Bands & artists like M.I.A.

If you like M.I.A., 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

Santigold

Santigold

Santigold blends eclectic sounds and genres, combining reggae, punk, and hip-hop with a strong emphasis on rhythmic hooks.

pop music
Grimes

Grimes

Guide

Grimes utilizes experimental production techniques and combines pop melodies with electronic and dance elements, creating an avant-garde sound.

ambient music art pop contemporary R&B
Die Antwoord

Die Antwoord

Guide

Die Antwoord's music features a mix of rap and electronic beats with provocative lyrics and a distinctive visual aesthetic that parallels M.I.A.'s style.

alternative hip-hop electronic dance music
Azealia Banks

Azealia Banks

Guide

Azealia Banks incorporates rapid-fire rap verses over innovative beats, often blending house and hip-hop in a way that resonates with M.I.A.'s approach.

dance-pop hip house hip-hop
Kelela

Kelela

Kelela's experimental R&B sound features layered production and a blend of electronic influences that align with the sonic complexity of M.I.A.'s work.

alternative R&B electronic music
FKA twigs

FKA twigs

Guide

FKA twigs combines ethereal vocals with intricate production, merging elements of pop, R&B, and electronica in a way that echoes M.I.A.'s artistic vision.

trip hop
Björk

Björk

Guide

Björk's innovative use of technology in her music, along with her unique vocal style and genre-blending compositions, makes her a fitting comparison.

alternative rock art pop avant-garde music
Little Simz

Little Simz

Little Simz delivers sharp lyricism over diverse beats that range from hip-hop to experimental sounds, paralleling M.I.A.'s eclecticism.

UK rap

Common questions

Who sounds like M.I.A.?

Artists similar to M.I.A. include Santigold, Grimes, Die Antwoord and Azealia Banks. Each shares elements of M.I.A.'s sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is M.I.A.?

M.I.A. is primarily known for alternative rock, hip-hop and electronica. With percussive grooves that pulse with urgency and a dense layering of samples, M.I.A.'s music demands movement while challenging perceptions.

Where should I start if I like M.I.A.?

If you enjoy M.I.A., start with Santigold — their album "I Don’t Want: The Gold Fire Sessions" is a great entry point. Santigold blends eclectic sounds and genres, combining reggae, punk, and hip-hop with a strong emphasis on rhythmic hooks.