Cream is one of the most iconic bands in the history of rock music, known for their blues-infused rock sound and virtuosic musicianship. If youโre a fan of Cream and looking to explore similar artists, here are 16 bands and solo artists that you should definitely check out.
1. The Jimi Hendrix Experience
The Jimi Hendrix Experience, led by the legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix, is known for its groundbreaking approach to rock and blues. Popular songs like โPurple Hazeโ and โAll Along the Watchtowerโ showcase their innovative sound. Their album Are You Experienced is a must-listen for any rock enthusiast.
2. Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin is another cornerstone of rock music, blending hard rock with blues influences. Tracks like โStairway to Heavenโ and โWhole Lotta Loveโ have become anthems of the genre. Their self-titled debut album and Led Zeppelin IV are essential listening.
3. The Yardbirds
The Yardbirds are famous for their pioneering contributions to rock and blues, featuring guitar legends like Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page. Songs such as โFor Your Loveโ and โHeart Full of Soulโ highlight their dynamic style. Albums like Having a Rave Up are particularly notable.
4. Blind Faith
Blind Faith was a short-lived supergroup featuring Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood. Despite their brief existence, they left a lasting impact with songs like โCanโt Find My Way Homeโ and โPresence of the Lord.โ Their self-titled album is their only release but remains a classic.
5. Derek and the Dominos
Derek and the Dominos, another project involving Eric Clapton, is best known for the timeless hit โLayla.โ Their album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs is a masterpiece of blues-rock. Tracks like โBell Bottom Bluesโ further showcase their talent.
6. The Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band is celebrated for their southern rock and blues sound, with classics like โRamblinโ Manโ and โWhipping Post.โ Albums such as At Fillmore East are considered some of the best live recordings in rock history.
7. Ten Years After
Ten Years After gained fame with their electrifying performance at Woodstock and songs like โIโm Going Home.โ Their album A Space in Time features the hit โIโd Love to Change the World,โ showcasing their blues-rock prowess.
8. Mountain
Mountain, led by guitarist Leslie West, is known for their heavy blues-rock sound. Their song โMississippi Queenโ is a rock staple. The album Climbing! is essential listening for fans of the genre.
9. Free
Free is best known for their hit โAll Right Now,โ which remains a rock anthem. Their album Fire and Water is a great introduction to their blues-rock style. Songs like โWishing Wellโ further illustrate their musical depth.
10. Jeff Beck Group
The Jeff Beck Group, featuring guitarist Jeff Beck, is known for their innovative fusion of rock and blues. Tracks like โBeckโs Boleroโ and โGoing Downโ are fan favorites. Albums such as Truth are highly recommended.
11. Canned Heat
Canned Heat is famous for their boogie-blues style, with hits like โOn the Road Againโ and โGoing Up the Country.โ Their album Boogie with Canned Heat is a great starting point for new listeners.
12. Savoy Brown
Savoy Brown is a British blues-rock band known for songs like โHellbound Trainโ and โTell Mama.โ Their album Street Corner Talking is a standout in their discography.
13. Humble Pie
Humble Pie, featuring Steve Marriott and Peter Frampton, is known for their powerful blues-rock sound. Songs like โ30 Days in the Holeโ and โI Donโt Need No Doctorโ are classics. The album Performance Rockinโ the Fillmore is a must-listen.
14. Johnny Winter
Johnny Winter was a virtuoso guitarist known for his high-energy blues-rock performances. Tracks like โRock and Roll, Hoochie Kooโ and โHighway 61 Revisitedโ are fan favorites. Albums such as Second Winter are essential listening.
15. Rory Gallagher
Rory Gallagher was an Irish blues-rock guitarist renowned for his electrifying live shows. Songs like โA Million Miles Awayโ and โTattooโd Ladyโ are highlights of his career. His album Irish Tour โ74 is a testament to his live prowess.
16. Robin Trower
Robin Trower, former guitarist of Procol Harum, is known for his soulful blues-rock style. Tracks like โBridge of Sighsโ and โToo Rolling Stonedโ are iconic. The album Bridge of Sighs is a cornerstone of his discography.
If you love the blues-rock sound of Cream, these 16 artists and bands will surely satisfy your musical cravings. Enjoy diving into their rich catalogs!