Explore our list of essential New Wave albums that defined the 1980s, blending synth-pop, post-punk, and art rock into a genre that captured the spirit of the decade.
A quintessential New Wave album, "Rio" features hits like "Hungry Like the Wolf" and "Save a Prayer." The album is known for its catchy melodies, stylish music videos, and glamorous image.
Fun Fact: The iconic cover art was created by artist Patrick Nagel, whose work became synonymous with 80s pop culture.
Depeche Mode’s debut album, "Speak & Spell," introduced the world to their electronic pop sound. It includes the hit single "Just Can't Get Enough."
Fun Fact: This was the only album to feature founding member Vince Clarke, who left to form Yazoo and later Erasure.
A groundbreaking album that fused rock with African rhythms, "Remain in Light" includes the classic track "Once in a Lifetime." The album is known for its innovative production by Brian Eno.
Fun Fact: The album’s unique sound was influenced by Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat music.
"The Lexicon of Love" is a sophisticated pop album featuring lush orchestration and hits like "Poison Arrow" and "The Look of Love."
Fun Fact: The album was produced by Trevor Horn, who later worked with bands like Frankie Goes to Hollywood and The Pet Shop Boys.
This album includes some of Tears for Fears' biggest hits, such as "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" and "Shout."
Fun Fact: The album's title was inspired by the TV movie "Sybil," where the main character finds comfort in a big chair during therapy sessions.
Featuring the smash hit "Don’t You Want Me," "Dare" was a defining New Wave album, showcasing the band’s synth-pop sound.
Fun Fact: "Don’t You Want Me" was initially considered a filler track and almost didn’t make it onto the album.
While technically released in 1979, "Candy-O" had a huge influence on the 80s New Wave scene with its catchy hooks and sleek production.
Fun Fact: The cover art was illustrated by Playboy artist Alberto Vargas.
Best known for the hit song "True," this album became a staple of 80s pop culture, blending New Wave with blue-eyed soul.
Fun Fact: The title track "True" was inspired by Marvin Gaye, whom the band admired greatly.
Known for its polished production and catchy melodies, "Cupid & Psyche 85" features hits like "Perfect Way" and "Wood Beez (Pray Like Aretha Franklin)."
Fun Fact: The album’s production was influenced by Green Gartside’s love for R&B and funk music.
Culture Club’s debut album includes the hit single "Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?" and helped establish Boy George as a pop icon.
Fun Fact: Boy George’s unique fashion and androgynous look made the band stand out in the early MTV era.