2024 Rock Bands That Sound Like 1970s Rock

via Greta Van Fleet / Youtube
There’s no doubt the 70s are making a serious comeback in pop culture. And it’s definitely not just the fashion trends that are getting the nostalgic treatment. We’re once again feeling the vibes of contemporary artists channeling the soulful, funky, and rock-driven sounds that dominated the ‘70s. Come to think of it, the ‘70s groove is now becoming the new cool. So, why do we keep going back to the groovy, glitter-filled decade? It’s simple: the music was full of raw emotion, experimentation, and rebellion, things we still crave today.
Let’s take a look at 10 artists who are bringing the ‘70s vibe back to life with a modern spin.
Dirty Honey
This LA-based band is here to resurrect hard rock’s glory days. Dirty Honey’s bluesy riffs and gritty vocals immediately bring to mind famous rock legends like Aerosmith and Led Zeppelin.
In today’s music charts where pop songs are dominating, Dirty Honey’s no-frills, authentic rock sound is a breath of fresh air.
The Night Game
The Night Game, fronted by Martin Johnson, mixes new wave and ‘70s pop rock into something unique. Their music channels Fleetwood Mac’s introspective vibe and the upbeat energy of disco. With their modern twist on ‘70s inspiration, The Night Game is all about creating timeless tunes that feel both nostalgic and current.
Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak (Silk Sonic)
You can’t talk about the ‘70s revival without mentioning Silk Sonic. The duo’s smooth, retro R&B hits like “Leave the Door Open” bring back the soul and funk of the era, with a modern touch. Think of it as a love letter to Marvin Gaye and Earth, Wind & Fire, with both Mars and .Paak fully embraced their ‘70s influences.
Khruangbin
Listen to this eclectic band’s blend of funk and psychedelic rock with a ‘70s flair. Their sound is groovy, smooth, and exotic, taking inspiration from funk pioneers like George Clinton and melding it with a global twist. No wonder their laid-back vibes and infectious rhythms have made them a favorite among music lovers everywhere.
Steve Lacy
Steve Lacy’s mix of R&B, funk, and alternative rock brings the ‘70s vibe right into the present. His debut album Apollo XXI was packed with smooth grooves and soulful melodies that nodded to artists like Prince and Stevie Wonder, all while feeling distinctly modern and fresh.
Jessie Ware
Known for her sultry vocals and sophisticated production, Jessie Ware’s music is a modern-day tribute to ‘70s disco and soul. Her album What’s Your Pleasure? is a deep dive into the dance-floor-ready beats and lush vocals that dominated the late ‘70s, channeling the energy of Donna Summer and Diana Ross.
Greta Van Fleet
This Michigan-based band is often compared to Led Zeppelin, and for good reason. Greta Van Fleet’s raw, blues-driven rock sound is a direct throwback to the powerhouses of the ‘70s. Their music feels both timeless and urgent, capturing the electrifying energy of classic rock with a youthful edge.
Temples
Temples is a British psychedelic rock band known for their lush, dreamy sound that channels the best of ‘70s psychedelia. Their music evokes iconic bands like Pink Floyd and T. Rex, blending vibrant melodies with shimmering production. With albums like Sun Structures and Hot Motion, Temples brings the cosmic vibes and trippy atmospheres of the ’70s into the modern age.
Astra
Astra is an American progressive rock band that digs deep into the expansive sounds of the ‘70s. Their intricate compositions and lush, symphonic arrangements evoke the pioneering works of artists like Yes and King Crimson. With albums like The Weirding, Astra channels the epic, atmospheric nature of ’70s prog rock while adding their own modern sensibilities, creating expansive sonic landscapes.
St. Paul & The Broken Bones
Horns plus a mix of soulful energy, that’s what St. Paul & The Broken Bones bring to the table. Their brass-heavy, soul-drenched sound feels straight out of the ‘70s, reminiscent of Motown and Stax Records. Their music brings that vintage feeling into today’s world with a whole lot of heart.