It is not difficult to find a list of rock bands, however there are so many out there that it is hard to locate a list that includes every rock and roll musician to ever step foot on a stage. The following list of well-known rock bands presents an influential member of a few of the most popular rock music sub-genres.
Beat Music – The Beatles
The Beatles are easily one of the most well-known musicians in the world. The fall high on the list of rock bands, taking up the place as one of the most influential British rock groups of all time.
Garage Rock – MC5
MC5 came together in Lincoln Park, Michigan and played actively between 1964 and 1972. The original lineup included Rob Tyner, Fred Smith, Michael Davis, Wayne Kramer and Dennis Thompson. The band reformed in 2003, although sadly both Tyner and Smith passed away during the 1990s.
Pop Rock – Michael Jackson
Although a great deal of controversy surrounded his life, Michael Jackson is often considered one of the best pop artists in the world. Although he is found on this list of rock bands, his music also encompassed soul, dance, funk and disco genres.
Blues Rock – The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones include singer Mick Jagger, drummer Charlie Watts, bassist Bill Wyman, guitarist Keith Richards and guitarist Ronnie Wood. The band emerged in the early 1960s and still plays today.
Folk Rock – Bob Dylan
Although Bob Dylan is best known for his work as a singer and songwriter, he is also a poet and painter. For over 50 years, Dylan has become a highly influential figure for musicians and fans of the folk rock and blues genres.
Psychedelic Rock – Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix met bassist Billy Cox while spending mandatory time in the army. The pair become friends and played off and on the military base as the Casuals. Later, Hendrix would go on to become one of the most influential guitarists in the music industry.
Progressive Rock – Jethro Tull
Jethro Tull came from Britain in the late 1960s. They offered a unique sound that featured standard rock instruments as well as the vocals and flute sounds brought to the table by band member Ian Anderson. The band went on to produce folk rock albums later in their career.
Jazz Rock – Van Morrison
Van Morrison, also called “Van the Man,” was a singer, musician and songwriter who earned a place among the Order of the British Empire. Many of Morrison’s songs were built around R&B and soul music, including Wild Night, Brown Eyed Girl and Jackie Wilson Said (I’m In Heaven When You Smile).
Glam Rock – David Bowie
David Bowie is an English musician who has also acted and produced. He first entered into the limelight with his 1969 release Space Oddity, which made it to number five on the U.K. singles music charts. His flamboyant and outrageous style would later make him a glam rock staple.
