Bands & artists like John Martyn

If you like John Martyn, 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 John Martyn? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Nick Drake

Nick Drake

Drake's intricate fingerpicking style and melancholic vocals create a similarly reflective atmosphere.

baroque pop folk music traditional folk music
Tim Buckley

Tim Buckley

Buckley's emotive vocal delivery and experimental folk sound resonate with Martyn's rich textures and introspective themes.

traditional folk music
Richard Thompson

Richard Thompson

Thompson's blend of folk and rock, along with his virtuosic guitar work, mirrors the depth found in Martyn's music.

rock music
Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen

Guide

Cohen's poetic lyrics and somber melodies evoke a similar sense of introspection and emotional weight.

blues folk music folk rock
Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell

Mitchell's complex guitar arrangements and lyrical storytelling align closely with the reflective qualities of Martyn's work.

art rock folk jazz folk music
Paul Simon

Paul Simon

Simon's fusion of folk-rock elements and thoughtful songwriting parallels the sonic landscape crafted by Martyn.

folk rock rock music soft rock
David Crosby

David Crosby

Guide

Crosby's harmonically rich compositions and acoustic sensibilities evoke a similar emotional resonance as Martyn's music.

country rock folk rock jazz fusion
Fairport Convention

Fairport Convention

Their blend of traditional folk with rock instrumentation captures the essence of the vibrant acoustic textures found in Martyn's work.

folk rock traditional folk music

Common questions

Who sounds like John Martyn?

Artists similar to John Martyn include Nick Drake, Tim Buckley, Richard Thompson and Leonard Cohen. Each shares elements of John Martyn's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is John Martyn?

John Martyn is primarily known for traditional folk music. Martyn's music pulses with a resonant ebb and flow, characterized by rich guitar textures that build tension before releasing into moments of quiet reflection.

Where should I start if I like John Martyn?

If you enjoy John Martyn, start with Nick Drake — their album "Five Leaves Left" is a great entry point. Drake's intricate fingerpicking style and melancholic vocals create a similarly reflective atmosphere.