The psychedelic rock genre, with its swirling guitars and mind-bending soundscapes, has produced some of the most influential music in history. If you love The Jimi Hendrix Experience, you’ll definitely want to check out these 18 bands and artists that capture a similar vibe.
1. Cream
Cream, featuring Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker, and Jack Bruce, is often credited with pioneering the power trio format. Their album Disraeli Gears includes hits like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “Strange Brew.”
2. The Doors
The Doors, led by the enigmatic Jim Morrison, blended rock with blues and jazz influences. Songs like “Light My Fire” and “Riders on the Storm” from albums such as L.A. Woman remain timeless classics.
3. Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin, known for their heavy, guitar-driven sound, brought a new dimension to rock music. With iconic tracks like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Whole Lotta Love,” their albums Led Zeppelin IV and Physical Graffiti are must-listens.
4. Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd’s experimental approach and philosophical lyrics set them apart. Albums like The Dark Side of the Moon and Wish You Were Here feature tracks such as “Comfortably Numb” and “Shine On You Crazy Diamond.”
5. Jefferson Airplane
Jefferson Airplane became synonymous with the 1960s counterculture movement. Their album Surrealistic Pillow includes hits like “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit.”
6. The Who
The Who, with their explosive live performances and innovative albums, are rock legends. Songs like “Baba O’Riley” and “My Generation” from albums such as Who’s Next are essential listening.
7. The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones have been a cornerstone of rock music for decades. Albums like Let It Bleed and Sticky Fingers feature classics such as “Gimme Shelter” and “Brown Sugar.”
8. Santana
Santana, led by guitarist Carlos Santana, blends rock with Latin American music. Their self-titled debut album and Abraxas include hits like “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va.”
9. The Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band is known for their Southern rock sound and improvisational live performances. Songs like “Whipping Post” and “Ramblin’ Man” from albums such as At Fillmore East are standout tracks.
10. Janis Joplin
Janis Joplin’s powerful voice and emotive performances made her a rock icon. Her albums Cheap Thrills and Pearl feature hits like “Piece of My Heart” and “Me and Bobby McGee.”
11. The Byrds
The Byrds were pioneers of folk rock and psychedelic rock. Albums like Younger Than Yesterday and The Notorious Byrd Brothers include songs such as “Eight Miles High” and “So You Want to Be a Rock ‘n’ Roll Star.”
12. The Grateful Dead
The Grateful Dead’s eclectic style and improvisational live shows earned them a dedicated following. Albums like American Beauty and Workingman’s Dead feature tracks like “Truckin'” and “Casey Jones.”
13. The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground, fronted by Lou Reed, influenced countless artists with their avant-garde rock. Songs like “Heroin” and “Sweet Jane” from albums such as The Velvet Underground & Nico are essential listens.
14. The Yardbirds
The Yardbirds are known for their innovative guitar work and blues-influenced rock. With tracks like “For Your Love” and “Heart Full of Soul,” their albums Having a Rave Up and Roger the Engineer are worth exploring.
15. 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 include songs such as “Dear Mr. Fantasy” and “The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys.”
16. Ten Years After
Ten Years After, featuring guitarist Alvin Lee, gained fame with their performance at Woodstock. Songs like “I’m Going Home” and “Love Like a Man” from albums such as Ssssh and Cricklewood Green are highlights.
17. King Crimson
King Crimson’s progressive rock sound has been highly influential. Their debut album In the Court of the Crimson King includes tracks like “21st Century Schizoid Man” and “Epitaph.”
18. The Kinks
The Kinks, led by Ray Davies, are known for their innovative songwriting and distinct sound. Albums like The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society and Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One feature hits like “Waterloo Sunset” and “Lola.”
