If you’re a fan of Southern rock and blues rock, you’ve probably enjoyed the legendary sounds of ZZ Top. Their unique blend of gritty guitar riffs, soulful lyrics, and iconic beards have made them a staple in the rock music scene. Here are 20 bands and artists that share a similar vibe to ZZ Top, perfect for expanding your playlist.
1. Lynyrd Skynyrd
Lynyrd Skynyrd is synonymous with Southern rock, known for their hit songs like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird.” Their album “Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd” is a must-listen for any rock enthusiast.
2. The Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band is another cornerstone of Southern rock, with classics like “Ramblin’ Man” and “Midnight Rider.” Their live album “At Fillmore East” is often hailed as one of the greatest live recordings in rock history.
3. Creedence Clearwater Revival
Creedence Clearwater Revival, or CCR, offered a swampy, bluesy rock sound with hits like “Bad Moon Rising” and “Fortunate Son.” Their album “Cosmo’s Factory” is packed with timeless tracks.
4. Molly Hatchet
Molly Hatchet brought a harder edge to Southern rock with songs like “Flirtin’ with Disaster” and “Gator Country.” Their self-titled debut album is a great introduction to their energetic style.
5. 38 Special
- Special is known for their catchy hooks and Southern rock anthems like “Hold On Loosely” and “Caught Up in You.” Their album “Wild-Eyed Southern Boys” is a fan favorite.
6. Blackfoot
Blackfoot combines Southern rock with a bit of hard rock, featuring songs like “Train, Train” and “Highway Song.” Their album “Strikes” is essential listening for fans of the genre.
7. The Marshall Tucker Band
The Marshall Tucker Band blends rock, country, and jazz, producing hits like “Can’t You See” and “Heard It in a Love Song.” Their album “Searchin’ for a Rainbow” showcases their diverse sound.
8. Gov’t Mule
Gov’t Mule, formed by members of The Allman Brothers Band, offers a modern take on Southern rock and blues. Songs like “Soulshine” and “Thorazine Shuffle” highlight their musical prowess.
9. The Black Crowes
The Black Crowes bring a raw, bluesy rock sound with hits like “She Talks to Angels” and “Hard to Handle.” Their debut album “Shake Your Money Maker” is a classic.
10. Little Feat
Little Feat mixes rock, blues, and funk, creating a unique sound with songs like “Dixie Chicken” and “Willin’.” Their live album “Waiting for Columbus” is a standout.
11. Ted Nugent
Ted Nugent, also known as “The Motor City Madman,” offers a hard-rocking style with hits like “Cat Scratch Fever” and “Stranglehold.” His album “Double Live Gonzo!” captures his energetic live performances.
12. Johnny Winter
Johnny Winter is a blues rock legend, known for his fiery guitar work on tracks like “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” and “Highway 61 Revisited.” His album “Second Winter” is a guitar lover’s dream.
13. George Thorogood & The Destroyers
George Thorogood & The Destroyers are known for their blues rock hits like “Bad to the Bone” and “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer.” Their album “Move It on Over” is packed with rockin’ tunes.
14. Foghat
Foghat delivers blues rock with a boogie twist, featuring songs like “Slow Ride” and “Fool for the City.” Their album “Fool for the City” is a must-have for any rock collection.
15. Canned Heat
Canned Heat is famed for their blues rock anthems like “On the Road Again” and “Going Up the Country.” Their performance at Woodstock solidified their place in rock history.
16. Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble
Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble brought blues rock to new heights with songs like “Pride and Joy” and “Texas Flood.” Their album “Couldn’t Stand the Weather” showcases Vaughan’s incredible guitar skills.
17. The Doobie Brothers
The Doobie Brothers blend rock, R&B, and country, producing hits like “Listen to the Music” and “China Grove.” Their album “Toulouse Street” is a great representation of their diverse sound.
18. Bachman-Turner Overdrive
Bachman-Turner Overdrive, or BTO, is known for their hard rock hits like “Takin’ Care of Business” and “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet.” Their album “Not Fragile” is a rock classic.
19. The Outlaws
The Outlaws offer a Southern rock sound with harmonized guitar riffs in songs like “Green Grass & High Tides” and “There Goes Another Love Song.” Their album “Hurry Sundown” is a fan favorite.
20. Joe Walsh
Joe Walsh, both as a solo artist and a member of the Eagles, brings a blend of rock and blues with hits like “Rocky Mountain Way” and “Life’s Been Good.” His album “The Smoker You Drink, The Player You Get” is a testament to his versatility.
Happy listening!
