The Best Rockabilly Bands and Artists

Coley Reed
Updated May 15, 2024 437.4K views 55 items
Ranked By
45.7K votes
4.3K voters
Voting Rules
Rockabilly bands and artists only.
Latest additions: Brenda Lee, Duane Eddy, Hasil Adkins
Most divisive: The Honeydrippers
Over 4.3K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Rockabilly Bands and Artists

The best rockabilly bands perform a specific style of rock and roll that first became popular in the U.S. during the early 1950s. Rockabilly artists are known for their greaser fashion style and vocal twangs, emerging in the South during the initial period of rock music. Rockabilly's popularity was a culmination in the intertwining of country music, swing and blues music; and when you put these distinctive genres in a beaker, the result is the explosive genre of rockabilly. Without rockabilly, many of the biggest names in rock music may not have formed bands. Rockabilly artists are among the first and most unique rock stars in music history, including some of the best members of the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame.

So, who are the best rockabilly artists? This ranked rockabilly roster spans multiple generations, from baby boomers to contemporary male and female musicians. Names like Elvis Presley, Stray Cats, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bill Haley & The Comets, Wanda Jackson, the Reverend Horton Heat, and the incomparable Buddy Holly are the biggest rockabilly performers of all time, and with good reason. Even as modern rockabilly singers and groups come onto the scene, these legends' music stands the test of time. Their songs remain staples on the radio and highly influential throughout the music industry today.

That said, it's up to you to determine which rockabilly artists rise above the rest. This list answers the questions "who are the best rockabilly bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest rockabilly musician ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the artists' music (albums and songs) instead of just voting for the most popular rockabilly bands that you might've heard of. 

  • Elvis Presley
    1
    1,281 votes

    It's impossible to discuss rockabilly without mentioning the legendary Elvis Presley. Widely considered the first true rock and roll star, Elvis brought rockabilly into mainstream consciousness with his soulful voice, sultry stage presence, and innovative sound. Songs like "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Jailhouse Rock" introduced audiences worldwide to the genre, forever securing Presley's role as the indisputable "King of Rock and Roll."

  • Carl Perkins
    2
    893 votes

    Often referred to as the "King of Rockabilly," Carl Perkins' contributions to the genre can't be overstated. A pioneering songwriter, guitarist, and singer, Perkins crafted songs that embodied the signature rockabilly sound, combining country twang with rock and roll energy. His track "Blue Suede Shoes" not only became a rockabilly anthem but also solidified his status as a trailblazer in American music history.

  • Buddy Holly
    3
    967 votes

    A true pioneer in the world of rockabilly, Buddy Holly's innovative guitar playing and distinctive vocal style laid the groundwork for generations of musicians to come. With a penchant for crafting catchy melodies, his music resonated with audiences and ultimately secured his iconic status. Holly's tragic and untimely death at the young age of 22 only reinforced his legendary stature, leaving fans perpetually longing for more of his masterful tunes, such as "Peggy Sue" and "That'll Be the Day."

  • Eddie Cochran
    4
    872 votes

    Remembered for his raw talent and electrifying stage presence, Eddie Cochran remains one of rockabilly's most influential figures. His unique guitar licks and powerful vocals struck a chord with listeners, fusing elements of blues, country, and rock into a sound all his own. Songs like "Summertime Blues" showcase Cochran's ability to capture the essence of teen rebellion and the spirit of rockabilly itself. Tragically, like Buddy Holly, Cochran was taken too soon at the age of 21, nevertheless, his impact on rockabilly endures.

  • Stray Cats
    5
    1,107 votes

    Leading the rockabilly revival during the 1980s, Stray Cats introduced a new generation to the powerful energy and timeless appeal of the genre. Fronted by the charismatic Brian Setzer, the band infused their performances with a punk edge, making rockabilly accessible and contemporary once more. With hits like "Stray Cat Strut" and "Rock This Town," the Stray Cats proved that rockabilly was far from a relic of the past.

  • Jerry Lee Lewis
    6

    An integral part of the birth of rock and roll, Jerry Lee Lewis' dynamic piano playing and energetic performances earned him a rightful place among rockabilly's most revered artists. Dubbed "The Killer" for his explosive stage presence, Lewis had a knack for seamlessly blending R&B, gospel, and country influences into his music. His groundbreaking hit "Whole Lotta Shakin' Going On" remains a rockabilly classic and a testament to Lewis' lasting impact on the genre.

  • Gene Vincent
    7

    Gene Vincent

    732 votes

    Revered as one of rockabilly's most captivating performers, Gene Vincent's searing guitar licks and smoldering vocals made him an undeniable force in the genre. Best known for his hit "Be-Bop-A-Lula," Vincent crafted songs that were raucous, infectious, and undeniably rockabilly. His tragic death at age 36 may have cut his career short, but Vincent's influence on the genre continues to be felt today.

  • Heralding the dawn of a cultural revolution, Bill Haley & His Comets brought rockabilly to the masses with their infectious energy and danceable grooves. Their iconic hit "Rock Around the Clock" not only put rockabilly on the map but also signaled the advent of a new era in American music. With their tireless touring and signature style, Bill Haley & His Comets left an indelible mark on the rockabilly landscape.

  • Chuck Berry
    9
    590 votes

    Though known primarily as a rock and roll pioneer, Chuck Berry's contributions to rockabilly were equally instrumental. His guitar-driven sound, fused with elements of R&B, country, and blues, helped define the genre in its infancy. Songs like "Johnny B. Goode" and "Maybellene" showcased Berry's unique blend of sounds and cemented his status as a trailblazer in both rock and roll and rockabilly.

  • Brian Setzer
    10
    809 votes

    A prime example of an artist who transcends genres, Brian Setzer's career has seen him front the Stray Cats, the Brian Setzer Orchestra, as well as embark on a successful solo career. Regardless of the project, Setzer's guitar prowess and unyielding passion for rockabilly can be felt in every note. As both a musician and an ambassador for the genre, Setzer's impact on rockabilly is undeniable.

  • Johnny Burnette
    11

    As a founding member of the Rock and Roll Trio, Johnny Burnette played an essential role in the early days of rockabilly. His passionate singing, combined with his brother Dorsey's guitar work, created a sound that was equal parts raw and polished. Burnette's emotive vocals would go on to inspire countless artists, solidifying his place in rockabilly history.

  • Wanda Jackson
    12
    606 votes

    Dubbed the "Queen of Rockabilly," Wanda Jackson's powerful voice and bold stage presence made her a rare female presence in the male-dominated genre during the 1950s. Her ability to tackle tough, rebellious themes while maintaining a sultry charm made her a trailblazer for women in rockabilly, paving the way for future generations of female musicians.

  • The Blasters
    13
    330 votes

    Formed in 1979, The Blasters combined traditional rockabilly with elements of punk, rock, and R&B to create a high-energy, infectious sound. Founded by brothers Phil and Dave Alvin, the band's unique fusion of styles resonated with fans and helped bring rockabilly back into the spotlight during the 1980s, proving that the genre still had plenty of room to evolve.

  • Pulling from punk, country, and surf influences, The Reverend Horton Heat breathed new life into rockabilly during the 1990s. Fronted by singer/guitarist Jim Heath, the band's raucous live shows and tongue-in-cheek lyrics appealed to both rockabilly purists and alternative music fans alike, proving the genre's enduring appeal and versatility.

  • Ritchie Valens
    15

    Ritchie Valens brought a rich blend of Mexican and American musical influences to the rockabilly scene in the late 1950s, subsequently opening doors for future generations of Latinx musicians. Best known for his renditions of "La Bamba" and "Donna," Valens' career was tragically cut short at the age of 17 in the same plane crash that took the lives of Buddy Holly and the Big Bopper. Despite his brief career, Valens' influence on the rockabilly genre can still be felt today.

  • Ricky Nelson
    16
    540 votes

    As a teen idol and television star, Ricky Nelson helped introduce rockabilly to a wider audience during the 1950s and '60s. With his boyish good looks and easy-going charm, Nelson's music appealed to both teenage girls and their parents, ultimately helping to bridge the generational gap in the early days of rockabilly. His smooth vocal stylings and catchy tunes, such as "Poor Little Fool," solidified Nelson's status as a rockabilly icon.

  • Johnny Horton
    17
    372 votes

    A talented vocalist and gifted storyteller, Johnny Horton infused his brand of rockabilly with a distinctly countrified flair. Known for his signature "saga songs," Horton's ability to capture the spirit of American history through music showcased the genre's narrative potential. Although his life was tragically cut short in a car accident at age 35, Horton's contribution to rockabilly remains undeniable.

  • The Cramps
    18
    555 votes

    By infusing their rockabilly-inspired sound with elements of punk, horror, and kitsch, The Cramps created a unique sub-genre affectionately known as "psychobilly." The band's wild live shows and distinctive style helped establish them as cult icons, ultimately proving that rockabilly could adapt and thrive in new and unexpected ways.

  • Robert Gordon
    19
    279 votes

    A key figure in the late 1970s to early '80s rockabilly revival, Robert Gordon's distinct baritone vocals and commanding stage presence earned him a devoted following among fans of the genre. By blending old-school rockabilly with modern punk sensibilities, Gordon successfully demonstrated the enduring appeal of the genre and inspired future generations of artists.

  • Buddy Knox
    20
    265 votes

    One of the original rockabilly artists to emerge from the late 1950s, Buddy Knox's unpretentious vocals and catchy melodies endeared him to fans across generations. Best known for his chart-topping hit "Party Doll," Knox's music exemplified the carefree spirit of rockabilly, forever cementing his place in the genre's history.

  • Ronnie Hawkins
    21

    A charismatic performer and bandleader, Ronnie Hawkins' energetic live shows and magnetic stage presence helped introduce a wider audience to the rockabilly sound during the 1950s and '60s. His band, The Hawks, played a vital role in launching the careers of several notable musicians, including members of The Band. Through his tireless work as a rockabilly ambassador, Hawkins has more than earned his place among the genre's elite.

  • A potent blend of punk, country, and rock and roll, the Hillbilly Hellcats' contributions to the rockabilly genre are marked by an unmistakable, high-octane energy. Formed in the 1990s, the band's sound bridged the gap between classic rockabilly and more modern influences, proving that the genre is anything but stagnant.

  • Bo Diddley
    23
    206 votes

    A true innovator, Bo Diddley's unmistakable beat and innovative guitar work would go on to influence countless musicians across various genres, including rockabilly. His fusion of African rhythms, R&B, and rock and roll helped to shape the early years of rockabilly, and his lasting impact on the genre remains unquestionable.

  • Charlie Feathers
    24

    One of the unsung heroes of rockabilly, Charlie Feathers' unique vocal style and emotive songwriting earned him a devoted following among fans. While he never achieved widespread commercial success, Feathers remains an influential figure within the genre, thanks to his heartfelt performances and dedication to keeping the spirit of rockabilly alive.

  • Billy Lee Riley
    25

    A gifted multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, Billy Lee Riley's contributions to the rockabilly sound were marked by an undeniable talent and passion for the music. With songs such as "Flyin' Saucers Rock & Roll" and "Red Hot," Riley showcased the raw energy and unbridled spirit that defined the genre. Although he never achieved the commercial success of some of his contemporaries, Riley's impact on rockabilly is not to be underestimated.

  • The Paladins
    26
    170 votes

    Bursting onto the scene in the 1980s, The Paladins brought a fresh perspective to rockabilly music, blending their love of blues, country, and R&B into their sound. The band's high-energy live shows and slick musicianship quickly gained them a loyal fanbase. As torchbearers for the rockabilly sound, The Paladins have more than earned their place among the greats.

  • Dave Edmunds
    27
    236 votes

    A versatile musician and producer, Dave Edmunds' work has spanned several genres, including rockabilly. A talented guitarist and vocalist, Edmunds has had a hand in shaping the sound of numerous rockabilly artists throughout his career, both as a solo artist and a member of the band Rockpile. His devotion to the genre and contributions as a musician make Edmunds a key figure in rockabilly's history.

  • Imelda May
    28
    471 votes

    Hailing from Ireland, Imelda May has made a name for herself as a powerhouse vocalist and modern rockabilly icon. Her sultry voice and retro-inspired style have introduced a new generation of fans to the genre. With her captivating performances and undeniable talent, May has proven that rockabilly is alive and well in the 21st century.

  • James Burton
    29
    297 votes

    Widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, James Burton's innovative playing style and signature "chicken pickin'" technique have left an indelible mark on rockabilly music. As a session musician, Burton lent his talents to an impressive array of artists, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Ricky Nelson. His influence on the genre, both as a musician and innovator, is truly unparalleled.

  • Jerry Reed
    30
    258 votes

    A prolific songwriter and masterful guitarist, Jerry Reed's influence on rockabilly music is unmistakable. Reed's finger-picking style and distinctive voice can be heard on countless recordings, from his own solo work to collaborations with legends like Elvis Presley and Chet Atkins. With his myriad contributions to the genre, Reed remains a lasting figure in rockabilly's evolution.

  • Combining tongue-in-cheek lyrics with a retro-inspired sound, Southern Culture on the Skids have carved out their own unique niche within the rockabilly genre. With songs that celebrate southern culture and showcase their love for all things kitschy, the band has proven that there's still plenty of room for fun and innovation within rockabilly.

  • The Everly Brothers were an American country-influenced rock and roll duo, known for steel-string acoustic guitar playing and close harmony singing. Consisting of Isaac Donald "Don" Everly (born February 1, 1937) and Phillip Jason "Phil" Everly (January 19, 1939 – January 3, 2014), the duo were raised in a musical family, first appearing on radio singing along with their father Ike Everly and mother Margaret Everly as "The Everly Family" in the 1940s. When the brothers were still in high school, they gained the attention of prominent Nashville musicians like Chet Atkins, who began to groom them for national attention. They began writing and recording their own music in 1956, and their first hit song came in 1957, with "Bye Bye Love", written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant. The song hit number 1 in the spring of 1957, and additional hits would follow through 1958, many of them written by the Bryants, including "Wake Up Little Susie", "All I Have to Do Is Dream", and "Problems". In 1960, they signed with the major label Warner Bros. Records and recorded "Cathy's Clown", written by the brothers themselves, which was their biggest selling single. The brothers enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1961, and their output dropped off, though additional hit singles continued through 1962, with "That's Old Fashioned (That's the Way Love Should Be)" being their last top-10 hit. Long-simmering disputes with Wesley Rose, the CEO of Acuff-Rose Music, which managed the group, and growing drug usage in the 1960s, as well as changing tastes in popular music, led to the group's decline in popularity in their native U.S., though they continued to release hit singles in the U.K. and Canada, and had many highly successful tours throughout the 1960s. In the early 1970s, the brothers began releasing solo recordings, and in 1973 they officially broke up. Starting in 1983, the brothers got back together, and would continue to perform periodically until Phil's death in 2014. The group was highly influential on the music of the generation that followed them. Many of the top acts of the 1960s were heavily influenced by the close-harmony singing and acoustic guitar playing of the Everly Brothers, including the Beatles, the Beach Boys, and Simon & Garfunkel. They were inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of the inaugural class of 1986 and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001.
  • Carl Smith
    33
    125 votes

    An influential figure in both country and rockabilly music, Carl Smith's smooth baritone vocals and charismatic stage presence made him a force to be reckoned with throughout his career. With a string of hits in the 1950s and '60s, Smith played a crucial role in introducing the rockabilly sound to country music audiences and cementing the genre's place in American music history.

  • Link Wray
    34
    16 votes
    Fred Lincoln "Link" Wray, Jr. (May 2, 1929 – November 5, 2005) was a Shawnee rock and roll guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist who became popular in the late 1950s. Building on the distorted electric guitar sound of early records, his 1958 instrumental hit "Rumble" by Link Wray & His Ray Men popularized "the power chord, the major modus operandi of modern rock guitarists," facilitating the emergence of "punk and heavy rock". Rolling Stone placed Wray at No. 45 of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. In 2013 and 2017 he was a nominee for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Though he began in country music, his musical style went on to consist primarily of rock and roll, rockabilly, and instrumental rock.
  • The Blue Moon Boys were a band formed by Elvis Presley, guitarist Scotty Moore and bassist Bill Black. The group members were introduced by Sun Studio owner Sam Phillips in 1954, except for D.J. Fontana, who joined the group during a Louisiana Hayride tour in 1955.
  • Brenda Lee
    36
    72 votes
    Brenda Lee (born Brenda Mae Tarpley; December 11, 1944) is an American performer and the top-charting solo female vocalist of the 1960s. She sang rockabilly, pop and country music, and had 47 US chart hits during the 1960s, and is ranked fourth in that decade surpassed only by Elvis Presley, the Beatles and Ray Charles. She is known for her 1960 hit "I'm Sorry", and 1958's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree", which has become a Christmas standard.At 4 ft 9 inches tall (approximately 145 cm), she received the nickname "Little Miss Dynamite" in 1957, after recording the song "Dynamite" when she was 12, and was one of the earliest pop stars to have a major contemporary international following.In 1969, Lee returned to the charts with her recording "Johnny One Time" penned by A.L. "Doodle" Owens and Dallas Frazier. The song reached #3 on "Billboard's Adult Contemporary Chart and #41 on "Billboard's Hot 100." The song also earned Lee her second "Grammy" nomination for "Best Pop Female Vocal." Later success came with a return to her roots as a country singer, with a string of hits through the 1970s and 1980s. She is a member of the Rock and Roll, Country Music and Rockabilly Halls of Fame. She is also a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Lee is the only woman to be inducted into both the Rock and Roll and Country Music Halls of Fame. She lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
  • The Razorbacks
    37

    This Toronto-based trio made a name for themselves in the 1980s with their infectious blend of rockabilly, country, and blues. The Razorbacks' high-energy live shows and timeless sound won over fans both at home and abroad, proving that rockabilly could still pack a punch in the modern era.

  • Fronted by legendary Led Zeppelin vocalist Robert Plant, The Honeydrippers brought together rockabilly and rhythm and blues in a unique and exciting way. Their 1984 hit "Sea of Love" showcased Plant's ability to immerse himself in this new genre while still retaining his signature powerhouse vocals. Though short-lived, The Honeydrippers' impact on rockabilly is worth noting.

  • Billy "Crash" Craddock's blend of rockabilly and country music made him a popular fixture on the charts throughout the 1970s and '80s. Known for his high-energy performances and engaging stage presence, Craddock's contributions to the rockabilly genre showcased the enduring appeal of the music and helped introduce it to new fans.

  • Bill Kirchen
    40
    100 votes

    As a founding member of Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen, Bill Kirchen's guitar work and songwriting skills played a vital role in the band's unique blend of rockabilly and country music. Kirchen has continued to be an influential figure in the rockabilly scene, both as a solo artist and collaborator. His dedication to the genre and impressive musicianship make him a key player in rockabilly's continued evolution.

  • Sparkle Moore
    41

    Dubbed the "Female Elvis," Sparkle Moore's powerful voice and swaggering stage presence made her a rarity in the male-dominated rockabilly world of the 1950s. Although her recording career was brief, Moore's contributions to the genre proved that women could hold their own in rockabilly, and she remains an influential pioneer for female musicians.

  • Bobby Vee
    42
    147 votes

    With his clean-cut image and catchy melodies, Bobby Vee helped to bring rockabilly music into mainstream culture during the early 1960s. Songs like "Take Good Care of My Baby" showcased Vee's smooth vocals and his ability to make rockabilly accessible to pop audiences. While some may argue that Vee's music leaned more towards pop than rockabilly, his influence on the genre is undeniable.

  • The Jets
    43
    121 votes

    Since their formation in the late '70s, British rockabilly band The Jets has been captivating audiences with their infectious blend of rockabilly and punk influences. With high-energy live shows and a reputation for putting their own spin on classic rockabilly tunes, The Jets have proven that the genre is far from simply a nostalgic relic.

  • The Fendermen
    44

    Formed in 1959 by guitarists Jim Sundquist and Phil Humphrey, The Fendermen were known for their stripped-down approach to rockabilly, often performing as a duo with just two guitars and a single microphone. Their energetic performances and memorable covers of classic rockabilly tunes showcased the genre's enduring appeal and demonstrated the power of simplicity.

  • Tiger Army
    45
    102 votes

    As leaders of the psychobilly movement, Tiger Army has helped bring rockabilly's rebellious spirit to a new generation of fans. Combining punk rock, goth, and rockabilly influences, the band's high-energy performances and darkly romantic lyrics have made them a force within the genre. By pushing the boundaries of what rockabilly can be, Tiger Army has played an essential role in its evolution.

  • Flat Duo Jets
    46

    Known for their raw, back-to-basics approach to rockabilly, Flat Duo Jets carved out a unique sound by fusing rockabilly with punk and blues influences. Fronted by wildly charismatic singer-guitarist Dexter Romweber, the duo was a powerful force on the indie scene during the late '80s and early '90s, eventually gaining a cult following that endures to this day.

  • Skeets McDonald
    47

    A honky-tonk hero, Skeets McDonald made significant contributions to the rockabilly genre through his seamless blending of country and rockabilly sounds. McDonald's smooth, distinctive voice and heartfelt songwriting made him a favorite among fans, and his impact on the genre can still be felt today.

  • Mike Sanchez
    48
    84 votes

    With a career spanning more than 30 years, Mike Sanchez has established himself as one of the premier piano players and vocalists in the rockabilly world. His dynamic performances and masterful musicianship have won him legions of fans across the globe, securing his place as a rockabilly icon. Whether performing solo or with various bands, including the Big Town Playboys, Sanchez's passion and dedication to the genre remain undeniable.

  • Roy Buchanan
    49
    109 votes

    A pioneering guitarist, Roy Buchanan's innovative use of the Fender Telecaster made him a legend among rockabilly and blues musicians alike. Buchanan's emotive playing style and ability to make his guitar "sing" earned him legions of devoted fans throughout his career. Although primarily known as a blues guitarist, Buchanan's undeniable influence on rockabilly guitar playing makes him a standout figure in the genre.

  • Billy Bremner
    50

    Best known for his work with influential rockabilly band Rockpile, Billy Bremner's guitar skills and songwriting prowess have left a lasting mark on the genre. As a solo artist and session player, Bremner's contributions to rockabilly continue to inspire new generations of musicians.

  • Mad Sin
    51
    113 votes

    As pioneers of the psychobilly sub-genre, Germany's Mad Sin has been pushing the boundaries of rockabilly music since their formation in 1987. With a combination of punk rock, rockabilly, and horror-inspired theatrics, the band has created a unique and enduring sound that continues to resonate with fans around the world.

  • Duke Robillard
    52

    An accomplished guitarist and founding member of Roomful of Blues, Duke Robillard has made significant contributions to the rockabilly genre through his diverse talents. His innovative playing style, which combines elements of jazz, blues, and rockabilly, has made Robillard a sought-after collaborator and respected artist within the music community. With a career spanning more than 50 years, Robillard's ongoing devotion to rockabilly is a testament to the genre's lasting appeal.

  • Duane Eddy
    53

    Duane Eddy

    4 votes
  • Janis Martin
    54

    Janis Martin

    2 votes
  • Hasil Adkins
    55

    Hasil Adkins

    2 votes