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16 Bands Like The Yardbirds You Need to Hear

The Yardbirds are a legendary band that helped define the British blues-rock genre in the 1960s. Known for their innovative sound and lineup of iconic guitarists, they have influenced countless other bands. If you love The Yardbirds, here are 16 similar bands and artists that you should definitely check out.

1. Cream

Cream was one of the first supergroups, featuring Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker, and Jack Bruce. Their blend of blues, rock, and psychedelia produced timeless hits like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “White Room”. The album Disraeli Gears is a must-listen.

2. The Animals

The Animals, fronted by Eric Burdon, were pioneers of the British Invasion. Their gritty sound and bluesy roots are evident in songs like “House of the Rising Sun” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood”. Their album Animal Tracks showcases their raw energy.

3. The Kinks

The Kinks, led by the Davies brothers, blended rock with British folk and blues. Known for hits like “You Really Got Me” and “Lola”, they were influential in the development of hard rock and punk. The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society is a classic album.

4. The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are one of the most enduring bands in rock history. Their blues-infused rock sound is evident in songs like “Paint It Black” and “Satisfaction”. Albums like Let It Bleed and Exile on Main St. are essential listening.

5. John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers

John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers were a breeding ground for future rock legends. With albums like Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton, they set the standard for British blues. Songs like “All Your Love” highlight their influence on the genre.

6. Fleetwood Mac

Before their pop success, Fleetwood Mac was a blues band led by Peter Green. Early hits like “Albatross” and “Black Magic Woman” showcase their blues roots. The album Then Play On is a testament to their early sound.

7. The Who

The Who combined rock, blues, and mod influences to create a unique sound. Known for anthems like “My Generation” and “Baba O’Riley”, they were pioneers of rock opera with albums like Tommy and Quadrophenia.

8. The Pretty Things

The Pretty Things were contemporaries of The Yardbirds with a similar blues-rock style. Songs like “Don’t Bring Me Down” and “Midnight to Six Man” are highlights. Their album S.F. Sorrow is considered one of the first rock operas.

9. Ten Years After

Ten Years After, led by Alvin Lee, were known for their high-energy blues-rock. Hits like “I’m Going Home” and “Love Like a Man” are fan favorites. The album Cricklewood Green showcases their dynamic sound.

10. Savoy Brown

Savoy Brown were key players in the British blues scene. Songs like “Hellbound Train” and “Street Corner Talking” highlight their blues-rock prowess. Albums like Raw Sienna are essential for any blues-rock fan.

11. The Spencer Davis Group

The Spencer Davis Group, featuring Steve Winwood, had a soulful blues-rock sound. Hits like “Gimme Some Lovin'” and “I’m a Man” are classics. Their album Autumn ’66 captures their energetic style.

12. Canned Heat

Canned Heat brought American blues to a wider audience with their boogie style. Songs like “On the Road Again” and “Going Up the Country” became anthems of the 1960s. The album Boogie with Canned Heat is a must-listen.

13. The Blues Magoos

The Blues Magoos were pioneers of psychedelic blues-rock. Hits like “We Ain’t Got Nothin’ Yet” and “Tobacco Road” showcase their unique sound. Their album Psychedelic Lollipop is a classic of the genre.

14. The Paul Butterfield Blues Band

The Paul Butterfield Blues Band blended Chicago blues with rock and soul. Songs like “Born in Chicago” and “East-West” are standout tracks. Their self-titled debut album is a cornerstone of blues-rock.

15. The Jeff Beck Group

The Jeff Beck Group, featuring Rod Stewart and Ron Wood, was a powerhouse of blues-rock. Hits like “Beck’s Bolero” and “Shapes of Things” are fan favorites. The album Truth is a seminal work in the genre.

16. Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin took blues-rock to new heights with their powerful sound. Classics like “Whole Lotta Love” and “Stairway to Heaven” are timeless. Albums like Led Zeppelin IV and Physical Graffiti are essential listening for any rock fan.

These bands and artists have all contributed to the rich tapestry of blues-rock, just like The Yardbirds. Dive into their music and discover the timeless appeal of this influential genre.