The English rock band Pink Floyd pioneered the progressive rock genre. With their unique, psychedelic soundscapes and high-profile concept albums, they have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
With a career spanning over 50 years, it's no surprise that they've been a strong influence on many bands that have followed them, and many people love their work.
So if you love Pink Floyd and want to find similar bands for your playlist, look no further. Our list of 13 bands like Pink Floyd will help you find the perfect one. Read more!
Connected: See our listfamous prog rock bandshere
Contents
1. Ukrotite Impalu
Led by multi-talented musician Kevin Parker, the Australian bandUkrotiti Impaluhas built up a distinct musical identity since its foundation in 2007. Their psychedelic pop music is similar to Pink Floyd's early work, but with its own contemporary pop and electronic influences.
The band released four studio albums. However, as a testament to their incredible work, they all made the top five on the Australian charts, with the last two being:ElectricityiSlow hurry- also peaked in the highest ranksHere200.
Singles such as "The Less I Know the Better", "Borderline" and "Lost in Yesterday" showcase their innovative songwriting, the latter of which received a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Song.
2. Porcupine tree
An English band like Pink Floyd,Porcupine treeflow seamlessly between psychedelic rock and progressive metal on their ten full-length studio albums, making them a great choice for Pink Floyd fans.
Porcupine Tree was founded in 1987 by Steven Wilson as an initially intended solo projectbe an elaborate jokeabout the history of the fictional band. It eventually evolved into an open group, later joined by members Richard Barbieri (keyboards), Colin Edwin (bass), and Gavin Harrison (drums).
The band has received critical acclaim for their blend of experimental musical styles, drawing inspiration from genres as diverse as progressive rock, ambient music, alternative rock and even heavy metal.
Over the years they have released 11 studio albums, and this is the lastExit/Continue, which peaked at number two on the UK Albums Chart.
3. And
Next, another English rock band is mentionedIn. Formed just three years after Pink Floyd, they originally released pop-rock oriented albums. Later their sound changed to reflect more progressive rock like Pink Floyd's sound.
Yes received widespread recognition with albums likeFragile,Close to the edge, i90125- all three make the top fiveHere200 chart. Their notable hits include "Roundabout" and "Owner of a Lonely Heart".
Over the years, Yes went through several lineup changes, but continued to release albums and tour. To this day, they remain a respected and influential force in progressive rock.
4. King Crimson
Originally from London in 1968.King Crimsonis a pioneering progressive rock band that shares similarities with Pink Floyd in their experimental soundscapes and intricate compositions.
Led by guitarist Robert Fripp, the band's ever-changing lineup has contributed to their diverse and influential discography. Their debut album,At the court of the Crimson King, is a psychedelic rock masterpiece featuring classics like "21st Century Schizoid Man" and "Epitaph".
Both Pink Floyd and King Crimson have a penchant for mixing rock with elements of the avant-garde and jazz, taking their listeners on immersive sonic journeys.
5. gong
Founded in Paris in 1967Gongis an avant-garde progressive rock band with strong psychedelic elements, founded by Australian musician David Allen.
Gong's most famous and acclaimed period came withRadio gnome invisiblea trilogy of albums from 1973 to 1974Flying teapot,Angel doesn't, ivas.
These albums introduced the fictional mythology of "The Pot Head Pixies" and explored themes of spiritual awakening, intergalactic travel, and social commentary.
The band's sound during that period included complex musical arrangements, improvisation, and a fusion of rock, jazz, and psychedelic elements. Fans of Pink Floyd's psychedelic rock era will appreciate Gong's unconventional approach to music.
6. The moody blues
Founded in 1964, British rock bandmoody bluesthey rose to fame along with Pink Floyd, which was founded in 1965. Like Pink Floyd, they were also known for their progressive rock and psychedelic sound.
The same year the band was formed, The Moody Blues released a cover of Bessie Banks' "Go Now". The song was an instant success, reaching number 1 on the UK Singles Chart and number 10 on the UK Singles ChartHereHot 100. Since then, they have continued to release chart-topping and studio albums, gaining fans all over the world.
Unlike Pink Floyd, The Moody Blues' career lasted until 2018, but their legacy remains strong. In the same year, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
7. Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Although one English supergroupEmerson, Lake & Palmer(ELP) didn't have such a psychedelic sound as Pink Floyd, they were known for their progressive rock style.
Formed in 1970, the group consisted of keyboardist Keith Emerson, bassist and vocalist Greg Lake, and drummer Carl Palmer. They gained significant popularity in that decade with albums likeWisdom,Trilogy, iBrain salad surgery.
ELP went on hiatus in the late 1970s, reunited in the early 1990s, and disbanded in 2010. Nevertheless, the band has made a lasting impact on the progressive rock genre, and their music continues to be celebrated for its technical prowess and ambitious arrangements.
8. Hawkwind
Founded in London in 1969.Hawkwindis a space rock band with a strong psychedelic influence. Fans of Pink Floyd's expansive, atmospheric sound will appreciate Hawkwind's cosmic approach to rock.
The band was founded by singer, songwriter and guitarist Dave Brock. Over the years, the lineup has included notable musicians such as Lemmy Kilmister (later Motörhead), Nik Turner and Robert Calvert. Brock remains the only constant member in the band's history.
In five decades of career, Hawkwind has released 35 albums and 22 singles. Notable hits of interest to Pink Floyd fans include "Silver Machine", which reached number three in the UK Singles Chart, "Urban Guerrilla" and "Shot Down in the Night".
9. Caravan
In 1968, a British rock band from Canterbury, England, Caravan, broke into the progressive and psychedelic rock scene. They share similarities with Pink Floyd in terms of their luscious melodies and intricate arrangements.
Caravan music is often mentionedpart of the Canterbury scene, a subgenre of progressive rock that emphasizes melodic, complex compositions and a playful, often eccentric approach to songwriting.
Their 1971 albumIn the land of gray and pinkincludes standout tracks like "Golf Girl" and "Nine Feet Underground," which propelled the band to stardom throughout the decade and well into the 1980s.
10. Amon Dül II
I am from Munich, Germany,Amon Dül IIwas founded in 1968 and is considered a leading force in the Krautrock movement.
Their debut album,phallus has, was released in 1969 and showcased their innovative and eclectic sound. A series of well-received albums followed—Yetiin 1970,Ples lemingain 1971 andWolf Cityin 1972.
Amon Düül II achieved cult status in Germany and other parts of Europe, but had limited commercial success outside his homeland. However, their influence paved the way for later bands in the krautrock and progressive rock genres.
Their music is still admired by fans of experimental and psychedelic rock. Fans of Pink Floyd can resonate with their style.
11. Genesis
Next is an English prog rock bandGenesis. Formed in 1967, the band was formed by vocalist Peter Gabriel, guitarist Anthony Phillips, bass guitarist Mike Rutherford, keyboardist Tony Banks and drummer Chris Stewart.
Over time, the line-up went through several changes, with Phil Collins joining the band as drummer in 1970 and later as lead singer after Gabriel's departure in 1975.
In the 1980s, Genesis moved to a more pop-oriented sound. Their 1983 self-titled album captures the change perfectly, as the music contains a mix of prog rock and pop. And during this decade, Genesis achieved great success and their albums reached number one on the UK album charts.
Like Pink Floyd, Genesis had a lasting impact on music, mixing different styles and creating unforgettable songs, cementing their status as one of Britain's most influential bands.
12. Soft machine
The penultimate on this list isSoft machine, a pioneer of British progressive rock. Formed in 1966, the band incorporated experimental rock and psychedelic influences into their music.
Over the years, the band went through several breaks, line-up changes and even name changes. Their sound has also evolved and is closer to jazz and progressive rock that fans of Pink Floyd can appreciate.
Notable Soft Machine albums that Pink Floyd fans may want to explore include their self-titled debut album andthe third, released in 1970, which contains the excellent song "Moon in June".
13. Spiritualized
Founded in 1990 in Rugby, England,Mentallyis a space rock band led by singer-songwriter Jason Pierce. With their unique blend of psychedelic rock, gospel and ambient music, Spiritualized creates lush, hypnotic soundscapes that evoke a sense of transcendence.
Pierce founded Spiritualized after the breakup of his previous band, Spacemen 3. As the main songwriter, singer and guitarist, he has been a central figure in the band throughout its history.
Their critically acclaimed 1997 albumLadies and gentlemen, we float in spacecontains the memorable songs "I Think I'm in Love" and "Come Together". Lovers of the atmospheric and immersive sound of Pink Floyd will find a similar sonic experience with Spiritualized.
We round up our list of bands like Pink Floyd
Exploring bands like Pink Floyd can be a journey into the depths of psychedelic rock, progressive metal and concept albums.
Tame Impala offers a modern take on the genre with its dreamy soundscapes, Porcupine Tree takes listeners on an introspective journey through their music, while Yes is another pioneer of the prog rock genre that has stood the test of time.
If you're looking to broaden your musical horizons beyond Pink Floyd, these 13 bands are a great place to start. Each band brings something unique to the table while also paying homage to the legendary Pink Floyd.
FAQs
Who is the genius of Pink Floyd? ›
Onto some of his earlier work and visiting the time when Syd Barrett was the singer, principal songwriter, and the overall genius creative behind Pink Floyd.
Who is the biggest rock band of all time? ›The Rolling Stones
“The Rolling Stones were hailed as the greatest rock and roll band in the world in the 1970s, a title they have battled other famous bands to keep. Having sold over 200 million records worldwide, the band is one of the best-selling bands of all time,” mentions Hello Music Theory.
According to some interviews with Roger Waters , he consideres John Lennon to be the best poet of the post World War II time. Paul McCartney in his turn was a big fan of Pink Floyd in their early days. He was spoted at Pink Floyd concerts at the Cavern a number of times.
Is Pink Floyd the biggest band in the world? ›They were famed for their 20-minute opuses and grandiose stadium shows featuring flying pigs. Now Pink Floyd have received an accolade to match the enormity of their sound and performances - by being named the biggest band of all time, ahead of acts such as Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones.
Who is No. 1 band in the world? ›The Beatles
Comprised of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, The Beatles are globally recognized and are credited with inspiring many famous musicians to pursue music. The most influential band of all time, The Beatles are creative and innovative, and a deserving band at the top of this list.
The English rock band the Beatles are commonly regarded as the foremost and most influential band in popular music history.
What did Eric Clapton think of Pink Floyd? ›“Very strange group. The nearest thing you would have to them here –— well, I can't even think of a group you can relate them to. Very freaky.
Why is Pink Floyd so amazing? ›Introduction. Pink Floyd were the architects of two major music movements—psychedelic space-rock and blues-based progressive rock—and became known for their biting political, social and emotional commentary.
Who sings the most in Pink Floyd? ›As he curtly reminded fans on 30 September, “I left Pink Floyd in 1985 … This is not rocket science people, get a grip.” Although Hawking mostly listens to classical music, he considers himself a fan of “music with character” and has gone to see Pink Floyd play live.
Who was the best guitarist in Pink Floyd? ›
David Gilmour is the iconic lead guitarist of Pink Floyd. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
What is Pink Floyd's most listened to song? ›"Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)"
Pink Floyd's only No. 1 single doesn't make a whole lotta sense outside of the hit album's concept, but it's an important song in the band's career and another of songwriter Waters' long list of gripes against society in general.
In my opinion, "Wish you were here" is the easiest Pink Floyd song to play.....at least the acoustic guitar part. All the chords used are in the G diatonic scale with the 1st verse starting in the key of C. The rest of chords used are G, C, D, A minor & F #. The picking part is easy too.
Why do people like Pink Floyd so much? ›Pink Floyd has always been lauded for its ability to be profound yet irreverent with its wording and imagery. Nowhere does it hit home as much as with the band's lyrics. A lot of the band's lyrics read out like poetic passages. And the messages they convey are some of the most relatable and relevant experiences.
What was the most crowded Pink Floyd concert? ›The audience must have been one of the smallest to see Pink Floyd at this era, only 1500 were present as the festival was not widely promoted. In contrast, over 500,000 people witnessed their show at Fête de L'Humanité, Paris on 12 September 1970, their largest crowd ever.
Was Pink Floyd more popular than The Beatles? ›The upshot: Pink Floyd has sold more albums worldwide than the Beatles. Floyd recorded over a longer period, of course, but both groups have released about the same number of albums, and had about the same span of decades to sell their work to new generations — and in new configurations.
Did Pink Floyd have any number 1 hits? ›After 1968's “Point Me At The Sky,” Pink Floyd went over a decade without releasing a single in the UK. In the US, they made it to #13 with 1973's “Money,” but that was their only Hot 100 hit until “Another Brick In The Wall (Part II),” the song that gave them their first and only #1 on both sides of the Atlantic.
What is the worlds most famous song? ›According to Guinness World Records, Irving Berlin's "White Christmas" (1942) as performed by Bing Crosby is the best-selling single worldwide, with estimated sales of over 50 million copies.
Who has the most fans in a band? ›ARMY - BTS Fandom
The ARMY is the most powerful fandom in the world.
The Beatles, unsurprisingly, lead the way with a record 20 No. 1s, all earned between 1964 and 1970. The Fab Four also scored 34 top 10s (second only to Madonna's 38), hitting No.
Which band has the most albums? ›
As of May 19, 2023, The Beatles have the highest total certified albums and Drake has the highest total certified digital singles.
Who was the first rock band in the world? ›Bill Haley & His Comets had no rivals. They were the first rock'n'roll band, and Rock Around the Clock was the first international rock'n'roll No 1.
Who is the best rock and roll singer of all time? ›1. Bruce Springsteen. Bruce is the link between folk, '60s R&B, punk, and of course, rock and roll. He's the common man's arena superhero and in his mid sixties, his concerts still last over three hours.
Who is king of music? ›There was a series of attempts to find—and a number of claimants to be—the "King of Rock 'n' Roll", a title that became most associated with Elvis Presley. This has been characterized as part of a process of the appropriation of credit for innovation of the then new music by a white establishment.
What did Jimi Hendrix think of Pink Floyd? ›He was then asked if he had seen Pink Floyd. He replied, saying: “I've heard they have beautiful lights but they don't sound like nothing.” Pink Floyd alongside The Move, Amen Corner and other groups ended up being Jimi Hendrix's opening acts when he toured acrros the United Kingdom in 1967.
What broke up Pink Floyd? ›Waters had left Pink Floyd to establish a solo career following the group's 1983 album The Final Cut, and considered his departure in 1985 to mark the end of the band. Gilmour and Mason disagreed, resulting in the final break in a badly frayed relationship.
Which Pink Floyd member had a breakdown? ›Pink Floyd's Nick Mason has spoken out about the band's initial reaction to founding member Syd Barrett's mental health issues and his eventual breakdown. Barrett's prolific songwriting in his two years with the band helped shap Pink Floyd's psychedelic sound and revolutionised rock music.
What is the most famous Pink Floyd solo? ›'Shine On You Crazy Diamond'
Put together, 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond' acts as one of the finest moments of Pink Floyd's career and one that most of the band remember with great fondness.
Just like almost every Rock and Roll musician, David Gilmour also was inspired by The Beatles. The guitarist and singer shared his love for the Liverpool group over the decades and he even had the chance to play live in concert with Paul McCartney on several occasions.
What is the best selling Pink Floyd? ›Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon is one of the biggest-selling albums in pop history.
What does the name Pink Floyd mean? ›
The name Pink Floyd was created on the spur of a moment by Syd Barrett, when another band, also called the Tea Set, was to perform at one of their gigs. The name came from two blues musicians in Barrett's record collection; Pink Anderson and Floyd Council.
What was the most successful of all the Pink Floyd albums? ›Pink Floyd's eighth album, The Dark Side of the Moon (1973), sold more than 30 million copies and is one of the best-selling albums. It has been reissued as a Quadrophonic LP and 5.1 surround sound Super Audio CD.
What style of music is Pink Floyd? ›Introduction. Pink Floyd were the architects of two major music movements—psychedelic space-rock and blues-based progressive rock—and became known for their biting political, social and emotional commentary.
Are Radiohead and Pink Floyd similar? ›The similarities between Pink Floyd and Radiohead were more to do with the experimental tendencies of both bands rather than the latter ripping off their predecessors. Despite their differences, their approach to music aligned, and it's easy to understand why Radiohead were anointed the next Pink Floyd.
What is the difference between Brit Floyd and Pink Floyd? ›And Brit Floyd is a tribute band. The group doesn't play any original songs, instead playing note-for-note versions of Pink Floyd hits. "We put on a very substantial show," said Damian Darlington, the band's guitarist and music director.
Who is influenced by Pink Floyd? ›In 1994, Pink Floyd came out with the album "The Division Bell" and later released "Pulse", a live album produced from that tour. Roger Waters continues to tour on his own and the influence of Pink Floyd is felt in a number of more recent bands, including R.E.M. and Radiohead.
Who did the most singing in Pink Floyd? ›Of the album's 26 songs, Waters sings 23; Gilmour sings only three by himself. Waters made his mark with his last Pink Floyd album.
What was Pink Floyd's original name? ›Formed in 1965, previous names include 'Sigma 6', 'The T-Set', 'The Megadeaths', 'The (Architectural or Screaming)Abdabs', 'The Pink Floyd Blues Band', 'The Pink Floyd'. Named by Syd Barrett who combined the first names of two blues man, Pink Anderson, and Floyd Council.
Why does Pink Floyd sound so good? ›Pink Floyd has always been lauded for its ability to be profound yet irreverent with its wording and imagery. Nowhere does it hit home as much as with the band's lyrics. A lot of the band's lyrics read out like poetic passages. And the messages they convey are some of the most relatable and relevant experiences.
What is Pink Floyd's real name? ›Clockwise from bottom: David Gilmour, Nick Mason, Syd Barrett, Roger Waters and Richard Wright. Pink Floyd were founded in 1965 by Syd Barrett (guitar, lead vocals), Nick Mason (drums), Roger Waters (bass guitar, vocals) and Richard Wright (keyboards, vocals).
Was Pink Floyd more popular than the Beatles? ›
The upshot: Pink Floyd has sold more albums worldwide than the Beatles. Floyd recorded over a longer period, of course, but both groups have released about the same number of albums, and had about the same span of decades to sell their work to new generations — and in new configurations.
Why is Pink Floyd called like that? ›The name Pink Floyd was created on the spur of a moment by Syd Barrett, when another band, also called the Tea Set, was to perform at one of their gigs. The name came from two blues musicians in Barrett's record collection; Pink Anderson and Floyd Council.
Is Pink Floyd alternative music? ›In the '60s and '70s, alt-rock was an entirely experimental genre, with artists like David Bowie, Pink Floyd, and the Velvet Underground.
What is considered the best Pink Floyd album? ›1. The Dark Side of the Moon (1973) Of course, we couldn't even begin to argue that The Dark Side of the Moon doesn't deserve the top spot. While Pink Floyd fans have a propensity to indulge in the rarer moments of the band's career, this album is undoubtedly the group's greatest.