Europe

Europe, the powerhouse rock band hailing from Sweden, stormed the global music scene in the mid-1980s. Led by vocalist Joey Tempest, they became synonymous with anthemic hard rock, keyboard-driven melodies, and achieving phenomenal international success, most notably with their iconic signature song.

Formed in 1979, Europe experienced massive fame primarily during their initial run until 1992. After a hiatus, punctuated by a one-off performance in 1999, they officially reunited in 2003 and remain active today (as of 2025). Their mid-80s peak, particularly around 1986, saw them define the era's sound with a blend of Glam metal, Hard rock, and prominent Synth metal elements. By 1987, they also showcased their versatility with successful forays into Soft rock power ballads, proving their command over different facets of the rock genre during their height.

This period yielded their most unforgettable hits. "The Final Countdown," released in 1986, became a global phenomenon with its iconic keyboard riff and anthemic chorus, defining their Synth metal sound. Following this massive success, the power ballad "Carrie," released in early 1987, demonstrated their Soft rock capabilities and became another major international chart-topper. These two songs perfectly encapsulate Europe's mid-80s dominance, showcasing both their high-energy stadium rock anthems and their emotionally resonant ballads, solidifying their place in 80s rock history.