The Go-Go’s are an iconic all-female band from the early 1980s, known for their infectious blend of new wave and pop rock. If you’re a fan of their upbeat tunes and catchy melodies, you’ll love these 19 bands and artists that capture a similar spirit. Check out The Go-Go’s to get a taste of their music.
1. The Bangles
The Bangles are another all-female group that rose to fame in the ’80s with hits like “Walk Like an Egyptian” and “Manic Monday.” Their album Different Light is a must-listen for fans of catchy, melodic pop rock.
2. Blondie
Fronted by the charismatic Debbie Harry, Blondie brought a punk edge to the new wave scene with songs like “Heart of Glass” and “Call Me.” Their album Parallel Lines remains a classic.
3. The Runaways
Known for their raw energy and rebellious spirit, The Runaways, featuring Joan Jett and Lita Ford, delivered hits like “Cherry Bomb.” Their self-titled album is a powerful introduction to their sound.
4. The Pretenders
Led by Chrissie Hynde, The Pretenders fused punk, new wave, and pop with hits like “Brass in Pocket” and “Back on the Chain Gang.” Their debut album, Pretenders, is a staple of the genre.
5. Bananarama
Bananarama’s infectious pop hits like “Cruel Summer” and “Venus” made them a staple of the ’80s music scene. Their album True Confessions is packed with danceable tracks.
6. The B-52’s
Known for their quirky style and fun lyrics, The B-52’s gave us classics like “Rock Lobster” and “Love Shack.” Their self-titled debut album is a great place to start.
7. Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper’s unique voice and colorful persona brought us hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time.” Her album She’s So Unusual is a pop masterpiece.
8. Kim Wilde
With hits like “Kids in America” and “You Keep Me Hangin’ On,” Kim Wilde became a new wave icon. Her album Select features some of her best work.
9. Pat Benatar
Pat Benatar’s powerful voice and rock anthems like “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” and “Love Is a Battlefield” made her a standout artist. Her album Crimes of Passion is essential listening.
10. Joan Jett & The Blackhearts
Joan Jett’s gritty rock sound and hits like “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” and “Bad Reputation” have made her a rock legend. The album I Love Rock ‘n Roll is a must-have.
11. Berlin
Berlin’s synth-driven sound and hits like “Take My Breath Away” and “The Metro” made them new wave favorites. Their album Pleasure Victim is a great introduction.
12. Missing Persons
With songs like “Walking in L.A.” and “Destination Unknown,” Missing Persons brought a unique blend of new wave and synth-pop. Their album Spring Session M is a standout.
13. The Motels
The Motels, fronted by Martha Davis, delivered haunting hits like “Only the Lonely” and “Suddenly Last Summer.” Their album All Four One is a highlight of their discography.
14. The Waitresses
Known for their witty lyrics and catchy tunes like “I Know What Boys Like” and “Christmas Wrapping,” The Waitresses brought a fun twist to new wave. Their album Wasn’t Tomorrow Wonderful? is a gem.
15. Altered Images
Altered Images, fronted by Clare Grogan, delivered bubbly new wave hits like “Happy Birthday” and “I Could Be Happy.” Their album Happy Birthday is a delightful listen.
16. Bow Wow Wow
With their unique blend of punk and new wave, Bow Wow Wow gave us hits like “I Want Candy” and “Do You Wanna Hold Me?” Their album See Jungle! See Jungle! Go Join Your Gang Yeah, City All Over! Go Ape Crazy! is a fun ride.
17. Transvision Vamp
Transvision Vamp, led by Wendy James, brought a rebellious edge to their pop rock sound with hits like “Baby I Don’t Care” and “I Want Your Love.” Their album Velveteen is a standout.
18. Belinda Carlisle
After her time with The Go-Go’s, Belinda Carlisle found solo success with hits like “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” and “Mad About You.” Her album Heaven on Earth is a pop classic.
19. Siouxsie and the Banshees
Siouxsie and the Banshees blended post-punk and new wave with dark, atmospheric tracks like “Spellbound” and “Hong Kong Garden.” Their album Ju Ju is a must-listen for fans of the genre.
