Bands & artists like George Gershwin

If you like George Gershwin, 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 George Gershwin? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Aaron Copland

Aaron Copland

Guide

Copland's orchestral works blend classical structures with American folk influences, echoing Gershwin's ability to fuse genres.

classical music opera symphony
Leonard Bernstein

Leonard Bernstein

Guide

Bernstein's works often combine classical elements with jazz influences, similar to Gershwin's unique style in pieces like 'Rhapsody in Blue'.

classical music opera symphony
Scott Joplin

Scott Joplin

Guide

Joplin’s ragtime compositions share a rhythmic complexity and melodic charm that can be found in Gershwin’s early works.

ragtime
Billy Strayhorn

Billy Strayhorn

Strayhorn's sophisticated harmonies and intricate arrangements for Ellington’s band mirror the lush complexity of Gershwin’s orchestrations.

jazz
Nina Simone

Nina Simone

Guide

Simone’s fusion of jazz, classical, and blues elements reflects a similar emotional intensity and stylistic diversity present in Gershwin’s music.

blues gospel music jazz
Miles Davis

Miles Davis

Guide

Davis’ innovative approach to jazz, particularly in 'Porgy and Bess', showcases a blend of improvisation and structured composition akin to Gershwin’s style.

bebop cool jazz hard bop
John Lewis

John Lewis

'The Modern Jazz Quartet' co-founder Lewis combined classical forms with jazz improvisation, paralleling Gershwin's genre-blending approach.

hard bop jazz
Charles Ives

Charles Ives

Guide

Ives’ experimental use of polytonality and American themes resonates with the innovative spirit found in Gershwin’s compositions.

symphony

Common questions

Who sounds like George Gershwin?

Artists similar to George Gershwin include Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, Scott Joplin and Billy Strayhorn. Each shares elements of George Gershwin's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is George Gershwin?

George Gershwin is primarily known for classical, jazz and opera. Gershwin's compositions pulse with layered textures and rhythmic vitality, creating a dynamic interplay between structured melodies and free-flowing jazz elements.

Where should I start if I like George Gershwin?

If you enjoy George Gershwin, start with Aaron Copland — their album "Appalachian Spring / Billy the Kid / Rodeo / El Salón México" is a great entry point. Copland's orchestral works blend classical structures with American folk influences, echoing Gershwin's ability to fuse genres.