100+ Best Bands & Artists That Start With M

Jared Baly
Updated April 30, 2024 167 items
Ranked By
2.0K votes
147 voters

We're ranking the best bands and solo artists that start with M across every music genre and generation. From the King and Queen of Pop – Michael Jackson and Madonna – to rock legends Metallica, Mötley Crüe, Mick Jagger, Motörhead, Mumford & Sons, Myles Kennedy, and Megadeth, this compilation of artists contains a diverse range of multi-talented musicians with names all beginning with the letter M.

Country music royalty Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, and Maren Morris never cease to captivate fans across their profound records and live performances; and hip-hop moguls Megan Thee Stallion, Migos, Missy Elliott, and Mac Miller (rest in peace) indisputably changed the rap game forever. Grammy Award-winning superstars Mariah Carey and Marvin Gaye fearlessly shattered glass ceilings through their exceptional vocals and captivating stage presence; and Miles Davis redefined jazz music over the course of his five decade-long career, paving the way for future generations of musicians while also leaving an unparalleled mark on the music industry worldwide.

Vote below for your favorite singers, bands, rappers, DJs, and composers whose names start with M, and feel free to check out these artists' discography lists afterwards if you'd like to discover more of their incredible music. 

Most divisive: Megan Thee Stallion
Over 100 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of 100+ Best Bands & Artists That Start With M
  • Metallica
    1
    86 votes

    Few artists can claim to have redefined an entire music genre, but heavy metal behemoths Metallica certainly make the grade. Their unrelenting aggression and technical prowess, combined with powerful and introspective lyrics, have secured their spot as one of the finest acts beginning with the letter M. With masterpieces like Master of Puppets and the groundbreaking Black Album, these original titans of metal have transcended their thrash roots to become a multigenerational force to be reckoned with.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Metallica
      - "Enter Sandman"
      - "Master of Puppets"
      - "Nothing Else Matters"

    Dive Into Metallica's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Orion"
      - "Dyers Eve"

  • The "King of Pop" himself, Michael Jackson, is undoubtedly one of the most prominent figures in music history. With his innovative blend of pop, rock, and R&B, Jackson not only transformed the sound of popular music but also revolutionized dance and visual presentation with his iconic moonwalk and groundbreaking music videos like "Thriller." Few artists can boast the cultural impact, timeless appeal, and undeniably original style that Jackson brought to the table as a definitive M-lettered musician.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Michael Jackson
      - "Billie Jean"
      - "Thriller"
      - "Beat It"

    Dive Into Michael Jackson's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Who Is It"
      - "Stranger in Moscow"

  • Marvin Gaye
    3
    58 votes

    Marvin Gaye's incredible artistry and impressive discography stand as a testament to his undeniable impact on the world of music. As one of Motown's greatest talents, his smooth voice and emotive delivery touched upon themes of love, heartache, and social consciousness, earning him the title of "The Prince of Soul." From deeply personal songs like "What's Going On" to sensual anthems like "Let's Get It On," Gaye's barrier-breaking achievements distinguish him as a truly compelling M-initialed artist.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Marvin Gaye
      - "What's Going On"
      - "Let's Get It On"
      - "Sexual Healing"

    Dive Into Marvin Gaye's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)"
      - "You're the Man"

  • If there's one band synonymous with the emo movement, it's My Chemical Romance. Frontman Gerard Way's theatrical and brooding lyrics, paired with their genre-blurring fusion of punk, pop, and alt-rock, makes them one of the most original and influential bands that start with M. From the somber requiem of "The Black Parade" to the dystopian rock opera of "Danger Days," My Chemical Romance pushed the boundaries of artistic expression and built a fiercely loyal fanbase in the process.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From My Chemical Romance
      - "Welcome to the Black Parade"
      - "Helena"
      - "I'm Not Okay (I Promise)"

    Dive Into My Chemical Romance's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Demolition Lovers"
      - "Desert Song"

  • As the side project of Genesis guitarist Mike Rutherford, Mike + The Mechanics showcased his knack for crafting melodic pop-rock hits with a sophisticated edge. Best known for their emotive ballads like "The Living Years" and "Silent Running," the band drew upon Rutherford's prog-rock background while venturing into more accessible territory. Their impressive longevity and ability to balance heartfelt storytelling with catchy hooks make them a worthy contender among M-initialed artists.

  • The Moody Blues pioneered progressive rock with their lush orchestrations and thoughtful, poetic lyrics that transcended typical pop fare. Their landmark album Days of Future Passed is widely considered a cornerstone of art rock, blending classical influences with psychedelic experimentation. From "Nights in White Satin" to "Tuesday Afternoon," The Moody Blues' sophisticated style and enduring appeal place them among the finest M-initialed artists of all time.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Moody Blues
      - "Nights in White Satin"
      - "Tuesday Afternoon"
      - "Ride My See  -Saw"

    Dive Into The Moody Blues' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Dr. Livingstone, I Presume"
      - "Candle of Life"

  • Hailing from the golden age of Motown, Martha and the Vandellas carved out a unique niche with their soulful harmonies and undeniably infectious beats. With hits like "Dancing in the Street" and "Heat Wave," they introduced a brassy, high-energy sound that set them apart from their contemporaries and cemented their status as one of the top M-lettered artists of all time. Martha Reeves' powerhouse vocals, combined with the Vandellas' tight harmonies, created an irresistible blend of R&B, pop, and soul that still resonates today.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Martha and the Vandellas
      - "Dancing in the Street"
      - "Heat Wave"
      - "Nowhere to Run"

    Dive Into Martha and the Vandellas' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Live Wire"
      - "No More Tearstained Make Up"

  • Martha Reeves
    8

    Martha Reeves

    26 votes

    With her powerhouse vocals and commanding stage presence, Martha Reeves rightfully earned her place among the pantheon of Motown greats. As the lead singer of Martha and the Vandellas, she fronted a groundbreaking female vocal group responsible for timeless hits like "Dancing in the Street" and "Heat Wave." Throughout her solo career and beyond, Reeves' soulful voice and magnetic charisma have made her an M-initial force to be reckoned with.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Martha Reeves
      - "Dancing in the Street" (with The Vandellas)
      - "Nowhere to Run" (with The Vandellas)
      - "Heat Wave" (with The Vandellas)

    Dive Into Martha Reeves' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Wild One"
      - "Show Me the Way"

  • Meat Loaf
    9
    53 votes

    Few performers can match the bombastic theatrics and anthemic rock of Meat Loaf. With his operatic voice and larger-than-life stage presence, Meat Loaf's music is as unique and unforgettable as his name. Hits like "Bat Out of Hell" and "Paradise by the Dashboard Light" showcase his unparalleled storytelling abilities, making him an essential addition to any list of M-named musicians.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Meat Loaf
      - "I'd Do Anything for Love (But I Won't Do That)"
      - "Bat Out of Hell"
      - "Two Out of Three Ain't Bad"

    Dive Into Meat Loaf's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Life Is a Lemon and I Want My Money Back"
      - "Objects in the Rear View Mirror May Appear Closer Than They Are"

  • Melissa Etheridge's gritty voice and heartfelt lyrics have made her an enduring fixture in the world of singer-songwriters. Her deeply personal songwriting and unyielding advocacy for social issues have marked her career with passion and purpose. Tracks like "I'm the Only One" and "Come to My Window" demonstrate Etheridge's knack for emotive storytelling and have firmly established her as one of the most significant artists beginning with the letter M.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Melissa Etheridge
      - "I'm the Only One"
      - "Come to My Window"
      - "Like the Way I Do"

    Dive Into Melissa Etheridge's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Silent Legacy"
      - "Resist"

  • Mariah Carey
    11
    61 votes

    Mariah Carey's astonishing vocal range and penchant for melismatic singing have made her one of the most defining divas of the modern era. Her powerhouse ballads, like "Hero" and "Without You," showcase her incredible ability to emote, while upbeat hits like "Fantasy" and "Heartbreaker" display her knack for crafting pop earworms. With her record-breaking string of chart-toppers, Carey easily earns her place among the best and brightest M-named musicians.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Mariah Carey
      - "All I Want for Christmas Is You"
      - "Hero"
      - "We Belong Together"

    Dive Into Mariah Carey's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Underneath the Stars"
      - "Languishing (The Interlude)"

  • Mary Chapin Carpenter (born February 21, 1958) is an American singer-songwriter. Carpenter spent several years singing in Washington, D.C. clubs before signing in the late 1980s with Columbia Records, who marketed her as a country singer. Carpenter's first album, 1987's Hometown Girl, did not produce any singles, although 1989's State of the Heart and 1990's Shooting Straight in the Dark each produced four Top 20 hits on the Billboard country singles charts. Carpenter's most successful album to date remains 1992's Come On Come On, which yielded seven charting country singles and was certified quadruple platinum in the US for sales exceeding four million copies. She followed it with Stones in the Road (1994) and A Place in the World (1996), which both featured hit singles. In the 2000s, Carpenter's albums departed both thematically and musically from her early work, becoming less radio-friendly and more focused on societal and political issues. In 2007, she released The Calling. She followed that with The Age of Miracles (2010), Ashes and Roses (2012) and the orchestral album, Songs From the Movie (2014). Carpenter has won five Grammy Awards and is the only artist to have won four consecutive Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance, which she received from 1992 to 1995. She has sold more than 12 million records worldwide. On October 7, 2012, Carpenter was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Carpenter has performed on television shows such as Late Night with David Letterman and Austin City Limits and on radio shows such as The Diane Rehm Show. She also tours frequently, returning to Washington almost every summer to perform at Wolf Trap. She is a direct descendant of Deacon Samuel Chapin, United States Chief Justice John Marshall and a fifth cousin of the late singer and humanitarian Harry Chapin (along with his brothers Tom and Steve).
  • The Marvelettes
    13
    The Marvelettes were an American all-girl group who achieved popularity in the early to mid-1960s. They consisted of schoolmates Gladys Horton, Katherine Anderson, Georgeanna Tillman, Juanita Cowart, and Georgia Dobbins, who was replaced by Wanda Young prior to the group signing their first deal. They were the first major successful act of Motown Records after the Miracles and its first significantly successful girl group after the release of the 1961 number-one single, "Please Mr. Postman", one of the first number-one singles recorded by an all-female vocal group and the first by a Motown recording act. Founded in 1960 while the group's founding members performed together at their glee club at Inkster High School in Inkster, Michigan, they eventually were signed to Motown's Tamla label in 1961. Some of the group's early hits were written by band members and some of Motown's rising singer-songwriters such as Smokey Robinson and Marvin Gaye, who played drums on a majority of their early recordings. Despite their early successes, the group was eclipsed in popularity by groups like the Supremes, with whom they shared an intense rivalry.
  • Madonna
    14
    67 votes

    The "Queen of Pop" and reigning sovereign of controversy, Madonna has reigned supreme over the music world for four decades and counting. Her chameleonic ability to reinvent herself while pushing the boundaries of pop music has made her one of the most influential artists to ever strut the stage. Songs like "Like a Virgin," "Vogue," and "Hung Up" showcase Madonna's unique blend of catchy melodies, provocative lyrics, and unapologetic attitude, solidifying her place as an M-initial musical icon.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Madonna
      - "Like a Virgin"
      - "Like a Prayer"
      - "Vogue"

    Dive Into Madonna's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Oh Father"
      - "Till Death Do Us Part"

  • Maroon 5
    15
    57 votes

    Maroon 5's blend of infectious pop-rock, R&B, and funk has made them one of the most successful bands of the 21st century. Widely recognized for frontman Adam Levine's dynamic vocals, the band's chart-topping hits like "This Love" and "Moves Like Jagger" showcase their ability to create catchy hooks and memorable melodies. With their ever-evolving sound, Maroon 5 remains a mainstay among contemporary M-initialed artists.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Maroon 5
      - "Moves Like Jagger"
      - "Sugar"
      - "She Will Be Loved"

    Dive Into Maroon 5's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Better That We Break"
      - "Unkiss Me"

  • Martina McBride
    16

    Martina McBride's soaring vocals and emotive storytelling have made her one of the most celebrated voices in country music. Her impressive string of hits, including "Independence Day" and "A Broken Wing," showcase her ability to tackle tough subjects and deliver powerful ballads with equal aplomb. As an award-winning artist and tireless advocate for social causes, McBride more than earns her spot among the best M-lettered musicians.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Martina McBride
      - "Independence Day"
      - "Concrete Angel"
      - "A Broken Wing"

    Dive Into Martina McBride's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Where Would You Be"
      - "Phones Are Ringin' All Over Town"

  • The Monkees
    17
    31 votes

    The Monkees burst onto the scene in the 1960s, bridging the gap between TV and music with their infectious blend of pop-rock and television hijinks. Their enduring hits like "I'm a Believer" and "Last Train to Clarksville" showcase their undeniable songwriting talent and endearing personalities. Despite beginning as a manufactured band, The Monkees evolved into a legitimate musical force, earning them a rightful spot among the best M-monikered artists.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Monkees
      - "I'm a Believer"
      - "Daydream Believer"
      - "Last Train to Clarksville"

    Dive Into The Monkees' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "You Just May Be the One"
      - "Valleri"

  • Mick Jagger
    18
    45 votes

    As the charismatic frontman of The Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger has an electrifying stage presence that's second to none. His signature swagger, sultry vocals, and infectious energy have defined rock 'n' roll for generations of fans. With hits like "Jumpin' Jack Flash" and "Sympathy for the Devil," Jagger's distinctive delivery and undeniable charisma make him a force to be reckoned with in the exclusive club of M-starting musicians.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Mick Jagger
      - "God Gave Me Everything"
      - "Just Another Night"
      - "Sweet Thing"

    Dive Into Mick Jagger's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Party Doll"
      - "Memo from Turner"

  • Mary J. Blige
    19

    As the undisputed "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul," Mary J. Blige has been a dominant force in music since the early 1990s. Her confessional songwriting and raw, emotive delivery effortlessly bridge the gap between R&B and rap, resulting in a powerhouse sound that is uniquely her own. With hits like "Real Love" and "Family Affair," Blige has earned her place among the M-alliterative artists who have made an enduring impact on popular music.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Mary J. Blige
      - "Family Affair"
      - "No More Drama"
      - "Real Love"

    Dive Into Mary J. Blige's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Love No Limit"
      - "Seven Days"

  • Miles Davis
    20
    23 votes

    Jazz pioneer Miles Davis' contributions to music cannot be overstated, as his innovative and experimental approach to the genre has left a lasting impact on countless artists . With groundbreaking albums like Kind of Blue and Bitches Brew, Davis pushed the boundaries of jazz, incorporating elements of rock and electronica into his ever-evolving sound. As one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, Miles Davis easily secures his place among the greatest M-named artists in history.

       Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Miles Davis
       - "So What"
       - "Blue in Green"
       - "Freddie Freeloader"

      Dive Into Miles Davis' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Nefertiti"
      - "Miles Runs the Voodoo Down"

  • Mr. Mister
    21
    16 votes
    Mr. Mister was an American pop rock band most popular in the 1980s. The band's name came from an inside joke about a Weather Report album called Mr. Gone where they referred to each other as "Mister This" or "Mister That", and eventually selected "Mr. Mister." Mr. Mister may be considered as representative of the melodic sound of 1980s pop rock. The band consisted of Richard Page on lead vocals and bass guitar, Steve George on keyboards/backing vocals, Pat Mastelotto on acoustic and electronic drums/percussion and Steve Farris on guitars/backing vocals. Mr. Mister was the successor to the band Pages, fronted by Page and George from 1978 to 1981.
  • Mötley Crüe
    22

    Mötley Crüe fully embraced the decadence and debauchery of the 1980s glam metal scene, complete with sky-high hair, spandex, and wild stage antics. Their incendiary blend of heavy metal and hard rock, combined with their penchant for controversy, has made them one of the most infamous bands of all time. With hits like "Home Sweet Home" and "Dr. Feelgood," the Crüe remain an enduring symbol of excess and rock 'n' roll rebellion, securing their place among the great M-named musicians.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Mötley Crüe
      - "Dr. Feelgood"
      - "Girls, Girls, Girls"
      - "Kickstart My Heart"

    Dive Into Mötley Crüe's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Merry  -Go  -Round"
      - "Starry Eyes"

  • Megadeth
    23
    47 votes

    Masters of heavy-metal guitar virtuosity, Megadeth's precision, technicality, and sheer ferocity has earned them a spot among the Big Four of thrash metal. Founded by former Metallica guitarist Dave Mustaine, Megadeth's music is marked by complex arrangements, searing social commentary, and relentless aggression. With masterpieces like "Peace Sells" and "Holy Wars...The Punishment Due," Megadeth's impact on the landscape of metal is indisputable.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Megadeth
      - "Symphony of Destruction"
      - "Peace Sells"
      - "Hangar 18"

    Dive Into Megadeth's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Five Magics"
      - "Looking Down the Cross"

  • Miley Cyrus
    24
    60 votes

    From her early days as a Disney Channel breakout star to her transformation into a provocative pop powerhouse, Miley Cyrus has continually redefined herself in the public eye. Her powerhouse vocals and penchant for controversy have helped her develop an authentic, rule-breaking sound that sets her apart from her pop contemporaries. With hits like "Wrecking Ball" and "Party in the U.S.A.," Cyrus has proven time and time again that she's worthy of her spot among the best M-lettered artists.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Miley Cyrus
      - "Wrecking Ball"
      - "Party in the U.S.A."
      - "We Can't Stop"

    Dive Into Miley Cyrus's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Twinkle Song"
      - "Rooting for My Baby"

  • Michael Bublé
    25

    With his velvety voice and throwback sensibility, Michael Bublé has breathed new life into the world of crooners and jazz standards. His ability to marry classic tunes with contemporary pop melodies has earned him legions of fans and several Grammy Awards. From his toe-tapping take on "Haven't Met You Yet" to his heartfelt rendition of "Home," Bublé's distinctive vocal stylings and undeniable charm place him shoulder-to-shoulder with the best M-lettered artists.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Michael Bublé
      - "Haven't Met You Yet"
      - "Home"
      - "Feeling Good"

    Dive Into Michael Bublé's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Cry Me a River"
      - "I'll Be Seeing You"

  • Michelle Branch
    26
    Michelle Branch, born on July 2, 1983, is an accomplished American singer-songwriter and actress. Hailing from Sedona, Arizona, Branch started her journey in the world of music at an early age. Being self-taught, she learned to play guitar by the age of fourteen which sparked her interest in songwriting. Her unique blend of pop and country music along with her soulful voice, quickly drew attention from Maverick Records, leading to her first contract in 2000. Branch gained nationwide recognition with her debut album, The Spirit Room, released in 2001. The album was a commercial success, selling over two million copies in the United States. It spawned three hit singles including "Everywhere", which garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. Continuing her successful streak, Branch's second studio album, Hotel Paper, debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 in 2003 and earned her another Grammy nomination. In addition to her solo career, Branch also found success as part of the country music duo, The Wreckers, alongside fellow musician Jessica Harp. Their 2006 single "Leave the Pieces" peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, leading to a Grammy nomination for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. Apart from music, Branch made several appearances in television shows, most notably in WB's Buffy the Vampire Slayer. In her career spanning over two decades, Michelle Branch has proven her versatility, leaving a significant mark in the realms of pop and country music.
  • Missy Elliott
    27

    Groundbreaking, innovative, and genre-defying—Missy Elliott's contributions to the world of hip-hop are nothing short of legendary. Known for her distinctive flow, razor-sharp wit, and envelope-pushing music videos, Elliott has influenced generations of artists with her fearless creativity. Tracks like "Get Ur Freak On" and "Work It" have left an indelible mark on popular music, earning her a spot among the most influential M-starting artists of all time.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Missy Elliott
      - "Work It"
      - "Get Ur Freak On"
      - "Lose Control"

    Dive Into Missy Elliott's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Friendly Skies"
      - "Hot Boyz"

  • Motörhead
    28
    41 votes

    Fast, loud, and unapologetically rebellious, Motörhead stands as a symbol of pure rock 'n' roll excess. Led by the late, great Lemmy Kilmister, the band's raw power and uncompromising attitude laid the foundation for the thrash metal subgenre. Songs like "Ace of Spades" and "Overkill" serve as potent reminders of Motörhead's impact on the world of heavy music and secure their place among the best M-named artists in history.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Motörhead
      - "Ace of Spades"
      - "Overkill"
      - "Iron Fist"

    Dive Into Motörhead's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Love Me Like a Reptile"
      - "Lost Johnny"

  • Modest Mouse
    29
    30 votes

    Long-running indie rock outfit Modest Mouse has carved out a loyal following with their off-kilter instrumentation, introspective lyrics, and eccentric style. Albums like The Lonesome Crowded West and Good News for People Who Love Bad News showcase the band's ability to balance dark themes with infectious melodies. Frontman Isaac Brock's distinctive voice, combined with their propensity for experimentation, has secured Modest Mouse's place among the most notable M-monikered artists.

  • Mumford & Sons
    30

    Originally championed as the darlings of the UK folk revival, Mumford & Sons have managed to transcend their banjo-wielding roots to become one of the biggest M-initialed bands of the 21st century. Their heart-on-sleeve lyrics, rousing harmonies, and ability to incorporate elements of rock, pop, and electronic music have made them perennial festival favorites and multi-award winners. Tracks like "Little Lion Man" and "I Will Wait" perfectly capture the band's tender yet anthemic spirit.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Mumford & Sons
      - "I Will Wait"
      - "Little Lion Man"
      - "The Cave"

    Dive Into Mumford & Sons' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Timshel"
      - "Whispers in the Dark"