Bands & artists like Sonny Simmons

If you like Sonny Simmons, 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

Albert Ayler

Albert Ayler

Known for his intense saxophone work and spiritual jazz compositions, Ayler's music features dense layers and a similar interplay of tension and release.

jazz
Pharoah Sanders

Pharoah Sanders

Guide

Sanders' avant-garde approach to saxophone and complex rhythmic structures resonate with Simmons' style, creating a rich, immersive listening experience.

free jazz jazz
Ornette Coleman

Ornette Coleman

Guide

Coleman's free jazz innovations and intricate saxophone melodies align closely with the dense textures and rhythmic shifts found in Simmons' work.

jazz
John Coltrane

John Coltrane

Guide

Coltrane's explorations of modal jazz and powerful saxophone improvisations create a similar depth and intensity that fans of Simmons would appreciate.

free jazz hard bop jazz
Archie Shepp

Archie Shepp

Guide

Shepp's bold saxophone expressions and incorporation of African American cultural themes parallel the emotional weight and complexity present in Simmons' music.

jazz post-bop
Cecil Taylor

Cecil Taylor

Guide

Taylor's avant-garde piano work and complex rhythmic patterns complement the dense layers of sound characteristic of Simmons' jazz explorations.

avant-garde music jazz
Sun Ra

Sun Ra

Guide

Sun Ra's cosmic philosophy and eclectic arrangements, featuring layered instrumentation, echo the adventurous spirit found in Sonny Simmons' compositions.

avant-garde jazz bebop experimental music
David Murray

David Murray

Guide

Murray's powerful saxophone playing and innovative blending of genres create a dynamic soundscape reminiscent of Simmons' intricate musical dialogues.

jazz modern jazz world music

Common questions

Who sounds like Sonny Simmons?

Artists similar to Sonny Simmons include Albert Ayler, Pharoah Sanders, Ornette Coleman and John Coltrane. Each shares elements of Sonny Simmons's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Sonny Simmons?

Sonny Simmons is primarily known for jazz. Dense layers of saxophone intertwine with rhythmically shifting patterns, creating an intense interplay of tension and release that challenges the listener’s perception of time.

Where should I start if I like Sonny Simmons?

If you enjoy Sonny Simmons, start with Albert Ayler — their album "The Last Album" is a great entry point. Known for his intense saxophone work and spiritual jazz compositions, Ayler's music features dense layers and a similar interplay of tension and release.