21 Most Famous Britpop Bands of All Time

Britpop, a cultural and musical movement that defined the 1990s, brought a wave of British bands to the forefront, blending catchy guitar riffs with sharp lyrics that captured the zeitgeist of the era. Emerging as a reaction to the dominance of American grunge, Britpop celebrated British identity and drew heavily on influences from 1960s and 1970s British rock.

The genre quickly became synonymous with some of the most iconic bands and anthems in music history.

This article explores the famous Britpop bands that not only dominated the charts but also left a lasting impact on British culture and music, shaping the sound of a generation.

21 Most Poplar Famous Britpop Bands that You Used to Listen To

These bands were central to the Britpop movement of the 1990s, a genre characterized by its blend of British guitar pop and rock, often drawing inspiration from the 1960s and 1970s British music scene.

Here’s a list of 21 famous Britpop bands:

#1 Oasis

Oasis, formed in Manchester in 1991 by brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher, is one of the most iconic bands of the Britpop era. Their debut album, Definitely Maybe (1994), became the fastest-selling debut album in UK history, propelled by hits like “Live Forever” and “Supersonic.” Their follow-up, (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? (1995), was even more successful, featuring anthems like “Wonderwall” and “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” solidifying their status as global superstars.

Oasis became known for their rivalry with fellow Britpop band Blur, which culminated in the famous “Battle of Britpop” in 1995. Despite internal tensions, the band continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s before eventually disbanding in 2009. Oasis remains one of the most influential bands in rock history, with their music still resonating with fans worldwide.

#2 Blur

Blur, formed in London in 1988, was one of the leading bands of the Britpop movement and was instrumental in defining the genre’s sound and style. The band, consisting of Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James, and Dave Rowntree, first gained attention with their second album, Modern Life Is Rubbish (1993), which embraced a distinctly British sound in contrast to the American grunge movement. Their next album, Parklife (1994), was a critical and commercial success, featuring hits like “Girls & Boys” and “Parklife,” and is often considered one of the quintessential Britpop albums.

Blur’s rivalry with Oasis, particularly during the release of their single “Country House” in 1995, became a defining moment in Britpop history. The band continued to evolve their sound with albums like The Great Escape (1995) and Blur (1997), the latter featuring the international hit “Song 2.” After a hiatus, Blur reunited in the 2000s and released The Magic Whip (2015), proving their enduring appeal.

#3 Pulp

Pulp, fronted by the charismatic Jarvis Cocker, became one of the most celebrated Britpop bands with their blend of witty lyrics and catchy melodies. Formed in Sheffield in 1978, the band struggled for years before achieving mainstream success in the mid-1990s. Their breakthrough came with the album His ‘n’ Hers (1994), but it was Different Class (1995) that cemented their place in Britpop history. The album, which included the iconic singles “Common People” and “Disco 2000,” captured the zeitgeist of 1990s Britain with its sharp social commentary and anthemic choruses.

Pulp’s music was characterized by its exploration of British life, touching on themes of class, love, and identity. The band continued to release successful albums, including This Is Hardcore (1998), before going on hiatus in 2002. Pulp reunited in the 2010s for a series of live shows, reminding fans of their lasting impact on British music.

#4 Suede

Suede, often credited as one of the bands that paved the way for the Britpop movement, was formed in London in 1989 by Brett Anderson, Bernard Butler, Mat Osman, and Simon Gilbert. Their self-titled debut album, Suede (1993), was a commercial and critical success, winning the Mercury Prize and earning them the title of “The Best New Band in Britain” by the music press. Suede’s glam-rock influences and Anderson’s androgynous persona set them apart from other bands of the era.

Their follow-up album, Dog Man Star (1994), is considered a masterpiece, despite the departure of guitarist Bernard Butler during its recording. The album’s dark and expansive sound distinguished it from the more upbeat Britpop records of the time. Suede continued to enjoy success with albums like Coming Up (1996) and Head Music (1999), solidifying their status as one of Britpop’s most influential bands. After a hiatus, Suede reunited in 2010 and have since released several albums, continuing to captivate audiences with their distinctive style.

#5 The Verve

The Verve, formed in Wigan in 1990, became one of the most important bands of the Britpop era, known for their expansive sound and emotional depth. Fronted by Richard Ashcroft, the band initially gained attention with their psychedelic-influenced debut album, A Storm in Heaven (1993). However, it was their third album, Urban Hymns (1997), that brought them international fame. The album featured the massive hit “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” which became one of the defining songs of the 1990s.

Despite their success, The Verve was plagued by internal conflicts and legal battles over the rights to “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” which sampled a Rolling Stones orchestral recording. These issues led to the band’s breakup in 1999, just as they were at the height of their popularity. The Verve briefly reunited in the mid-2000s and released a fourth album, Forth (2008), before disbanding again. Their legacy as one of Britpop’s most iconic bands remains strong, with Urban Hymns continuing to be celebrated as a classic album.

#6 Supergrass

Supergrass, formed in Oxford in 1993, quickly became one of the most beloved bands of the Britpop era, known for their infectious energy and youthful exuberance. The band’s debut album, I Should Coco (1995), was a massive success, driven by the hit single “Alright,” which became an anthem of the 1990s. The album’s mix of punk rock energy, catchy melodies, and witty lyrics resonated with fans and critics alike.

Supergrass continued to release successful albums, including In It for the Money (1997) and Supergrass (1999), showcasing their ability to evolve their sound while maintaining their core appeal. The band’s music was characterized by its sense of fun and optimism, making them a standout act in the often more serious Britpop scene. Supergrass disbanded in 2010 after releasing six albums, but they reunited in 2019 for a series of live performances, reminding fans of their enduring charm and impact on British music.

#7 Elastica

Elastica, formed in London in 1992, was fronted by Justine Frischmann and became one of the standout bands of the Britpop era, known for their edgy, punk-influenced sound. The band’s self-titled debut album, Elastica (1995), was a critical and commercial success, featuring hits like “Connection” and “Waking Up.” The album became the fastest-selling debut in UK history at the time, and its blend of punk energy with catchy pop hooks captured the spirit of the mid-90s.

Elastica’s music was characterized by its sharp lyrics, driving guitars, and a sense of attitude that set them apart from other Britpop bands. Despite their early success, the band struggled with internal tensions and legal issues over alleged plagiarism, which led to a lengthy hiatus before the release of their second album, The Menace (2000). Although Elastica disbanded shortly after, their influence on the Britpop scene remains significant, with their debut album considered a classic of the genre.

#8 Sleeper

Sleeper, formed in London in 1993 and fronted by Louise Wener, was one of the key bands of the Britpop movement, known for their melodic pop-rock sound and witty lyrics. The band quickly gained popularity with their debut album, Smart (1995), which included hits like “Inbetweener” and “Vegas.” Sleeper’s music was characterized by its catchy choruses, relatable lyrics, and Wener’s distinctive voice, making them a favorite among Britpop fans.

Their second album, The It Girl (1996), solidified their success with tracks like “Sale of the Century” and “What Do I Do Now?” Sleeper’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with a rock edge made them one of the era’s most successful bands. However, by the late 1990s, the band’s popularity began to wane, and they disbanded in 1998 after releasing their third album, Pleased to Meet You (1997). Sleeper reunited in 2017 and released a new album, The Modern Age (2019), reintroducing their music to a new generation of fans.

#9 Menswear

Menswear, formed in London in 1994, quickly became one of the most talked-about bands of the Britpop era, known as much for their style as for their music. The band was part of the “Cool Britannia” wave and gained significant media attention even before releasing any music, largely due to their fashionable image and association with the London scene. Their debut album, Nuisance (1995), featured the singles “Daydreamer” and “Stardust,” which enjoyed moderate success in the UK charts.

Menswear’s music was characterized by its upbeat, guitar-driven sound and catchy hooks, fitting well within the Britpop genre. However, the band’s rapid rise to fame was followed by a swift decline, with their second album, ¡Hay Tiempo! (1998), failing to achieve the same level of success. Menswear disbanded shortly after, and while they were often criticized for being more style than substance, they remain a notable part of the Britpop story, representing the era’s blend of music and fashion.

#10 Cast

Cast, formed in Liverpool in 1992 by former La’s bassist John Power, became one of the prominent bands in the Britpop scene with their blend of rock, pop, and psychedelia. The band’s debut album, All Change (1995), was a commercial success, becoming the fastest-selling debut album in the history of the Polydor label. Featuring singles like “Alright” and “Walkaway,” the album was praised for its melodic songwriting and Power’s distinctive voice.

Cast’s music was rooted in classic British rock, with influences ranging from The Beatles to The Stone Roses, giving them a broad appeal. Their follow-up album, Mother Nature Calls (1997), continued their success, producing hits like “Free Me” and “Guiding Star.” However, the band’s popularity waned towards the end of the 1990s, and after releasing two more albums, they disbanded in 2001. Cast reunited in 2010 and have since released new music, continuing to tour and maintain a loyal fanbase.

#11 Dodgy

Dodgy, formed in London in 1990, became known for their feel-good pop-rock sound and catchy melodies, making them a favorite during the Britpop era. The band’s breakthrough came with their second album, Homegrown (1994), which included the hit single “Staying Out for the Summer.” Their music was characterized by its upbeat, sunny vibe, blending influences from 1960s pop with contemporary rock. Dodgy’s third album, Free Peace Sweet (1996), was even more successful, featuring singles like “Good Enough,” which became their biggest hit and one of the defining songs of the Britpop movement.

The band’s positive energy and infectious tunes made them a popular live act during the 1990s. However, internal conflicts led to the departure of lead singer Nigel Clark in 1998, and the band went on hiatus. Dodgy reunited in the early 2000s with a new lineup and have continued to perform and release new music, maintaining their status as one of the beloved bands from the Britpop era.

#12 Ocean Colour Scene

Ocean Colour Scene, formed in Birmingham in 1989, became one of the standout bands of the Britpop era with their blend of rock, soul, and mod influences. The band’s breakthrough came with their second album, Moseley Shoals (1996), which featured hits like “The Riverboat Song,” “The Day We Caught the Train,” and “You’ve Got It Bad.” The album was a critical and commercial success, earning the band a dedicated following and establishing them as one of the leading acts in British music at the time.

Ocean Colour Scene’s music was characterized by its rich, guitar-driven sound, combining elements of classic rock with modern sensibilities. Their follow-up album, Marchin’ Already (1997), debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart, further cementing their success. The band has continued to release music and tour over the years, maintaining a loyal fanbase and a reputation as one of the most enduring acts from the Britpop era.

#13 Shed Seven

Shed Seven, formed in York in 1990, became one of the prominent bands of the Britpop movement, known for their anthemic rock songs and energetic live performances. The band gained popularity with their debut album, Change Giver (1994), which included the singles “Dolphin” and “Speakeasy.”

Shed Seven’s music was characterized by its catchy melodies, driving guitars, and Rick Witter’s distinctive vocals. Their second album, A Maximum High (1996), was a commercial success, producing several top 40 singles, including “Going For Gold” and “Chasing Rainbows,” which became fan favorites. The band’s success continued into the late 1990s, but as the Britpop movement waned, so did their mainstream appeal. Shed Seven disbanded in 2003 but reunited in 2007 and have since released new music and toured extensively, continuing to be a popular live act with a dedicated following.

#14 Kula Shaker

Kula Shaker, formed in London in 1995, stood out in the Britpop scene for their unique blend of psychedelic rock, Indian music influences, and mysticism. Fronted by Crispian Mills, the band quickly gained attention with their debut album, K (1996), which became one of the fastest-selling debut albums in Britain. The album featured hits like “Tattva,” “Hey Dude,” and “Govinda,” the latter sung entirely in Sanskrit, reflecting the band’s fascination with Indian culture and spirituality.

Kula Shaker’s music was marked by its swirling guitars, hypnotic rhythms, and Mills’ distinctive voice, drawing comparisons to 1960s psychedelic rock bands like The Beatles and The Doors. Their second album, Peasants, Pigs & Astronauts (1999), continued to explore their eclectic influences but did not achieve the same level of success. The band went on hiatus in 1999 but reunited in 2004, continuing to release music and tour, maintaining a loyal fanbase and a reputation as one of the more adventurous and unique acts from the Britpop era.

#15 Ash

Ash, formed in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, in 1992, emerged as one of the most energetic and enduring bands of the Britpop era. Initially a trio consisting of Tim Wheeler, Mark Hamilton, and Rick McMurray, Ash gained widespread attention with their debut album, 1977 (1996), which featured hits like “Girl from Mars,” “Goldfinger,” and “Oh Yeah.” The album’s title referenced the year both the band members were born and the release of the first Star Wars film, reflecting their youthful spirit and love for pop culture.

Ash’s music combined catchy melodies with punk rock energy, making them a standout act during the mid-90s. Their follow-up albums, Nu-Clear Sounds (1998) and Free All Angels (2001), further solidified their success, with the latter producing the hit single “Shining Light.” Despite changes in lineup and musical direction over the years, Ash has continued to release new music and tour, maintaining a loyal fanbase and a reputation as one of the most consistent and beloved bands from the Britpop era.

#16 The Bluetones

The Bluetones, formed in Hounslow, London, in 1993, became one of the more melodic and introspective bands associated with the Britpop movement. Fronted by Mark Morriss, the band first gained attention with their debut single “Are You Blue or Are You Blind?” in 1995, followed by the release of their critically acclaimed debut album, Expecting to Fly (1996). The album, which included the hit single “Slight Return,” reached number one on the UK Albums Chart and established The Bluetones as a significant force in the Britpop scene. Their music was characterized by its jangly guitars, thoughtful lyrics, and Morriss’s smooth vocals, drawing comparisons to The Smiths and The Stone Roses.

The band continued to release successful albums throughout the late 1990s, including Return to the Last Chance Saloon (1998) and Science & Nature (2000). Although their popularity waned in the 2000s, The Bluetones maintained a dedicated fanbase and continued to perform and release new material until their initial disbandment in 2011. The band reunited in 2015 and has since toured regularly, keeping their legacy alive as one of the more enduring acts of the Britpop era.

#17 Gene

Gene, formed in London in 1993, was a Britpop band known for their introspective lyrics and comparisons to The Smiths, thanks in part to the emotive vocals of lead singer Martin Rossiter. Their debut album, Olympian (1995), was a critical and commercial success, featuring singles like “Sleep Well Tonight,” “Haunted by You,” and the title track “Olympian.” Gene’s music was characterized by its melancholic yet uplifting sound, with a strong emphasis on songwriting and lyrical depth.

The band’s follow-up album, Drawn to the Deep End (1997), continued their success, showcasing a more polished and expansive sound with tracks like “Fighting Fit” and “Where Are They Now?” Despite being somewhat overshadowed by more commercially successful Britpop bands, Gene carved out a loyal fanbase and were respected for their sincerity and musical integrity. The band released two more albums, Revelations (1999) and Libertine (2001), before disbanding in 2004. Gene’s influence on the Britpop scene and their dedication to crafting emotionally resonant music have ensured their place in the history of the genre.

#18 Echobelly

Echobelly, formed in London in 1992, was fronted by Sonya Madan and became known for their catchy, melodic pop-rock sound and socially conscious lyrics. The band quickly gained attention with their debut album, Everyone’s Got One (1994), which featured the hit singles “I Can’t Imagine the World Without Me” and “Insomniac.” Echobelly’s music was characterized by its strong hooks, jangly guitars, and Madan’s distinctive vocals, which often explored themes of identity, race, and gender.

Their second album, On (1995), was even more successful, producing the hit single “Great Things” and solidifying their status as one of the leading bands of the Britpop movement. Echobelly’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with deeper lyrical content set them apart from many of their contemporaries. The band continued to release music throughout the late 1990s and 2000s, with albums like Lustra (1997) and People Are Expensive (2001). Although their commercial success declined over time, Echobelly remained a respected and influential part of the Britpop scene, and they have continued to perform and release new music in recent years.

#19 The Charlatans

The Charlatans, formed in the West Midlands in 1988, were one of the most enduring bands to emerge from the Madchester scene, transitioning smoothly into the Britpop era with their blend of alternative rock, indie, and dance influences. The band’s breakthrough came with their debut album, Some Friendly (1990), which included the hit single “The Only One I Know,” a song that became an anthem of the early 90s. The Charlatans’ music was characterized by its swirling Hammond organ, groovy basslines, and Tim Burgess’s distinctive vocals.

Their success continued throughout the 1990s with albums like Up to Our Hips (1994), The Charlatans (1995), and Tellin’ Stories (1997), the latter featuring hits like “North Country Boy” and “One to Another.” Despite facing numerous challenges, including the tragic death of keyboardist Rob Collins in 1996, The Charlatans persevered and remained a significant presence in British music. The band has continued to release new music and tour, maintaining a loyal fanbase and a reputation as one of the most resilient and influential bands of their generation.

#20 Marion

Marion, formed in Macclesfield in 1993, was a Britpop band known for their dark, intense sound and charismatic frontman Jaime Harding. The band’s debut album, This World and Body (1996), was well-received and featured singles like “Sleep” and “Time,” which garnered critical acclaim for their raw energy and emotional depth. Marion’s music was characterized by its jangly guitars, introspective lyrics, and Harding’s powerful vocals, drawing comparisons to The Smiths and Joy Division.

The band seemed poised for success with their follow-up album, The Program (1998), produced by ex-Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr. However, internal struggles and Harding’s battle with addiction led to the band’s decline, and they disbanded in 1999. Despite their short-lived career, Marion developed a cult following, and their music remains highly regarded by fans of the Britpop era. The band reunited in 2011 for a series of live performances, but health issues forced them to cancel further plans. Marion’s story is one of unfulfilled potential, but their music continues to resonate with those who appreciate their raw and emotive sound.

#21 Menswear

Menswear, formed in London in 1994, quickly became one of the most hyped bands of the Britpop era, largely due to their stylish image and association with the burgeoning “Cool Britannia” movement. The band gained significant media attention before even releasing any music, thanks to their fashionable looks and connections within the London scene. Their debut album, Nuisance (1995), featured singles like “Daydreamer” and “Stardust,” which enjoyed moderate success in the UK charts.

Menswear’s music was characterized by its upbeat, guitar-driven sound and catchy hooks, fitting well within the Britpop genre. However, the band’s rapid rise to fame was followed by a swift decline, as their second album, ¡Hay Tiempo! (1998), failed to replicate the success of their debut. Internal tensions and changes in the music industry led to their disbandment in 1998. Although often criticized for being more about style than substance, Menswear remains a notable part of the Britpop story, representing the era’s blend of music, fashion, and media hype.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Britpop band is known for their iconic rivalry with Oasis during the “Battle of Britpop” in 1995?

Blur is known for their famous rivalry with Oasis, which culminated in the “Battle of Britpop” in 1995 when both bands released singles on the same day. Blur’s “Country House” won the chart battle, but the rivalry helped define the Britpop era.

What made Pulp’s Different Class album a defining moment in Britpop history?

Pulp’s Different Class (1995) became a defining moment in Britpop due to its sharp social commentary, catchy melodies, and Jarvis Cocker’s charismatic delivery. The album’s hit singles like “Common People” captured the spirit of 1990s Britain and resonated deeply with the youth of the era.

Which Britpop band was fronted by a former member of The La’s and became known for their classic British rock influences?

Cast was formed by John Power, a former member of The La’s, and became known for their classic British rock sound. Their debut album All Change (1995) was a commercial success and featured hits like “Alright” and “Walkaway.”

How did Suede contribute to the early development of Britpop before the genre fully took off?

Suede is often credited with paving the way for Britpop with their glam-rock influences and androgynous style. Their self-titled debut album Suede (1993) won the Mercury Prize and set the stage for the Britpop movement that followed.