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Best Music of 2022

The 11 best experimental albums of 2022.

OHYUNG's imagine naked! is one of NPR Music's top 11 experimental music albums of 2022. Photo Illustration: Jackie Lay/NPR/Jess X. Snow/Courtesy of the artist hide caption

OHYUNG's imagine naked! is one of NPR Music's top 11 experimental music albums of 2022.

The Best Music of 2022

Music not only has the power to transport but transform. "Experimental" music, a nebulous grouping of difficult-to-classify sounds, provides us lovely, sometimes challenging fractal windows to jump through — to escape, commune, blister and rattle, to try and express our edges and witness the unknown. In 2022, for us, this encompassed microtonal rock jams, tender ambient, woozy nostalgia, Egyptian ghosts and an epic synth symphony.

Below, find an unranked list of the year's most exploratory music, along with some personal favorites, by NPR Music staff and contributors.

Lucrecia Dalt, ¡Ay!

¡Ay! is Lucrecia Dalt 's sci-fi missive from space to Earth; or vice versa. The Colombian experimentalist tells an extraterrestrial's story through bolero, salsa, mambo, son and jazz submerged in a colloquial, nostalgic haze. The alien Preta's interpretations of home, love and the limits of having a body resonate exponentially against a textured, acoustic backdrop, a product of human imagination seeking to operate outside of its chains of time, form and grief. Dalt's world-building in sound and theme are jarring in its invention, yet altogether familiar. —Stefanie Fernández

OHYUNG, imagine naked!

Whenever I needed a pacifier this year — in need of something that would bring me down not just to Earth but safely back to the very apartment room I was likely sitting in, imagine naked! was there. It makes sense: Robert Ouyang Rusli, who records tender ambient like this under the name OHYUNG , based its song titles on lines from a poem by t. tran le, titled "Vegetalscape," that summons deep magic from scenes of the everyday. That Rusli also composes for film makes perfect sense; mine might be titled Post-Pandemic Basement Boy. —Andrew Flanagan

Caterina Barbieri, Spirit Exit

The Italian electronic composer Caterina Barbieri thinks deeply about the spiritual impact of her music on the bodies and minds of others. Her intense album Spirit Exit was created in isolation during Milan's strict pandemic lockdown, inspired by hermetic visionaries including the mystic nun St. Teresa of Ávila and Emily Dickinson. Barbieri's layered tracks build and explode massively into moments of bliss, as if to musically recreate Ávila's ecstatic vision of being stabbed in the heart by an angel. —Hazel Cills

Nancy Mounir, Nozhet El Nofous

Nancy Mounir's Nozhet El Nofous is a conversation with the past. The Cairo-based composer and instrumentalist weaves aching arrangements around crackling recordings of 1920s Egyptian singers. In translations provided, we grasp how Mounir's own violin, bass and piano dance seamlessly with beautiful Arabic poetry of love, torment and darkness — characters who express longing and sorrow with the same nostalgic verve of what Brazilians call saudade . The ghostly effect, however, isn't haunting, but an empathetic hand across time. — Lars Gotrich

Evgueni Galperine, Theory of Becoming

Describing his music as an "augmented reality of acoustic instruments," the Paris-based composer masterfully displays his own personal orchestra of sounds derived from, but unheard in, the real world. Trumpet fanfares get twisted, strings shed a kind of rusty patina and who knows what produces that sublime subterranean bellowing. Each of Evgueni Galperine 's 10 pieces unspool like soundtracks to fevered dreams. In the final vignette, "Loplop im Wald," we're captive deep in the forests of surrealist painter Max Ernst, complete with ominous drum beats, woozy strings and a disturbing whistler. —Tom Huizenga

Gavilán Rayna Russom, Trans Feminist Symphonic Music

At 1 hour, 11 minutes, Trans Feminist Symphonic Music is maybe the only project on our list that, though wordless, successfully expresses as much information as a novella. The piece's first movement, "Elegy," folds and bounces within itself, bringing to mind, in both its aesthetic and its peacefully anxious rhythm, Manuel Göttsching's monumental modular album E2-E4 , from 1984. But unlike Göttsching, tranquility and innovation aren't the aim here; Gavilán Rayna Russom is legibly investigating the futility of binaries through the spooky actions of sound. The discordant meditations in the second movement, "Expansions," slide away for the transfixing and daydreamy "Beauty," before settling into the project's rhetorical core in its final movement, "Truth." The whole is greater than the sum of its already-magnificent parts — its conclusion, which is objectively correct, is that there are no right answers when it comes to the act of human being. —Andrew Flanagan

Joe Rainey, Niineta

Since the age of 8, Joe Rainey — a self-described Ojibwe "urban Indian," raised near Minneapolis' tribal locus of Little Earth — has captured 500 hours of powwow ceremonies, emerging as a powerhouse singer on the competitive circuit himself. Niineta is his debut collaboration with empathetic and attentive producer Andrew Broder; they crosshatch Rainey's archives with his own visceral melismas, turning it into a master storyteller's coat of arms across a ruptured firmament of mauling drums and sculptural squelch. Solemn but funny, vulnerable but aggressive, the messages are gripping, even if the tongue is unfamiliar. Rainey is at the radical edge of a wave of Indigenous experimental expression and acceptance in the United States. Niineta is his undeniable opening statement. —Grayson Haver Currin

Horse Lords, Comradely Objects

Into polyrhythms lately? Want sounds so mathy that they feel like they're made of fractions? Can't find your old copy of Neu! ? Do I have an incredibly specific album for you. Angular Baltimoreans — addicted to the tasty, old-school flavor of the West German avant-garde guitar minimalists — can't help themselves from chugging lavishly with guitars and saxophones for a violently kosmische album that sounds like 40 different looms weaving a tapestry. You would think this whole thing would be fustier per the weight of their admitted influence ("Russian Constructivism," which is to say, a utopian art movement that wants less commodity-fetishism and more utility-fetishism), but this album succeeds for feeling strangely rustic in its human filigree. —Mina Tavakoli

Anna Butterss, Activities

In terms of composition, the bassist Anna Butterss seems to shadow-chop through her songs, finding weak spots in their otherwise sparkling walls to pound a hole for peeking through. What lies beyond is anyone's guess (maybe hers most of all). Activities transitions fluidly and ceaselessly between — literally, between — jazz, classical, pop, avant-dance and nursery rhymes, the work of an artist at near-peak technicality having nothing but fun. —Andrew Flanagan

Ian William Craig, Music for Magnesium_173

Armed with a beautifully trained voice and a bank of custom tape decks that loop, slur and hiss, the Canadian artist has created limitless layers of decaying beauty over the span of 12 tracks. In "Attention For It Radiates," choral flourishes, dressed in William Basinski-like distortion, slowly oscillate, while in "Sprite Percent World Record" a single voice barely surfaces above lovely thickets of drone. Originally composed for a computer game, these expansive, slow-motion canvasses, with their desiccated resplendence, stand completely on their own and remain among the most arresting and immersive music released this year. —Tom Huizenga

Björk, fossora

The global grief we've shared during the last few years didn't limit, of course, our individual suffering; it merely made those cuts deeper. Björk used the space of the pandemic to consider her mother's 2018 death and how the influence of a mortal may become immortal through others, reaching ever outward like a mushroom's hyphae. The result, fossora , is a riot of new growth after a deluge. Armies of meticulous if vertiginous woodwinds and strings prance around Björk's singular voice , able to command and comfort at once. "Hope is a muscle that allows us to connect," she beams three minutes in, relentless hardcore drums hammering home this point so that we may never again forget it. These love songs, arguably the most audacious of her career, are brilliant blooms at a perceived new dawn. —Grayson Haver Currin

And 10 more, in no particular order:

Patrick Shiroishi, Evergreen Patrick Shiroishi made 18 records in 2022, all compelling; his finale, Evergreen , is the most exquisite. Using field recordings from the Los Angeles cemetery where his ancestors are buried, the saxophonist builds lush meditative spaces for considering the power that past holds over present. —Grayson Haver Currin

Rachika Nayar, Heaven Come Crashing A mesmerizing album that blends soul-crushing electronica and the Brooklyn composer's gloomy, signature guitar into a cinematic opus. —Hazel Cills

Bill Orcutt, Music for Four Guitars This is antechamber music spit like a piping-hot tar-loogie from the punkest guitar player ever. Yet these choppy, euphoric miniatures are somehow beautiful in their psychic bleed-through. — Lars Gotrich

Peter Coccoma, A Place to Begin Peter Coccoma's annual, winterly sojourn to a sparse island on Lake Superior sitting just off the coast of Minnesota's arrowhead was extended indefinitely by a certain global displeasure not too many years ago. The composer enjoyed the trapped time, though, and spent it well, fastidiously outlining the soul of a unique and quiet corner of the world in these sparse, lush pieces. —Andrew Flanagan

Clarice Jensen, Esthesis Lighter on the drones this time, the restless cellist and composer explores a broader sound world with help from pianist Timo Andres, in music layered with sensations. —Tom Huizenga

claire rousay, wouldn't have to hurt At its best, claire rousay's work can function like a poignant film score, with subtle layers of sound — iridescent electronics, spare piano — highlighting the emotional core of seemingly pedestrian moments. This absorbing EP stares down suffering and tries to transmute it into anything tolerable, be it friendship or mere understanding. —Grayson Haver Currin

Marina Herlop, Pripyat The Catalan composer's album is a work of truly alien music, twisting her freaky, high vocals and piano into soundscapes not of this world. —Hazel Cills

Vanessa Rossetto, The Actress Rossetto layers field recordings and instruments not as a canvas but emotional portraits that you move with your mind. An experience that changes on every listen. —Lars Gotrich

Tanya Tagaq, Tongues "They tried to take our tongues," the Inuk throat singer murmurs on this potent manifesto, demanding to reclaim what colonization has stolen from her culture. —Tom Huizenga

Lamin Fofana, The Open Boat The Sierra Leonean producer gives us a mysterious map, but there doesn't seem to be a ship capable of navigating its extraterrestrial electronics and submerged beats. —Lars Gotrich

• Nancy Mounir
• Evgueni Galperine
• Lucrecia Dalt
• Caterina Barbieri
• Anna Butterss
• Horse Lords
• Ian William Craig
• Gavilán Rayna Russom

10 Best Experimental Rock Songs of All Time

Experimental rock is a genre that pushes the boundaries of traditional rock music by incorporating elements of avant-garde, jazz, electronic, and other unconventional styles.

The result is often a sound that is eclectic, unpredictable, and challenging to listen to. While experimental rock may not be everyone’s cup of tea, its impact on the music industry is undeniable.

Here we’ll take a look at the 10 best experimental rock songs of all time, each of which represents a landmark moment in the genre’s history. Let’s get started!

10 Best Experimental Rock Songs

10. “revolution 9” by the beatles.

Released on the band’s 1968 self-titled album, also known as “The White Album,” “Revolution 9” is a haunting and avant-garde soundscape that defies easy categorization.

It features a collage of manipulated sound effects, spoken-word samples, and musical fragments, all layered together to create a disorienting and unsettling atmosphere.

While “Revolution 9” may not be a traditional rock song, its influence on experimental rock is undeniable, and it remains one of the most daring and boundary-pushing tracks ever recorded.

9. “21st Century Schizoid Man” by King Crimson

The opening track on the band’s 1969 debut album, “In the Court of the Crimson King,” “21st Century Schizoid Man” is a hard-hitting and aggressive song that blends heavy rock with elements of free jazz and avant-garde experimentation.

The track features distorted guitars, frenzied saxophone solos, and pounding drums, all anchored by a driving bassline. The result is a powerful and groundbreaking song that set the tone for the experimental rock movement that followed.

8. “The End” by The Doors

The closing track on the band’s 1967 debut album, “The End” is a sprawling and hypnotic epic that features Jim Morrison’s haunting vocals, psychedelic guitar work from Robby Krieger, and a mesmerizing organ solo from Ray Manzarek.

The song builds to a climax with Morrison’s repeated cries of “lost in a Roman wilderness of pain,” before fading out into silence. “The End” is a dark and enigmatic masterpiece that has become one of the most iconic songs in rock history.

7. “Heroin” by The Velvet Underground

Released on the band’s 1967 album “The Velvet Underground & Nico,” “Heroin” is a brooding and intense song that explores the darker side of drug addiction.

Lou Reed’s raw and emotional vocals are backed by a droning guitar riff and a pulsing rhythm section, creating a hypnotic and mesmerizing atmosphere.

“Heroin” is a powerful and deeply affecting song that pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in rock music at the time.

6. “Sister Ray” by The Velvet Underground

Another groundbreaking track from The Velvet Underground, “Sister Ray” is a 17-minute epic that features a driving, repetitive riff and a chaotic, improvised jam session.

The song is filled with distorted guitars, pounding drums, and dissonant feedback, creating a sound that is both abrasive and captivating.

“Sister Ray” is a prime example of the band’s willingness to experiment with unconventional sounds and structures, and it remains a landmark moment in the history of experimental rock.

5. “Starless” by King Crimson

Another epic track from King Crimson, “Starless” is a haunting and beautiful song that features lush orchestration, intricate guitar work, and a soaring vocal performance from John Wetton.

The song builds to a powerful crescendo, with the entire band coming together in a moment of pure musical catharsis. “Starless” is a masterpiece of progressive rock, and it remains one of the most ambitious and innovative songs ever recorded.

4. “Echoes” by Pink Floyd

Clocking in at over 23 minutes, “Echoes” is a sprawling epic that showcases Pink Floyd’s mastery of atmospheric soundscapes and psychedelic rock. The song features haunting vocals, spacey guitar solos, and a hypnotic rhythm section, all culminating in a powerful and emotional climax.

“Echoes” is a stunning example of Pink Floyd’s ability to create immersive and otherworldly sonic landscapes, and it remains one of their most beloved songs.

3. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen

Released in 1975, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a genre-defying song that incorporates elements of rock, opera, and progressive rock. The track features Freddie Mercury’s operatic vocals, layered harmonies, and a complex, multi-part structure that is both ambitious and innovative.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” is a groundbreaking song that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in rock music, and it remains one of the most iconic and beloved songs of all time.

2. “Idioteque” by Radiohead

Taken from the band’s landmark 2000 album “Kid A,” “Idioteque” is a haunting and hypnotic song that blends electronic music with rock instrumentation. The track features thumping beats, swirling synthesizers, and a haunting vocal performance from Thom Yorke.

“Idioteque” is a stunning example of Radiohead’s willingness to experiment with unconventional sounds and styles, and it remains one of their most groundbreaking and influential songs. It’s just one of their many great songs .

1. “Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin

Released in 1975, “Kashmir” is a majestic and powerful song that blends rock with elements of Indian music. The track features a driving, pounding rhythm section, lush orchestration, and a hypnotic guitar riff that builds to a thrilling climax.

“Kashmir” is a testament to Led Zeppelin’s mastery of dynamics and musical tension, and it remains one of the most epic and powerful rock songs of all time.

10 Best Experimental Rock Songs – Final Thoughts

Experimental rock is a genre that has produced some of the most groundbreaking and innovative music of all time.

The 10 songs listed above represent some of the most iconic and influential moments in the history of the genre, and they continue to inspire and challenge musicians and listeners alike.

Whether you are a fan of experimental rock or just appreciate music that pushes the boundaries of what is possible, these songs are a must-listen for anyone who loves rock music.

“ Led Zeppelin 2203730017 ” by  Heinrich Klaffs  is licensed under  CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 .

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Top 20 Best Experimental Rock Bands Ever

June 12, 2024 By Jimmy Leave a Comment

For enthusiasts eager to discover the most inventive sounds, exploring groundbreaking bands in experimental rock offers an exciting journey through unique musical landscapes. Each featured band brings its own distinct flavor, pushing the boundaries of rock music into uncharted territories.

1. Radiohead

Radiohead transformed the music scene with their shift to an electronic and experimental sound , particularly with their landmark album “Kid A.” This innovative approach cemented their place in experimental rock , blending alternative rock with innovative electronic elements.

Swans have become legendary for their intense live performances and continually evolving sound. Albums like “The Seer” showcase their ability to blend post-punk and experimental elements, captivating audiences for decades.

3. Sonic Youth

Sonic Youth played a significant role in shaping the noise rock and indie rock genres with their groundbreaking music. Their influential album, “Daydream Nation,” highlights their unique mix of noise rock and alternative styles.

4. Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band

Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band pioneered avant-garde rock with their unique and challenging compositions. Their iconic album, “Trout Mask Replica,” blends art rock and avant-garde elements, making a lasting impact on the genre.

5. The Velvet Underground

The Velvet Underground were key figures in the 1960s art and music scene, blending rock with avant-garde elements. Led by Lou Reed, their experimental approach and proto-punk sound left a significant mark on music history.

6. Animal Collective

Animal Collective incorporates a diverse range of sounds and styles, seamlessly blending folk and electronic music. Their album, “Merriweather Post Pavilion,” is a prime example of their neo-psych and experimental approach.

Battles are renowned for their complex rhythms and innovative use of loop pedals and electronics. Their album “Mirrored” exemplifies the band’s unique blend of math rock and experimental sounds.

8. Deerhoof

Deerhoof masterfully blends pop melodies with noise and experimental structures, creating a distinctive sound. Their album “The Magic” showcases their unique approach to noise pop and boundary-pushing musical arrangements.

Can , a German band, is celebrated for their pioneering work in electronic and ambient music. Their album “Tago Mago” is a hallmark of krautrock and experimental innovation, influencing countless artists.

Björk continually pushes musical boundaries with her innovative use of technology and unique voice. Her album “Vespertine” exemplifies her art pop and electronic creativity, creating a truly immersive experience.

11. Tom Waits

Tom Waits is renowned for his gravelly voice and unique blend of jazz, blues, and avant-garde sounds. His album “Swordfishtrombones” showcases his experimental approach, offering a captivating mix of blues and unconventional musical elements.

12. This Heat

This Heat made a significant impact on the experimental music scene with their innovative use of tape loops and unconventional structures. Their album “Deceit” is a notable example of their post-punk and experimental sound.

13. The Mothers of Invention

The Mothers of Invention , led by Frank Zappa, combine rock with satirical and avant-garde elements. Their music, including works under Zappa’s direction, pushes the boundaries of psychedelic rock and experimental innovation.

14. Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd revolutionized music with their groundbreaking use of studio effects and long-form compositions. Their iconic album “The Dark Side of the Moon” perfectly blends progressive rock and psychedelic elements.

15. Death Grips

Death Grips are famous for their aggressive and unconventional style, blending electronic, punk, and hip-hop elements. Their industrial and experimental approach has redefined the boundaries of hip-hop music.

16. Tortoise

Tortoise played a key role in shaping the post-rock genre with their innovative use of jazz, electronic, and minimalism. Their album “TNT” is a standout example of their experimental approach and genre-blending sound.

17. The Voidz

The Voidz is a project by The Strokes’ frontman Julian Casablancas, delving into more experimental sounds. The band merges indie rock with inventive and unconventional musical styles, offering a fresh take on Casablancas’ artistry.

18. Boredoms

Boredoms , a Japanese band, are famous for their wild live shows and genre-blending music. Their album “Super æ” showcases their unique mix of noise rock and experimental sounds, captivating audiences worldwide.

19. Animal Hospital

Animal Hospital is recognized for their ambient textures and experimental compositions. Their album “Shelf Life” highlights their ability to create immersive and innovative musical experiences.

20. The Red Krayola

The Red Krayola were pioneers in the psychedelic and experimental rock scenes of the 1960s. Their album “God Bless The Red Krayola” showcases their groundbreaking and avant-garde approach to psychedelic rock.

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Dean Roberts, Experimental Composer in Thela and White Winged Moth, Dies at 49

Dean Roberts , the experimental composer and multi-instrumentalist who performed in the New Zealand noise trio Thela before embarking on a series of solo projects and records with Autistic Daughters , died this week, his labels Erstwhile and Kranky announced yesterday (August 14). Roberts died in his sleep, Erstwhile ’s Jon Abbey wrote, citing the musician’s sister. Roberts was 49 years old.

Roberts, then a teenager, formed Thela with Dion Workman and Paul Douglas in New Zealand in the early 1990s, rising to prominence through Auckland’s free‐music scene with a pair of albums for the U.S. label Ecstatic Peace! The first, 1995’s Thela , was a landmark of rock minimalism, blending post-hardcore guitar thrums with noise sonics and sparse percussion. The following year’s Argentina added ambient elements and glints of melody, attracting admirers of the coalescing post-rock network, as well as laptop composers like Fennesz , who later collaborated with Douglas’ Rosy Parlane project.

When Thela parted ways, Roberts divided his output between releases under his own name and his White Winged Moth project, often releasing on his own label, Formacentric Disk, as well as on Mille Plateaux and Erstwhile. Though these projects tended to foreground alien frequencies and complex noise elements—particularly his improvisonatial collaboration with Thurston Moore and Dr. Chad—he also began to sing, turning barren soundscapes into uncanny folk laments. He continued in the same direction on Autistic Daughters’ two albums for Kranky , Jealousy and Diamond and Uneasy Flowers , before taking a pause from the studio and returning, from Berlin, in 2020 with Not Fire , the last studio album of his lifetime.

Among those to pay tribute was Lawrence English, who wrote on social media , “I am going to deeply miss you. Your way of transposing the world into song. Your way of finding the hidden voices in the instrument you played. Your smile & that laugh…always that laugh. To future ballads in future places.”

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The Best Experimental Albums of All Time

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1 . This Heat - This Heat

2 . Boards of Canada - Music Has the Right to Children

3 . Laurie Anderson - Big Science

4 . Supersilent - 6

5 . Autechre - NTS Sessions 1-4

6 . Shackleton - Music For the Quiet Hour / The Drawbar Organ EPs

7 . Gazelle Twin & NYX - Deep England

8 . The Books - The Lemon of Pink

9 . Boards of Canada - Geogaddi

10 . Laurel Halo - Dust

11 . Jeff Parker - Forfolks

12 . Joni Void - Mise En Abyme

13 . Ian William Craig - Centres

14 . Avey Tare and Panda Bear - Spirit They're Gone, Spirit They've Vanished

15 . Burial - Antidawn

16 . Einstürzende Neubauten - Lament

17 . William Basinski - A Shadow in Time

18 . Scott Walker - The Drift

19 . Scott Walker - Tilt

20 . Pharmakon - Devour

21 . Moor Mother - The Great Bailout

22 . Injury Reserve - By the Time I Get to Phoenix

23 . The Caretaker - An empty bliss beyond this World

24 . Frog Eyes - Paul's Tomb: A Triumph

25 . Oren Ambarchi / Keiji Haino / Jim O'Rourke - いみくずし (Imikuzushi)

Experimental Guitar Night #44

The Government Center

Special edition #44 of Experimental Guitar Night featuring headliners with visuals!

Wed Mar 27 7:00 pm  $10 at the door (touring act)  all ages

featuring from Erie PA:

THE MISSING FIELD (including Pittsburgh's Scott McGrath)

‍ https://missingfield.bandcamp.com/

‍ The Missing Field are an all-instrumental experimental rock/punk-jazz band—a bright, blooming metal flower in a rusting midwestern waste land, a soundtrack for the mind bounded in a nutshell. Live soundtrack to a revisioned edit of the 1985 film "Angels Egg" by Mamoru Oshii.

LUKAS TRUCKENBROD (Slugss, L.T. Creacher, etc.)

‍ https://ltcreacher.bandcamp.com/ ‍ https://slugss.bandcamp.com/

‍ DOORS IN THE LABYRINTH (Josh Loughrey)

‍ https://doorsinthelabyrinth.bandcamp.com/

‍ GENITAL SHAME (Erin Dawson)

‍ https://genitalshame.bandcamp.com/

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North Side Sun-Wed 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Thurs-Sat   9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Dormont - 11AM - 7PM Tuesday - Sunday

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The 200+ Best Experimental Bands & Musicians, Ranked

Unlike other musical genres, anything that experimental bands do is unpredictable. Whether that's by nature, by training or just something they enjoy doing, experimental artists know how to push the envelope on what their fans consume sonically and their songs generally challenge the convention of even what loyal fans can predict will happen. The bands on this list are generally of the pop and rock music variety. Many of the experimental bands and experimental artists are on here for their willingness to change song structure, fuse genres and use instruments and sounds that weren't well known or even thought of in the same way.

So, what are the best experimental bands and experimental artists? You've probably heard of the experimental music artists that are in the top half of this list. David Bowie, Bjork, Animal Collective, Frank Zappa and Peter Murphy are names associated with experimental music. These artists have all challenged their listeners by releasing music that isn't conventional and thus, have actually become more beloved by their fans.

That said, it's up to you to determine what are the best experimental bands. If you notice that a band isn't on this list and should be, feel free to add them. This list answers the questions "who are the best experimental music bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest experimental music musician ever?"

David Bowie

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Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band

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Best Experimental Rock Bands

Annika Hope

Are you thinking of joining or forming experimental rock band s of your own? Or want to know who has been in your shoes before? Let’s explore this type of music and the best bands out there. 

What Are Experimental Rock Bands?

Experimental rock bands are musical groups that explore unconventional and innovative approaches to rock music, often incorporating elements from other genres and using non-traditional instruments or song structures. 

They prioritize artistic expression and experimentation over commercial success and mainstream appeal. Some examples of experimental rock bands include Radiohead, Sonic Youth, and The Mars Volta.

The History Of Experimental Rock Bands

Experimental rock emerged in the mid-1960s as a response to the commercialization of rock music. It was characterized by a willingness to push boundaries and explore new sounds, often incorporating elements of avant-garde and classical music. Some of the earliest experimental rock bands include The Velvet Underground, Captain Beefheart and His Magic Band, and The Mothers of Invention. The genre continued to evolve throughout the 1970s and beyond, with bands like Can, Faust, and Sonic Youth pushing the boundaries of what was considered “rock” music.

A-Z Of Experimental Rock Music

Maybe this little video will give you some more insight of all the bands that have performed under this genre of music. 

Who Are Some Famous Experimental Rock Bands?

Captain beefheart.

Captain Beefheart was the stage name of musician and artist Don Van Vliet, who formed the band The Magic Band in the 1960s. They released several influential albums, including “Trout Mask Replica,” before disbanding in 1982. Van Vliet continued to work as a visual artist until his death in 2010.

Radiohead is an English rock band formed in 1985. They gained popularity in the 1990s with their album “The Bends” and reached critical acclaim with “OK Computer” in 1997. They have since released several successful albums and are known for their experimental sound and socially conscious lyrics.

Pink Floyd was formed in London in 1965 by Syd Barrett, Roger Waters, Nick Mason, Richard Wright, and Bob Klose. The band became known for their psychedelic rock sound and elaborate live shows. After Barrett left the band in 1968, Waters became the primary songwriter and the band’s sound evolved to include more political and social commentary. 

Pink Floyd went on to become one of the most successful and influential bands of all time, with classic albums such as “The Dark Side of the Moon,” “Wish You Were Here,” and “The Wall.” The band officially disbanded in 1995 after releasing their final album, “The Division Bell.”

The Velvet Underground

The Velvet Underground was an American rock band formed in New York City in 1964. The band’s original lineup consisted of Lou Reed, John Cale, Sterling Morrison, and Maureen Tucker. They were known for their experimental sound and provocative lyrics, and were managed by artist Andy Warhol. Despite initially limited commercial success, their influence on later musicians has been significant.

The Mothers of Invention

The Mothers of Invention was an American rock band formed in 1964 led by Frank Zappa. The band’s early music was characterized by a blend of rock, jazz, and avant-garde influences, and they were known for their satirical lyrics and theatrical stage performances. The band released several albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s, and their music remains influential in the world of experimental rock and jazz.

Horse Lords

Horse Lords is an experimental rock band from Baltimore, Maryland. The band was formed in 2010 and has released several albums and EPs since then. They are known for their use of repetition, unconventional instruments, and complex rhythms influenced by African and Middle Eastern music.

The Voidz is an American rock band formed in 2013 by Julian Casablancas, the lead singer of The Strokes. The band’s debut album, “Tyranny,” was released in 2014, followed by “Virtue” in 2018. The band members have diverse musical backgrounds and have collaborated with various artists in the past.

Summary 

That was our article about experimental rock bands, we hope you have enjoyed it. We have only scratched the surface though and there are plenty of other rock bands we haven’t mentioned, so we would implore you to go and listen to more artists, whichever platform you use. And remember that if you are in a rock band yourself and need some help distributing , publishing or promoting your music , then Music Gateway is here. Please do get in touch, as we love helping artists in any way we can.  

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“He doesn't get a writer's credit for Melissa, but Berry was an integral part of the band's chemistry”: Cut down in his prime, bassist Berry Oakley was behind some of the Allman Brothers Band’s most groove-savvy movements

Berry Oakley employed a heavily modified ’62 Jazz Bass to help bind together this Southern rock classic by the Allman Brothers

There aren’t many acts that can boast a musical career that spanned six decades. But since coalescing around Florida-raised siblings Duane and Gregg in the late '60s, the Allman Brothers Band – with its potent brew of blues, rock, jazz, and country – effortlessly rode out changing musical trends, notching up a string of gold and platinum albums along the way.

The earliest incarnation of the band is the stuff of legend: Duane Allman's and Dickey Betts' sophisticated twin-axe lead approach showed what was possible with two guitars and a large slice of imagination.

The other band members were no slouches either, with Gregg Allman leading stylishly from the front, while drummers Butch Trucks and Jaimoe laid down the rhythm. For his part, bassist Berry Oakley employed plenty of melodic flair and a heavily modified '62 Fender Jazz Bass to help bind the whole thing together.

“Berry Oakley was an amazing bass player and should get more credit than he does,” said Oteil Burbridge, who played with the band from 1997 through to 2014. “ Melissa is a textbook example. His bass playing is like a counterpoint to both the vocal and the guitar; he really captured the lightness of the groove, and that's important, because Gregg wanted that song to be different.”

The Georgia-based ensemble's first two albums for Capricorn Records, The Allman Brothers Band in 1969 and Idlewild South in 1970 , emphatically signalled a major new force on the scene – but things really took off with the group's third offering, the seminal live double-album At the Fillmore East :

Frequently cited as one of the finest live recordings ever waxed, the Fillmore discs capture the original lineup at the height of its powers, as the Allman Brothers rip through a set of white-hot, jazz-tinged blues that pulse with consummate improvisatory interplay.

In late summer 1971, flush with the recent success of At the Fillmore East , the band started work on its third studio album at Criteria Studios in Miami. But tragedy struck on October 29, when Duane Allman spilled from his motorcycle after swerving to avoid a truck, dying a short time later from his injuries.

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Despite this massive blow, the group opted to continue recording. The resulting nine-track double album, Eat a Peach , was released the following February – featuring music recorded both before, and after, Allman's death – and gave the band its first Top Ten placing.

The album's third song, Melissa , is a mellow, reflective number that provides a natural lull after the first two up-tempo tracks. Despite its laid-back vibe, the track bubbles along with a quiet energy, feeding off a hip Oakley sub-hook that squeezes maximum mileage from a simple rhythmic motif.

The song begins with an acoustic guitar intro that exploits the resonance of three open strings (low E, B, and high E), imbuing the chord changes – and the song – with an expansive, ethereal feel. Moving at a one-chord-per-bar pace, the intro sets out the song's main guitar pattern: E, E6/9sus4, Emaj7, and E6/9sus4.

When the rest of the band kicks in with a one-bar pickup, Oakley fixes on the C# from Gregg Allman's E6/9sus4 chord, before working his way down to the open E string on the downbeat, and the start of the first verse.

As the track beds down, Oakley's authoritative notes on the downbeat stamp Allman's guitar chords – unchanged from the intro – with an entirely new character: E, F#m7 (add4), Emaj 7/G# and F#m7(add4).

Here, and in similar sections throughout, the bass pattern pivots around a half-note (or repeated quarter-notes), followed by two 16ths on the first half of beat three, with a final three eighths rounding out the bar.

These phrases continually target the E on the 2nd fret of the D string, which functions alternately as the tonic of the E-based chords, or as the minor 7th of the F#m7(add4) chords, imparting a delicate jazzy flavour.

The shift to an A major chord in bar 11 spurs a doubling of the chord-change speed through bar 14. Berry is content here to simply anchor the harmony with root notes as the chords step up a full octave to cycle back to A.

Oakley falls back on the main pattern for the second verse – but watch out for his use of 16ths, as well as some deft rhythmic displacement to set up intriguing new rhythmic stresses. A brisk swoop then heralds the middle-eight section, eventually leading into Betts guitar solo and the slow fade out.

On November 11, 1972, tragedy struck again when Oakley was thrown from his '67 Triumph after colliding with a bus, only a few blocks from where Allman had crashed. Even though he initially walked away from the accident, Oakley died later the same day from cerebral swelling. He was 24.

The Allman Brothers Band members yet again decided to complete the album they were working on, releasing Brothers and Sisters in August 1973. Oakley plays on two of the seven tracks, while Lamar Williams covers bass duties on the other five. The disc remains the band's commercial highpoint, spending five weeks at the top of the U.S. album chart.

Over the years, the group split and reformed several times, undergoing various personnel changes in the process. The iconic Southern outfit was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995, and honoured with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012.

“Berry was an integral part of the band's chemistry, in terms of both bass playing and writing, "Oteil Burbridge told Bass Player . "He doesn't get a writer's credit for Melissa or some other songs, but try changing his bassline and see how much it changes the song. Because of the way his lines are crafted, I consider him to be as much a composer as a bassist.”

Howard Duane Allman and Raymond Berry Oakley III are buried next to each other in Rose Hill Cemetery, Macon, Georgia.

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Chris Jisi was Contributing Editor, Senior Contributing Editor, and Editor In Chief on Bass Player 1989-2018. He is the author of Brave New Bass , a compilation of interviews with bass players like Marcus Miller, Flea, Will Lee, Tony Levin, Jeff Berlin, Les Claypool and more, and The Fretless Bass , with insight from over 25 masters including Tony Levin, Marcus Miller, Gary Willis, Richard Bona, Jimmy Haslip, and Percy Jones.

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• Genre Finder

Genre: experimental guitar

Experimental guitar music is a genre that pushes the boundaries of traditional guitar playing techniques and explores unconventional sounds and textures. It often incorporates electronic manipulation of the guitar's sound, creating a unique and otherworldly sonic landscape. This genre is characterized by its avant-garde and improvisational nature, as well as its ability to challenge the listener's expectations.

Most popular experimental guitar artists

Related genres

• experimental
• jazz guitar
• american primitive
• free improvisation
• experimental rock
• experimental ambient
• electroacoustic improvisation
• british experimental
• ambient guitar
• new weird america
• japanese experimental
• experimental psych
• deep ambient
• laboratorio
• ecm-style jazz
• finnish modern jazz
• jazz fusion
• progressive rock
• symphonic rock
• avant-garde jazz
• contemporary jazz
• xenharmonic
• post-minimalism
• australian ambient
• australian experimental
• drone metal
• modern electroacoustic
• brutal prog
• glitch ambient
• intelligent dance music
• vintage french electronic

Instruments used

Releases by year.

Here you can see the popularity of Experimental Guitar genre over time. This graph shows albums and singles releases count by year and decade.

Popular experimental guitar Songs

Robert Fripp

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Roy Montgomery

Hayden Pedigo

Windy & Carl

Bill Orcutt

Steve Tibbetts

Top New experimental guitar Songs of 2024

Mary Halvorson

Most popular experimental guitar albums

experimental guitar music by decade

Explore experimental guitar history by listening to songs from every decade. Click on the decade to view songs.

List of experimental guitar artists

Here is a list of experimental guitar artists on Spotify, ranked based on popularity, who exemplifies the experimental guitar genre. You can find out what experimental guitar genre sounds like where you can preview artists or sort them the way you want, just click the headers to sort.

--> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> -->

#	name	popularity	followers
1		33	63866
2		35	88394
3		24	22657
4		35	42584
5		21	15513
6		28	15462
7		29	14116
8		24	18902
9		19	13110
10		30	10620
11		17	24584
12		29	11951
13		28	30767
14		17	7626
15		19	36190
16		12	10976
17		31	25037
18		25	23246
19		23	8083
20		17	5973
21		18	18960
22		25	6019
23		21	5280
24		18	3664
25		23	8613
26		5	3304
27		19	6779
28		8	3093
29		15	12620
30		12	5169
31		10	6929
32		1	771
33		13	5436
34		17	4104
35		14	2317
36		13	913
37		11	358
38		10	1233
39		5	3544
40		3	1094
41		5	796
42		1	506
43		7	3492
44		6	830
45		6	1339
46		7	1718
47		5	1661
48		5	2827
49		6	2246
50		4	785
51		5	2506
52		4	620
53		4	217
54		4	626
55		3	999
56		1	268
57		1	134
58		1	159
59		1	1584
60		1	909
61		1	695
62		1	356

experimental guitar playlist created by Chosic

Enjoy this playlist of popular experimental guitar music. We made this playlist using an algorithm created by our team.

Similar Genres to

Discover more related genres to genre. This list is ordered by similarity from left to right.

Chloe Weir Walks Us Through Her Photographs of Dead & Company at the Sphere

By Angie Martoccio

Angie Martoccio

Chloe Weir has been a sharp observer of Dead & Company’s residency  at  Sphere , capturing her dad, Bob Weir, with his band and the many Deadheads who’ve flocked to Las Vegas this summer to experience some psychedelic magic. “I love to document incredible Deadheads doing what they do,” Weir says over Zoom. “Which is being really cool.”

In an interview over Zoom, Weir walked us through several of her photographs from the residency. “What’s amazing is there’s so many visuals that are dedicated both to the historical moments and to specific song references,” she says. “You’re full of a room of glowing scarlet begonias, or you’re at the historic venues of the Fillmore, Madison Square Garden, Red Rocks, Cornell, and more. My photos only scratch the surface of what it’s like to be at this incredible place. This is only the beginning.”

“This is taken up at the front of the pit,” Weir says. “But what I love is no matter where you are in the venue, it’s amazing. You’re taking in so many forms of art at once — through audio and visuals — and it’s a really incredible experience to be immersed in art in this way.” 

Wall of Sound

One of the many visuals at Dead & Co’s Sphere shows is a recreation of the Wall of Sound, the massive sound system they toured with in 1974. “The Grateful Dead were always on the cutting edge of technology,” Weir says. “I’ve heard so many stories — it was a beast and not easy to move around, but it was really incredible. This Dead Forever residency is so fitting, because they’re still using the newest technology to bring fans an incredible experience. What’s crazy is, if I didn’t know I was in the Sphere, I would think I’m looking at the real Wall of Sound. It’s seriously that realistic. To this day, the Wall of Sound is still an amazing feat, and I just love how it’s being brought back to life here.” 

Estimated Prophet

Bob Weir deep in the groove. “I love to capture my dad when he’s truly in his element, and I really feel he goes somewhere else when he’s playing and is so connected to the music in a very beautiful way,” Weir says. “It’s really special to me that I’m not only able to document the band’s history, but truly my [own] family history as well. I love photographing him, and I love capturing him doing what he loves.”

Skull & Roses

Bob captured inside classic Dead imagery. “Something I love about the visuals at the Sphere is how, in many of the different graphics, they use the art to highlight and frame the musical moments happening in real time, through the use of live feed,” Weir says. “So no matter the seat in the house, you have a truly spectacular view — not only of the screen’s visuals, but of the details of what’s happening on stage, which I love.”

Shakedown Street

Bob and John Mayer locked in during the set. “I love this moment of my dad and John connecting to bring it all home at the end of a song,” Weir says. “Being a jam band, they have to really read each other’s playing during every moment of a show, and it’s really amazing to see how they build off each other, and how they truly communicate through their music.” 

The Music Never Stopped

Dead & Co — drummer Jay Lane, keyboardist Jeff Chimenti, Mayer, Bob, bassist Oteil Burbridge, and drummer Mickey Hart — close out their performance with a bow. “I love this moment at the end of the show where the band and the audience really connect, taking a moment to appreciate this journey they’ve all gone on together,” Weir says. “There’s an incredible energy in the air.” She also likens the band to family: “All the guys are so kind and so supportive, and I’ve known them my whole life.”

Drums and Space

Hart during soundcheck. “The ‘Drums’ section of these shows bring Mickey’s audio and visual artwork to new dimensions with the Sphere’s technology, and viewers are immersed in visuals, synced to music as haptic seats vibrate to the beat,” Weir says. “He utilizes the entirety of the back drum riser, the beam and more, and it’s seriously out of this world.”

Eyes of the World

A view of Earth towards the end of the set. “During every show, the journey is different both musically and visually, but it bookends with taking off and landing in San Francisco where the band got their start nearly 60 years ago,” Weir says. “This is one of those moments towards the end of the show where you’re coming back to Earth after going on this crazy adventure, and it’s such a beautiful moment. And though the show starts in present-day San Francisco, you actually travel back in time to the Sixties when the band is just starting. It’s both emotional and also mind-blowing. Even though I’ve seen it so many times, it gets me every time.” 

I Know You Rider

A live feed of the audience portrayed on the screen. “They don’t do this at every show, but whenever it happens, it’s very special,” Weir says. “This photo in particular was taken during ‘Hey Jude,’ which is something I love that they do. They [cover Traffic’s] ‘Dear Mr. Fantasy’ into ‘Hey Jude,’ and it’s amazing. Every time this happens, it’s just such a connecting moment between the fans and the band. The fans are seeing themselves and singing along.”

One More Saturday Night

A colorful moment during “One More Saturday Night,” sung by Weir’s dad. “This photo is one of those rare moments at Sphere where most of the screen is dark, and it’s to bring attention to the historical photographs of the band and other people in the Grateful Dead family, which are being shown above the stage,” Weir says. “I love this shot because it’s so amazing to get to see what the band’s looking at all night. It’s a really cool perspective.”

A splash of psychedelia that nods to the band’s past. “I love how this visual pays homage to the experimental light shows of the Sixties, that were done with just some oil, water, food coloring, and an overhead projector,” Weir says. “They were shown at the shows during the band’s early days at the Fillmore, the Avalon, and acid tests in San Francisco. Today’s technology totally takes it to the next level and brings this visual experience to people who weren’t there back in the day, like myself. Something that’s crazy about this image is you see John’s guitar is three times the size of the stage, which just goes to show the incredible scale of these immersive visuals.”

Shake It, Shake It

Mayer shredding during the show — with the number of the late NBA star and beloved Deadhead Bill Walton on his guitar. “John really puts his all into every song, and you can not only hear it, but you can see it in the way he plays,” Weir says. “In this photo here, I capture one of those moments as he plays ‘Sugaree.’ There’s Bill’s number on his guitar, which is a really beautiful tribute that they did. Those were some of the [most] special shows I’ve ever seen.”

Haight-Ashbury

One of Weir’s favorite parts of the show takes place in the beginning, when the audience is transported to San Francisco. “You’re on the street in front of the 710 Ashbury house, where the Grateful Dead lived in their earliest days of the band,” she explains. “And from there, you slowly lift off into outer space. It’s so incredible to see people’s reactions, whether or not it’s their first time being at a show. The whole crowd is in awe, and it’s so incredible to hear the music while seeing people take this all in. You can see a little bit of that going on in this photograph.”

This image, taken from the first night Weir photographed, captures some Spinners — Deadheads who spend the entire evening twirling to the music. “At all shows, including Sphere shows, there’s traditionally the Spinner section, house left, on the pit,” Weir says. “I love how they connect to the music. Something I love about this photo in particular is that it truly captures that feeling of awe that comes from being at Sphere and seeing Dead and Co.”

Morning Dew

Another dancer, this time in front of Earth. “I love this photo because it’s this magical moment of this woman dancing as the earth rises behind her, while the song ‘Morning Dew’ fills the space,” Weir says. “It’s moments like that where I’m reminded how truly one-of-a-kind these shows are, because this is something you can really only experience here at this Sphere residency.”

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More From Forbes

30 sad songs for when you need a good cry.

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Amy Winehouse performs during the 46664 concert in celebration of Nelson Mandela's life at Hyde Park ... [+] on June 27, 2008 in London.

Music is a reflection of life and life can be among other things, sometimes sad. Sadness takes on different forms — sometimes it’s regret, depression or loss, and other times, sadness feels nostalgic or reflective. Whatever the emotion, sad songs seem to help. Whether you need sad songs to cry to, depressing or emotional songs for solace, or you just need to listen to something loud with the volume way up, melodies, lyrics and harmonies fill the heart with on-demand sonic companionship to work through feelings.

The Saddest Songs In Music

Sadness is subjective, just like music. A sad R&B song may suffice one morning for one person, while another person needs an emotional rock song to blast late at night.

With a sampling of music spanning generations and genres — from the early ‘90s and 2000s to experimental soul, rock and country music , this installation of the saddest songs of all time is curated by a wide range of music lovers and self-proclaimed emotional listeners.

30. "Blind" by Sza (2022)

Since her 2017 album CTRL , Sza has become a staple in emotive soul. The laser-sharp writing skills mixed with idyllic orchestral progressions in “Blind” open the heartstrings to Sza’s relatable story about a toxic relationship.

29. "In The Waiting Line" by Zero 7 featuring Sophie Barker (2001)

As downtempo electronic music was making its way to the mainstream, the English production duo Zero 7, who began as audio engineers in the business, seemed to know how to make music with a lot of feelings. "In The Waiting Line," made its way onto the Garden State soundtrack, the movie featuring Natalie Portman and Zack Braff revolving around a cycle of chronic depression and romance.

28. "Baby" by Donnie & Joe Emerson (1979)

A sweet song from the duo Donnie & Joe Emerson made in the 1970s never received the love it was capable of until it was remade by Ariel Pink in 2012. While Pink’s cover does the original sad song justice, something about the original recording makes “Baby” extra emotional.

27. "Times A Wastin" by Erykah Badu (2000)

A classic tune from Erykah Badu’s iconic Mama’s Gun album, “Times A Wastin” comes in strong with an electric panning keyboard and all of the honesty one might expect from the singer. About the urgency of life, Badu urges a “young man” to make the most of his time in matters of the heart.

26. "Dust In The Wind" by Kansas (1977)

A favorite sad song for dads and uncles alike, Kansas’ “Dust In The Wind” rolls out as an acoustic lullaby and brings the listener into a story of nostalgia and impermanence.

25. "Where Did I Go" by Jorja Smith (2018)

A bit under the radar, the vocal stylings of London’s Jorja Smith took many by surprise when she burst onto the scene as a teenager in 2017. The point of view of a younger artist may not always translate for wider audiences, but Smith’s style, tone and writing make this song about finding oneself relatable and timeless.

24. "I Love You" by Faith Evans (2001)

While “I Love You” by Faith Evans may not seem sad at first, upon repeated listens, the twang of the melody and apparent emotion in Evans’ voice invokes a pang of sadness into the happiest of hearts.

23. "Time Moves Slow" by Bad Bad Not Good featuring Samuel T. Herring (2016)

Canadian Jazz sensation Bad Bad Not Good hit the sadness nail on the head when they released “Time Moves Slow” featuring the vocal stylings of Samuel T. Herring. A dark chord progression paired with lyrics “running away is easy, it’s the leaving that’s hard,” this song is not sad in the way that crying is immediate, it’s a slow burn with a reflective stance on life.

22. "Pink Matter" by Frank Ocean (2012)

What would a sad songs list be without Frank Ocean? This falsetto ballad takes Ocean into new emotional territory paving the way for experimental and R&B artists and songwriters to come after.

21. "Kites" by Anik Khan (2017)

Any song that starts with “I’m holding on by a thread,” is easy to recall as sadly memorable and relatable. Queens New York-bred, Bangladeshi musician and entrepreneur , Khan, made his debut with this honest song and the Kites album launching him into the spotlight.

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20. "Levels" by Bilal (2010)

With elements of analog and digital, Bilal’s “Levels” speaks to the layers of work it takes to make a relationship work. A slow progression through sound, “Levels” was a below-the-radar hit amongst record store regulars and bloggers alike.

19. "Show Me How" by Men I Trust (2018)

A light drum and slowly paced guitar progression make “Show Me How” an instant magnet for emotions. As dreamy vocals from lead singer Emma Proulx drop in a deep story unfolds: “I’m turning around / I’m having visions of you / But then I understand / The friend I’m dreaming of is far away / But I’m here, I’m here”.

18. "Fall in Love with You" by Montell Fish (2022)

A song that made itself known after making the rounds on social media platforms, Montell Fish’s “Fall In love With You” is a somber reflection of love. “Maybe it couldn't work out / In the end / Maybe this what I deserve now / Better off as friends” spells out deep feelings like a twenty-something’s therapy session.

17. "Sweet Misery" by Amel Larrieux (2000)

What hooks “Sweet Misery” into a song to cry list Amel Larrieux’s unforgettable voice. Laced with intonations and emotions unique to Larrieux’s range of sounds and writing skill.

16. "Soy El Unico" by Yahritza Y Su Escenia (2022)

Specializing in the sierreño subgenre, a regional Mexican style, Yahritza Y Su Escenia, a trio of siblings, make beautiful music. The song “Soy El Unico” which translates to “I am the only one” rolls in with dreamy yet strong intricate guitar melodies and drops in with Yahritza’s powerful vocal tambor. The depth of the universal song is emotional and felt whether you understand Spanish or not.

15. "This Night Has Opened My Eyes" by The Smiths (1984)

The moodiest of moody bands, The Smiths are a go-to for the strange and sentimental. "This Night Has Opened My Eyes" is quite possibly one of the best songs of all time and could be taken as sad, pensive, ironic or whatever the listener wants. The malleability of The Smiths’ sound makes this tune special.

14. "I Don't Know" by Nick Hakim (2014)

Making its rounds on Soundcloud , garnering 1.5 million plays, Nick Hakim’s “I Don’t Know” was one of a handful of songs that gave his voice a wider audience. With honest and raw lyrics: “Here's a toast to you / its been too long / And we're drinking 'til the night is gone / Where did you go, and have you seen?” Hakim’s voice and song speak into an abyss of emotions longing for a home.

13. "Someone Like You" by Adele (2011)

The strength of Adele’s voice in “Someone Like You” sings of sorrow and love lost — the most relatable of all the sad things. The black and white video plays into the singer’s emotional story as she strolls along the water in deep reflection.

12. "Love Is a Losing Game" by Amy Winehouse (2006)

“For you I was a flame / Love is a Losing Game” spoke to so many who were just getting to know Winehouse in 2006 when her debut album Back to Black came out. Her voice backed by a subtle guitar, allowed her truth and vulnerability to shine through, making not only the listening of the song touching, but the witnessing of her honesty meaningful.

11. Where Is My Love” by SMYL (2019)

A sort of dystopian love song , SMYL’s “Where Is My Love” combines otherworldly sound effects and masterful guitar to enunciate the intricate feelings of loss.

10. “Herfra hvor vi står” by Quadron (2009)

“Herfra hvor vi står” translated from Danish to “where we stand” is a delicate, stripped-down song pondering life. Lyrics as translated to English explore the idea of vastness and inevitable change: “From where we stand, can we look around - to all sides / It moves when we walk / it changes in all times”.

9. “B.W.’s Blues” by Tommy Guerrero (1997)

Instrumental, experimental surf rock as some may call Guerrero’s laidback style, “B.W.’s Blues” lingers in the air like a thick smoke. A song to sink into, the guitar of “B.W.’s Blues” sings its own song, changing its meaning depending on the day and time of listen.

8. “Strange Fruit” by Nina Simone (1965)

Hauntingly beautiful yet solemn, Nina Simone had a way of delivering words to pierce the heart. “Strange Fruit” was originally a poem written by ‪Abel Meeropol‬ about Black lynchings in the United States during the Jim Crow Era, rising to a mainstream lens through Simone’s heartfelt musical delivery and emotion.

7. "You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go"' by Bob Dylan (1975)

The song title says it all. Bob Dylan explores the art of saying goodbye. Complete with harmonica and a strumming guitar, Dylan’s memorable voice puts this classic recprding in the list of sad songs.

6. "Fade Into You" by Mazzy Star (1993)

Making the nonchalant cool, Mazzy Star landed on an iconic sound clearly distinguishable from its musical peers of the time. Capturing the hearts of the mainstream, “Fade Into You” made its rounds on MTV with the classic video burning images of a wandering nostalgic Hope Sandoval, the band’s singer, into the minds of all who watched.

5. "It's So Hard To Say Goodbye" by Boyz II Men (1991)

How could a sad songs lust be complete without Boyz II Men? The ‘ 90s R&B boy band of guys who could really sing, with strikingly unique voices made ballad after ballad with “It’s so Hard To Say Goodbye” as a sad song that really stuck.

4. "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Otis Redding (1965)

Originally written by Sam Cooke just two weeks before his untimely death, Otis Redding’s version of “A Change Is Gonna Come” delivered to the masses a musical protest song serving as what some called “the unofficial anthem of the civil rights movement”.

3. "Old Man" by Neil Young (1972)

This song tells the story of necessity — for both old and young men. In “Old Man,” Neil Young compares the two groups of men ultimately explaining that both groups have the same needs. The song is solemn and honest and reflective of aging.

2. Dear Mama by Tupac (1995)

A dedication to his mother, “Dear Mama” is a beautifully written song about the love Tupac Shakur had for his mother despite the ups and downs of theory collective lives. Shakur’s lyrics breath life into the love we carry for mothers and maternal figures, paying homage to an unbreakable bond. “I love payin' rent when the rent's due / I hope you got the diamond necklace that I sent to you / 'Cause when I was low you was there for me / And never left me alone, because you cared for me / And I could see you comin' home after work late / You're in the kitchen, tryin' to fix us a hot plate”

1. "Tears In Heaven" by Eric Clapton (1992)

The death of Eric Clapton’s 4-year-old son was the heartbreaking impetus for “Tears In Heaven.” “Would you know my name, if I saw you in heaven?” Clapton asks in the song bringing the tears of loss to even the hardest of emotional exteriors.

Bottom Line

Culturally, sadness connects humans and drives emotions to their inevitable resting place. Cycling through sadness is a normal and necessary journey and music can without a doubt help channel feelings and create meaningful markers for processing difficult emotions. While sadness feels limiting, music connects relatable words and sounds in an attempt translate sadness into gratitude.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are good sad country songs.

"I Still Miss Someone" by Johnny Cash (1958)

Co-written with his nephew, Roy Cash Jr., "I Still Miss Someone" sweetly expresses the longing for someone you feel when witnessing the love of others.

"These Boots Are Made For Walkin" by Loretta Lynn (1966)

A ballad for moving on, Loretta Lynn spices up this country classic with attitude and confidence.

W hat Are The Top Sad Songs By Taylor Swift?

"Marjorie" by Taylor Swift (2020)

A sweet Swift's late grandmother and opera singer Marjorie Finlay, the song is laced with advice from Finlay, heartfelt strings and layered with guilt.

What Are Good Sad Love Songs?

"Landslide" by Fleetwood Mac (1975)

An instant cry, “Landslide” is a moody tune to put you into a reflective state.

"Tears Dry On Their Own" by Amy Winehouse (2006)

Break out the tissues, or not, as Winehouse’s hit reminds us of the impermanence of sadness.

What Are Good Sad Rap Songs?

"Earfquake” by Tyler, the Creator ft. Playboi Carti (2019)

A departure from Tyler The Creator’s typical fare, sad rap made its debut in "Earfquake,” a silly approach to love and lust.

"Purity" by A$AP Rocky featuring Frank Ocean (2018)

Add Frank Ocean to A$AP Rocky and you have a sad rap song.

What Are Good Sad Rock Songs?

"With or Without You" by U2 (1987)

A recognizable rock jam from the 80s , U2 stands the test of time in ‘With or Without You.”

"Everything In Its Right Place" by Radiohead (2000)

An emotional roller coaster of developing sonic storylines, "Everything In Its Right Place" reminds us that things are happening for a reason and on time.

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Carl Weathersby, blues guitar player, dies at 71

Carl weathersby received early encouragement to play guitar from albert king and later played rhythm in king’s band. he was inducted into the chicago blues hall of fame in 2017..

Carl Weathersby played on more than 33 albums. His last recording, 2019’s “Live at Rosa’s Lounge,” was recorded at the Logan Square club. He was also a regular on the lineup of the Chicago Blues Festival.

Carl Weathersby, a guitarist who came up in the Chicago blues scene and was a protege of guitar great Albert King, died Friday. He was 71.

Mr. Weathersby was born in Jackson, Miss., on Feb. 24, 1953, but he moved to East Chicago, Indiana, when he was 8. He started playing guitar a few years later, helped along by some of his father’s musician friends who would stop by the house.

One of those friends was King, who heard Mr. Weathersby playing King’s rendition of “Crosscut Saw” one night while he was visiting. King picked up the guitar and showed Mr. Weathersby how he played it and offered some encouragement.

Mr. Weathersby went on to serve in the military in Vietnam, later becoming a steelworker and prison guard. In 1979, he began playing rhythm guitar for King. Three years later, he joined Billy Branch’s Sons of Blues band, where he spent 15 years. After he left the band, Mr. Weathersby occasionally returned as a guest star.

King, who along with B.B. King and Freddie King were known as the “three kings of the blues,” died in 1992. Branch, one of the great blues harmonica players, has been a fixture on the Chicago blues scene since the 1970s.

“Over the years I watched as Carl’s guitar and singing skills continued to develop and mature, ultimately making him one of the most skilled and dynamic bluesmen of our times,” Branch wrote in a Facebook post . “His vocals were heartfelt and passionate. His guitar skills were unmatched. He had come into his own.”

Mr. Weathersby eventually started releasing music under his own name, putting out nine albums between 1996 and 2019. He was inducted into the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame in October 2017.

In total, Mr. Weathersby, who was regularly in the lineup of the Chicago Blues Festival, played on more than 33 albums, a mixture of live and studio recordings between his solo career and with groups such as the Sons of Blues and the Chicago-based blues band Mississippi Heat.

His final release, 2019’s “Live at Rosa’s Lounge,” was recorded at the Logan Square venue, where he returned for another performance in 2021. A few years prior, he had a recurring stint at Kingston Mines in Lincoln Park.

In his later years, Mr. Weathersby struggled with the effects of diabetes, and a GoFundMe for his medical costs raised more than $16,000 in 2019.

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