The Rolling Stones have long been hailed as one of the greatest rock bands of all time, with their electrifying blend of rock, blues, and R&B setting the standard for what it means to be a rock ‘n’ roll band. Their rebellious spirit, iconic riffs, and unforgettable performances have left an indelible mark on music history, influencing countless artists across the globe.
If you’re a fan of The Rolling Stones and are looking for other bands that capture that same raw energy and timeless appeal, you’re in for a treat.
In this article, we explore bands like The Rolling Stones, each carrying forward the torch of rock ‘n’ roll in their own unique way, ensuring that the spirit of the genre remains as vibrant as ever.
21 Incredible Bands Similar to The Rolling Stones to Add to Your Playlist
Contents
- 1 21 Incredible Bands Similar to The Rolling Stones to Add to Your Playlist
- 2 #1 The Beatles
- 3 #2 The Who
- 4 #3 Led Zeppelin
- 5 #4 The Kinks
- 6 #5 The Yardbirds
- 7 #6 The Animals
- 8 #7 Creedence Clearwater Revival
- 9 #8 The Doors
- 10 #9 The Faces
- 11 #10 The Byrds
- 12 #11 The Hollies
- 13 #12 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- 14 #13 The Jimi Hendrix Experience
- 15 #14 Aerosmith
- 16 #15 The Black Crowes
- 17 #16 The Velvet Underground
- 18 #17 The Allman Brothers Band
- 19 #18 T. Rex
- 20 #19 The Stooges
- 21 #20 The Clash
- 22 #21 AC/DC
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
These bands share elements with The Rolling Stones, such as a strong foundation in blues and rock, charismatic performances, and a lasting impact on the rock music landscape.
Here’s a list of 21 bands similar to The Rolling Stones, known for their blend of rock, blues, and enduring influence on rock music:
#1 The Beatles
The Beatles, formed in 1960 in Liverpool, England, are one of the most influential and iconic bands in music history. Comprising John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, The Beatles revolutionized popular music with their innovative songwriting, harmonies, and recording techniques. Their early work, influenced by rock and roll and skiffle, quickly evolved into more sophisticated compositions that incorporated elements of classical, folk, and psychedelic music. Albums like Rubber Soul (1965), Revolver (1966), and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967) are considered milestones in the evolution of modern music.
The Beatles’ impact on culture extends beyond their music, influencing fashion, film, and social movements of the 1960s. Their ability to continually reinvent themselves and their sound made them pioneers in the music industry, setting the stage for the British Invasion and inspiring countless artists across genres. Despite their breakup in 1970, The Beatles’ legacy endures, with their music continuing to resonate with generations of fans worldwide.
#2 The Who
The Who, formed in 1964 in London, England, are one of the most influential rock bands of the 20th century, known for their energetic performances, innovative music, and pioneering use of the rock opera format. The band’s classic lineup featured Roger Daltrey on vocals, Pete Townshend on guitar, John Entwistle on bass, and Keith Moon on drums. Their early work was rooted in the mod movement, with hits like “My Generation” capturing the rebellious spirit of youth culture in the 1960s. The Who’s music evolved to include more complex themes and compositions, as seen in their seminal albums Tommy (1969) and Who’s Next (1971).
The Who’s influence on rock music is profound, particularly in the development of hard rock and punk. Their live performances, characterized by Townshend’s windmill guitar playing and Moon’s frenetic drumming, set new standards for rock concerts. The band’s legacy continues to thrive, with their music remaining a powerful influence on rock and roll and popular culture.
#3 Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin, formed in 1968 in London, England, is one of the most legendary and influential rock bands in history, known for their powerful blend of blues, rock, and heavy metal. The band’s lineup—Robert Plant (vocals), Jimmy Page (guitar), John Paul Jones (bass/keyboard), and John Bonham (drums)—created a sound that was both innovative and deeply rooted in the blues tradition. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1969, was a commercial success and set the stage for their subsequent albums, including the iconic Led Zeppelin IV (1971), which featured the timeless track “Stairway to Heaven.”
Led Zeppelin’s music is characterized by its heavy guitar riffs, dynamic arrangements, and Plant’s soaring vocals. They are credited with helping to define the hard rock and heavy metal genres, influencing countless bands that followed. Despite disbanding after Bonham’s death in 1980, Led Zeppelin’s influence on rock music remains unparalleled, with their albums continuing to sell millions of copies worldwide.
#4 The Kinks
The Kinks, formed in 1963 in London, England, are a British rock band known for their distinctive sound that blends rock, pop, and British music hall influences. Led by brothers Ray and Dave Davies, The Kinks emerged as one of the most influential bands of the 1960s with hits like “You Really Got Me” and “All Day and All of the Night,” which featured driving guitar riffs and raw energy that anticipated the sound of punk rock. Their music evolved throughout the decade, with Ray Davies’s songwriting becoming more sophisticated and reflective, as seen in albums like The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society (1968).
The Kinks’ influence extends across multiple genres, including rock, punk, and Britpop, with their music reflecting the changing social and cultural landscape of Britain in the 1960s and 1970s. Despite internal tensions and lineup changes, The Kinks continued to produce critically acclaimed music into the 1980s and beyond, solidifying their legacy as one of the most important bands in rock history.
#5 The Yardbirds
The Yardbirds, formed in 1963 in London, England, are a British rock band best known for their pioneering contributions to the development of rock and blues music. The band’s lineup included some of the most influential guitarists in rock history, including Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page. The Yardbirds gained fame with their high-energy live performances and innovative use of feedback and distortion, which helped to shape the sound of psychedelic rock. Their hits, such as “For Your Love” and “Heart Full of Soul,” showcased their ability to blend blues with pop sensibilities.
The Yardbirds’ experimentation with guitar techniques and their fusion of blues and rock set the stage for the emergence of hard rock and heavy metal. After their breakup in 1968, the band members went on to achieve even greater success, with Jimmy Page forming Led Zeppelin and Jeff Beck embarking on a successful solo career. The Yardbirds’ legacy as a groundbreaking band in the history of rock remains intact, with their influence continuing to be felt in modern music.
#6 The Animals
The Animals, formed in 1962 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, are a British rock band known for their gritty, blues-infused sound and powerful performances. Fronted by the charismatic Eric Burdon, The Animals were part of the British Invasion, bringing a raw, soulful energy to the American music scene. Their 1964 hit “The House of the Rising Sun” became a worldwide success, showcasing Burdon’s deep, emotive voice and the band’s ability to reinterpret traditional folk songs with a rock edge. The band’s music is characterized by its blend of R&B, blues, and rock, with hits like “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” becoming anthems of the era.
The Animals’ influence on rock music is significant, particularly in their role in popularizing blues and R&B in the rock genre. Despite numerous lineup changes and Burdon’s departure in 1966, The Animals’ music continues to resonate with audiences, and their contributions to the British Invasion and the development of rock and roll are widely recognized.
#7 Creedence Clearwater Revival
Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), formed in 1967 in El Cerrito, California, is a rock band known for their swamp rock sound, which blends rock, country, and blues with Southern influences. Fronted by John Fogerty, whose distinctive voice and songwriting skills defined the band’s sound, CCR quickly became one of the most successful American bands of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Their music, characterized by straightforward, rootsy rock tunes, featured iconic hits like “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising,” and “Fortunate Son,” which became anthems of the Vietnam War era.
CCR’s music was known for its tight, concise arrangements and socially conscious lyrics, resonating with a wide audience during a time of political and cultural upheaval. Despite their relatively short career, which ended in 1972 due to internal conflicts, CCR’s influence on rock music remains profound. Their ability to craft timeless, radio-friendly hits while staying true to their roots has cemented their place as one of the great American rock bands.
#8 The Doors
The Doors, formed in 1965 in Los Angeles, California, are a rock band known for their dark, psychedelic sound and the enigmatic presence of their lead singer, Jim Morrison. The band’s lineup, featuring Morrison, keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger, and drummer John Densmore, created a unique sound that blended rock, blues, and jazz with poetic, often surreal lyrics. Their debut album, The Doors (1967), featured the hit single “Light My Fire,” which became a defining song of the 1960s. The band’s music was characterized by its haunting melodies, Morrison’s deep, theatrical voice, and Manzarek’s distinctive keyboard work.
The Doors’ exploration of themes like love, death, and existentialism, combined with their experimental approach to music, set them apart from other bands of their time. Despite Morrison’s untimely death in 1971, The Doors continued to influence generations of musicians with their innovative sound and boundary-pushing lyrics. The band’s legacy as one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of the 1960s remains strong, with their music continuing to captivate new audiences.
#9 The Faces
The Faces, formed in 1969 in London, England, were a rock band known for their raw, energetic sound and rowdy live performances. The band was formed from the remnants of Small Faces, with the addition of vocalist Rod Stewart and guitarist Ronnie Wood. The Faces quickly established themselves as a major force in British rock with their blend of blues, rock, and soul influences. Their albums, including A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse (1971), featured hit singles like “Stay with Me,” showcasing Stewart’s raspy voice and the band’s loose, boisterous style.
The Faces became known for their spirited, often chaotic concerts, where the band’s camaraderie and love of performance shone through. Despite their relatively short career, which ended in 1975 when Stewart pursued a solo career and Wood joined The Rolling Stones, The Faces left a lasting impact on rock music. Their influence can be heard in the work of numerous artists, particularly in the realms of punk and glam rock, where their raw, unpolished sound continues to resonate.
#10 The Byrds
The Byrds, formed in 1964 in Los Angeles, California, are a rock band known for their pioneering blend of folk music and rock, which helped to define the genre of folk rock. The band’s original lineup featured Roger McGuinn, Gene Clark, David Crosby, Chris Hillman, and Michael Clarke. The Byrds gained fame with their electrified version of Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man,” which became a hit in 1965 and introduced their jangly guitar sound, characterized by McGuinn’s 12-string Rickenbacker. Their music combined the lyrical depth of folk with the energy of rock, and they played a key role in popularizing Dylan’s songwriting.
The Byrds continued to evolve their sound throughout the 1960s, incorporating elements of psychedelic rock and country music, as heard in albums like Fifth Dimension (1966) and Sweetheart of the Rodeo (1968). The band’s influence on the development of folk rock, country rock, and psychedelic music is immense, and their harmonies, innovative arrangements, and thoughtful lyrics have left an indelible mark on the music world. Despite numerous lineup changes, The Byrds’ legacy as one of the most important bands of the 1960s remains intact.
#11 The Hollies
The Hollies, formed in 1962 in Manchester, England, are a British rock band known for their tight vocal harmonies, catchy melodies, and a string of hit singles during the 1960s and 1970s. The band’s original lineup included Allan Clarke, Graham Nash, and Tony Hicks, whose voices blended seamlessly to create the band’s signature sound. The Hollies achieved commercial success with hits like “Bus Stop,” “Carrie Anne,” and “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother,” which showcased their ability to craft memorable pop songs with rich vocal arrangements.
The Hollies were part of the British Invasion and played a significant role in shaping the sound of British pop and rock music during the 1960s. Their music, characterized by its polished production and accessible sound, appealed to a wide audience and earned them a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Even after Nash left to form Crosby, Stills & Nash, The Hollies continued to enjoy success and maintain a strong fanbase. Their influence on pop and rock music, particularly in the realm of vocal harmony, is still felt today.
#12 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, formed in 1976 in Gainesville, Florida, are a rock band known for their straightforward, heartland rock sound and Petty’s distinctive voice and songwriting. The band’s self-titled debut album in 1976 featured the hit “Breakdown,” which introduced their blend of rock, folk, and blues influences. Over the years, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers released a string of successful albums, including Damn the Torpedoes (1979) and Full Moon Fever (1989), which included hits like “Refugee” and “Free Fallin’.” Petty’s music, characterized by its relatable lyrics and classic rock sound, resonated with audiences across generations.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers became known for their consistency, both in the quality of their albums and their live performances. Petty’s ability to craft timeless rock songs with universal themes of love, freedom, and resilience earned him a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim. The band’s influence on American rock music is significant, and they remain one of the most beloved and enduring acts in rock history, with a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
#13 The Jimi Hendrix Experience
The Jimi Hendrix Experience, formed in 1966 in London, England, was a rock band led by guitar virtuoso Jimi Hendrix, widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. The band, which included bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell, revolutionized rock music with their innovative use of electric guitar effects, feedback, and improvisation. Their debut album, Are You Experienced (1967), featured iconic tracks like “Purple Haze” and “Hey Joe,” showcasing Hendrix’s groundbreaking guitar work and the band’s ability to blend rock, blues, and psychedelia.
The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s music pushed the boundaries of what was possible with the electric guitar, influencing countless musicians across genres. Hendrix’s performances, marked by his explosive energy and technical prowess, became legendary, and the band’s subsequent albums, Axis: Bold as Love (1967) and Electric Ladyland (1968), further solidified their place in rock history. Despite Hendrix’s tragic death in 1970, his influence on rock music remains unparalleled, and The Jimi Hendrix Experience is celebrated as one of the most innovative and influential bands of all time.
#14 Aerosmith
Aerosmith, formed in 1970 in Boston, Massachusetts, is a rock band known for their bluesy hard rock sound, energetic live performances, and enduring popularity. The band’s classic lineup includes Steven Tyler (vocals), Joe Perry (guitar), Brad Whitford (guitar), Tom Hamilton (bass), and Joey Kramer (drums). Aerosmith gained fame in the 1970s with albums like Toys in the Attic (1975) and Rocks (1976), which featured hit singles like “Sweet Emotion” and “Walk This Way.” Their music is characterized by Tyler’s powerful vocals, Perry’s dynamic guitar riffs, and a raw, infectious energy that has made them one of the most successful rock bands in history.
Aerosmith experienced a resurgence in the 1980s and 1990s, with their collaboration with Run-D.M.C. on a re-recording of “Walk This Way” bringing them back into the spotlight. Their albums Permanent Vacation (1987) and Pump (1989) introduced them to a new generation of fans, and their ability to adapt to changing musical trends while staying true to their roots has kept them relevant for decades. Aerosmith’s influence on rock music, particularly in the realms of hard rock and arena rock, is immense, and they continue to be celebrated as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
#15 The Black Crowes
The Black Crowes, formed in 1984 in Atlanta, Georgia, are a rock band known for their Southern rock and blues influences, drawing frequent comparisons to The Rolling Stones due to their raw, rootsy sound and charismatic stage presence. Fronted by brothers Chris and Rich Robinson, The Black Crowes burst onto the scene with their 1990 debut album Shake Your Money Maker, which featured hit singles like “Hard to Handle” and “She Talks to Angels.” Their music is characterized by gritty guitar riffs, soulful vocals, and a deep reverence for rock, blues, and R&B traditions, often reminiscent of The Rolling Stones’ own style.
Throughout the 1990s, The Black Crowes released a series of successful albums, including The Southern Harmony and Musical Companion (1992) and Amorica (1994), solidifying their place in the rock landscape. Despite internal conflicts and lineup changes, the band has remained a potent force in rock music, with their live performances often featuring extended jams and a high level of musicianship. The Black Crowes continue to tour and record, maintaining their status as one of the leading acts in modern rock, deeply influenced by the classic sounds of the 1960s and 1970s.
#16 The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground, formed in 1964 in New York City, is a band widely regarded as one of the most influential groups in the history of rock music, despite their initial lack of commercial success. Led by singer/guitarist Lou Reed and multi-instrumentalist John Cale, the band’s music was a stark contrast to the prevailing sounds of the 1960s, characterized by its avant-garde approach, dark lyrical themes, and experimental use of noise and drone. Their debut album, The Velvet Underground & Nico (1967), which featured the iconic Andy Warhol-designed banana cover, is considered a landmark in rock music, blending art, music, and counterculture.
The Velvet Underground’s influence on the development of punk, alternative, and indie rock cannot be overstated, with their work inspiring countless artists who valued artistic integrity and experimentation over commercial success. Albums like White Light/White Heat (1968) and The Velvet Underground (1969) further showcased their range, from abrasive noise rock to more subdued, introspective tracks. Despite their initial lack of widespread recognition, The Velvet Underground’s legacy has grown immensely over the years, with many considering them one of the most important and forward-thinking bands of all time.
#17 The Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band, formed in 1969 in Macon, Georgia, is a Southern rock band known for their fusion of rock, blues, and jazz, as well as their improvisational live performances. Led by guitarist Duane Allman and his brother Gregg Allman on vocals and keyboards, the band quickly gained a reputation for their instrumental prowess and tight, cohesive sound. Their 1971 live album At Fillmore East is widely regarded as one of the greatest live albums in rock history, featuring extended jams and showcasing the band’s ability to blend different musical genres seamlessly.
Tragically, Duane Allman died in a motorcycle accident in 1971, but the band continued to achieve success with albums like Eat a Peach (1972) and Brothers and Sisters (1973), the latter of which included the hit “Ramblin’ Man.” The Allman Brothers Band’s influence on Southern rock is immense, with their blend of rock and blues serving as a blueprint for countless bands that followed. Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, the band continued to tour and record until their final performance in 2014, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most important American rock bands.
#18 T. Rex
T. Rex, formed in 1967 in London, England, was a pioneering glam rock band led by singer and guitarist Marc Bolan. Originally starting as a psychedelic folk duo called Tyrannosaurus Rex, Bolan transformed the band into T. Rex in 1970, embracing a more electric, rock-oriented sound. Their 1971 album Electric Warrior, featuring the hit singles “Get It On” and “Jeepster,” catapulted T. Rex to fame and helped establish the glam rock movement of the early 1970s. Bolan’s flamboyant style, catchy guitar riffs, and lyrical themes of fantasy and romance resonated with a generation of fans.
T. Rex’s influence on the glam rock genre and their impact on popular music is significant, with Bolan becoming an icon of the era. The band continued to release successful albums throughout the early 1970s, including The Slider (1972) and Tanx (1973), before Bolan’s tragic death in a car accident in 1977. Despite their relatively short career, T. Rex’s music has endured, inspiring countless artists and earning them a lasting place in the history of rock and roll.
#19 The Stooges
The Stooges, formed in 1967 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, are a rock band known for their raw, aggressive sound that laid the groundwork for punk rock. Fronted by the wild and charismatic Iggy Pop, The Stooges’ music was a stark departure from the more polished rock of the 1960s, characterized by its primal energy, minimalist arrangements, and rebellious attitude. Their self-titled debut album in 1969, produced by John Cale of The Velvet Underground, featured tracks like “I Wanna Be Your Dog” and “No Fun,” which became anthems of the burgeoning punk movement.
The Stooges’ follow-up albums, Fun House (1970) and Raw Power (1973), continued to push the boundaries of rock music, influencing a wide range of artists in the punk, alternative, and garage rock scenes. Despite their initial lack of commercial success, The Stooges’ reputation grew over time, with many considering them one of the most important and influential bands in the history of rock. The band’s raw, unfiltered sound and Iggy Pop’s intense stage presence have left a lasting legacy, earning The Stooges a place as pioneers of punk rock.
#20 The Clash
The Clash, formed in 1976 in London, England, are one of the most iconic bands of the punk rock era, known for their politically charged lyrics, diverse musical influences, and genre-defying sound. The band, led by Joe Strummer and Mick Jones, quickly rose to prominence with their self-titled debut album in 1977, which captured the energy and anger of the punk movement. However, it was their 1979 album London Calling that established The Clash as one of the greatest rock bands of all time, blending punk with reggae, ska, rockabilly, and more to create a landmark album that resonated with a wide audience.
The Clash’s music was characterized by its sharp, socially conscious lyrics, dynamic instrumentation, and a willingness to experiment with different musical styles. Albums like Sandinista! (1980) and Combat Rock (1982) further showcased their versatility and commitment to addressing social and political issues through their music. The Clash’s influence on punk rock, alternative music, and beyond is immense, with their legacy as “The Only Band That Matters” continuing to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
#21 AC/DC
AC/DC, formed in 1973 in Sydney, Australia, is a rock band known for their high-energy performances, hard-hitting guitar riffs, and straightforward rock and roll sound. Founded by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, AC/DC quickly gained a reputation as one of the most electrifying live bands in rock, with their music characterized by powerful, blues-based riffs, driving rhythms, and anthemic choruses. Their breakthrough came with the 1979 album Highway to Hell, featuring the title track that became one of their most iconic songs. However, the band faced a major setback with the death of lead singer Bon Scott in 1980.
Undeterred, AC/DC recruited Brian Johnson as their new lead vocalist and released Back in Black later that year, which became one of the best-selling albums of all time and cemented their place in rock history. The band’s subsequent albums, including For Those About to Rock We Salute You (1981) and The Razors Edge (1990), continued to deliver their signature sound, earning them a massive global following. AC/DC’s influence on hard rock and heavy metal is undeniable, with their music remaining a staple of rock radio and their live shows continuing to draw huge crowds around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes bands like The Rolling Stones stand out in rock history?
Bands like The Rolling Stones are known for their fusion of rock, blues, and R&B, combined with charismatic performances and timeless songwriting. Their ability to blend these genres while maintaining a rebellious edge has made them icons in rock music.
How did The Beatles and The Rolling Stones influence each other?
The Beatles and The Rolling Stones had a friendly rivalry in the 1960s, with each band pushing the other to explore new musical directions. While The Beatles focused on melodic pop and studio experimentation, The Rolling Stones leaned into bluesy rock, influencing each other’s evolving sound.
Both The Who and The Rolling Stones share a foundation in British rock and blues, with a focus on powerful live performances and rebellious themes. While The Rolling Stones are known for their bluesy swagger, The Who brought a more aggressive, mod-influenced sound to their music.
Why are Led Zeppelin often compared to The Rolling Stones?
Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones are both legendary British rock bands that drew heavily from blues music, though Led Zeppelin incorporated more hard rock and mystical elements. Both bands have had a profound impact on the development of rock music, influencing countless artists across generations.
