1. Van Halen – Van Halen was without a doubt the best rock band of the 1980’s. With songs like Eruption, Jump, and more, Van Halen became a band that we will all remember for years to come. Eddie Van Halen wasn’t too bad on the guitar either!
2. Metallica – Metallica is still going to be remembered as one of the greatest metal bands of all time. Even today they are still making quality albums, Death Magnetic, and they put on a great show live. Metallica is easily one of the best rock bands of the 1980’s and all time.
3. U2 – From 1976 to today, the world has been blessed with U2 becoming a band. U2 is easily one of the best rock bands of all time, and therefore deserves the number 3 spot on the best rock bands of the 1980’s.
4. AC/DC – Even today AC/DC is coming out with new albums and touring. Because of their attitude, energy, and great live shows, AC/DC will live on as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
5. Iron Maiden – Iron Maiden has joined that upper echelon in 1980’s music. They can consider their selves one of the best. Iron Maiden is a much different band, as they are not a poppy radio band, but they sure can play. Iron Maiden deserves a spot in anyone’s top 10 list for best rock bands, even for all time.
6. Rush – With the technically sound instruments, there is no way that Rush cannot be on this list. They have one of the best drummers ever in Neil Peart, one of the better bassists in Geddy Lee, and a great guitarist in Alex Lifeson. With the unique vocals of Geddy Lee, Rush has become a favorite of all rock lovers.
7. Queen – RIP Freddie Mercury. That is what every rock enthusiast has to say about this band. Queen put on some of the best shows ever, especially at Wembley Stadium. Though their songs were very radio friendly, there is no way that Queen could even be considered to be left out of this list.
8. Def Leppard – Def Leppard was the king of hair metal and glam rock. This band put out probably one of the most well known rock songs ever in Pour Some Sugar on Me. Though they are not one of the most technically sound bands and they are very poppy, their popularity alone gets them on this list.
9. R.E.M. – R.E.M. stands out quite a bit in this list. This band is a much more political and tries to get a message across with their music instead of just making songs that will sell. This in itself allows them to be this great. Because they focus on the meaning of their music, they have catapulted their selves into becoming one of the best rock bands of the 1980’s.
10. Bon Jovi – Bon Jovi has been loved by males and females alike, but mostly the latter. With songs like Livin’ on a Prayer, Wanted Dead or Alive, and You Give Love a Bad Name, Bon Jovi has made quite a name for himself as one of the best rock bands of all time.
