Bands & artists like Rufus Wainwright

If you like Rufus Wainwright, 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 Rufus Wainwright? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Ben Folds

Ben Folds

Guide

Ben Folds shares a penchant for intricate melodies and piano-driven arrangements, often blending humor with emotional depth.

pop music
Sufjan Stevens

Sufjan Stevens

Sufjan Stevens combines lush orchestration with introspective lyrics, creating a rich soundscape that resonates emotionally.

alternative rock baroque pop chamber pop
Regina Spektor

Regina Spektor

Regina Spektor's unique vocal style and eclectic instrumentation mirror Wainwright's ornate melodies and lyrical storytelling.

anti-folk indie pop jazz fusion
Andrew Bird

Andrew Bird

Guide

Andrew Bird's use of layered instrumentation and his folk-infused pop sensibilities create a similarly rich harmonic texture.

indie rock
Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen

Guide

Leonard Cohen's poetic lyrics and deep, resonant vocals echo the emotional weight found in Wainwright's music.

blues folk music folk rock
David Gray

David Gray

David Gray's blend of folk and pop, combined with heartfelt songwriting, creates a similar emotional resonance as Wainwright's work.

alternative rock pop music
Tori Amos

Tori Amos

Guide

Tori Amos' piano-driven compositions and expressive vocal delivery parallel the ornate textures found in Wainwright's music.

alternative rock art rock baroque pop
Fiona Apple

Fiona Apple

Guide

Fiona Apple's intricate melodies and emotionally charged lyrics resonate with the same intensity found in Wainwright's songs.

alternative rock art pop chamber pop

Common questions

Who sounds like Rufus Wainwright?

Artists similar to Rufus Wainwright include Ben Folds, Sufjan Stevens, Regina Spektor and Andrew Bird. Each shares elements of Rufus Wainwright's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Rufus Wainwright?

Rufus Wainwright is primarily known for indie pop. Wainwright's music thrives on ornate melodies and rich harmonic textures, punctuated by moments of restrained intensity that build emotional resonance.

Where should I start if I like Rufus Wainwright?

If you enjoy Rufus Wainwright, start with Ben Folds — their album "So There" is a great entry point. Ben Folds shares a penchant for intricate melodies and piano-driven arrangements, often blending humor with emotional depth.