Bands & artists like The Waterboys

If you like The Waterboys, 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 The Waterboys? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

The Pogues

The Pogues

Guide

Their blend of traditional Irish music with punk rock energy creates a lively, rhythmic intensity similar to The Waterboys.

Celtic punk punk rock
Fairport Convention

Fairport Convention

As pioneers of British folk rock, their use of intricate instrumentation and storytelling aligns closely with the expansive textures found in The Waterboys' music.

folk rock traditional folk music
Clannad

Clannad

Their ethereal soundscapes and Celtic influences resonate with the immersive qualities of The Waterboys' melodies.

new age music
Runrig

Runrig

Guide

Combining rock with Scottish Gaelic themes, their anthemic sound captures a similar sense of celebration and emotional depth as The Waterboys.

Celtic music
Nick Drake

Nick Drake

His haunting melodies and intricate guitar work evoke a reflective mood that complements the more introspective aspects of The Waterboys' catalog.

baroque pop folk music traditional folk music
The Chieftains

The Chieftains

As masters of traditional Irish music, their rich instrumentation provides a sonic backdrop that parallels the expansive textures found in The Waterboys' work.

folk music
Van Morrison

Van Morrison

Guide

His soulful vocals and blending of jazz, blues, and folk create an emotional resonance that fans of The Waterboys would appreciate.

Celtic music blue-eyed soul jazz fusion
Mumford & Sons

Mumford & Sons

Guide

Their modern folk sound, characterized by anthemic choruses and acoustic instrumentation, mirrors the uplifting energy present in The Waterboys' music.

country music folk music folk rock

Common questions

Who sounds like The Waterboys?

Artists similar to The Waterboys include The Pogues, Fairport Convention, Clannad and Runrig. Each shares elements of The Waterboys's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is The Waterboys?

The Waterboys is primarily known for folk rock and Celtic music. With a driving pulse and soaring melodies, their music intertwines rhythmic intensity with expansive textures, creating an immersive listening experience that evokes both introspection and celebration.

Where should I start if I like The Waterboys?

If you enjoy The Waterboys, start with The Pogues — their album "Rum Sodomy & the Lash" is a great entry point. Their blend of traditional Irish music with punk rock energy creates a lively, rhythmic intensity similar to The Waterboys.