In the 1980s, bands traded guitars for synthesizers, drum machines and sweeping melodies. This innovative sound dominated clubs, radio and MTV. Which synth-pop or new wave band is your absolute favorite? Cast your vote now!
Cast your vote - the ranking shifts live based on the votes.
Depeche Mode
Grew from playful synth-pop into dark stadium pioneers with masterpieces like Violator and mega-hits like Enjoy the Silence.
New Order
Emerged from Joy Division and pioneered the fusion of post-punk and club dance in the monumental classic Blue Monday.
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Tears for Fears
Combined profound psychological themes with grand pop melodies on Songs from the Big Chair and hits like Shout.
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Pet Shop Boys
The most successful British pop duo ever, known for ironic lyrics and masterful synthesizers in West End Girls.
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Duran Duran
Figurehead of the New Romantic movement, topping charts worldwide with stylish music videos and synth rock.
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The Human League
In 1981 they scored the first worldwide synthesizer hit made exclusively with electronic instruments: Don't You Want Me.
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A-ha
The Norwegian synth-pop group conquered the world with the groundbreaking animated video for Take On Me and Morten Harket's vocal range.
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Soft Cell
Their electronic cover of Tainted Love became one of the longest-charting hits in pop history.
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Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD)
Pioneers of minimalist melodies and historical subjects in timeless classics like Enola Gay and Maid of Orleans.
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Eurythmics
Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart combined soulful vocals with cold synthesizers in the indestructible Sweet Dreams.
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