The Best Electronic Rock Bands/Artists

Coley Reed
Updated March 15, 2024 153.2K views 68 items
Ranked By
30.1K votes
3.8K voters
Voting Rules
Only electronic rock bands and artists.

This electronic rock bands list ranks the best electronic rock musicians by votes, with the order decided by fans internationally. When you think of electronic rock, bands that use instruments like synthesizers will generally be thrown into that genre. Electro rock first emerged in the early 1970s at the advent of progressive rock, and since then, electronic rock artists have crossed over into genres like synthpop, New Wave, alternative, edm, techno, screamo, and industrial rock. The best electronic rock bands have been able to defy the odds through creativity while attaining critically commercial success. For the sake of this list, we're only going to include bands that have made several electronic rock albums, and eschew the ones who dabbled in it for only one album.

So, who are the best electronic rock artists of all time? Any list of electro rockers has to include the names Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, Devo, Muse, New Order, Radiohead, and of course, Nine Inch Nails. When you generally think of electronic rock, these are some of the first bands that will come to mind with legacies that will live on forever. 

That said, it's up to you to determine which electronic rock bands are the best. This list answers the questions "who are the top electronic rock bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest electronic rock musician ever?" Whether you’re an electric aficionado or a new fan of electronic rock music, please vote for the best electronic rock artists based on their overall influence and music (albums and songs), rather than just the most popular or famous electronic rock groups that you've never actually listened to. 

Most divisive: MGMT
Over 3.8K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Electronic Rock Bands & Artists
  • Depeche Mode
    1
    1,092 votes

    Depeche Mode stands as a pioneering force in the electronic music realm, known for breaking boundaries and setting new standards during their storied career. By fusing synthesizers and innovative sampling techniques with emotionally charged lyrics and vivid visuals, they've managed to push the envelope while remaining true to their roots in new wave and industrial sounds. Their undeniable impact on the genre is evidenced by their massive fan base and numerous accolades, including the recent induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Depeche Mode
      - "Enjoy The Silence"
      - "Personal Jesus"
      - "Just Can't Get Enough"

    Dive Into Depeche Mode's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Fly On The Windscreen"
      - "Ice Machine"

  • Nine Inch Nails
    2

    Trent Reznor's brainchild, Nine Inch Nails, has continuously evolved and reinvented itself since their inception, cementing their place as one of the most influential electronic rock bands in history. Their groundbreaking blend of industrial, electronic, and alternative rock elements, combined with Reznor's brutally honest and often provocative lyrics, has provided an unparalleled catharsis for listeners. By pushing the limits of what could be achieved through electronic music production and live performance, NIN has inspired a generation of artists and left an indelible mark on the genre.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Nine Inch Nails
      - "Closer"
      - "Head Like A Hole"
      - "Hurt"

    Dive Into Nine Inch Nails' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "A Warm Place"
      - "Reptile"

  • Pink Floyd
    3
    153 votes

    Pink Floyd's ethereal soundscapes and psychedelic sonic explorations have contributed significantly to the development of electronic rock music since the 1960s. Through innovative use of synths, tape loops, and audio effects, the band created expansive, immersive worlds that stand the test of time. Not only did they delve deep into experimenting with electronic music, but Pink Floyd's concept albums and elaborately staged live shows also helped pave the way for future bands in the genre.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Pink Floyd
      - "Comfortably Numb"
      - "Wish You Were Here"
      - "Another Brick In The Wall (Part 2)"

    Dive Into Pink Floyd's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Echoes"
      - "Dogs"

  • Celldweller
    4
    576 votes

    Celldweller, the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Klayton, has emerged as a powerhouse in the electronic rock scene, skillfully merging electronica, metal, and industrial styles into a captivating sonic experience. With each release, Klayton weaves intricate soundscapes that push the boundaries of electronic music production and continually inspire listeners. His ability to draw from various genres and blend them seamlessly into unique and memorable compositions has garnered a loyal following and ensures Celldweller's place as an important voice in electronic rock's landscape.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Celldweller
      - "Switchback"
      - "Frozen"
      - "Own Little World"

    Dive Into Celldweller's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "So Sorry To Say"
      - "The Lucky One"

  • The Prodigy
    5
    439 votes

    The Prodigy, fronted by the late Keith Flint, took the world by storm in the 1990s with their high-energy blend of electronica, punk, and rave culture elements. Their electrifying live performances and genre-defining tracks such as "Firestarter" and "Smack My Bitch Up" challenged conventions and brought electronic rock to the forefront of mainstream culture. With subversive and unapologetic attitude, The Prodigy redefined what was possible within the realm of electronic music and paved the way for numerous bands to follow.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Prodigy
      - "Firestarter"
      - "Breathe"
      - "Smack My Bitch Up"

    Dive Into The Prodigy's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Narayan"
      - "Weather Experience"

  • Tears for Fears
    6

    The British duo of Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, known as Tears for Fears, have had an undeniable impact on the landscape of electronic rock music since the early 1980s. Pioneers of new wave and synthpop, their emotive lyrics, arresting melodies, and innovative use of synths and drum machines helped define the sound of an era. Their ongoing influence is evident in the legions of bands and artists who continue to draw inspiration from Tears for Fears' enduring legacy.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Tears for Fears
      - "Everybody Wants To Rule The World"
      - "Shout"
      - "Mad World"

    Dive Into Tears for Fears' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "The Working Hour"
      - "Broken"

  • Daft Punk
    7
    456 votes

    Daft Punk's eclectic blend of house, techno, disco, and rock elements catapulted them to worldwide prominence and forever changed the landscape of electronic music. As true innovators, the enigmatic French duo consistently pushed the boundaries of both production and performance, incorporating futuristic concepts and visual extravaganzas that set them apart from their contemporaries. Their creative prowess extended beyond their own releases, with their fingerprints found on the works of countless artists as producers and collaborators, leaving a lasting impression on the genre that will be sorely missed following their recent disbandment.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Daft Punk
      - "Get Lucky"
      - "Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger"
      - "One More Time"

    Dive Into Daft Punk's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Voyager"
      - "Giorgio By Moroder"

  • Hailing from Manchester, England, The Chemical Brothers have been pushing the envelope in electronic music since the early '90s. Seamlessly combining big beat, techno, hip-hop, and psychedelic rock elements, their infectious tracks and mind-bending visuals have left an indelible mark on the electronic rock scene. Their live shows are legendary, fusing cutting-edge production with immersive sensory experiences that have solidified their status as pioneers in the genre.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Chemical Brothers
      - "Galvanize"
      - "Hey Boy Hey Girl"
      - "Block Rockin' Beats"

    Dive Into The Chemical Brothers' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "The Sunshine Underground"
      - "The Private Psychedelic Reel"

  • New Order
    9
    567 votes

    New Order, formed from the ashes of Joy Division, has played an integral role in shaping the trajectory of electronic rock music with their unique fusion of post-punk, dance, and synthpop elements. Pioneers of the "Madchester" sound, their innovative use of drum machines, sequencers, and synthesizers has served as a blueprint for electronic music producers and bands for decades. With hits like "Blue Monday" and "Bizarre Love Triangle," New Order's enduring influence on popular culture is undeniable.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From New Order
      - "Blue Monday"
      - "Bizarre Love Triangle"
      - "True Faith"

    Dive Into New Order's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Ceremony"
      - "In A Lonely Place"

  • Radiohead
    10
    818 votes

    Radiohead's impact on modern music cannot be overstated, with their genre-defying approach to songwriting and production pushing the boundaries of electronic rock. Their constant evolution saw them seamlessly incorporating electronic elements into their music, culminating in masterpieces such as "Kid A" and "Amnesiac." Radiohead's incorporation of digital technologies, including experimental soundscapes and unconventional time signatures, has had a profound effect on contemporary artists and set a high benchmark for bands aiming to bridge the gap between electronic and rock music.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Radiohead
      - "Creep"
      - "Karma Police"
      - "Paranoid Android"

    Dive Into Radiohead's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Let Down"
      - "The National Anthem"

  • Kraftwerk
    11
    659 votes

    The German group Kraftwerk is often hailed as the godfathers of electronic music, having laid the groundwork for countless artists and genres since their formation in the 1970s. Pioneering the use of synthesizers, drum machines, and vocoders, they created a futuristic sound that transcended traditional musical boundaries. By placing a strong emphasis on their visually stunning live performances and thought-provoking conceptual narratives, Kraftwerk has left a lasting impression on the world of electronic rock.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Kraftwerk
      - "Autobahn"
      - "The Model"
      - "Trans  -Europe Express"

    Dive Into Kraftwerk's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "It's More Fun To Compute"
      - "Neon Lights"

  • David Bowie
    12
    471 votes

    Throughout his illustrious career, David Bowie was a constant innovator at the forefront of electronic music, embracing new technologies and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. His Berlin Trilogy showcased his ability to meld punk, electronic, and experimental rock elements into something wholly unique and groundbreaking. Bowie's restless curiosity and willingness to explore new sonic territory had a profound influence on subsequent generations of electronic rock artists, earning him a place as one of the genre's most revered icons.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From David Bowie
      - "Heroes"
      - "Let's Dance"
      - "Life On Mars?"

    Dive Into David Bowie's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Quicksand"
      - "Station To Station"

  • Blue Stahli
    13
    411 votes

    Bret Autrey, better known by his stage name Blue Stahli, has carved out a distinct space for himself in the world of electronic rock with his unique blend of industrial, alternative, and electronic elements. His high-energy tracks, often featuring aggressive guitars and infectious synth hooks, showcase his versatility as a producer and multi-instrumentalist. With his genre-defying approach to songwriting, Blue Stahli has become a mainstay on the electronic rock landscape, attracting fans with his relentless creativity and innovation.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Blue Stahli
      - "Ultranumb"
      - "Anti You"
      - "Takedown"

    Dive Into Blue Stahli's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Scrapes of Gryphon"
      - "Armageddon"

  • Linkin Park
    14
    649 votes

    Linkin Park revolutionized the nu-metal and alternative rock scenes by seamlessly incorporating electronic elements into their music. This fusion, along with their emotive lyrics and memorable melodies, helped them become one of the biggest bands in the world during the early 2000s. Their experimentation with electronic sounds matured over time, with albums such as A Thousand Suns showcasing their ability to push the boundaries of both genres. Linkin Park's impact on electronic rock is undeniable, with numerous artists citing their influence in their own musical journeys.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Linkin Park
      - "In The End"
      - "Numb"
      - "Crawling"

    Dive Into Linkin Park's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "A Place For My Head"
      - "Easier To Run"

  • Eurythmics
    15
    444 votes

    Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, better known as Eurythmics, burst onto the electronic rock scene in the early 1980s with their distinct blend of new wave, synthpop, and soul influences. Pioneers of electronic music, they skillfully used synthesizers and drum machines to craft an unmistakable sound that has resonated with fans for decades. With iconic tracks like "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" and "Here Comes the Rain Again," Eurythmics have left an indelible mark on the world of electronic rock music.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Eurythmics
      - "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)"
      - "Here Comes The Rain Again"
      - "Would I Lie To You?"

    Dive Into Eurythmics' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Love Is A Stranger"
      - "I Could Give You (A Mirror)"

  • Pet Shop Boys
    16
    414 votes

    As one of the most successful electronic pop duos of all time, the Pet Shop Boys have consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre since their formation in the early 1980s. Their intelligent, witty lyrics and innovative use of synthesizers and samplers helped define the sound of synthpop and dance music for a generation. With countless hits under their belt, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe continue to inspire new generations of electronic artists with their enduring influence.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Pet Shop Boys
      - "West End Girls"
      - "It's A Sin"
      - "Always On My Mind"

    Dive Into Pet Shop Boys' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Suburbia"
      - "Being Boring"

  • Muse
    17
    787 votes

    British rock band Muse has continuously explored the intersection of electronic music and rock, incorporating synths, drum machines, and electronic production techniques into their larger-than-life sound. From the futuristic concept albums like The 2nd Law to the sweeping symphonic arrangements of Absolution, their unique blend of influences and styles has captured the imaginations of fans around the world. Muse's willingness to push boundaries and take risks has earned them their place among the greats of modern electronic rock.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Muse
      - "Uprising"
      - "Knights of Cydonia"
      - "Supermassive Black Hole"

    Dive Into Muse's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Citizen Erased"
      - "Fury"

  • Electric Light Orchestra, led by visionary composer and multi-instrumentalist Jeff Lynne, brought a new level of ambition to electronic rock with their intricate arrangements, lush orchestrations, and innovative use of technology. By blending electronic elements with rock and roll and classical music influences, ELO created a unique sound that continues to resonate with fans and artists alike. Their timeless hits, such as "Mr. Blue Sky" and "Evil Woman," stand as testaments to their enduring legacy in the electronic rock pantheon.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Electric Light Orchestra
      - "Mr. Blue Sky"
      - "Don't Bring Me Down"
      - "Evil Woman"

    Dive Into Electric Light Orchestra's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Telephone Line"
      - "Can't Get It Out of My Head"

  • Gary Numan
    19
    392 votes

    Gary Numan's pioneering synth-pop sound helped lay the groundwork for the future of electronic rock in the late 70s and early 80s. With groundbreaking hits like "Cars" and "Are 'Friends' Electric?", Numan's innovative use of synthesizers and distinct vocal style helped define the sound of the era. As he continues to experiment and evolve, Numan stands as a testament to the power of innovation in electronic music.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Gary Numan
      - "Cars"
      - "Are 'Friends' Electric?"
      - "Down In The Park"

    Dive Into Gary Numan's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Metal"
      - "Pure"

  • Genesis
    20
    325 votes

    Genesis, known for their progressive and art-rock influences, also made significant strides in the realm of electronic rock music. Albums like Duke showcased their ability to seamlessly blend synths with more traditional rock instrumentation, while Abacab saw them move further into electronic territory. Their experimentation with various styles and sounds has left a lasting mark on the electronic rock landscape, ensuring their legacy will live on.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Genesis
      - "Invisible Touch"
      - "I Can't Dance"
      - "Land of Confusion"

    Dive Into Genesis' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Supper's Ready"
      - "The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway"

  • Duran Duran
    21
    535 votes

    Duran Duran's infectious blend of new wave, pop, and electronic music helped define the sound of the 1980s and ushered in the era of the "Second British Invasion." With a knack for crafting unforgettable hooks and cutting-edge production techniques, they became one of the most successful bands of the decade. Their lasting impact on electronic rock music can be seen in the countless artists who continue to draw inspiration from their iconic sound.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Duran Duran
      - "Hungry Like The Wolf"
      - "Rio"
      - "Ordinary World"

    Dive Into Duran Duran's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Night Boat"
      - "Hold Back The Rain"

  • Massive Attack
    22

    Massive Attack's fusion of electronic, hip-hop, and rock elements helped establish trip-hop as a genre and changed the landscape of electronic music in the 1990s. With their hauntingly atmospheric tracks and groundbreaking production techniques, they set a high bar for future generations of musicians in the world of electronic rock. Albums like Mezzanine continue to be revered as classics, showcasing the lasting impact of Massive Attack's innovative approach to electronic music.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Massive Attack
      - "Teardrop"
      - "Unfinished Sympathy"
      - "Angel"

    Dive Into Massive Attack's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Karmacoma"
      - "Five Man Army"

  • Devo
    23
    400 votes

    Cult favorites Devo are known for their quirky blend of synthpop, new wave, and punk rock, as well as their unforgettable visual aesthetic. As early adopters of electronic instrumentation, they helped pave the way for the explosion of synth-based music that would follow in their footsteps. Their satirical take on consumer culture, technology, and politics remains as relevant today as when they first burst onto the scene in the late 1970s.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Devo
      - "Whip It"
      - "Girl U Want"
      - "Freedom of Choice"

    Dive Into Devo's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Gates of Steel"
      - "Mongoloid"

  • The Cars
    24
    304 votes

    The Cars' innovative blend of new wave, rock, and electronic music helped pave the way for the growing synthpop movement in the late 1970s and early 80s. Their catchy hooks, expert use of synths, and unforgettable music videos defined the aesthetic of the era, and their influence on the world of electronic rock cannot be overstated. With timeless hits like "Just What I Needed," "Drive," and "You Might Think," The Cars are a prime example of how electronic instruments can enhance and expand upon traditional rock music.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Cars
      - "Just What I Needed"
      - "Drive"
      - "My Best Friend's Girl"

    Dive Into The Cars' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Dangerous Type"
      - "Candy  -O"

  • The Human League
    25

    The Human League's seamless blend of synthpop and new wave pushed the envelope when it came to electronic rock music in the 1980s. Their innovative use of synthesizers and futuristic production techniques helped establish them as pioneers in the genre, with their influence felt across the musical landscape for decades to come. Boasting iconic hits like "Don't You Want Me" and "Human," The Human League's impact on electronic rock is undeniable.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Human League
      - "Don't You Want Me"
      - "Human"
      - "Mirror Man"

    Dive Into The Human League's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Being Boiled"
      - "The Lebanon"

  • Yes
    26
    312 votes

    As one of the most influential progressive rock bands of all time, Yes's incorporation of electronic elements into their complex compositions and concept albums was groundbreaking. Their use of synthesizers and electronic production techniques added an otherworldly quality to their music, setting them apart from their contemporaries. Yes's impact on electronic rock can still be felt today, as their influence continues to reverberate throughout the genre.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Yes
      - "Owner of a Lonely Heart"
      - "Roundabout"
      - "I've Seen All Good People"

    Dive Into Yes' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Heart of the Sunrise"
      - "Siberian Khatru"

  • The Moody Blues
    27

    The Moody Blues, known for their pioneering fusion of orchestral arrangements and rock music, also made significant contributions to the growth of electronic rock. By incorporating synthesizers and electronic production techniques into their ethereal, conceptual albums, they helped pave the way for future generations of electronic musicians. Their enduring legacy can be seen in the countless artists inspired by their lush, atmospheric sound.

    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
      - "The Actor"
      - "Candle of Life"

  • Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, often abbreviated to OMD, emerged as pioneers in the British electronic music scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their unique blend of synthpop, new wave, and experimental electronic sounds helped shift the landscape of electronic rock music, with their influence felt in countless bands that followed. Iconic tracks like "Enola Gay" and "Electricity" showcase OMD's ability to create innovative, memorable electronic rock music that has stood the test of time.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark
      - "If You Leave"
      - "Enola Gay"
      - "Electricity"

    Dive Into Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Red Frame/White Light"
      - "Maid of Orleans"

  • Tangerine Dream
    29

    Tangerine Dream, formed in the late 1960s in West Berlin, have been at the forefront of electronic and ambient music for decades. Known for their otherworldly soundscapes, intricate compositions, and pioneering synthesis techniques, they have blazed a trail for countless artists in the electronic rock genre. With an extensive discography spanning over five decades, Tangerine Dream's influence on the evolution of electronic music cannot be overstated.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Tangerine Dream
      - "Phaedra"
      - "Stratosfear"
      - "Rubycon"

    Dive Into Tangerine Dream's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Zeit"
      - "Ricochet"

  • Mike Oldfield
    30
    187 votes

    Best known for his groundbreaking 1973 album Tubular Bells, Mike Oldfield has been a constant innovator in the world of electronic and progressive rock music. By utilizing cutting-edge technology and incorporating elements of ambient and electronic music into his compositions, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible within the genre. Oldfield's enduring legacy can be seen in the countless artists who continue to draw inspiration from his expansive musical vision.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Mike Oldfield
      - "Tubular Bells"
      - "Moonlight Shadow"
      - "Shadow on the Wall"

    Dive Into Mike Oldfield's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Hergest Ridge"
      - "Five Miles Out"