[2026] A roundup of the best UK bands, featuring many up-and-coming acts!

We Are TimeThe Pop Group

The Pop Group – (1979) – We Are Time

Formed in Bristol, England, in 1977, The Pop Group are pioneers of post-punk, drawing on a wide range of influences including punk, dub, and funk.

With Mark Stewart on vocals, they released their debut album, Y, in 1979 and attracted attention with singles like She Is Beyond Good and Evil.

Though their work integrated radical political ideas and achieved only limited commercial success, they influenced many artists, including Sonic Youth and Massive Attack.

In 2010, they reunited with support from Matt Groening, creator of The Simpsons.

They’re a recommended band for anyone interested in experimental music.

Sympathy For The DevilThe Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones – Sympathy For The Devil (Live) – OFFICIAL

The Rolling Stones, the legendary rock band that Britain is proud of.

Since forming in London in 1962, they have led the global music scene for over 60 years.

They made their debut in 1963 with a Chuck Berry cover, and soon after took the world by storm with signature songs like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.” Often cast as the “devils” in contrast to The Beatles, their music—thrilling rock ’n’ roll grounded in R&B and blues—has never lost its luster.

They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, and in 2022 embarked on a commemorative tour celebrating the 60th anniversary of their formation.

Timeless and beloved across generations, their catalog is filled with gem-like classics that every rock fan should hear.

All For OneThe Stone Roses

The Stone Roses – All For One (Official Audio)

From Manchester, The Stone Roses were a band that revolutionized the late-1980s music scene.

With their unique sound that fused guitar pop and dance beats, they wrote a new chapter in the history of UK rock.

Their 1989 debut album, The Stone Roses, drew mixed reviews at the time but later came to be regarded as a milestone of British music.

Incorporating elements of reggae, dub, and hip-hop, their music captivates with the intricate arrangements woven by John Squire’s guitar and Reni’s drums.

Paired with Ian Brown’s cool vocals, they created a world entirely their own.

They’re a band I’d recommend even to those who prefer straightforward rock.

Silly Love SongsWings

Wings – Silly Love Songs (Official Music Video)

When you listen to this song, many people might think, “Whose voice is this?” That’s right—it’s Paul McCartney.

This band was formed after he left the Beatles, and they created songs that showcased Paul’s individuality, producing many hits.

The keyboards are handled by Paul’s wife.

The CutterEcho & the Bunnymen

The Cutter

Echo & the Bunnymen are a quintessential British post-punk band.

Hailing from Liverpool, they formed in 1978.

Their 1979 debut single “The Pictures on My Wall” and 1980 debut album “Crocodiles” drew major attention.

Their sound, with its dark and psychedelic elements, is captivating.

In the 1980s they produced many hit songs, growing into one of the defining bands of the UK music scene.

By 1987 they were popular in the United States as well, and their influence spread worldwide.

The distinctive guitar sound and Ian McCulloch’s striking vocals create a unique world that continues to fascinate fans today.

I’ll stand By youPretenders

The Pretenders – I’ll Stand By You [MV]

The song “Don’t Get Me Wrong” was used on a Japanese TV show, but the Pretenders have released many other hits as well.

While the band mainly features upbeat tunes, this track is slow-tempo and rewarding to listen to.

Chrissie’s vocals are appealing, with a low yet resonant quality that really carries.

Com On Feel The NoizeSlade

Cum On Feel the Noize

This song is best known for being covered by the heavy metal band Quiet Riot in 1983, but it was originally released in 1973 and reached number one on the UK charts.

They had many other hits as well, with a total of six songs hitting number one in the UK—an incredible level of popularity.