Are you a fan of The Pretenders and their signature blend of rock and new wave? If so, youโll 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 โHeart of Glassโ and โCall Me,โ 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 โPsycho Killerโ and โOnce in a Lifetimeโ from albums like Remain in Light are iconic.
3. The Go-Goโs
The Go-Goโs are one of the most successful all-female bands in rock history. Hits like โWe Got the Beatโ and โOur Lips Are Sealedโ from their album Beauty and the Beat are unforgettable.
4. The Cars
The Cars seamlessly blend rock with new wave. Songs like โJust What I Neededโ and โDriveโ 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 โPump It Upโ and โAlisonโ from albums My Aim Is True and This Yearโs Model are essential listens.
6. The Police
The Police blend rock, reggae, and punk influences. Their hits โEvery Breath You Takeโ and โRoxanneโ from albums like Synchronicity and Outlandos dโAmour are legendary.
7. Roxy Music
Roxy Music are known for their sophisticated take on rock and glam. Songs like โLove Is the Drugโ and โMore Than Thisโ from albums Siren and Avalon are timeless.
8. The Smiths
The Smiths are iconic in the indie and alternative rock scenes. Tracks such as โThis Charming Manโ and โThere Is a Light That Never Goes Outโ 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 โSpellboundโ and โCities in Dustโ from albums Juju and Tinderbox showcase their unique sound.
10. The Cure
The Cure are synonymous with post-punk and gothic rock. Hits like โJust Like Heavenโ and โLovesongโ 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 โNeed You Tonightโ and โNew Sensationโ from the album Kick are electrifying.
12. U2
U2 have a sound that spans rock, post-punk, and new wave. Songs like โWith or Without Youโ and โSunday Bloody Sundayโ from albums The Joshua Tree and War are iconic.
13. Eurythmics
Eurythmics are known for their synth-pop and new wave hits. Tracks like โSweet Dreams (Are Made of This)โ and โHere Comes the Rain Againโ from their album Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) are unforgettable.
14. The B-52โs
The B-52โs bring a quirky, fun twist to new wave. Songs like โRock Lobsterโ and โLove Shackโ from albums The B-52โs and Cosmic Thing are party staples.
15. Devo
Devo are pioneers of the new wave and synth-pop scenes. Their hit โWhip Itโ and albums like Freedom of Choice are essential listens.
16. XTC
XTC offer a mix of rock, pop, and new wave. Songs like โMaking Plans for Nigelโ and โSenses Working Overtimeโ 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 โEverybody Wants to Rule the Worldโ and โShoutโ 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 โLove My Wayโ and โPretty in Pinkโ 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 โThe Killing Moonโ and โLips Like Sugarโ 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!