This article highlights five singers whose distinctive voices helped define new wave and broaden its influence. It argues that their vocal styles, stage personae and creative approaches gave the genre much of its character, from gothic angst and theatricality to detached delivery and emotional intensity.

– Robert Smith of The Cure is credited with bringing a uniquely recognisable, gothic and angst-filled voice to new wave.
– Annie Lennox helped Eurythmics take new wave into the mainstream, combining a deep voice with a theatrical, androgynous 1980s image.
– David Byrne’s near-spoken singing and creative leadership made Talking Heads central to the genre’s sound.
– Debbie Harry helped Blondie bridge punk and new wave; “Heart of Glass” is presented as a defining new wave track.
– Dave Gahan’s deep baritone and intensity helped Depeche Mode convey songs about guilt, sin and sexuality to stadium audiences.