The Best Britpop Bands

Coley Reed
Updated April 23, 2024 99.7K views 52 items
Ranked By
27.0K votes
3.0K voters
6 reranks
Voting Rules
Only groups with 3 or more members.
Latest additions: Feeder, Menswear
Most divisive: James
Over 3.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Britpop Bands

At the beginning of the 1990s, Britpop started to dominate the airwaves not only in the UK, but globally as well. At the time though, the British music scene was in flux. Electronic music and indie rock were becoming popular. But, Brit pop, which took elements of guitar rock and pop music to create a new genre of rock. Britpop became a British movement where many working class bands and was a reaction of what was going on in the UK and against grunge music. Britpop brought British alternative rock into the mainstream, and brought several British pop bands into the mainstream.

So, who are considered the best Britpop bands? No Britpop bands list would be complete without Oasis and Blur at or near the top of this poll. Both of these bands are considered the top Britpop bands. Other popular Britpop bands, like Suede, Pulp and James are on here. All Britpop bands should be on this list. Even today, years after the movement ended, Britpop artists continue to put out stellar music, either as a solo artist or with their original band. No matter how you see it, Britpop was a dominant force that put British rock music back on the scene.

That said, it's hard to determine what is the best Britpop band. It's not an easy question to answer, but it's up to you to determine who is considered the greatest Britpop band. This list answers the questions "who are the best Britpop bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest Britpop musician ever?"If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band's music instead of just voting for the most popular britpop bands that you might've heard of. This Britpop bands list will determine which Britpop musician should be considered the best of all time.{#nodes}

  • Oasis
    1

    Oasis

    1,719 votes

    Fronted by the famously feuding Gallagher brothers, this legendary group became synonymous with Britpop thanks to their anthemic songs and larger-than-life personas. Their undeniable talent for crafting memorable melodies, combined with raw, emotive lyrics, propelled them to international stardom and made them one of the most successful British bands of all time. The group's impact on Britpop is immeasurable, influencing countless artists and cementing their status as icons of the genre.

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  • Blur
    2

    Blur

    1,458 votes

    This iconic quartet dominated the '90s with their distinct blend of British pop sensibilities, thoughtful lyrics, and unique soundscapes that set them apart from their contemporaries. The band's innovative musicianship and ability to create catchy yet meaningful tunes earned them countless accolades and an enduring place in pop culture. As pioneers of the movement, they helped define Britpop as a genre and inspired a generation of musicians who followed in their footsteps.

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  • Pulp
    3

    Pulp

    1,113 votes

    Led by the enigmatic Jarvis Cocker, this charismatic ensemble brought a sense of theatricality and wit to Britpop that set them apart from their peers. With their clever storytelling and penchant for injecting social commentary into their songs, they captured the zeitgeist of '90s Britain while showcasing exceptional musicianship. The band's influence on the Britpop scene can still be felt today, having left an indelible mark on both fans and fellow musicians alike.

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  • The Stone Roses
    4

    Fusing together elements of indie rock, psychedelic pop, and dance music, this seminal group was instrumental in shaping the sound of Britpop in the late '80s and early '90s. Their innovative approach to songwriting and their undeniable chemistry as musicians made them one of the most influential bands of their time. Though their tenure was relatively brief, their legacy within the Britpop movement is monumental.

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  • Suede
    5

    Suede

    894 votes

    Often hailed as one of the founding forces behind Britpop, this groundbreaking act combined glam rock influences with raw emotion to create a sound that was uniquely their own. The band's evocative lyrics and skillful instrumentation resonated with audiences far beyond the UK, earning them critical acclaim and commercial success worldwide. Their impact on the genre is undeniable, having paved the way for many of the most celebrated acts in Britpop history.

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  • The Beatles
    6

    The Beatles

    666 votes

    Though they predate the Britpop movement by several decades, these legendary Liverpudlians undeniably laid the groundwork for many of the genre's defining characteristics. Their unparalleled ability to craft timeless pop songs with a distinctly British flair has served as inspiration for countless artists who followed in their footsteps. As such, their influence on the development and evolution of Britpop cannot be overstated.

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  • The Verve
    7

    The Verve

    867 votes

    Known for their sweeping, atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics, this critically acclaimed outfit helped expand the boundaries of what Britpop could be. Their unique fusion of psychedelic rock influences with classic British pop sensibilities allowed them to stand out from their contemporaries while still contributing significantly to the genre's overall impact. Their influence on future generations of musicians is evident in both their commercial success and lasting cultural relevance.

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  • The Charlatans
    8

    The Charlatans

    470 votes

    Combining elements of indie rock, psychedelic pop, and dance music, this innovative group became one of the most enduring acts within the Britpop movement. Their fusion of diverse musical influences allowed them to carve out a unique niche within the genre while still contributing significantly to its overall identity. With a career spanning decades, their influence on both contemporaries and future artists is undeniable.

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  • Supergrass
    9

    Supergrass

    645 votes

    This youthful ensemble brought a fresh energy and exuberance to Britpop with their infectious tunes and charismatic live performances. Their innate ability to create instantly memorable melodies coupled with their distinctive sound made them one of the most beloved bands of the era. Their lasting impact on the genre is evident in their continued influence on new generations of musicians and fans alike.

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  • Manic Street Preachers
    10

    This politically charged trio earned a reputation as one of Britpop's most provocative acts thanks to their unapologetic lyrics and confrontational stage presence. Despite tackling controversial subject matter, their exceptional songwriting skills and undeniable talent as musicians propelled them to widespread acclaim both within and beyond the Britpop scene. Their enduring popularity serves as a testament to their indelible mark on the genre.

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  • Happy Mondays
    11

    Happy Mondays

    341 votes

    This eclectic collective brought a distinctly Mancunian flavor to Britpop with their fusion of indie rock, dance music, and psychedelic influences. Their unconventional approach to songwriting and penchant for blending genres made them stand out from their peers while still contributing to the development of the Britpop sound. As pioneers of the "Madchester" scene, they left an indelible mark on both British music and popular culture as a whole.

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  • Stereophonics
    12

    Stereophonics

    533 votes

    Hailing from Wales, this dynamic trio quickly gained a reputation for their gritty, guitar-driven sound and emotionally charged lyrics. Their distinctive approach to songwriting set them apart from other Britpop bands, earning them widespread acclaim and commercial success both within the UK and internationally. Their enduring popularity and influence on future generations of musicians attest to their significant contributions to the genre.

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  • Lightning Seeds
    13

    This Liverpool-born act masterfully blended elements of indie pop, synth-pop, and psychedelic rock to create a sound that was uniquely their own. Their ability to craft instantly memorable tunes that resonated with audiences far beyond the UK earned them widespread acclaim both within and beyond the Britpop scene. Their lasting impact on the genre is evident in their continued influence on new generations of musicians and fans alike.

  • The La's
    14

    The La's

    418 votes

    Known for their infectious melodies and jangly guitar sound, this Liverpudlian outfit helped pave the way for many of the defining characteristics associated with Britpop. Though their time together was relatively brief, their impact on the movement cannot be overstated, with many citing them as essential precursors to some of Britain's most successful bands. Their enduring legacy within the genre serves as a testament to their exceptional musicianship and songwriting prowess.

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  • Ocean Colour Scene
    15

    With their heartfelt lyrics and soulful instrumentation, this Birmingham-based quartet quickly established themselves as one of the most beloved acts within the Britpop movement. Their ability to create timeless tunes that resonated with audiences both in the UK and abroad earned them a devoted fanbase that persists to this day. As purveyors of classic British pop sensibilities, their contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.

  • Ash
    16

    Ash

    389 votes

    This Northern Irish trio brought a punk-infused edge to Britpop with their energetic sound and rebellious spirit. Their raw, catchy songs and unrivaled live performances earned them widespread acclaim both within and beyond the confines of the genre. As trailblazers for a new generation of bands, they left an indelible mark on both the Britpop scene and popular music in general.

  • Cast
    17

    Cast

    355 votes

    Formed by former members of The La's, this Liverpool-based quartet quickly gained a reputation for their infectious melodies and jangly guitar sound. Their distinctive approach to songwriting set them apart from other Britpop bands, earning them widespread acclaim both within the UK and internationally. With a career spanning decades, their influence on future generations of musicians attests to their significant contributions to the genre.

  • James
    18

    James

    502 votes

    Combining introspective lyrics with lush, atmospheric instrumentation, this Manchester-based outfit became one of the most critically acclaimed acts within the Britpop movement. Their unique approach to songwriting allowed them to transcend genre boundaries while still contributing significantly to the development of Britpop as a whole. With a career spanning decades, their influence on both contemporaries and future artists is undeniable.

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  • Keane
    19

    Keane

    232 votes

    Hailing from East Sussex, this piano-driven trio carved out a unique niche within Britpop by eschewing guitars in favor of lush, atmospheric arrangements. Their emotive lyrics and soaring melodies quickly earned them critical acclaim and commercial success both within the UK and internationally. With a career spanning decades, their influence on future generations of musicians attests to their significant contributions to the genre.

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  • Elastica
    20

    Elastica

    502 votes

    Fronted by the enigmatic Justine Frischmann, this London-based group quickly gained a reputation for their infectious melodies and razor-sharp wit. Their unique fusion of punk influences with classic British pop sensibilities made them stand out from their peers while still contributing significantly to the overall identity of Britpop. Though their time together was relatively brief, their impact on the genre remains evident in both their enduring popularity and lasting cultural relevance.

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  • Travis
    21

    Travis

    474 votes

    This Scottish quartet brought a melodic, introspective edge to Britpop with their heartfelt lyrics and lush instrumentation. Their unique approach to songwriting allowed them to stand out from their peers while still contributing significantly to the genre's overall identity. With a career spanning decades, their influence on both contemporaries and future artists is undeniable.

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  • Catatonia
    22

    Catatonia

    285 votes

    This Welsh outfit brought a distinctly Celtic flavor to Britpop with their fusion of indie rock, folk, and pop influences. Fronted by the charismatic Cerys Matthews, they quickly gained a reputation for their powerful live performances and evocative lyrics that resonated with audiences far beyond the UK. Their unique contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.

  • Embrace
    23

    Embrace

    110 votes

    Hailing from West Yorkshire, this emotionally charged quintet quickly gained a reputation for their powerful live performances and evocative lyrics that resonated with audiences far beyond the UK. Their unique blend of anthemic melodies and introspective themes made them stand out from their peers while still contributing significantly to the overall identity of Britpop. Their lasting impact on the genre is evident in their continued influence on new generations of musicians and fans alike.

  • The Bluetones
    24

    The Bluetones

    290 votes

    With their jangly guitar sound and infectious melodies, this London-based quartet quickly established themselves as one of the most beloved acts within the Britpop movement. Their ability to create timeless tunes that resonated with audiences both in the UK and abroad earned them widespread acclaim both within and beyond the genre. Their enduring popularity and influence on future generations of musicians attest to their significant contributions to Britpop.

  • Sleeper
    25

    Sleeper

    297 votes

    Fronted by the enigmatic Louise Wener, this London-based group quickly gained a reputation for their catchy tunes and razor-sharp wit. Their unique fusion of punk influences with classic British pop sensibilities made them stand out from their peers while still contributing significantly to the overall identity of Britpop. Though their time together was relatively brief, their impact on the genre remains evident in both their enduring popularity and lasting cultural relevance.

  • Echobelly
    26

    Echobelly

    284 votes

    This multicultural ensemble brought a fresh perspective to Britpop with their thoughtful lyrics and diverse musical influences. Their ability to create captivating tunes that resonated with audiences both in the UK and abroad earned them a devoted fanbase that persists to this day. As purveyors of classic British pop sensibilities, their contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.

  • Shed Seven
    27

    Shed Seven

    343 votes

    Hailing from York, this guitar-driven quintet quickly established themselves as one of the most beloved acts within the Britpop movement. Their heartfelt lyrics and soulful instrumentation resonated with audiences far beyond the UK, earning them widespread acclaim and commercial success both within and internationally. Their enduring popularity and influence on future generations of musicians attest to their significant contributions to the genre.

  • Space
    28

    Space

    246 votes

    This Liverpool-born outfit masterfully blended elements of indie rock, electronic music, and psychedelic pop to create a sound that was uniquely their own. Their ability to craft instantly memorable tunes that resonated with audiences far beyond the UK earned them widespread acclaim both within and beyond the Britpop scene. Their lasting impact on the genre is evident in their continued influence on new generations of musicians and fans alike.

  • Super Furry Animals
    29

    Known for their eclectic blend of musical styles and unconventional approach to songwriting, this Welsh collective became one of the most innovative acts within the Britpop movement. Their fusion of diverse influences allowed them to carve out a unique niche within the genre while still contributing significantly to its overall identity. As pioneers of a new wave of experimental British bands, they left an indelible mark on both popular music and popular culture as a whole.

  • The Divine Comedy
    30

    Led by the enigmatic Neil Hannon, this Northern Irish outfit became one of the most critically acclaimed acts within the Britpop movement thanks to their lush orchestral arrangements and witty lyrics. Their unique approach to songwriting allowed them to transcend genre boundaries while still contributing significantly to the development of Britpop as a whole. With a career spanning decades, their influence on both contemporaries and future artists is undeniable.

  • Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds
    31

    Founded by one half of the legendary Oasis duo, this critically acclaimed project allowed its namesake frontman to continue exploring his exceptional songwriting skills and distinctive musical style. The group's fusion of classic Britpop elements with fresh, innovative sounds has earned them a devoted following while also showcasing their ability to evolve within the genre. Their impact on both contemporaries and future artists is undeniable, solidifying their place in Britpop history.

  • Gomez
    32

    Gomez

    122 votes

    This Southport-based quintet brought a distinctly rootsy flavor to Britpop with their fusion of blues, folk, and indie rock influences. Fronted by singer/guitarist Ben Ottewell, they quickly gained a reputation for their soulful live performances and evocative lyrics that resonated with audiences far beyond the UK. Their unique contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.

  • Snow Patrol
    33

    Snow Patrol

    305 votes

    This Northern Irish/Scottish ensemble became known for their anthemic melodies and introspective lyrics that struck a chord with listeners across the globe. Combining elements of indie rock with classic British pop sensibilities, they helped expand the boundaries of what Britpop could be while still contributing significantly to the genre's overall impact. Their influence on future generations of musicians is evident in both their commercial success and lasting cultural relevance.

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  • Kula Shaker
    34

    Kula Shaker

    374 votes

    Fronted by the charismatic Crispian Mills, this London-based group brought a sense of spirituality and mysticism to Britpop with their fusion of Indian classical music, psychedelic rock, and indie pop influences. Their innovative approach to songwriting and penchant for blending genres made them stand out from their peers while still contributing to the development of the Britpop sound. As pioneers of a new wave of experimental British bands, they left an indelible mark on both popular music and popular culture as a whole.

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  • The Supernaturals
    35

    Hailing from Glasgow, this quirky quintet brought a unique sense of humor and wit to Britpop with their catchy tunes and tongue-in-cheek lyrics. Their distinctive approach to songwriting set them apart from other bands of the era while still contributing significantly to the overall identity of the genre. With a career spanning decades, their influence on future generations of musicians attests to their significant contributions to Britpop.

  • Cornershop
    36

    Cornershop

    95 votes

    This eclectic collective became known for incorporating diverse musical influences such as Indian classical music, electronica, and indie rock into their distinct brand of Britpop. Their innovative approach to blending genres made them stand out from their contemporaries while still contributing meaningfully to the development of the Britpop sound. As pioneers in pushing the boundaries of what British pop music could be, they left an indelible mark on both popular music and popular culture as a whole.

  • The Farm
    37

    The Farm

    189 votes

    This Liverpool-born act masterfully blended elements of indie rock, dance music, and 1960s psychedelia to create a sound that was uniquely their own. Their ability to craft instantly memorable tunes that resonated with audiences far beyond the UK earned them widespread acclaim both within and beyond the Britpop scene. Their lasting impact on the genre is evident in their continued influence on new generations of musicians and fans alike.

  • Dodgy
    38

    Dodgy

    242 votes

    With their infectious melodies and jangly guitar sound, this Birmingham-based trio quickly established themselves as one of the most beloved acts within the Britpop movement. Their ability to create timeless tunes that resonated with audiences both in the UK and abroad earned them widespread acclaim both within and beyond the genre. Their enduring popularity and influence on future generations of musicians attest to their significant contributions to Britpop.

  • The Good, the Bad & the Queen
    39

    Founded by Blur frontman Damon Albarn, this supergroup combined elements of alternative rock, electronic music, and classic British pop sensibilities to create a sound that was uniquely their own. Their innovative approach to songwriting allowed them to transcend genre boundaries while still contributing significantly to the development of Britpop as a whole. As pioneers in pushing the boundaries of what British pop music could be, they left an indelible mark on both popular music and popular culture as a whole.

  • The Mighty Lemon Drops
    40

    Incorporating elements of indie rock, psychedelic pop, and post-punk into their distinct brand of Britpop, this Wolverhampton-born outfit became one of the most innovative acts within the movement. Their fusion of diverse musical influences allowed them to carve out a unique niche within the genre while still contributing significantly to its overall identity. As pioneers in pushing the boundaries of what British pop music could be, they left an indelible mark on both popular music and popular culture as a whole.

  • The Subways
    41

    The Subways

    96 votes

    Hailing from Hertfordshire, this energetic trio brought a punk-infused edge to Britpop with their raw sound and rebellious spirit. Their ability to create infectious tunes that resonated with audiences far beyond the UK earned them widespread acclaim both within and beyond the confines of the genre. As trailblazers for a new generation of bands, they left an indelible mark on both the Britpop scene and popular music in general.

  • The Railway Children
    42

    The Railway Children

    110 votes

    Formed in Manchester in the mid-'80s, this indie pop quartet became known for their jangly guitar sound and introspective lyrics that struck a chord with listeners across the globe. Though they predate the height of Britpop by several years, their contributions to the development of British pop music cannot be overstated, as they helped pave the way for many of the defining characteristics associated with the genre. Their enduring legacy within Britpop serves as a testament to their exceptional musicianship and songwriting prowess.

  • Noel Gallagher
    43

    As one half of the legendary Oasis duo, this critically acclaimed singer-songwriter had an immeasurable impact on Britpop thanks to his undeniable talent for crafting memorable melodies and raw, emotive lyrics. His solo work allowed him to continue exploring his exceptional songwriting skills and distinctive musical style while still maintaining a strong connection to the genre he helped define. His influence on future generations of musicians is undeniable, solidifying his place in Britpop history.

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  • Feeder
    44

    Feeder

    47 votes
    Feeder may refer to:
  • Rialto
    45

    Rialto

    62 votes

    This London-based sextet became known for their cinematic soundscapes and dramatic flair, bringing a sense of theatricality to the Britpop movement. Their distinctive blend of orchestral arrangements, lush harmonies, and evocative lyrics earned them critical acclaim both within and beyond the confines of the genre. Though their tenure was relatively brief, their legacy within the Britpop scene is monumental.

  • Silver Sun
    46

    Silver Sun

    55 votes

    This London-based quartet brought a fresh energy and exuberance to Britpop with their infectious tunes and charismatic live performances. Their innate ability to create instantly memorable melodies coupled with their distinctive sound made them one of the most beloved bands of the era. Their lasting impact on the genre is evident in their continued influence on new generations of musicians and fans alike.

  • Black Grape
    47

    Black Grape

    202 votes

    Fronted by former Happy Mondays singer Shaun Ryder, this eclectic collective became known for their fusion of indie rock, dance music, and psychedelic influences. Their unconventional approach to songwriting and penchant for blending genres made them stand out from their peers while still contributing to the development of the Britpop sound. As pioneers of the "Madchester" scene, they left an indelible mark on both British music and popular culture as a whole.

  • Gene
    48

    Gene

    216 votes

    Fronted by the charismatic Martin Rossiter, this London-based group brought a sense of sophistication and elegance to Britpop with their lush, atmospheric arrangements and introspective lyrics. Their distinctive approach to songwriting allowed them to stand out from their peers while still contributing significantly to the genre's overall identity. With a career spanning decades, their influence on both contemporaries and future artists is undeniable.

  • Drugstore
    49

    Drugstore

    89 votes
    Drugstore are a London-based alternative and dream pop band, led by Brazilian singer-songwriter and bassist Isabel Monteiro, formed with Dave Hunter on guitar and Mike Chylinski on drums. The band's name is taken from the 1989 Gus Van Sant film, Drugstore Cowboy.
  • Swervedriver
    50

    Swervedriver

    89 votes
    Swervedriver are an English alternative rock band formed in Oxford in 1989 around core members Adam Franklin and Jimmy Hartridge. Between 1989 and 1998, the band released four studio albums and numerous EPs and singles despite a considerable flux of members, managers, and record labels. By 1993 the band’s lineup had settled with Franklin on vocals/guitar, Hartridge on guitar, Jez Hindmarsh on drums, and Steve George on bass. They had emerged with a heavier rock sound than their shoegaze contemporaries, and over the next five years it evolved to include elements of psychedelia, classic pop, and indie rock. In 2008, the band reunited for touring purposes. They released their first new single in fifteen years in September 2013, and their first full-length album in seventeen years in March 2015.
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  • Beady Eye
    51

    Beady Eye

    301 votes
    Beady Eye were an English rock band formed in 2009, by lead vocalist Liam Gallagher, guitarists Gem Archer and Andy Bell, and drummer Chris Sharrock, all former members of Oasis. In 2013, former Kasabian guitarist Jay Mehler joined the band playing bass guitar on tour. The band's origins lie in the break-up of Oasis, after chief songwriter and lead guitarist Noel Gallagher quit acrimoniously in August 2009. The remaining members gathered on and decided that they would "not quit making music together" and so they formed the band Beady Eye. The band released two studio albums: Different Gear, Still Speeding and BE. Both have reached the Top 5 in the UK Album Chart, but as of November 2013 they had only one UK Top 40 single "The Roller", peaking at number 31. However, Beady Eye received some acclaim for their music by Oasis fans, with Q claiming that their debut album is the best Liam has performed on since Morning Glory?. On 25 October 2014, Liam Gallagher announced, via Twitter, that Beady Eye had disbanded.
  • Menswear
    52

    Menswear

    9 votes