Bands & artists like Johnny Clegg

If you like Johnny Clegg, 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.

Artists to try next

Savuka

Savuka

Founded by Johnny Clegg himself, Savuka blends African rhythms with rock and pop elements, creating a similar infectious groove and cultural richness.

world music
Paul Simon

Paul Simon

Known for his incorporation of world music influences, Simon's work features rich textures and melodic hooks akin to Clegg's style.

folk rock rock music soft rock
Hugh Masekela

Hugh Masekela

Guide

This legendary South African trumpeter infuses jazz with African musical traditions, offering a vibrant sound that resonates with Clegg's rhythmic interplay.

cape jazz jazz music of Africa
Brenda Fassie

Brenda Fassie

Fassie's energetic pop and kwaito music captures the vibrant spirit of South Africa, paralleling Clegg's upbeat and danceable style.

African popular music
Oumou Sangaré

Oumou Sangaré

Sangaré's powerful vocals and incorporation of traditional Malian music create an engaging sound that aligns well with Clegg's worldbeat influences.

Wassoulou music music of Africa world music
Ali Farka Touré

Ali Farka Touré

His blend of traditional Malian music with bluesy guitar riffs provides a textured sound that complements the rhythmic qualities found in Clegg's music.

blues
Tinariwen

Tinariwen

This Tuareg band combines traditional desert blues with contemporary sounds, creating a compelling atmosphere that echoes Clegg’s cultural depth.

desert blues world music
Miriam Makeba

Miriam Makeba

Guide

Her iconic voice and integration of African folk music into popular formats resonate with the cultural heritage themes present in Clegg's work.

African popular music jazz marabi

Common questions

Who sounds like Johnny Clegg?

Artists similar to Johnny Clegg include Savuka, Paul Simon, Hugh Masekela and Brenda Fassie. Each shares elements of Johnny Clegg's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Johnny Clegg?

Johnny Clegg is primarily known for reggae and worldbeat. With an infectious groove driven by rhythmic interplay and melodic hooks, Clegg’s music compels movement while immersing listeners in rich textures of cultural heritage.

Where should I start if I like Johnny Clegg?

If you enjoy Johnny Clegg, start with Savuka — their album "Third World Child" is a great entry point. Founded by Johnny Clegg himself, Savuka blends African rhythms with rock and pop elements, creating a similar infectious groove and cultural richness.