10. Dire Straits
Formed in London in 1977, their 1978 self-titled debut album reached the top ten in the UK and US with their top 4 single “Sultans of Swing.” But the 80s were their heyday, driven by the #1 hit “Money for Nothing.” The group released six albums through 1991, all of which went multiplatinum and have sold over 100 million records.
9. Mötley Crüe
Dismissed by critics, Mötley Crüe first built their reputation on live shows and word-of-mouth. The group has attained as much notoriety offstage as with their music. They first broke into the top 20 with a cover of “Smokin’ in the Boys Room” (#16) in 1985. Their first five albums all went platinum and they’ve sold more than 100 million albums worldwide.
8. Def Leppard
Def Leppard formed in 1976 as part of the new wave of British heavy metal. But during the 80s, largely due to the influence and songwriting of producer Mutt Lange, Def Leppard began kicking out radio-friendly pop rock that turned them into one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Def Leppard have sold more than 100 million records worldwide.
7. Journey
Journey was formed in 1973. But their greatest success came during the 1980s when 9 of their singles finally cracked the top 20. “Open Arms” was their first #1 single. Three others cracked the top ten including “Who’s Crying Now” (#3) and “Don’t Stop Believin'” (#8). Journey released 25 gold and platinum albums, selling over 100 million records globally.
6. Guns N’ Roses
Formed in 1985, Guns N’ Roses injected a return of classic rock sensibilities into the hair metal scene. Their debut album Appetite for Destruction is one of the best-selling albums ever, with over 30 million sold. Guns N’ Roses is one of the best-selling groups in history with over 100 million albums sold. Their 6 studio albums all went platinum.
