Are you a fan of The Pretenders and their signature blend of rock and new wave? If so, you’ll love diving into these 19 bands and artists that capture a similar vibe. From iconic hits to timeless albums, discover music that will resonate with your love for The Pretenders. Check out The Pretenders to get started.
1. Blondie
Blondie is a pioneering band in the new wave and punk rock scenes. Known for hits like “Heart of Glass” and “Call Me,” their albums Parallel Lines and Autoamerican are must-listens.
2. Talking Heads
Talking Heads brought an art rock twist to the new wave genre. Their songs “Psycho Killer” and “Once in a Lifetime” from albums like Remain in Light are iconic.
3. The Go-Go’s
The Go-Go’s are one of the most successful all-female bands in rock history. Hits like “We Got the Beat” and “Our Lips Are Sealed” from their album Beauty and the Beat are unforgettable.
4. The Cars
The Cars seamlessly blend rock with new wave. Songs like “Just What I Needed” and “Drive” from albums such as The Cars and Heartbeat City are classics.
5. Elvis Costello
Elvis Costello is known for his sharp lyrics and diverse musical styles. Tracks like “Pump It Up” and “Alison” from albums My Aim Is True and This Year’s Model are essential listens.
6. The Police
The Police blend rock, reggae, and punk influences. Their hits “Every Breath You Take” and “Roxanne” from albums like Synchronicity and Outlandos d’Amour are legendary.
7. Roxy Music
Roxy Music are known for their sophisticated take on rock and glam. Songs like “Love Is the Drug” and “More Than This” from albums Siren and Avalon are timeless.
8. The Smiths
The Smiths are iconic in the indie and alternative rock scenes. Tracks such as “This Charming Man” and “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” from albums The Queen Is Dead and Meat Is Murder are essential.
9. Siouxsie and the Banshees
Siouxsie and the Banshees bring a gothic edge to new wave. Songs like “Spellbound” and “Cities in Dust” from albums Juju and Tinderbox showcase their unique sound.
10. The Cure
The Cure are synonymous with post-punk and gothic rock. Hits like “Just Like Heaven” and “Lovesong” from albums Disintegration and Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me are fan favorites.
11. INXS
INXS blend rock with new wave and funk elements. Their hits “Need You Tonight” and “New Sensation” from the album Kick are electrifying.
12. U2
U2 have a sound that spans rock, post-punk, and new wave. Songs like “With or Without You” and “Sunday Bloody Sunday” from albums The Joshua Tree and War are iconic.
13. Eurythmics
Eurythmics are known for their synth-pop and new wave hits. Tracks like “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” and “Here Comes the Rain Again” from their album Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) are unforgettable.
14. The B-52’s
The B-52’s bring a quirky, fun twist to new wave. Songs like “Rock Lobster” and “Love Shack” from albums The B-52’s and Cosmic Thing are party staples.
15. Devo
Devo are pioneers of the new wave and synth-pop scenes. Their hit “Whip It” and albums like Freedom of Choice are essential listens.
16. XTC
XTC offer a mix of rock, pop, and new wave. Songs like “Making Plans for Nigel” and “Senses Working Overtime” from albums Drums and Wires and English Settlement are standout tracks.
17. Tears for Fears
Tears for Fears are known for their emotional and powerful new wave sound. Hits like “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” and “Shout” from the album Songs from the Big Chair are unforgettable.
18. The Psychedelic Furs
The Psychedelic Furs blend rock with post-punk and new wave. Songs like “Love My Way” and “Pretty in Pink” from albums Forever Now and Mirror Moves are classics.
19. Echo & the Bunnymen
Echo & the Bunnymen are known for their atmospheric and melodic post-punk sound. Tracks like “The Killing Moon” and “Lips Like Sugar” from albums Ocean Rain and Echo & the Bunnymen are must-listens.
Explore these bands and artists to find new favorites and expand your musical horizons. Enjoy the journey through the sounds that echo the spirit of The Pretenders!
