The Byrds are often credited with pioneering the genre of folk-rock, blending the traditional sounds of folk music with the energy and instrumentation of rock. Their jangly guitars, intricate vocal harmonies, and innovative approach to blending genres made them one of the most influential bands of the 1960s.
For fans of The Byrds, there are many other bands that offer a similar musical experience, from the harmonized melodies of The Beatles to the rootsy, country-rock sounds of The Band.
This article explores some of the best bands like The Byrds, highlighting their careers and the musical qualities that make them enduring favorites in the world of rock and folk.
21 Classic Folk Bands Similar to the Byrds for Your Folk Playlist
Contents
- 1 21 Classic Folk Bands Similar to the Byrds for Your Folk Playlist
- 2 #1 The Beatles
- 3 #2 The Hollies
- 4 #3 The Band
- 5 #4 Buffalo Springfield
- 6 #5 Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
- 7 #6 The Mamas & the Papas
- 8 #7 The Flying Burrito Brothers
- 9 #8 Simon & Garfunkel
- 10 #9 Jefferson Airplane
- 11 #10 The Turtles
- 12 #11 The Beach Boys
- 13 #12 The Monkees
- 14 #13 Fairport Convention
- 15 #14 The Beau Brummels
- 16 #15 The Moody Blues
- 17 #16 The Zombies
- 18 #17 The Kinks
- 19 #18 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- 20 #19 The Velvet Underground
- 21 #20 R.E.M.
- 22 #21 The Velvet Underground
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
These bands share The Byrds’ affinity for blending folk music with rock, often featuring rich vocal harmonies, melodic guitar work, and an experimental approach to genre-blending.
Here’s a list of 21 bands that share similarities with The Byrds, known for their blend of folk rock, jangly guitars, and vocal harmonies:
#1 The Beatles
The Beatles, formed in Liverpool in 1960, are widely regarded as one of the most influential bands in the history of popular music. Initially emerging as part of the British Invasion, The Beatles evolved rapidly from their early rock ‘n’ roll roots to explore a wide range of musical styles, including folk rock, psychedelia, and experimental pop. Albums like Rubber Soul (1965) and Revolver (1966) showcased their incorporation of folk rock elements, with jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that drew comparisons to The Byrds.
The Beatles’ innovative approach to music, including their use of harmonies and their exploration of diverse genres, had a profound impact on the development of rock music. Their influence on The Byrds was mutual, as The Beatles’ sound and success helped pave the way for The Byrds’ blend of folk and rock. Despite disbanding in 1970, The Beatles’ legacy continues to inspire musicians across all genres, and their music remains as popular and relevant as ever.
#2 The Hollies
The Hollies, formed in 1962 in Manchester, England, are one of the key bands of the British Invasion, known for their tight vocal harmonies and melodic, guitar-driven sound. With hits like “Bus Stop,” “Carrie Anne,” and “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother,” The Hollies became synonymous with catchy, well-crafted pop songs that often incorporated elements of folk rock. Their ability to blend harmonies and jangly guitars drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly during the mid-1960s when folk rock was at its peak.
The Hollies continued to enjoy success throughout the 1960s and into the 1970s, adapting their sound to the changing musical landscape while maintaining their signature harmonies. The band’s influence can be heard in the music of many subsequent rock and pop artists. Despite lineup changes and the departure of key members, including Graham Nash, The Hollies have remained active, continuing to tour and release new music, cementing their place in the history of British rock.
#3 The Band
The Band, formed in 1967 in Toronto, Canada, is known for their rootsy sound and harmonious vocals, which drew from a rich tapestry of American musical traditions, including folk, country, blues, and rock. Initially backing Bob Dylan on his 1965-66 world tour, The Band gained prominence with their own albums, starting with Music from Big Pink (1968), which included the classic “The Weight.” Their music is characterized by its organic, earthy sound, tight harmonies, and a deep sense of Americana, which resonated with The Byrds’ later explorations into country rock.
The Band’s influence on rock music is immense, as they helped to pioneer the genre of Americana and roots rock. Their collaborations with Bob Dylan and their innovative approach to blending genres left a lasting impact on the music industry. Despite their breakup in 1976, The Band’s legacy lives on through their timeless music, and their influence can still be felt in the work of many contemporary artists.
#4 Buffalo Springfield
Buffalo Springfield, formed in Los Angeles in 1966, is a seminal band in the development of folk rock and country rock, featuring future legends such as Stephen Stills, Neil Young, and Richie Furay. The band is best known for their hit “For What It’s Worth,” which became an anthem of the 1960s counterculture. Buffalo Springfield’s music combined folk, rock, and country influences, creating a sound that was both innovative and deeply rooted in American musical traditions, much like The Byrds.
Despite their brief existence, Buffalo Springfield had a significant impact on the evolution of rock music, particularly in their pioneering of the country rock genre. The band’s members went on to have successful solo careers and form other influential groups, including Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and Poco. Buffalo Springfield’s ability to blend lyrical introspection with rich, melodic instrumentation has left an enduring legacy, influencing countless musicians in the decades that followed.
#5 Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (CSNY) formed in 1969, bringing together David Crosby of The Byrds, Stephen Stills of Buffalo Springfield, Graham Nash of The Hollies, and later Neil Young. Known for their intricate vocal harmonies and politically charged lyrics, CSNY became one of the most iconic supergroups of the late 1960s and 1970s. Their debut album, Déjà Vu (1970), featured hits like “Teach Your Children” and “Our House,” showcasing their ability to blend folk, rock, and country influences in a way that resonated with a wide audience.
CSNY’s music was deeply rooted in the counterculture movement of the 1960s, and their influence on the folk-rock genre is profound. The group’s ability to harmonize and create complex, textured music drew directly from their experiences in their previous bands, including The Byrds. Despite internal tensions and occasional breakups, CSNY has left a lasting legacy in rock music, and their influence continues to be felt in the work of artists who value harmony and lyrical depth.
#6 The Mamas & the Papas
The Mamas & the Papas, formed in 1965 in Los Angeles, were a vocal group known for their harmonious blend of folk, rock, and pop music. The group, consisting of John Phillips, Denny Doherty, Cass Elliot, and Michelle Phillips, became one of the defining acts of the 1960s with hits like “California Dreamin’” and “Monday, Monday.” Their music is characterized by rich, four-part harmonies and catchy, melodic songs that captured the spirit of the 1960s.
The Mamas & the Papas’ ability to combine folk influences with a polished pop sound drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly in their use of vocal harmonies and acoustic guitars. The group’s success was short-lived, with internal conflicts and personal issues leading to their breakup in 1968, but their impact on the music of the 1960s was significant. The Mamas & the Papas remain a beloved group, and their songs continue to be celebrated as classics of the folk-rock era.
#7 The Flying Burrito Brothers
The Flying Burrito Brothers, formed in 1968 by former Byrds members Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman, are widely regarded as pioneers of the country rock genre. Their debut album, The Gilded Palace of Sin (1969), is a seminal work that blended elements of traditional country music with rock, creating a sound that was both innovative and deeply rooted in Americana. The band’s music is characterized by its use of pedal steel guitar, tight harmonies, and Parsons’ distinctive vocals, which brought a new level of authenticity to the fusion of rock and country.
The Flying Burrito Brothers had a significant influence on the development of country rock, inspiring countless artists in both the rock and country music worlds. Despite limited commercial success during their initial run, the band’s legacy has grown over the years, and they are now considered one of the most important acts in the evolution of American music. Their influence on The Byrds’ later work, particularly on albums like Sweetheart of the Rodeo, is evident, and they remain a key reference point for anyone exploring the roots of country rock.
#8 Simon & Garfunkel
Simon & Garfunkel, formed in 1963 in New York City, are one of the most iconic folk rock duos of the 1960s. Consisting of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, the duo is known for their intricate harmonies, poetic lyrics, and acoustic-based sound. Their breakthrough came with the release of The Sound of Silence (1965), which topped the charts and established them as leading figures in the folk rock movement. Simon & Garfunkel’s music often explored themes of alienation, love, and social change, resonating deeply with the counterculture of the time.
The duo’s ability to blend folk influences with a more polished, pop-oriented production drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly in their use of vocal harmonies and lyrical depth. Albums like Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme (1966) and Bridge Over Troubled Water (1970) solidified their status as legends of the genre. Despite their breakup in 1970, Simon & Garfunkel’s music continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and artistic integrity, and their influence on subsequent generations of musicians is profound.
#9 Jefferson Airplane
Jefferson Airplane, formed in 1965 in San Francisco, California, is one of the most influential bands of the 1960s counterculture, known for their blend of folk rock, psychedelia, and experimental music. The band gained widespread fame with their 1967 album Surrealistic Pillow, which featured the iconic hits “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit.” Jefferson Airplane’s music is characterized by its innovative use of electric instruments, complex harmonies, and socially conscious lyrics, making them a leading voice in the psychedelic rock movement.
The band’s ability to merge folk roots with the emerging psychedelic sound drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly in their early work. Jefferson Airplane’s influence extended beyond their music, as they became symbols of the counterculture movement, performing at landmark events such as Woodstock and the Monterey Pop Festival. Despite lineup changes and the eventual transformation into Jefferson Starship, the band’s legacy as pioneers of the 1960s rock scene remains intact, and their music continues to inspire new generations of listeners.
#10 The Turtles
The Turtles, formed in 1965 in Los Angeles, California, are best known for their catchy pop hits and harmonious vocal arrangements. The band achieved mainstream success with their 1967 single “Happy Together,” which became one of the most enduring songs of the 1960s. The Turtles’ music is characterized by its bright, melodic sound, tight harmonies, and a blend of folk rock influences with pop sensibilities, making them a key player in the American rock scene of the time.
The band’s ability to create infectious pop tunes with a folk-rock edge drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly in their use of vocal harmonies and jangly guitars. Despite their relatively short career, The Turtles left a lasting impact on the music of the 1960s, with a string of hits that continue to be celebrated. After disbanding in 1970, members Howard Kaylan and Mark Volman went on to have successful careers as Flo & Eddie, further cementing their place in rock history.
#11 The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys, formed in 1961 in Hawthorne, California, are one of the most iconic American rock bands, known for their rich vocal harmonies, innovative production, and pioneering work in surf rock and pop music. Led by Brian Wilson, the band achieved widespread fame with early hits like “Surfin’ USA” and “California Girls,” which captured the spirit of Southern California youth culture. The Beach Boys’ music is characterized by its intricate vocal arrangements, lush orchestration, and a blend of rock, pop, and folk influences.
As the band evolved, albums like Pet Sounds (1966) showcased a more sophisticated, experimental approach to music-making, drawing comparisons to The Byrds for their innovative use of harmonies and production techniques. The Beach Boys’ influence on popular music is immeasurable, and their ability to blend accessible pop with deeper artistic expression has made them one of the most enduring and beloved bands in rock history. Despite numerous challenges, including internal conflicts and changing musical trends, The Beach Boys continue to perform and record, maintaining their status as legends of American music.
#12 The Monkees
The Monkees, formed in 1966 as a television project in Los Angeles, quickly became one of the most popular bands of the late 1960s, known for their catchy pop songs and charismatic personas. Although initially conceived as a made-for-TV band, The Monkees quickly proved their musical talent, with hits like “Last Train to Clarksville,” “I’m a Believer,” and “Daydream Believer” topping the charts. Their music is characterized by its blend of pop, rock, and folk influences, combined with polished production and memorable melodies.
The Monkees’ ability to create infectious pop music with folk-rock elements drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly in their use of jangly guitars and vocal harmonies. Despite criticism for their manufactured origins, The Monkees gained credibility by taking control of their music, writing and producing much of their later work. The band’s success on both television and the music charts made them a cultural phenomenon, and their music continues to be celebrated by fans old and new, with The Monkees’ legacy enduring long after their initial heyday.
#13 Fairport Convention
Fairport Convention, formed in 1967 in London, England, is a pioneering British folk-rock band known for their innovative blend of traditional folk music with rock elements. Led by members like Richard Thompson and Sandy Denny, the band’s early work helped establish the genre of British folk rock, with albums like Unhalfbricking (1969) and Liege & Lief (1969) considered classics of the genre. Fairport Convention’s music is characterized by its use of traditional folk melodies, electric instrumentation, and intricate vocal harmonies.
The band’s ability to fuse folk traditions with modern rock sensibilities drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly in their exploration of folk rock and their influence on the British music scene. Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, Fairport Convention has remained active, continuing to tour and release new music, and they are widely regarded as one of the most important and influential bands in the history of British folk rock. Their annual Cropredy Festival has become a beloved event for fans of folk and rock music alike.
#14 The Beau Brummels
The Beau Brummels, formed in 1964 in San Francisco, California, are often credited as one of the earliest American bands to blend folk music with rock, helping to lay the groundwork for the folk rock movement. Their debut single, “Laugh, Laugh,” became a hit in 1965, showcasing their jangly guitar sound and harmonized vocals that drew comparisons to both The Beatles and The Byrds. The band’s music is characterized by its melodic songwriting, tight harmonies, and a blend of folk, rock, and pop influences.
The Beau Brummels’ ability to create catchy, well-crafted songs with a folk-rock edge made them one of the most influential American bands of the mid-1960s. Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as some of their contemporaries, their music has endured, and they are now recognized as pioneers of the genre. The Beau Brummels’ influence can be heard in the work of many subsequent artists, and their contributions to the development of folk rock remain significant in the history of American music.
#15 The Moody Blues
The Moody Blues, formed in 1964 in Birmingham, England, are a pioneering band known for their fusion of rock, classical music, and progressive elements. They achieved widespread fame with their 1967 album Days of Future Passed, which featured the hit single “Nights in White Satin.” The album was one of the first to combine rock with orchestral arrangements, creating a symphonic sound that was innovative and ahead of its time. The Moody Blues’ music is characterized by its lush production, poetic lyrics, and the use of the Mellotron, which gave their songs a distinctive, ethereal quality.
The band’s ability to blend rock with more complex, classical influences drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly in their use of harmonies and their willingness to push the boundaries of traditional rock music. Throughout the 1970s, The Moody Blues continued to release successful albums, including In Search of the Lost Chord and A Question of Balance, solidifying their place in the pantheon of progressive rock. Despite changes in the music industry, The Moody Blues have remained active, continuing to tour and maintain a loyal fanbase, and their influence on the development of rock music is profound.
#16 The Zombies
The Zombies, formed in 1961 in St Albans, England, are known for their distinctive blend of baroque pop, jazz influences, and intricate harmonies. The band gained recognition with their 1964 hit “She’s Not There” and further solidified their place in rock history with their 1968 album Odessey and Oracle, which included the iconic single “Time of the Season.” The Zombies’ music is characterized by its sophisticated arrangements, melodic inventiveness, and Rod Argent’s distinctive keyboard work, which set them apart from many of their contemporaries.
The band’s ability to combine complex musical elements with accessible pop sensibilities drew comparisons to The Byrds, especially in their use of harmonies and innovative production techniques. Despite disbanding shortly after the release of Odessey and Oracle, The Zombies’ influence grew over the years, and they have since been recognized as one of the most important and influential bands of the 1960s. The band reformed in the late 1990s and continues to tour, with their legacy cemented by their 2019 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
#17 The Kinks
The Kinks, formed in 1964 in London, England, are one of the most influential British rock bands, known for their distinctive blend of rock, pop, and English folk influences. The band, led by brothers Ray and Dave Davies, gained early fame with hits like “You Really Got Me” and “All Day and All of the Night,” which helped define the sound of the British Invasion. As their career progressed, The Kinks began to explore more sophisticated themes and musical styles, incorporating elements of folk and roots music into albums like The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society (1968) and Muswell Hillbillies (1971).
The Kinks’ ability to blend rock with traditional British and American music drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly in their exploration of roots music and their innovative songwriting. Despite internal conflicts and changes in musical trends, The Kinks continued to release influential albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, maintaining their status as one of the most important and enduring bands in rock history. Their influence on subsequent generations of musicians is immense, and their songs remain staples of rock music.
#18 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, formed in 1976 in Gainesville, Florida, are one of the most beloved American rock bands, known for their blend of rock, folk, and heartland influences. Led by the charismatic Tom Petty, the band achieved widespread success with their self-titled debut album, which included hits like “Breakdown” and “American Girl.” Their music is characterized by its jangly guitars, straightforward rock sound, and Petty’s distinctive voice, drawing comparisons to The Byrds, who were a major influence on Petty’s songwriting and guitar style.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers continued to release successful albums, including Damn the Torpedoes (1979), Full Moon Fever (1989), and Into the Great Wide Open (1991), solidifying their place in rock history. The band’s ability to create timeless rock anthems with a nod to American roots music made them a staple of rock radio and earned them a loyal fanbase. Despite Tom Petty’s untimely death in 2017, the band’s legacy lives on, and their influence on American rock music is immeasurable.
#19 The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground, formed in 1964 in New York City, are widely regarded as one of the most influential bands in rock history, known for their avant-garde approach to music and their exploration of themes that were often taboo in mainstream rock. The band’s debut album, The Velvet Underground & Nico (1967), produced by Andy Warhol, is considered a landmark in rock music, featuring songs like “Heroin” and “Venus in Furs,” which blended rock, art, and experimental sounds. The Velvet Underground’s music is characterized by its raw, minimalist sound, Lou Reed’s distinctive vocal delivery, and a willingness to push the boundaries of what rock music could be.
The band’s influence on alternative and indie music is profound, and their experimental approach drew comparisons to The Byrds’ later, more psychedelic work. Although The Velvet Underground never achieved commercial success during their active years, their impact on music has grown over the decades, influencing countless artists across multiple genres. The band’s legacy as pioneers of underground and alternative music continues to resonate, and their work remains a touchstone for musicians seeking to explore the darker, more avant-garde side of rock.
#20 R.E.M.
R.E.M., formed in 1980 in Athens, Georgia, are one of the most successful and influential alternative rock bands of the 1980s and 1990s, known for their jangly guitars, introspective lyrics, and distinctively Southern sensibility. The band’s early work, particularly their 1983 debut album Murmur, drew comparisons to The Byrds, with its rich, layered guitar sound and enigmatic lyrics. R.E.M.’s music is characterized by Michael Stipe’s cryptic vocals, Peter Buck’s chiming guitar work, and a blend of folk, rock, and post-punk influences.
R.E.M.’s success continued through the 1980s and 1990s with albums like Document (1987), Out of Time (1991), and Automatic for the People (1992), which produced hits like “Losing My Religion” and “Man on the Moon.” The band’s ability to combine alternative rock with accessible pop melodies drew comparisons to The Byrds, particularly in their use of jangly guitars and harmonies. Despite their breakup in 2011, R.E.M.’s influence on the alternative rock scene remains significant, and their music continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
#21 The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground, formed in 1964 in New York City, are widely regarded as one of the most influential bands in rock history, known for their avant-garde approach to music and their exploration of themes that were often taboo in mainstream rock. The band’s debut album, The Velvet Underground & Nico (1967), produced by Andy Warhol, is considered a landmark in rock music, featuring songs like “Heroin” and “Venus in Furs,” which blended rock, art, and experimental sounds. The Velvet Underground’s music is characterized by its raw, minimalist sound, Lou Reed’s distinctive vocal delivery, and a willingness to push the boundaries of what rock music could be.
The band’s influence on alternative and indie music is profound, and their experimental approach drew comparisons to The Byrds’ later, more psychedelic work. Although The Velvet Underground never achieved commercial success during their active years, their impact on music has grown over the decades, influencing countless artists across multiple genres. The band’s legacy as pioneers of underground and alternative music continues to resonate, and their work remains a touchstone for musicians seeking to explore the darker, more avant-garde side of rock.
Frequently Asked Questions
What musical elements do bands like The Byrds typically incorporate?
Bands like The Byrds often feature jangly guitars, intricate vocal harmonies, and a blend of folk and rock influences. They are known for combining traditional folk melodies with contemporary rock rhythms to create a unique sound.
Which bands influenced the sound of The Byrds?
The Byrds were influenced by early folk artists like Bob Dylan as well as British Invasion bands like The Beatles. Their sound reflects a fusion of these influences, blending folk storytelling with rock instrumentation.
Are there modern bands inspired by The Byrds’ sound?
Yes, modern bands such as R.E.M. and The Jayhawks have drawn inspiration from The Byrds’ signature blend of jangly guitars and harmonized vocals. These bands continue the legacy of folk-rock with a contemporary twist.
How did The Byrds contribute to the development of country rock?
The Byrds were pioneers in blending rock with country music, particularly with their album *Sweetheart of the Rodeo*. This fusion laid the groundwork for the country rock genre, influencing many bands that followed.
