Bands & artists like Elvin Jones

If you like Elvin Jones, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

New to Elvin Jones? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Tony Williams

Tony Williams

Williams' innovative drumming style in the post-bop era features complex rhythms and a dynamic interplay with other instruments, much like Jones.

jazz
Jack DeJohnette

Jack DeJohnette

DeJohnette's ability to blend intricate polyrhythms with melodic elements creates a similar tension and release found in Jones's work.

free jazz jazz jazz fusion
Max Roach

Max Roach

Roach's pioneering approach to jazz drumming incorporates complex rhythms and a conversational style that resonates with Jones's techniques.

jazz
Billy Cobham

Billy Cobham

Cobham's fusion of jazz and rock features intricate drum patterns and explosive energy, paralleling Jones's intense rhythmic dialogues.

funk jazz jazz rock
Roy Haynes

Roy Haynes

Haynes' distinctive rhythmic phrasing and use of space in his drumming align closely with the polyrhythmic textures characteristic of Jones.

hard bop jazz
Art Blakey

Art Blakey

Guide

Blakey's hard-bop drumming style emphasizes powerful, driving rhythms that evoke a similar sense of urgency as seen in Jones's performances.

bebop jazz
Kenny Clarke

Kenny Clarke

Clarke's innovative use of ride cymbal patterns and syncopation laid the groundwork for modern jazz drumming, echoing Jones's influential style.

bebop jazz
Brian Blade

Brian Blade

Blade's fluid, expressive drumming combines subtlety and intensity, creating an emotional depth akin to the waves of sound produced by Jones.

jazz rock music

Common questions

Who sounds like Elvin Jones?

Artists similar to Elvin Jones include Tony Williams, Jack DeJohnette, Max Roach and Billy Cobham. Each shares elements of Elvin Jones's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Elvin Jones?

Elvin Jones is primarily known for post-bop. With shifting polyrhythmic textures that build tension and release in waves, Jones’s drumming serves as both foundation and fervent dialogue within each moment.

Where should I start if I like Elvin Jones?

If you enjoy Elvin Jones, start with Tony Williams — their album "Carnaval" is a great entry point. Williams' innovative drumming style in the post-bop era features complex rhythms and a dynamic interplay with other instruments, much like Jones.