Bands & artists like Patti Smith

If you like Patti Smith, 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 Patti Smith? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Siouxsie and the Banshees

Siouxsie and the Banshees

Guide

Their blend of post-punk and art rock, combined with Siouxsie's dramatic vocal delivery, echoes Smith's intensity and poetic lyricism.

alternative rock gothic rock new wave
The Velvet Underground

The Velvet Underground

Guide

Known for their avant-garde approach and raw sound, they share a similar ethos of confronting beauty and chaos through music.

alternative rock art pop art rock
Joy Division

Joy Division

Their dark, atmospheric sound and introspective lyrics resonate with Smith's exploration of existential themes.

post-punk
Kate Bush

Kate Bush

Guide

Bush's theatricality and blend of rock with literary influences parallel Smith's artistic expression and emotional depth.

art pop art rock baroque pop
Television

Television

Their intricate guitar work and poetic lyrics align closely with the sonic experimentation found in Smith's music.

art rock new wave post-punk
Fiona Apple

Fiona Apple

Guide

Apple's confessional songwriting and emotive vocal style draw parallels to Smith's raw honesty and urgency.

alternative rock art pop chamber pop
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds

Guide

Cave's storytelling and haunting melodies evoke a similar sense of urgency and existential reflection as seen in Smith's music.

alternative rock experimental rock gothic rock
The Cure

The Cure

Guide

Their blend of post-punk sounds with emotional depth mirrors the complexity found in Patti Smith's artistry.

alternative rock gothic rock new wave

Common questions

Who sounds like Patti Smith?

Artists similar to Patti Smith include Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Velvet Underground, Joy Division and Kate Bush. Each shares elements of Patti Smith's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Patti Smith?

Patti Smith is primarily known for post-punk, art rock and proto-punk. With a driving urgency that melds spoken rhythms with electric intensity, Smith's music pulses like a heartbeat, forever urging the listener to confront both the beauty and chaos of existence.

Where should I start if I like Patti Smith?

If you enjoy Patti Smith, start with Siouxsie and the Banshees — their album "Hyæna" is a great entry point. Their blend of post-punk and art rock, combined with Siouxsie's dramatic vocal delivery, echoes Smith's intensity and poetic lyricism.