Bands & artists like Terry Riley

If you like Terry Riley, 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 Terry Riley? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Steve Reich

Steve Reich

Guide

Reich's use of phasing and repetitive structures creates a similar intricate layering of sound that resonates with Riley's rhythmic patterns.

Philip Glass

Philip Glass

Guide

Glass's minimalist compositions often feature repetitive motifs and evolving textures, mirroring the complexity found in Riley's work.

Dixieland jazz minimalist music opera
La Monte Young

La Monte Young

Young's explorations of sustained tones and microtonality align with Riley's innovative approach to sound and rhythm.

experimental music
Gavin Bryars

Gavin Bryars

Bryars blends traditional forms with modern techniques, producing layered compositions that resonate with the intricacies of Riley's music.

opera
Brian Eno

Brian Eno

Guide

Eno’s ambient works often utilize repetitive structures and evolving soundscapes, echoing the immersive quality found in Riley's compositions.

ambient music art pop art rock
Arvo Pärt

Arvo Pärt

Guide

Pärt's tintinnabuli style creates a meditative quality that contrasts but complements the rhythmic intensity present in Riley's music.

contemporary classical music minimalist music religious music

Common questions

Who sounds like Terry Riley?

Artists similar to Terry Riley include Steve Reich, Philip Glass, La Monte Young and Gavin Bryars. Each shares elements of Terry Riley's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Terry Riley?

Terry Riley is primarily known for contemporary classical music. Riley’s music pulses with rhythmic patterns that build intricate layers of sound, shifting between moments of clarity and dense complexity.

Where should I start if I like Terry Riley?

If you enjoy Terry Riley, start with Steve Reich — their album "Double Sextet/2x5" is a great entry point. Reich's use of phasing and repetitive structures creates a similar intricate layering of sound that resonates with Riley's rhythmic patterns.