The 1980s was a huge decade for new wave music, and plenty of bands and artists were competing for attention in a pretty oversaturated music industry. Quite a few talented acts fell through the cracks, and even musicians with decent hits have become somewhat forgotten. We haven’t forgotten them, though. Let’s take a look at a few hidden gems in new wave that were produced by female artists and female-fronted bands! You might just find your new favorite nostalgic song.
Videos by American Songwriter
1. “Jimmy Loves Maryann” by Josie Cotton
This classic 1984 track followed Josie Cotton’s earlier (and quite provocative) hit “Johnny Are You Queer?”.
“Jimmy Loves Maryann” came just a couple of years later, and we have to say this second song is quite creative. The song is a reinvention of an old jazz song by Looking Glass with a cooler, synthier vibe. You might recognize that guitar track, at least if you’re a Lindsey Buckingham fan.
2. “I’m In Love With A German Film Star” by The Passions
Many female artists in the new wave movement didn’t get their flowers, but it’s wild that Barbara Gogan doesn’t get more recognition. Maybe it’s because technically, The Passions are considered one-hit wonders for their 1981 track “I’m In Love With A German Film Star”.
We certainly get why people love this song. It’s an overwhelmingly fun pop track, with a sense of sensuality courtesy of Gogan’s ethereal, breathy vocal track. Foo Fighters covered this song in the past, and you might recognize it from Grand Theft Auto if you’re on the younger side.
3. “Don’t Look” by Nervus Rex
Power pop and new wave go hand in hand, and you just can’t beat the 1980 hit “Don’t Look” by Nervus Rex. This song sounds like it belongs on a soundtrack to a spy movie, and we mean that in a good way.
Nervus Rex didn’t really go anywhere after getting signed by Blondie’s producer, but “Don’t Look” is still a solid bop today that shouldn’t be forgotten.
4. “New Romance” by Spider
Amanda Blue definitely deserves a spot on our list of female artists from new wave bands, namely through her band Spider’s contribution to the genre: “New Romance (It’s A Mystery)” from 1980.
This song is so glossy and clean, and it should have ranked higher on the Hot 100 than it did. The hard rock, new wave-leaning band behind the track didn’t really go anywhere, unfortunately, and Spider disbanded in 1984.
Photo by Virginia Turbett/Redferns
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