10 Bands Like Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd is a classic rock band that has been around since the 1960s and is known for its psychedelic and progressive rock sounds. They achieved international success and became one of the most successful and influential bands in the history of popular music, selling more than 250 million records worldwide.

The band began in 1964, formed by students Syd Barrett, Nick Mason, Roger Waters, and Richard Wright. They’re one of the most famous bands globally, and their sound is often copied or used as inspiration.

Here are ten bands like Pink Floyd.

1. Emerson, Lake & Palmer

Emerson, Lake & Palmer, a progressive rock band formed in 1970, are known for their complex compositions, innovative instrumentals, and eclectic style. They achieved commercial success in the 1970s and have influenced many other bands.

2. King Crimson

Like Pink Floyd, King Crimson greatly influenced 70s progressive rock. Formed in 1968, the British band remains active today.

Their music is often described as dark, heavy, and brooding, known for complex compositions and strong improvisational skills. Robert Fripp has been the constant member since the band’s formation in 1968.

3. Yes

Yes, formed in 1968, is a successful progressive rock band renowned for their lengthy songs, mystical lyrics, and symphonic sound. Their hits include “Roundabout” and “I’ve Seen All Good People.” Over their career, their sound evolved. They’ve sold over 30 million records globally.

4. The Alan Parsons Project

The Alan Parsons Project, a British progressive rock band founded in 1975, mixes pop, rock, jazz, and classical music. They’re best known for hits like “Eye in the Sky” and “Sirius”, widely used in film, TV, and sports, especially by the Chicago Bulls.

The band found both critical and commercial success in the 70s and 80s. The Alan Parsons Project put out ten studio albums before disbanding in 1990.

5. Genesis

Genesis is a progressive rock band famous for its innovative instrumentals and theatrical live shows. Formed in 1967, they became hugely popular in the 1970s and 1980s, selling over 100 million records globally. Genesis was among the first bands labeled as “progressive rock” and has significantly influenced the genre.

They found major success in the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “I Can’t Dance” and “Invisible Touch.” Phil Collins, the drummer and lead singer of Genesis, also had a highly successful solo career.

6.  Rush

Rush, a Canadian progressive rock band formed in 1968, stands out for their complex compositions, innovative instrumentals, and unique vocal style. While their musical style has evolved significantly, they have always remained a progressive rock band at heart.

Rush has had a major impact on rock music, selling over 40 million records worldwide. They’ve been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards and have won several Juno Awards.

7.  Camel

Camel, a British progressive rock band, formed in 1971. They’re best known for their 1975 album “The Snow Goose,” which achieved mainstream success.

Camel is a pioneer of progressive rock, influencing many bands. They’ve released 14 studio albums in their career.

8. Transatlantic

Transatlantic is a progressive rock supergroup formed in 1999. The band includes members from successful groups like Spock’s Beard, Marillion, and Dream Theater. Known for their lengthy songs and complex arrangements, their music blends progressive rock, jazz, metal, and classical elements. 

9. Jethro Tull

Jethro Tull is a British progressive rock band founded in 1967. Their music stands out for its unusual time signatures, intricate arrangements, and distinctive flute playing. They’re one of the most successful progressive rock bands, with over 60 million records sold worldwide.

Jethro Tull found major success in the 1970s with hits like “Aqualung” and “Locomotive Breath.” The band snagged multiple Grammy nominations and won several high-profile music awards.

10. Marillion

Marillion, a British progressive rock band, formed in 1979. They’re known for their dark, dynamic music, often exploring themes of isolation and despair.

Marillion gained major success in the 1980s with their album “Misplaced Childhood”, topping UK charts. The band has put out 20 studio albums and sold over 15 million records globally.