence” (1989)

Pat Benatar, an American rock singer, became popular in the late 1970s and 1980s with a distinctive sound characterized by powerful vocals, a blend of rock and pop, and a rebellious persona. Her music often features driving guitar riffs, energetic rhythms, and anthemic choruses, drawing influences from hard rock, new wave, and pop rock. Her biggest hit song, “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” is one of the most popular and easily recognizable rock anthems.

Pat Benatar is an iconic figure in rock music, celebrated for her contributions and enduring hits that continue to be beloved by audiences of classic rock worldwide.

HIT ALBUMS

“Crimes Of Passion” (1980)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Hit Me With Your Best Shot” (1980)

Journey’s glory days from the 1970s continued into the 1980s. Known for their arena rock and melodic pop style, the band’s sound fit right into the era. Steve Perry’s powerful voice remained a synonym for the band’s identity. Dynamic guitar solos and keyboards created a rich sound layer supporting Perry’s voice.

Journey’s ability to craft memorable melodies and their energetic live performances contributed to their lasting popularity. With over 65.2 million sales, they are one of the best-selling bands of all time. Journey music continues to influence generations of rock enthusiasts, cementing their legacy as pioneers of melodic rock.

HIT ALBUMS

“Escape” (1981)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Don’t Stop Believin’” (1981)

Fronted by Morrisey, The Smiths were one of the most influential bands in the 80s alternative rock scene. Morrisey’s vocals and Johnny Marr’s guitars characterized the band’s sound. This band was an exciting mix of guitarists influenced by 1960s pop and rock, with Morrisey’s vocals delivering an almost dramatic performance.

HIT ALBUMS

“The Queen Is Dead” (1984)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Panic” (1986)
“There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” (1986)

Toto is a rock band formed in Los Angeles in the late 1970s. Their sound combines rock, pop, jazz, R&B, and progressive rock. All of the band’s members are highly skilled musicians who contribute to a polished sound with intricate instrumental work.

HIT ALBUMS

“Toto IV” (1982)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Hold the Line” (1979)
“Africa” (1982)

Formed in the 70s, Talking Heads are a new wave pioneers. The band emerged from the punk scene and quickly distinguished themselves with an avant-garde approach. Talking Heads’ music featured unconventional song structures, layered rhythms, and a distinctive fusion of rock and dance elements.

HIT ALBUMS

“Speaking In Tongues” (1982)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Once in a Lifetime” (1981)

INXS is an Australian rock band formed in the late 1970s. It is known for its sound, which is almost more pop than rock, a unique blend of rock, new wave, and funk. Their music often has a danceable groove, especially in songs like “Need You Tonight” and “New Sensation.” The new wave-influenced INXS’s early work, but in the later 1980s, the band incorporated more rock elements into its music.

HIT ALBUMS

“Kick” (1987)

NOTABLE SONGS

“New Sensation” (1987)

The Pretenders formed in the late 1970s. Vocalist Chrissie Hynde led them. The band’s sound was characterized by rock energy, pop sensibility, and a bit of new wave. Over the years, the lineup changed numerous times, but Chrissie Hynde was always there, ensuring the sound was instantly recognizable.

HIT ALBUMS

“Learning to Crawl” (1984)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Back on the Chain Gang” (1984)

The Cars were known for their sound, a new blend of rock and synthesizer-driven pop. Catchy melodies and crisp production characterized their music. The band started late in the 1970s, and in the 1980s, they achieved significant success with albums like Heartbeat City. “Drive” was The Cars’ biggest international hit.

HIT ALBUMS

“Heartbeat City” (1984)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Drive” (1984)

Billy Idol started his music career in the 70s as a leader of the punk band Generation X, but his real glory days began with his solo career. His music is characterized by its rebellious spirit, catchy hooks, and somewhat commercial punk rock. Billy Idol’s sound is easily recognizable by his snarling vocals and anthemic choruses.

HIT ALBUMS

“Rebel Yell” (1983)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Rebel Yell” (1983)

In the late 70s, the all-female rock band The Runaways disbanded. By then, Joan Jett, who played rhythm guitar and contributed vocals, already gained recognition for her songwriting and stage. So, it was no surprise that Joan Jett formed another band almost immediately. Joan Jett & The Blackhearts were known for their raw and energetic sound. “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” instantly became a rock anthem of the early 1980s.

HIT ALBUMS

“Glorious Results Of A Misspent Youth” (1984)

NOTABLE SONGS

“I Love Rock ’n’ Roll” (1981)

German rock band Scorpions started in the 1960s as a psychedelic rock band, but they polished their style through the 1960s and 1970s. By the 1980s, their sound blended hard rock and metal when they achieved the most significant commercial success with albums like “Blackout” and “Love at First Sting.”

HIT ALBUMS

“Blackout” (1982)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Rock You Like a Hurricane” (1984)

Formed in the 1970s, Aerosmith kept their music relevant in the 1980s as well. They experimented more and had some great collaborations that influenced the band’s legacy as one of the best classic rock bands in the 1980s and the 1970s.

HIT ALBUMS

“Pump” (1989)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Love in the Elevator” (1989)

ZZ Top is a unique mix of blues, rock, and boogie. Gritty guitar riffs characterize this Texas band’s sound. Founded in the 1970s, they continued working and had even more considerable commercial success in the 1980s. ZZ Top is one of those bands that could easily be on the list of the best rock bands of the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

HIT ALBUMS

“Eliminator” (1983)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Gimme All Your Lovin” (1983)
“Sharp Dressed Man” (1983)

Led by frontman Jon Bon Jovi, the band’s music blends elements of hard rock, glam metal, and pop. The band was known for its arena-rock style, which became hugely popular in the 1980s and 1990s. They are known for their power ballads and memorable choruses, which often feature themes of love and perseverance.

HIT ALBUMS

“Slippery When Wet” (1986)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Wanted Dead or Alive” (1986)

With their unique blend of rock, punk, reggae, new wave, and Sting’s vocals, it is no wonder The Police were an 80s powerhouse. Their early hits, like “Roxanne,” “Message in a Bottle,” and “Don’t Stand So Close to Me,” exemplify their knack for catchy melodies. The Police had a relatively short run together but left a mark on music history.

HIT ALBUMS

“Synchronicity” (1983)

NOTABLE SONGS

Every Breath You Take” (1983)

Slayer is one of the pioneers of thrash metal. They are known for their intense and aggressive sound, fast tempos, powerful guitars, and often controversial themes. Slayer’s style is marked by rapid guitar solos, heavy distortion, and relentless drumming, creating an intense sonic experience. Their albums “Reign in Blood” (1986) and “South of Heaven” (1988) are considered classics among metal fans.

HIT ALBUMS

“Reign in Blood” (1986)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Raining Blood” (1986)

Following his departure from Deep Purple, David Coverdale formed Whitesnake. He brought some Purple sound into the new band, blending hard rock, blues, and glam metal. Whitesnake started as a blues rock band but later incorporated more commercially viable glam metal. Whitesnake has seen numerous lineup changes, with Coverdale remaining the consistent driving force behind the band’s success.

HINT: We recommend checking out the Denim and Leather podcast episode with Joel Hoekstra (released on April 01, 2024), the guitarist of Whitesnake.

HIT ALBUMS

“Whitesnake” (1987)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Here I Go Again” (1982)

Quiet Riot is one of the defining bands in the 1980s glam metal scene. Their breakthrough came with their 1983 album “Metal Health”. The band’s sound is characterized by its energetic and theatrical style, blending heavy metal with glam rock elements. Their music features powerful guitar riffs and choruses. Quiet Riot’s success in the early 1980s paved the way for other glam metal bands.

HIT ALBUMS

“Metal Health” (1983)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Cum On Feel The Noize” (1983)

Throughout their career, U2’s music has been marked by a commitment to social and political causes. Their songs often reflect themes of love, faith, and activism. Their sound is a characteristic mix of rock, post-punk, and alternative rock elements. Anthems like “With or Without You” and “Where the Streets Have No Name” helped U2 reach iconic status among 80s rock bands.

HIT ALBUMS

“The Joshua Tree” (1987)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Where the Streets Have No Name” (1987)
“I Will Follow” (1980)

Blondie’s sound was a bland amalgam of many influences. The band incorporated new wave, punk, disco, and pop elements into its music. They are best known for their lead singer, charismatic Debbie Harry, and incorporating disco rhythms with rock and punk sounds.

HIT ALBUMS

“Autoamerican” (1980)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Call Me” (1980)

The Cult’s sound in the 1980s evolved from post-punk roots to a powerful blend of hard and gothic rock. They shifted to a more hard rock and metal style in the middle of the decade. “She Sells Sanctuary” is a defining track of their sound.

HIT ALBUMS

“Electric” (1987)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Wild Flower” (1987)
“She Sells Sanctuary” (1985)

Duran Duran is one of the 80s bands that helped music switch to another direction. Their sound is characterized by a blend of new wave, synth-pop, and dance-rock, making them one of the most iconic bands of that decade. Duran Duran’s innovative use of technology and keen pop craftsmanship secured their place as pioneers of the 80s music scene, influencing countless artists and maintaining a lasting legacy.

HIT ALBUMS

“Duran Duran” (1981)

“Rio” (1982)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Girls on Film” (1981)

“Rio” (1982)

“Save a Prayer” (1982)

“Hungry Like the Wolf” (1982)

“Wild Boys” (1984)

“Reflex” (1984)

R.E.M.’s early sound is often described as a blend of jangly guitars, cryptic lyrics, and a distinctively melancholic tone, defining the beginning of the era of alternative rock. Their early albums, like “Murmur” (1983) and “Reckoning” (1984), features a raw, indie aesthetic with Peter Buck’s ringing guitar riffs and Michael Stipe’s murky vocal delivery. Later, they adopted a more polished production and changed to political topics in the lyrics. Before the 80s ended, R. E. M. had added pop and folk elements to their music, and the band achieved significant commercial success.

HIT ALBUMS

“Document “ (1987)

NOTABLE SONGS

“The One I Love” (1987)

Kiss grew in the 1980s, evolving their early sound to a more polished, easier-to-listen, radio-friendly sound. In the mid-80s, they opted for heavier and more aligned with the glam metal sound. This shift was epitomized by albums such as “Creatures of the Night” (1982), which returned to a more complex rock sound. “Lick It Up” was notable for being their first album without makeup.

Unfortunately, Kiss’s best days were already behind them in the 1980s; most of the band’s albums and songs were released in the 1970s.

HIT ALBUMS

“Creatures of the Night” (1982)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Creatures of the Night” (1982)

Mötley Crüe’s sound was a distinctive blend of glam metal and hard rock, characterized by raw, aggressive energy and hedonistic lyrics. The band combined heavy guitar riffs, powerful drums, and vocals, often featuring anthemic choruses. Like most 80s bands influenced by glam rock, Mötley Crüe’s image was wild hair and flamboyant outfits. The band’s live performances had elaborate stage setups and pyrotechnics.

HIT ALBUMS

“Shout at the Devil” (1983)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Shout at the Devil” (1983)

In the 1980s, Judas Priest solidified its status as one of the best metal bands. They refined and solidified their sound, characterized by powerful guitar riffs, dual lead guitars, and Rob Halford’s incredible vocals. Albums like “British Steel” (1980), “Screaming for Vengeance” (1982), and “Defenders of the Faith” (1984) showed their ability to blend melody with aggression, producing great rock anthems like “Breaking the Law” and “Living After Midnight.”

HIT ALBUMS

“British Steel” (1980)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Living After Midnight” (1980)

The Cure’s sound is a characteristic mix of post-punk, gothic rock, and new wave. Vocal Robert Smith leads the band. Early albums were minimalistic, marked by Smith’s melancholic singing and lyrics. The 1982 release “Pornography” intensified this dark aesthetic with dense, layered instrumentation and amazing lyrics and vocals.

The band’s 1989 album “Disintegration” is a perfect example of The Cure’s music sound of the ’80s. It balances rich, atmospheric sound with introspective lyrics, creating a timeless gothic rock masterpiece.

HIT ALBUMS

“Disintegration” (1989)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Lullaby” (1989)
“Just Like Heaven” (1987)

The Clash’s sound evolved in the 80s. They changed from punk roots to a broader array of musical sounds. Their first album in the 80s, “Sandinista!,” is a triple LP with reggae, dub, funk, and rockabilly features. Sadly, different artistic visions led to a split within the band, resulting in a lineup change and a subsequent decline in their success.

HIT ALBUMS

“Combat Rock” (1982)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Should I Stay or Should I Go” (1982)

In 1979, Black Sabbath had enough of “Prince of Darkness” substance abuse and reliability issues, and Ozzy was kicked out. Soon after, he formed a solo band known as Blizzard of Ozz. His debut solo album is a masterpiece of neo-classical metal and one of the cornerstones of ’80s metal guitar. Sound is marked by powerful, riff-driven guitar work and even more by Ozzy’s distinctive vocals.

HIT ALBUMS

“Blizzard of Ozz” (1980)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Crazy Train” (1980)

Def Leppard was known for its hard rock, glam metal, heavy metal, and radio rock mix. Like most radio rock bands in the 1980s, its music incorporates anthemic choruses and dynamic production. Def Leppard’s sound evolved, incorporating pop rock and electronic music elements but always maintaining a solid rock foundation.

Def Leppard took a lengthy pause when drummer Rick Allen lost his arm. Instead of replacing him, they let him recover and found a way to use a drum kit; soon, they released their best album, “Hysteria.”

HINT: Def Leppard is still touring in 2024

HIT ALBUMS

“Hysteria” (1987)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Pour Some Sugar On Me” (1987)

Guns N’ Roses’ sound combines hard rock, glam rock, and heavy metal. Their music is characterized by Slash’s gritty guitar riffs and solos and Axl Rose’s vocals. Later in their career, the band experimented with blues and country elements, but in the 80s, Guns N’ Roses were grounded in hard rock. The band’s debut album, “Appetite for Destruction,” is considered one of the best rock albums ever.

HIT ALBUMS

“Appetite for Destruction” (1987)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Sweet Child O’ Mine” (1987)
“Welcome to the Jungle” (1987)

The evergreen Rolling Stones started in the 60s and succeeded wildly in the 80s. The band didn’t change its original sound a lot. Keith Richards’ raw and bluesy guitar style, the TOP 10 rock singer Mick Jagger‘s dynamic vocals, and sometimes harmonica playing defined their signature blues rock sound. While most of The Rolling Stones’ significant songs were published in the ’60s and ’70s, the band’s bag of hits was profound also in the ’80s, when they released rock hits like “Waiting on a Friend,” “Start Me Up,” “Rock and a Hard Place,” and many more.

HINT: Check out their album “Hackney Diamonds,” released in 2023.

HIT ALBUMS

“Tattoo You” (1981)

NOTABLE SONGS

“Start Me Up” (1981)
“Rock And A Hard Place” (1989)

After Dave Mustain left Metallica, he formed the Megadeth, and almost immediately, fans started comparing who was better, Megadeth or Metallica. Megadeth quickly became known for its rugged and raw sound and complex guitar work. Their early albums like “Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?” and “Rust in Peace” are celebrated for their speed and intensity, featuring Mustaine’s signature snarling vocals and sharp, politically charged lyrics.

HIT ALBUMS

“Peace Sells…But Who’s Buying?” (1986) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

“Peace Sells” (1986)
“Wake Up Dead” (1986)

Formed in the late 70s by Mark Knopfler, John Illsley, David Knopfler, and Pick Withers, Dire Straits reached full stardom in the 80s. The band is known for its clean guitar sound but even more for Mark Knopfler’s distinctive guitar playing. Dire Straits’ music combines rock and blues with jazz influence. Their sound is among the most sophisticated for classic rock bands in the 80s. Songs like “Sultans of Swing” and “Brothers in Arms” exemplify the band’s focus on music and storytelling much more than flashy production and elaborate stages.

HIT ALBUMS

“Brothers in Arms” (1985) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

“Walk of Life” (1985)
“Brothers in Arms” (1985)

The 80s rock bands’ albums and songs would not have been the same without Twisted Sister. The iconic 80s rock band wrote some of the most easily recognizable songs. With a sound that was a mix of heavy metal and glam rock, Twisted Sister fit right into 80s bands. Their music often features rebellious lyrics and catchy melodies. Songs like “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and “I Wanna Rock” became instant rock anthems.

HINT: Check out the Denim and Leather podcast episode with Jay Jay French (released on June 12, 2024), the founder and guitarist of Twisted Sister.

HIT ALBUMS

“Stay Hungry” (1984) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

“We’re Not Gonna Take it” (1984)

Raw energy and powerful delivery make AC/DC one of the best hard rock bands of the 1980s. The band didn’t experiment much with the sound; their hard rock and blues blend remained the same from the first album to the last. Angus and Malcolm Young’s powerful guitar riffs and solos made the band’s guitar lines one of the easiest to recognize in 80s rock.

AC/DC’s music is known for its simplicity and repetition, contributing to its catchiness. Songs like “Back in Black” and “Hell’s Bells” show that sometimes, less is more in rock.

HIT ALBUMS

“Back in Black” (1980) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

“Back in Black” (1980)
“Hell’s Bells” (1980)

Queen started as a hard rock and glam rock band, quickly expanding their style to include progressive rock, heavy metal, opera, and even disco. Their music is elaborate, and their performances are theatrical. With Freddie Mercury’s heavenly voice and Brian May’s guitar mastery, it is no wonder the band’s popularity spans so many decades.

The band is known for its music, which ranges from the pop sound of “Radio Ga Ga” to the heavier “Stone Cold Crazy.” Queen is a true musical chameleon of 80s rock.

HIT ALBUMS

“The Game” (1980) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

“Who Wants to Live Forever” (1986)
“Another One Bites the Dust” (1980)

Motörhead’s raw and high-energy sound was a fantastic blend of hard rock, heavy metal, and punk. This bend, formed by Lemmy Kilmister, was known for fast-paced music. What made their songs easily recognizable was Lemmy’s vocals and gritty bass. Lemmy was ever-present in the band, and the rest of the lineup differed in stages.

Motörhead is one of the best 80s hard rock bands, and Lemmy is among the most iconic faces of rock music.

HIT ALBUMS

“Ace Of Spades” (1980) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

“Ace Of Spades” (1980)

Eddie Van Halen’s mastery of the guitar and David Lee Roth’s stage presence were Van Halen’s biggest influences. They peaked as one of the best 80s rock bands with the album “1984”. Sammy Hagar replaced Roth after he left the band in 1985; with him as vocal, they released hits like “Why Can’t This Be Love” and “Right Now.” This was known as a “Van Hagar” era of Van Halen.

HIT ALBUMS

“1984” (1984) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

“Jump” (1984)

Metallica is one of the legends of the thrash metal scene. The band was formed in the early 80s by drummer Lars Ulrich and frontman James Hetfield, and in a few years, it became one of the dominant bands. Part of Metallica was the tragically deceased bass player Cliff Burton and Dave Mustaine from Megadeth, who Kirk Hammett later replaced. The band is known for fast tempos and excellent guitar riffs and solos. “Master of Puppets” (1986) is one of the most influential thrash metal albums; the band’s popularity peaked with the release of the 1991 album “The Black Album.”

Their enduring success and impact on heavy metal music in the 80s make them one of the most iconic bands in rock history.

HIT ALBUMS

“Master of Puppets” (1986) 🛒
“And Justice for All” (1988) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

“One” (1988)
“Master of Puppets” (1986)
“Fade to Black” (1984)
“Welcome Home (Sanitarium)” (1986)

If the 70s were great for Black Sabbath, the 80s were even better. In the 70s, they started pioneering metal music; in the 80s, the metal revolution was ongoing, and Sabbath was leading it. The band’s original lineup was Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass), Bill Ward (drums), and the one and only Ozzy Osborn as vocalist.

Black Sabbath had already become a legendary rock band in the 1970s, and they confirmed this status in the 1980s. Black Sabbath fired vocalist Ozzy Osbourne in 1979, but he started a successful solo career with Blizzard of Ozz. Ronnie James Dio replaced him. Even legendary Deep Purple singer Ian Gillan joined Black Sabbath for 1983 “Born Again.”

Black Sabbath’s legacy started as one of the best rock bands of the 70s and 80s and is still one of the most influential rock bands.

HIT ALBUMS

“Heaven and Hell” (1980) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

“Paranoid” (1970) – still among the most popular songs in the 80s

The British heavy metal band Iron Maiden delivers excellent guitar riffs and solos, fantastic bass, and powerful Bruce Dickinson‘s vocals. Steve Harris, bassist and songwriter, formed the band in 1975. Their storytelling and historical lyrics characterize their songs. The band mascot, Eddie, is present on concert stages and on the band’s album covers.

The band’s lineup has changed over the years, but Harris, guitarist Dave Murray, and drummer Nicko McBrain have remained constants. In 1981, Dickinson joined the band and added his wide vocal range and energetic stage presence to the already impressive Iron Maiden skillset.

Iron Maiden became recognizable as one of the best rock and heavy metal bands of the 1980s with the release of several significant albums, including “The Number of the Beast and Powerslave.”

With over 100 million records sold, Iron Maiden remains one of the most popular and influential heavy metal bands. The band is still releasing and touring today. In 2021, they released their seventeenth studio album, Senjutsu. Iron Maiden is still touring in 2024.

HIT ALBUMS

The Number of The Beast (1982) 🛒

NOTABLE SONGS

Hallowed Be Thy Name (1982)
The Trooper (1983)
Powerslave (1984)
Run to the Hills” (1982)