7 Iconic ’80s Bands And What They Look Like Now
Remember when MTV actually played music videos and big hair ruled the airwaves?
The 1980s gave us some of the greatest rock bands in history, and many of them are still rocking today. Let’s take a look at how time has treated these legendary musicians who defined a generation.
1. Duran Duran
Simon Le Bon and the boys still know how to dress sharp and perform with style. While the makeup might be lighter and the hair a bit shorter, the band continues touring worldwide with that signature new wave sound.
Nick Rhodes keeps experimenting with keyboard sounds while John Taylor’s bass lines remain as funky as ever. At over 60 years old, they prove that age is just a number when you’ve got talent and passion for music that never fades away.
2. Bon Jovi
Jon’s famous locks might be shorter now, but his voice still brings crowds to life. The band has weathered lineup changes over the decades, yet they keep delivering arena rock anthems that fill stadiums around the globe.
Richie Sambora may have left, but guitarist Phil X stepped in seamlessly. Whether belting out old classics or new material, the group shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon, proving rock never dies.
3. U2
Bono’s iconic sunglasses remain a constant, though a few gray hairs have crept in beneath The Edge’s signature beanie. The Irish rockers continue selling out massive venues and speaking out on social issues that matter to them deeply.
Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen Jr. keep the rhythm section tight as ever. With decades of experience under their belts, they’ve mastered the art of evolving while staying true to what made them legends.
4. Def Leppard
Joe Elliott’s vocals remain powerful despite the passing years, and the band’s energy onstage is absolutely infectious. Rick Allen continues to inspire everyone by drumming with just one arm, proving that nothing can stop true determination and love of music.
Phil Collen looks incredibly fit and youthful, often showing off his guitar skills shirtless. Together, they keep delivering hard rock hits that make fans feel like teenagers again, no matter their actual age.
5. Depeche Mode
Dave Gahan’s leather jacket collection has only grown more impressive with age, and his stage presence remains absolutely magnetic. Martin Gore continues crafting those dark, moody synth melodies that defined an entire genre of electronic music.
Although Andy Fletcher sadly passed away in 2022, the remaining members honor his memory through continued performances. Their music still resonates with both longtime fans and younger generations discovering their catalog.
6. Metallica
James Hetfield’s beard has gone gray, but his riffs remain absolutely crushing and powerful. Lars Ulrich’s drumming drives the band forward with relentless energy, while Kirk Hammett’s solos continue melting faces across the world with incredible precision and skill.
Robert Trujillo joined in 2003 and fits perfectly with the group’s heavy sound. Still headlining major festivals worldwide, they’re proving that metal never gets old or loses its edge.
7. The Police
Remember those catchy hits like “Every Breath You Take” and “Roxanne”? The Police ruled the airwaves with their unique blend of rock, reggae, and new wave. Sting, the lead singer, went on to have a massive solo career and still performs worldwide.
Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland have also stayed busy with various music projects. The trio reunited for a huge world tour back in 2007-2008, proving they still had the magic. Though they’ve all aged gracefully with gray hair replacing their youthful looks, their talent remains timeless.
Sting especially has maintained his fitness and continues releasing albums well into his seventies. The band’s legacy lives on through countless covers and samples in modern music.
