Bands & artists like Public Enemy

If you like Public Enemy, 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 Public Enemy? Start with our listening guide.

East Coast hip-hop hardcore hip-hop political hip-hop progressive rap

Artists to try next

KRS-One

Known for his powerful lyricism and socially conscious themes, KRS-One's music features a similar aggressive delivery and layered sampling.

East Coast hip-hop boom bap conscious hip-hop

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Hip Hop Lives

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Nas

Guide

With intricate storytelling and a focus on social issues, Nas shares a lyrical depth and East Coast sound that resonates with Public Enemy's style.

East Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop boom bap

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Illmatic

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A Tribe Called Quest

Guide

Their innovative use of jazz samples and thought-provoking lyrics create a complex sonic landscape that parallels the intensity of Public Enemy.

East Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop hip-hop

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Midnight Marauders

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dead prez

Focusing on political messages and social justice, Dead Prez combines hard-hitting beats with a raw vocal style reminiscent of Public Enemy's approach.

political hip-hop

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Information Age

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Ice-T

As a pioneer of gangsta rap, Ice-T's aggressive delivery and socially charged lyrics align closely with the themes found in Public Enemy's work.

West Coast hip-hop gangsta rap golden age hip-hop

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Rhyme Pays

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Lupe Fiasco

Guide

His sharp commentary on social issues combined with innovative production mirrors the political edge found in Public Enemy's music.

Midwest hip-hop alternative hip-hop alternative rock

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Drogas Light

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Cypress Hill

Known for their unique sound that incorporates heavy beats and socially conscious lyrics, Cypress Hill shares a similar intensity with Public Enemy.

Latin hip-hop West Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop

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Rise Up

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Janelle Monáe

Guide

Her genre-blending style and strong political messages create a compelling narrative that aligns well with the themes explored by Public Enemy.

alternative hip-hop funk rhythm and blues

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Dirty Computer

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Common questions

Who sounds like Public Enemy?

Artists similar to Public Enemy include KRS-One, Nas, A Tribe Called Quest and dead prez. Each shares elements of Public Enemy's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Public Enemy?

Public Enemy is primarily known for hardcore hip-hop, East Coast hip-hop and political hip-hop. The music is characterized by its relentless rhythm and layered samples that create an intense sonic tapestry, propelling messages forward with unyielding force.

Where should I start if I like Public Enemy?

If you enjoy Public Enemy, start with KRS-One — their album "Hip Hop Lives" is a great entry point. Known for his powerful lyricism and socially conscious themes, KRS-One's music features a similar aggressive delivery and layered sampling.