Seven Iconic 1980s Music Legends Fans Are Desperate to See Live
A look at seven iconic 1980s music legends, including the Pet Shop Boys, The Cure, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Young, Morrissey, Duran Duran, and Depeche Mode, who remain active today and inspire dreams of future live tours in Israel.
The memorable performance by Boy George in Israel has whetted appetites for more visits by iconic 1980s musicians, following a multi-year hiatus of major international acts. While seven legendary artists and bands currently remain active and tour worldwide, they may not land at Ben Gurion Airport on their next run. Yet, music lovers can still dream of welcoming these vibrant icons to local stages before time runs out.
Pet Shop Boys
Fittingly named after their current global tour, "Dreamworld Max: The Greatest Hits Live", fans can only dream of the Pet Shop Boys scheduling a stop in Israel soon. Neil Tennant, 72, and Chris Lowe, 62, the ultimate 1980s synth-pop duo, continue to perform their timeless anthems across major international venues. Their massive world tour, which launched back in 2022, currently lists upcoming dates in London for 2027. If the duo does not make it to the Middle East, dedicated fans might consider traveling to catch their legendary live show abroad.
The Cure
Technically formed in the late 1970s, The Cure achieved their massive global breakthrough during the vibrant 1980s, firmly anchoring themselves to that decade's cultural fabric. Robert Smith, 67, and his bandmates remain exceptionally active today. The Cure's 14th studio album, "Songs of a Lost World", dropped in 2024, followed a year later by a companion remix collection. The band spent last summer touring Europe extensively, and Smith has officially promised that The Cure will return to the stage next year alongside brand-new music.
Cyndi Lauper
Like many veteran artists reaching milestone years, Cyndi Lauper, 73, is focusing on an intimate 10-show residency in Las Vegas rather than a sprawling world tour. On the musical front, Lauper released an elaborate 40th-anniversary edition of her sophomore album, "True Colors", featuring bonus tracks and two previously unreleased recordings, including a soulful cover of The Beatles' "Across the Universe". While Lauper has historically shown warm sympathy toward Israel, having last performed here in 2014, a sudden detour from Sin City seems unlikely.
Paul Young
Another iconic 1980s star who keeps up a relentless pace, Paul Young, 70, is dedicating much of next year to an intimate series of spoken-word and acoustic performances across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Alongside sharing personal anecdotes and career memories, Young announced he is currently recording a brand-new studio album titled "Honeybee". Furthermore, he is releasing a book dedicated to the musical influences that shaped his career. Given that nearly a decade has passed since his last Israeli concert, local fans would eagerly welcome his return.
Morrissey
There is truly no valid reason why Morrissey, 67, a steadfast supporter of Israel and a singular 1980s icon, should not return for another concert in the Holy Land. Having visited the country multiple times—most recently in July 2023—he released his 14th studio album, "Make-Up Is a Lie", earlier this year and is currently in the middle of a massive world tour to promote the record. With active tour dates spanning the globe, fans hope the charismatic singer will soon add an Israeli leg to his itinerary.
Duran Duran
This beloved pop-rock powerhouse wrapped up their latest tour leg in Madrid, though they are expected to announce further international concert dates that will keep Simon Le Bon, 68, and his bandmates busy throughout 2027. Following the release of their distinctly 1980s-flavored single "Free to Love", business for Duran Duran continues as usual, keeping hope alive for international audiences.
Depeche Mode
We conclude with a synth-pop and electronic rock band that holds a special place in the hearts of Israeli music fans. While Depeche Mode is not currently planning a new album or an immediate tour—their acclaimed album "Memento Mori" was released in 2023—the legendary group remains technically active. Adding to the excitement, a fresh remix of "Survive", a bonus track from their latest album, has found its way onto the soundtrack of the upcoming film, keeping hope alive for future musical surprises.
