Bands & artists like Lou Reed
If you like Lou Reed, 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 Lou Reed? Start with our listening guide.
Artists to try next
David Bowie
GuideBowie's experimental approach and glam rock influences resonate with Reed's art rock sensibilities, especially in their shared use of theatricality and innovative soundscapes.
Iggy Pop
As a pioneer of punk and collaborator with Reed, Iggy's raw vocal style and minimalist instrumentation echo the unrefined energy found in Reed's work.
The Velvet Underground
GuideReed's former band embodies the same avant-garde spirit and lyrical depth, with a focus on drone-like melodies and experimental rock textures.
Brian Eno
GuideEno's ambient and experimental music often features repetitive motifs and minimalist arrangements that align closely with Reed's sonic explorations.
Nick Cave
Cave's dark, poetic lyrics and brooding soundscapes reflect the raw emotional intensity present in Reed's music, particularly in his storytelling style.
Patti Smith
GuideSmith's blend of punk rock and poetry shares a kinship with Reed’s lyrical approach, characterized by a raw vocal delivery and minimalist instrumentation.
Tom Waits
Waits' gravelly voice and avant-garde compositions evoke a similar sense of urban storytelling and emotional depth as found in Reed's work.
Sonic Youth
GuideTheir use of dissonance, noise elements, and experimental structures parallels Reed’s exploration of sound within alternative rock.
Common questions
Who sounds like Lou Reed?
Artists similar to Lou Reed include David Bowie, Iggy Pop, The Velvet Underground and Brian Eno. Each shares elements of Lou Reed's sound while bringing their own perspective.
What genre is Lou Reed?
Lou Reed is primarily known for alternative rock, folk rock and psychedelic rock. Reed's music pulses with a raw, unrefined energy, characterized by repetitive motifs that build tension and release within minimalist arrangements.
Where should I start if I like Lou Reed?
If you enjoy Lou Reed, start with David Bowie — their album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" is a great entry point. Bowie's experimental approach and glam rock influences resonate with Reed's art rock sensibilities, especially in their shared use of theatricality and innovative soundscapes.