If you’re a fan of rock music and are looking for bands and artists similar to The Who, you’re in the right place. The Who, known for their energetic performances and classic hits, have inspired countless musicians. Here’s a list of 20 bands and artists that capture that same spirit. Dive into the world of rock music and discover some new favorites.
1. The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones have been a monumental force in rock music since the 1960s. Known for hits like “Paint It Black” and “Satisfaction”, their albums Let It Bleed and Exile on Main St. are classics.
2. Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin’s blend of hard rock and blues has made them legendary. Tracks like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Whole Lotta Love” from albums such as Led Zeppelin IV are essential listening.
3. Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd is known for their progressive and psychedelic rock sound. Albums like The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall feature iconic songs such as “Comfortably Numb” and “Wish You Were Here”.
4. The Kinks
The Kinks are another British Invasion band with a unique sound. Hits like “You Really Got Me” and “Lola” from albums The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society and Lola Versus Powerman are timeless.
5. The Beatles
The Beatles revolutionized rock music with their innovative styles and prolific songwriting. Albums like Abbey Road and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band include classics such as “Hey Jude” and “Let It Be”.
6. The Doors
The Doors brought a darker, more poetic edge to rock music. Their self-titled debut album and L.A. Woman feature tracks like “Light My Fire” and “Riders on the Storm”.
7. Queen
Queen’s theatrical style and powerful vocals have made them iconic. Songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You” from albums A Night at the Opera and News of the World are legendary.
8. Deep Purple
Deep Purple is known for their heavy guitar riffs and powerful vocals. Albums like Machine Head and In Rock include hits such as “Smoke on the Water” and “Highway Star”.
9. The Byrds
The Byrds are pioneers of folk rock, blending traditional folk music with rock. Their albums Mr. Tambourine Man and Turn! Turn! Turn! feature hits like “Eight Miles High” and “Turn! Turn! Turn!”.
10. The Yardbirds
The Yardbirds are known for their innovative guitar work and blues influences. Songs like “For Your Love” and “Heart Full of Soul” from albums Having a Rave Up and Roger the Engineer are standout tracks.
11. The Animals
The Animals brought a gritty, bluesy sound to rock music. Their hit “House of the Rising Sun” from the album The Animals remains a classic, along with “We Gotta Get Out of This Place”.
12. Cream
Cream, featuring Eric Clapton, is known for their blues-rock sound. Albums like Disraeli Gears and Wheels of Fire include hits such as “Sunshine of Your Love” and “White Room”.
13. Jimi Hendrix Experience
Jimi Hendrix Experience revolutionized guitar playing with their innovative techniques. Albums like Are You Experienced and Electric Ladyland feature iconic tracks like “Purple Haze” and “All Along the Watchtower”.
14. The Clash
The Clash brought punk rock to the mainstream with their politically charged lyrics. Albums like London Calling and Combat Rock include hits such as “Should I Stay or Should I Go” and “Rock the Casbah”.
15. The Police
The Police blended rock, reggae, and punk to create a unique sound. Their albums Synchronicity and Reggatta de Blanc feature hits like “Every Breath You Take” and “Message in a Bottle”.
16. Genesis
Genesis started with a progressive rock sound before transitioning to mainstream rock. Albums like Selling England by the Pound and Invisible Touch include songs such as “I Can’t Dance” and “Land of Confusion”.
17. ELO (Electric Light Orchestra)
ELO combined rock with orchestral elements to create a distinct sound. Albums like Out of the Blue and A New World Record feature hits such as “Mr. Blue Sky” and “Livin’ Thing”.
18. The Zombies
The Zombies are known for their sophisticated and melodic rock sound. Their album Odessey and Oracle includes the classic “Time of the Season” and “She’s Not There”.
19. Traffic
Traffic, led by Steve Winwood, blended rock with jazz and folk influences. Albums like John Barleycorn Must Die and The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys feature tracks such as “Dear Mr. Fantasy” and “The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys”.
20. The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground, fronted by Lou Reed, were pioneers of alternative rock. Albums like The Velvet Underground & Nico and Loaded include tracks such as “Sweet Jane” and “Heroin”.
Explore these bands and artists to find the same electrifying energy and timeless rock sound that makes The Who so iconic. Enjoy the journey through rock history!
