Pink Floyd CD and album cover (Photo by Enriscapes on Shutterstock)
Psychedelic rock is a genre of music that emerged in the 1960s, characterized by its use of experimental sounds, mind-altering lyrics, and a general sense of freedom and exploration. Some of the most influential psychedelic rock bands of all time have left a lasting impact on the music industry and continue to inspire artists to this day. From the trippy sounds of Pink Floyd to the revolutionary music of The Doors, these bands have pushed the boundaries of what rock music can be and have created some of the most iconic songs in music history. Today, we at EdNews decided to take a closer look at some of the best psychedelic rock bands of all time, the impact they have had on the music world, and the legacy they have left behind.
The earliest notable form of psychedelic rock can be traced back to bands like The Beatles and The Gamblers lending their interpretation of the genre. The impact of these early pioneers is evident in the work of contemporary bands like Tame Impala and Unknown Mortal Orchestra, who continue to draw inspiration from the psychedelic rock movement of the past. If you're just entering the genre of psychedelic rock, however, we at EdNews are here to help you along the way. We have researched across eight expert sources to bring you today's ranking of the top seven best psychedelic rock bands of all time. Don't agree with our list or feel we missed out on a good suggestion? No worries! We would love to hear from you in the comments down below. Now, onto the list!
The List: Best Psychedelic Rock Bands, Ranked
1. Pink Floyd
The first genre-defining band we are going to be talking about today is Pink Floyd, a band that formed out of the desire to be part of an era exploring “sex, drugs, and rock and roll,” as described by Music Gateway. Pink Floyd quickly rose to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s with their psychedelic sound and introspective lyrics. Their album “The Dark Side of the Moon” is considered a masterpiece of progressive rock and is still highly influential in the music industry today.
Ranker describes Pink Floyd's music as “innovative” as they fused rock, blues, and psychedelia, becoming legendary among psychedelic rock enthusiasts. Their iconic album covers and elaborate live performances also added to their mystique and popularity. Pink Floyd's music often tackled deep and complex themes such as mental illness, the passage of time, and the human experience. Their experimental approach to music and willingness to push boundaries set them apart from other bands of their time, thus making music history.
Herb notes the band's “monumental” sound and approach under the direction of Syd Barrett. However, the band's evolution after Barrett's departure showcased their ability to adapt and continue pushing musical boundaries. Pink Floyd's influence can still be felt in modern music, solidifying their place as one of the greatest bands in rock history.
2. Tame Impala
Tame Impala is the next band to take over the psychedelic genre. Described by The Top Tens as an Australian music project founded by Kevin Parker in 2007, Tame Impala has gained a huge following for its dreamy, hypnotic sound. With hit albums like “Lonerism” and “Currents,” Tame Impala has solidified its place in the psychedelic rock scene, with fans and critics alike praising its innovative approach and captivating live performances.
Herb adds that Tame Impala's first album, “Innerspeaker,” drew listeners in with “Parker's Lennon-esque vocals” and intricate guitar work, setting the stage for his subsequent success. As Tame Impala continues to push boundaries and experiment with new sounds, it remains a powerhouse in music, drawing in fans from all over the world with a unique blend of psychedelic rock and electronic influences.
Beat explains that Tame Impala consists of multi-instrumentalist Kevin Parker, guitarist Dominic Simper, vocalist and guitarist Jay Watson, bassist and vocalist Cam Avery, and drummer and vocalist Julien Barbagallo. Together, these talented musicians create a sound that is both nostalgic and innovative, earning Tame Impala a dedicated following and critical acclaim. With each new release, Tame Impala continues to evolve and surprise fans with their ability to seamlessly blend genres and create music that resonates on a deep emotional level.
3. The Doors
The Jim Morrison-led band, The Doors, is next up on our ranking. Known for hits like “Touch Me” and “Riders On A Storm,” Music Gateway says The Doors are considered one of the most influential rock bands of all time. With Morrison's powerful vocals and poetic lyrics, the band captivated audiences with their psychedelic sound and rebellious attitude. Their music continues to resonate with fans today, solidifying their place as legends in the history of rock and roll.
Watch Mojo writes about how the band was heavily influenced by “blues rock,” which can be heard in their raw and gritty sound. The Doors' ability to seamlessly blend elements of that genre and psychedelia created a unique and unforgettable sound that set them apart from their contemporaries. Morrison's charismatic stage presence and enigmatic persona only added to the band's mystique, making them a truly iconic group.
According to Ranker, “few bands can exude the brooding mystique” that The Doors embodies, and we couldn't agree more. Their songs like “Light My Fire” have become timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences today. The band's impact on the music industry is undeniable, as they paved the way for future generations of rock musicians. The Doors' legacy lives on through their influential music and the enduring image of Jim Morrison as a rock and roll icon. The band's ability to push boundaries and create music that defies categorization solidifies their place as one of the greatest bands of all time.
4. The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Of course, this wouldn't be a real list of psychedelic musicians without mentioning The Jimi Hendrix Experience, which, according to Music Gateway, consisted of one of the “best guitarists” of psychedelic rock (or ever!). Hendrix's groundbreaking sound and innovative guitar techniques helped define the psychedelic rock genre. With his iconic performances at Woodstock and the Monterey Pop Festival, he only solidified his status further as a pioneer in the realm of psychedelic music.
Described as a “force of nature” by Herb, Jimi Hendrix continues to inspire generations of musicians with his raw talent and unique approach to music. His influence can still be heard in the music of contemporary artists, who draw inspiration from his experimental style and fearless creativity. Will anyone ever be able to reach his legendary talent, though? It seems unlikely.
Ranker fittingly describes the band as “groundbreaking” and “innovative.” The band's iconic performances and Hendrix's mesmerizing guitar solos never fade. Hendrix's fearless approach to creativity continues to resonate with musicians of all genres, proving that his influence knows no bounds. The Jimi Hendrix Experience will forever be remembered as one of the most influential bands in history.
5. Cream
The British band Cream is next up to take up a spot on our list, and for good reason. They were one of the world's “first supergroups,” consisting of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker, according to Rock Informer. Cream was known for their blues-inspired rock music and incredible live concerts. Their debut album, “Fresh Cream,” was released in 1966 and showcased the band's impressive musical abilities. Their unique blend of blues, rock, and psychedelic sounds is really what sets them apart from many.
Music Gateway adds that the trio had “15 million records being sold worldwide,” which was a heavy contribution to the psychedelic scene. Their innovative approach to songwriting and improvisation paved the way for future generations of musicians. Despite their short-lived career, Cream left a crater of an impact, and their legacy lives on through their timeless music.
6. Jefferson Airplane
Jefferson Airplane, the pioneers of the psychedelic rock genre, is the next band to take up space on our list! Last.FM explains how Jefferson Airplane was the first band from the Bay Area to “achieve international commercial success.” With iconic hits such as “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit,” they have made their mark on rock music and were innovative in the sound of psychedelia.
Ranker describes Jefferson Airplane as being led by the “powerhouse vocals” of Grace Slick and Marty Balin, along with guitarist Jorma Kaukonen, bassist Jack Casady, and drummer Spencer Dryden. Together, these talented musicians created a unique and mesmerizing sound that captivated audiences around the world. Jefferson Airplane's music not only reflected the counterculture movement of the 1960s but also pushed the boundaries of traditional rock music with its experimental and trippy sound.
Watch Mojo adds that the band is both “unmistakable” and “synonymous” with psychedelic rock, paving the way for future generations of musicians to explore new and innovative sounds. With their groundbreaking albums like “Surrealistic Pillow,” Jefferson Airplane solidified their place in music history as one of the most influential bands of their time. Their legacy continues to live on, inspiring listeners to embrace their individuality and think outside the box.
7. The Grateful Dead
Last but certainly not least on our list of psychedelic musicians is the Grateful Dead. Known for the dedicated fanbase known as “Deadheads,” the Grateful Dead was a pioneering force in the psychedelic rock scene of the 1960s and 1970s, says Ranker. Their eclectic blend of rock, folk, blues, and jazz, combined with their improvisational live performances, set them apart from their peers. With songs like “Dark Star” and “St. Stephen,” the Grateful Dead captured the essence of the counterculture movement and became synonymous with the psychedelic experience.
Fronted by Jerry Garcia for 30 years, the band's influence extended far beyond their music. The Grateful Dead's emphasis on community, peace, and love resonated with a generation seeking alternative ways of living and connecting with one another. Their iconic concerts, complete with tie-dye shirts, dancing bears, and endless jams, created a sense of unity and freedom that still lives on in the hearts of their fans today. The Grateful Dead truly embodied the spirit of psychedelia and left a lasting legacy in the world of rock music (Watch Mojo).
Rock Informer writes that the Grateful Dead is one of the “most popular” and “enduring” psychedelic bands in history, continuing their story even today without a few of their original members. Generations of fans all over the world celebrate and enjoy the band's ability to foster a sense of community and connection through their music and live performances. They transcend traditional genre boundaries with no two performances ever being the same. They are truly unlike any other band.
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You lose most, if not all, of your credibility when the picture you chose to represent the Leonberger is a Caucasian Ovcharka.
Paul Kantner was an important part of Jefferson Airplane too.
Thirteenth Floor Elevators. (?)
yes !!!!
Moody Blues definitely belong on this list
Agree 100% In fact I would rank Moody Blues as probably right next to Pink Floyd
To me for music to be ” psychedelic ” it needs to take me to the ” astrial plane” and almost every thing that The Moody Blues.did accomplished this. I feel like the people who compile these lists have no idea. How about Traffic or Alan Parsons Project.Donovan!!! Instead they inc.Cream???
Lol, no Beatles. Switch out Tame Impala for The Beatles and put them at #1. Then your list will be proper and complete.
Great list ... better if you include The Moody Blues, Emerson, Lake and Palmer, King Crimson, Poco Haram, Jethro tull, if you don't mind
What a list! Tame Impala tho blows all credibility. Nice try.
You missed the two most psychedelic bands out of california.... Country joe and the fish and and Quick Silver Messenger Service
I don't think you folks know what psychedelic music is. Your list blows brit bilge water. Living in California in the 60s and listening to the radio, I heard the deal. Yea, Hendricks was in the mix so you found one. To me the rest smell like teen spirit. Listen to Procum Harem and get back on track.