Maroon 5, the Los Angeles-based pop-rock sensation, has been enchanting listeners since its formation in 1994. Led by Adam Levine, they’ve carved a unique niche in the music world with songs like “She Will Be Loved,” “Moves Like Jagger,” and “Girls Like You.”
If you’re intrigued by their blend of pop and rock, there are plenty of bands that channel similar vibes to Maroon 5. From OneRepublic to Fall Out Boy, each one of these 13 incredible bands similar to Maroon 5 offers a unique twist on the pop-rock sound. Read on to learn more!
1. OneRepublic
Starting this list is the pop-rock band OneRepublic from Colorado Springs. Composed of Ryan Tedder (lead vocalist), Zach Filkins and Drew Brown (guitarists), and Eddie Fisher (drummer), the band has been making waves in the music scene since their formation in 2002.
The group draws parallels to Maroon 5 both in terms of their musical style and overall appeal. Both bands have achieved global success, with chart-topping hits and millions of dedicated fans.
OneRepublic’s career has been marked by several notable achievements. For instance, their single “Apologize,” remixed by Timbaland, held the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks, earning them international recognition. Other popular songs include “Stop and Stare,” “Counting Stars,” and “Secrets.”
2. Matchbox Twenty
Since 1995, Matchbox Twenty has been a prominent figure in the music industry. Originally hailing from Orlando, Florida, they were catapulted them into the limelight with the release of their debut album, Yourself or Someone Like You, in 1996.
The album’s top song, “3 am,” remains one of their most popular hits, exhibiting the band’s exceptional talent for crafting emotionally resonant lyrics and catchy melodies. Since then, they’ve maintained their momentum, delivering numerous successful albums and singles, like “Unwell” and “How Far We’ve Come.”
Just like Maroon 5, Matchbox Twenty has managed to maintain their relevance in the ever-changing music landscape by evolving their sound while staying true to their roots. Both bands have a shared ability to blend elements of rock and pop that fans adore.
3. The Script
Emerging from the vibrant Irish music scene in 2001, The Script quickly made a name for themselves within the pop-rock genre, just like Maroon 5 when they started in 1994.
One of the band’s most successful albums to date is No Sound Without Silence, in 2014, which features the hit single “Superheroes.” The song took the #1 spot on the Irish singles chart and has reached triple-platinum status. Another chart-topping track from The Script is “Hall of Fame,” featuring the rapper will.i.am.
Their success on the charts and their dedicated fan base, evident from their massive following on social media platforms, speak volumes about their reputation in the industry.
4. Train
An American roots-rock band, Train has been a significant part of the music industry since their inception in 1993. The band fuses elements of rock and pop, similar to Maroon 5, making their music accessible to various listeners.
One of Train’s greatest hits is the 2009 single “Hey, Soul Sister,” from their fifth studio album, Save Me, San Francisco. Its iTunes live version received a Grammy for Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals.
Over the years, Train’s contribution to the music industry has been significant — 11 studio albums and 34 singles, among many others. Their ability to connect with audiences worldwide, much like Maroon 5, has allowed them to maintain their relevance in the ever-changing music landscape.
5. Imagine Dragons
Consisting of lead singer Dan Reynolds, guitarist Wayne Sermon, and other talented members, the Las Vegas-based pop-rock band Imagine Dragons has been known for their energetic performances and unique sound.
The band’s journey to stardom began with the release of their debut album, Night Visions, in 2012. It featured the hit single “Radioactive,” which quickly climbed up the charts and became an anthem for many. Imagine Dragons’ success continued with tracks like “Demons” and “Believer,” garnering billions of streams on platforms like Spotify.
When comparing Imagine Dragons to Maroon 5, there are several similarities and differences. Both bands have managed to achieve mainstream success with their catchy, pop-rock sound. They’ve also had numerous chart-topping hits and have amassed a large fan base worldwide.
6. Coldplay
From across the Atlantic, we have the British rock band Coldplay. Formed in 1997, the band mirrors Maroon 5 in the pop-rock genre and their ability to captivate fans with their well-crafted songs.
Coldplay’s career began with the release of their debut album, Parachutes, in 2000, which included the iconic single “Yellow,” which landed in the top five of the UK Singles Chart. After this, the band was consistent in releasing albums that landed at #1 on the UK chart — all nine of them!
Over the years, they have also received multiple Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year for “Clocks” and Song of the Year for “Viva la Vida.” These wins are a testament to their musical genius.
7. Foster The People
Next up is the indie pop group Foster the People. The band, like Maroon 5, emerged from the Los Angeles music scene but in 2009. Their initial rise to fame was meteoric, largely due to their breakthrough single “Pumped Up Kicks,” which quickly gained traction on various music platforms.
Despite their indie roots, Foster the People has achieved significant mainstream success. Their music, often described as atmospheric, dance-oriented pop, is infused with elements of psychedelia and indie rock and has gained the band a large following.
Foster the People’s music has evolved over the years as they experimented with different sounds and themes. Their later albums showcase a more mature sound, delving into deeper lyrical content while keeping their signature dance-pop vibe intact.
8. The Fray
Established by school friends Isaac Slade and Joe King in 2002, The Fray quickly gained popularity with their piano-driven rock and pop music. Much like Maroon 5, they also achieved mainstream success, although within a slightly different demographic.
The band’s debut album, How to Save a Life, was a major success and catapulted the band to fame. The title track became a hit single and is perhaps their most recognized song. Other popular songs from the band include “Over My Head (Cable Car),” “Look After You,” and “You Found Me.”
The Fray has not released new music since 2016, and recently, Slade announced his departure from the band. Despite this, their work remains influential in the rock music scene, and Maroon 5 fans should check them out!
9. Neon Trees
Next up is Neon Trees, a pop-rock band that originated from Provo, Utah. It was formed in 2005 and gained nationwide exposure in late 2008 when they opened for The Killers on some of their North American tour dates.
One of Neon Trees’ most successful hits is “Animal.” Released in 2010, it topped the charts and won multiple industry awards, including a Billboard Music Top Alternative Song Award. Other popular songs include “Everybody Talks,” “Songs I Can’t Listen To,” “Sleeping with a Friend,” and “1983.”
In 2013, Neon Trees had the opportunity to tour with Maroon 5 on their Overexposed Tour. Sharing the stage with Maroon 5 also provided Neon Trees with a platform to showcase their own unique blend of alternative rock and new wave music.
10. Panic! At The Disco
Hailing from Las Vegas, Panic! At the Disco, a pop-rock band like Maroon 5, is known for their theatricality and genre-bending sound. They made a significant impact on the music industry since their formation in 2004.
Their debut album, A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out, quickly gained traction, particularly due to the success of the single “I Write Sins Not Tragedies.” This song became an anthem for many and helped cement Panic! place in the pop-rock landscape.
During their active years, Panic! At the Disco managed to consistently produce hits. Songs like “High Hopes,” “House of Memories,” and their cover of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” have amassed millions of streams.
Sadly, Panic! At the Disco officially disbanded early in 2023, with the final member, Brendon Urie, announcing he would be focusing on his family.
11. The 1975
Composed of lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist Matthew Healy, lead guitarist Adam Hann, bassist Ross MacDonald, and drummer George Daniel, The 1975 has been making music together since 2002. Like Maroon 5, The 1975 became known for the pop-rock sound but with electronic elements for a distinct sound.
Their self-titled debut album, released in 2013, was a commercial success and reached #1 on the UK Albums Chart. Their breakout single, “Chocolate,” was a runaway hit, showcasing their knack for catchy, pop-infused rock tunes.
Their success isn’t just limited to their music. The 1975 has also gained recognition for their live performances, which often feature elaborate stage designs and energetic performances worth watching!
12. Fall Out Boy
Hailing from Illinois, we have next Fall Out Boy. Formed in 2001, the band created a niche for themselves in the pop-punk music scene. They have since evolved their style to include elements of pop, rock, and electronic music.
Over the years, Fall Out Boy has amassed a huge following, thanks to hard-hitting hits such as “Centuries,” “Immortals,” “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark (Light Em Up),” and “Thnks fr th Mmrs.”
Fall Out Boy boasts a slightly different sound compared to Maroon 5. But if you’re a Maroon 5 fan, you’ll enjoy Fall Out Boy’s impressive devotion to music, rhythmic rock sound, and inventive songs.
13. Fun.
Ending this list is the indie pop band Fun. Formed in New York City in 2008, the group comprises Nate Ruess (formerly of The Format), Andrew Dost (of Anathallo), and Jack Antonoff (of Steel Train).
Like Maroon 5, Fun. has made significant contributions to the pop-rock genre, crafting songs that are not only catchy but also emotionally resonant.
The band has achieved mainstream success with their second album, Some Nights (2012). The title track and the single “We Are Young,” featuring Janelle Monáe, became anthems for a generation. The latter track earned Fun. a Grammy for Song of the Year.
Summing Up Our List Of The Bands Similar To Maroon 5
As you have read, there are plenty of similar bands out there for you to discover if you enjoy Maroon 5’s blend of pop, rock, funk, and R&B music.
From OneRepublic’s anthemic singalongs to Matchbox Twenty’s sullen ballads to Panic! at the Disco’s funky pop-rock sound, the options are endless.
However, there are undoubtedly more bands out there carrying a hint of Maroon 5 in their sound. Let us know who we have missed so we can add them here!
