Bands & artists like Malcolm McLaren

If you like Malcolm McLaren, 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

David Bowie

David Bowie

Guide

Bowie's innovative approach to rock and new wave, combined with theatrical elements and eclectic instrumentation, mirrors McLaren's layered textures and rebellious spirit.

alternative rock ambient music art pop
Talking Heads

Talking Heads

Guide

Their fusion of punk, art rock, and world music creates a rhythmic tension similar to McLaren's work, characterized by complex arrangements and a strong sense of experimentation.

new wave post-punk
Siouxsie and the Banshees

Siouxsie and the Banshees

Guide

With their dark, atmospheric sound and punk roots, Siouxsie and the Banshees share a rebellious energy and layered sonic textures that resonate with McLaren's style.

alternative rock gothic rock new wave
The Clash

The Clash

Guide

The Clash's blend of punk rock with reggae and ska influences reflects a similar rebellious ethos and rhythmic complexity found in McLaren's music.

new wave post-punk punk rock
Kraftwerk

Kraftwerk

Guide

As pioneers of electronic music, Kraftwerk's use of synthetic sounds and rhythmic innovation aligns well with the experimental edge present in McLaren's work.

Krautrock electro electronic music
Devo

Devo

Guide

Devo's unique blend of new wave and punk with quirky instrumentation creates an off-kilter sound that parallels the unpredictability in McLaren's compositions.

art rock new wave
Blondie

Blondie

Guide

Blondie's incorporation of disco, punk, and pop elements results in catchy yet complex songs that reflect the rhythmic tension characteristic of McLaren’s work.

dance-rock new wave post-punk
Gary Numan

Gary Numan

Numan's pioneering electronic soundscapes and dark lyrical themes align closely with the avant-garde aspects of McLaren’s musical explorations.

electronic music electronic rock new wave

Common questions

Who sounds like Malcolm McLaren?

Artists similar to Malcolm McLaren include David Bowie, Talking Heads, Siouxsie and the Banshees and The Clash. Each shares elements of Malcolm McLaren's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Malcolm McLaren?

Malcolm McLaren is primarily known for new wave. McLaren's work pulses with a rhythmic tension, utilizing layered textures that shift unpredictably while maintaining an undercurrent of rebellious energy.

Where should I start if I like Malcolm McLaren?

If you enjoy Malcolm McLaren, 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 innovative approach to rock and new wave, combined with theatrical elements and eclectic instrumentation, mirrors McLaren's layered textures and rebellious spirit.