The Top 5 Popular British Bands in the 80s Their Legacy and Impact on Music

If you’re a fan of 80s music, then you know that the decade was dominated by British bands. From pop to punk to new wave, there was no shortage of talented musicians creating innovative sounds. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 5 popular British bands in the 80s, their legacy, and impact on music.

Introduction: The Rise of Popular British Bands in the 80s

The 1980s were marked by an explosion of creativity and experimentation in the music industry. The UK was at the forefront of this musical revolution, with many British bands achieving worldwide success. It became the golden age of synth-pop, post-punk, and new wave. These genres were defined by their distinct sound, dreamy melodies, and catchy tunes.

The Top 5 Popular British Bands in the 80s

Depeche Mode

New Order

The Smiths

Duran Duran

Joy Division

1. Depeche Mode

Depeche Mode is an English electronic band formed in Basildon, Essex, in 1980. The band consisted of Dave Gahan, Martin Gore, Andy Fletcher, and Vince Clarke. They are credited with popularizing electronic music in the 80s and were pioneers of the new wave movement. Some of their most famous songs include “Just Can’t Get Enough,” “Enjoy the Silence,” and “Personal Jesus.”

2. New Order

New Order is an English rock band formed in 1980 by members of the post-punk group Joy Division. The band consisted of Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, Stephen Morris, and Gillian Gilbert. They are known for blending post-punk and electronic music, creating a unique sound that resonated with audiences worldwide. Some of their most popular songs include “Blue Monday,” “Bizarre Love Triangle,” and “True Faith.”

3. The Smiths

The Smiths were an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1982. The band consisted of Morrissey, Johnny Marr, Andy Rourke, and Mike Joyce. They are known for their melancholic lyrics, jangly guitars, and Morrissey’s distinctive voice. Their music was a blend of post-punk and indie rock, and they were one of the most influential bands of the decade. Some of their most famous songs include “This Charming Man,” “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” and “How Soon Is Now?”

4. Duran Duran

Duran Duran is an English new wave band formed in Birmingham in 1978. The band consisted of Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor, and Andy Taylor. They are known for their catchy tunes, glamorous fashion sense, and innovative music videos. Their songs were a blend of pop, rock, and new wave, and they had a massive influence on popular culture in the 80s. Some of their most popular songs include “Girls on Film,” “Rio,” and “Hungry Like the Wolf.”

5. Joy Division

Joy Division was an English post-punk band formed in Salford in 1976. The band consisted of Ian Curtis, Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, and Stephen Morris. They are known for their dark, moody sound and Curtis’s haunting vocals. Their music was a fusion of post-punk and new wave, and they were one of the most innovative bands of the decade. Some of their most famous songs include “Love Will Tear Us Apart,” “Transmission,” and “Atmosphere.”

Examples of Popular British Bands in the 80s

Aside from the top 5, there were many other popular British bands in the 80s. These include:

The Cure

Echo and the Bunnymen

Pet Shop Boys

Tears for Fears

Culture Club

The Police

Each of these bands has left an indelible mark on music history. They were known for their unique sound, innovative lyrics, and captivating performances.

Comparisons of Popular British Bands in the 80s

While each of these bands had a distinct sound and style, they were all part of a larger musical movement. They represented the rebellious spirit of the 80s, challenging the status quo and pushing boundaries. Their music was a response to the political and social climate of the time, reflecting the angst and alienation felt by many young people.

Advices for Fans of Popular British Bands in the 80s

If you’re a fan of 80s music, there are many ways to explore the legacy of popular British bands. Here are a few recommendations:

Attend concerts: Many of these bands are still touring, and attending a live concert is the best way to experience their music and connect with other fans.

Listen to albums: While streaming services are convenient, there’s something special about listening to an entire album from start to finish. It allows you to fully immerse yourself in the band’s world and appreciate the nuances of their sound.

Watch music videos: Music videos were a defining aspect of 80s pop culture. They often featured elaborate sets, costumes, and choreography, making them entertaining to watch even today.

Read books and documentaries: There are many books and documentaries that chronicle the rise and fall of popular British bands in the 80s. These provide valuable insights into the creative process behind their music and the cultural context in which they emerged.

FAQs

Why were British bands so popular in the 80s?

British bands were popular in the 80s because they represented a departure from mainstream American music. They offered a fresh perspective on pop, rock, and new wave, and their music was often more experimental and innovative.

How did British bands in the 80s influence music today?

Many contemporary artists cite popular British bands in the 80s as their inspiration. For example, the synth-pop revival of the early 2010s drew heavily from the sounds of New Order, Depeche Mode, and The Human League.

What made The Smiths so influential?

The Smiths were influential because they combined introspective lyrics with jangly guitars and Morrissey’s distinctive voice. Their music spoke directly to disaffected youth, and their influence can be felt in indie rock, emo, and alternative music today.

Who were some of the lesser-known British bands of the 80s?

There were many lesser-known British bands of the 80s, including The Associates, The Comsat Angels, and The Sound. These bands had smaller followings but were still influential in shaping the sound of the decade.

What is the lasting legacy of popular British bands in the 80s?

The lasting legacy of popular British bands in the 80s is their ability to capture the spirit of the times and offer a unique perspective on the world. They paved the way for future generations of musicians and continue to inspire new artists today.

Conclusion

The 80s was a golden age for British music, with many talented bands creating innovative sounds that continue to resonate today. From Depeche Mode to Joy Division, these bands left an indelible mark on music history and shaped the cultural landscape of the decade. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the genre, there’s never been a better time to explore the legacy of popular British bands in the 80s.