If you’re a fan of synth-pop and The Human League, you’re in for a treat! This genre, characterized by its use of synthesizers and electronic beats, has given rise to numerous iconic bands and artists. Here are 20 bands and artists that you should check out if you love The Human League.
1. Depeche Mode
Depeche Mode is one of the most influential bands in the synth-pop genre. Known for hits like “Enjoy the Silence” and “Personal Jesus,” their albums “Violator” and “Music for the Masses” are must-listens.
2. New Order
Emerging from the ashes of Joy Division, New Order combined post-punk with electronic dance music. Songs like “Blue Monday” and “Bizarre Love Triangle” from albums such as “Power, Corruption & Lies” are classics.
3. Pet Shop Boys
The Pet Shop Boys have been a staple in the synth-pop scene since the ’80s. Their hits “West End Girls” and “It’s a Sin” from albums like “Please” and “Actually” are iconic.
4. Erasure
Erasure, formed by Vince Clarke and Andy Bell, is known for catchy tunes and energetic performances. Songs like “A Little Respect” and “Chains of Love” from the album “The Innocents” are fan favorites.
5. A Flock of Seagulls
With their distinctive sound and look, A Flock of Seagulls made a mark with hits like “I Ran (So Far Away)” and “Space Age Love Song.” Their self-titled debut album remains a classic.
6. Soft Cell
Soft Cell is best known for their hit “Tainted Love,” but their catalog includes other gems like “Say Hello, Wave Goodbye.” Their album “Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret” is a cornerstone of synth-pop.
7. OMD (Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark)
OMD brought a more experimental edge to synth-pop with hits like “Enola Gay” and “If You Leave.” Albums such as “Architecture & Morality” are essential listens.
8. Yazoo (Yaz)
Yazoo, known as Yaz in the U.S., featured Vince Clarke and Alison Moyet. Their hits “Don’t Go” and “Only You” from the album “Upstairs at Eric’s” are timeless.
9. Ultravox
Ultravox combined synth-pop with new wave and rock elements. Songs like “Vienna” and “Dancing with Tears in My Eyes” from albums such as “Vienna” are unforgettable.
10. Heaven 17
Formed by former members of The Human League, Heaven 17 brought us hits like “Temptation” and “Let Me Go.” Their album “Penthouse and Pavement” is a synth-pop masterpiece.
11. ABC
ABC’s polished sound and sophisticated lyrics set them apart. Hits like “The Look of Love” and “Poison Arrow” from the album “The Lexicon of Love” are essential.
12. Visage
Visage was a key player in the New Romantic movement with hits like “Fade to Grey.” Their self-titled debut album is a must-listen for synth-pop fans.
13. Thompson Twins
The Thompson Twins brought us catchy tunes like “Hold Me Now” and “Doctor! Doctor!” from albums such as “Into the Gap.” Their infectious melodies are a hallmark of the genre.
14. Duran Duran
While more rock-oriented, Duran Duran’s use of synthesizers and catchy hooks make them a synth-pop favorite. Hits like “Hungry Like the Wolf” and “Rio” are timeless.
15. Talk Talk
Talk Talk started as a synth-pop band before evolving into a more experimental sound. Early hits like “It’s My Life” and “Such a Shame” are synth-pop classics.
16. Gary Numan
Gary Numan’s pioneering use of synthesizers has influenced countless artists. Hits like “Cars” and “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” from albums like “The Pleasure Principle” are iconic.
17. Alphaville
Alphaville’s “Forever Young” and “Big in Japan” are synth-pop anthems. Their debut album, “Forever Young,” is a staple in any synth-pop collection.
18. Bronski Beat
Bronski Beat’s “Smalltown Boy” and “Why?” are powerful synth-pop tracks. Their debut album, “The Age of Consent,” addresses important social issues through catchy tunes.
19. China Crisis
China Crisis blended synth-pop with a more melodic, introspective style. Hits like “Wishful Thinking” and “Black Man Ray” from albums such as “Flaunt the Imperfection” are noteworthy.
20. Howard Jones
Howard Jones brought a positive, uplifting vibe to synth-pop. Hits like “Things Can Only Get Better” and “What Is Love?” from albums like “Dream Into Action” are uplifting and memorable.
Enjoy exploring these bands and artists that have shaped and enriched the synth-pop genre!