Since 1971, the Eagles have made a lasting impact on American music with their blend of rock, country, and folk influences. Their harmonies and melodies are timeless, influencing artists across genres and captivating listeners the world over.
If you’re a devoted fan of this legendary classic rock band, you’ll enjoy this curated list of 15 incredible bands like the Eagles. These artists share the band’s unique sound and style, making them a must-listen for any Eagles enthusiast. Ready to learn who they are? Read on!
1. Fleetwood Mac
We start the list with the British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac. This group shares some similarities with the Eagles in terms of music style and influence. Both bands have left lasting impressions on the landscape of rock music history through their exceptional songwriting and band chemistry.
Having emerged in the late 1960s, the band has achieved significant success throughout their career. They have released numerous chart-topping albums, including the iconic Rumours in 1977, which remains one of the best-selling albums of all time.
Fleetwood Mac’s music is characterized by a blend of rock, pop, and blues. Their songs often explore themes of love, relationships, and personal experiences, resonating with audiences worldwide. To this day, their enduring legacy continues to influence and inspire generations of musicians.
2. The Doobie Brothers
After forming in 1970 in San Jose, California, the rock band Doobie Brothers achieved commercial success with hits like “Listen to the Music” and “Long Train Runnin’.” These songs showcased their blend of rock, country, and R&B influences, and they became staples of classic rock radio.
However, it was during the late 1970s and early 1980s that the band reached the height of their popularity. With the addition of Michael McDonald as the lead vocalist, the Doobie Brothers released a string of chart-topping hits, including “What a Fool Believes” and “Real Love.”
As pioneers of the American music scene during that era, the Doobie Brothers left an enduring impression on multiple generations of fans worldwide. Exploring their discography could provide fans of The Eagles with a musical experience that both complement their own sound and offers new perspectives.
3. America
Up next is another band that formed in the early 1970s. America is a British-American band that rose to fame with their distinctive country rock sound.
Members Gerry Beckley, Dewey Bunnell, and Dan Peek were sons of American military personnel stationed in the UK, which is how they met and formed the band. They gained recognition after their debut album, America, in 1971, which included the #1 hit “A Horse with No Name.”
After the success of America, they released several more albums, including Homecoming in 1972 and Hearts in 1975, which produced “Tin Man” and another chart-topper, “Sister Golden Hair.”
America’s contribution to the rock music landscape, characterized by their melodic folk-rock sound and introspective lyrics, can be appreciated by fans of the Eagles. Their ability to create timeless hits makes America’s music a worthy exploration for fans seeking a similar musical experience.
4. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Consisting of David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash, and Neil Young as its fourth member, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (CSNY) was one of the most influential and popular folk-rock supergroups of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Before forming CSNY in Los Angeles in 1968, all three were already successful musicians. Crosby was part of The Byrds, who helped pioneer folk rock. Stills played in Buffalo Springfield with Neil Young before joining CSNY with him later on.
CSNY produced some iconic songs, including “Teach Your Children,” “Ohio,” “Woodstock,” and “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes.” Their unique blend of acoustic guitar-driven melody mixed with electric rock made them hugely popular among both young hippie audiences and more mainstream fans alike.
5. The Allman Brothers Band
With a sound reminiscent of the Eagles, we have the Allman Brothers Band. This legendary Southern rock band formed in 1969 in Macon, Georgia, and went on a career that lasted over four decades.
The Allman Brothers Band are considered pioneers of Southern rock, blending rock, blues, country, and jazz influences. They gained fame with their live album At Fillmore East in 1971, known for its extended jams and virtuosic performances. Over the years, they released hits like “Good Clean Fun” and “Ramblin’ Man,” which became classics.
Internal conflicts, sadly, eventually led to lineup changes and temporary disbandments. Gregg Allman pursued a successful solo career, while Dickey Betts formed his own band. However, the Allman Brothers Band reunited periodically over the years, to the delight of fans.
Related: Check out our list of the best Southern rock bands here.
6. The Band
Another band that has a similar sound to The Eagles is The Band. This Canadian-American rock group was formed in 1968 and was heavily influenced by a mixture of rock, folk, country, and blues music.
The Band’s self-titled album, released in 1969, showcased their organic sound and thoughtful songwriting. Songs like “Up on Cripple Creek” and “Don’t Do It” exemplify their ability to tell compelling stories through their music.
Similar to The Eagles, The Band emphasized strong vocal harmonies and a focus on storytelling in their songs. Both groups shared a love for blending various genres and creating a distinctive sound that captured the essence of American roots music.
7. Lynyrd Skynyrd
Discussing country rock bands is not complete without mentioning the iconic Lynyrd Skynyrd. Formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in the 1960s, they are widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Southern rock and have had an enormous influence on American culture.
The band achieved widespread success with their 1973 debut album, Pronounced Leh-nerd Skin-nerd, which featured their iconic anthem, “Free Bird.” They followed it up with 13 more successful albums. Through the years, their songs like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “What’s Your Name?” became timeless classics.
Tragically, in 1977, a plane crash claimed the lives of several band members, including lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Steve Gaines. The accident led to a hiatus for the band, but they regrouped with surviving members and resumed touring and recording in the 1980s.
Despite lineup changes over the years, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s spirit endured, and they continued to captivate audiences with their electrifying live performances.
8. Pure Prairie League
Country rock band Pure Prairie League gained popularity in the 1970s. With their melodic tunes and a blend of country, rock, and pop sounds, one can say their style is similar to the Eagles.
The band formed in 1969 in Ohio, and after a few lineup changes, they found success with their second album, Bustin’ Out, in 1972. The album included their most well-known hit, “Amie,” which peaked at #27 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This song remains one of their signature tracks.
Pure Prairie League’s rise to fame continued with their 1975 album Two Lane Highway, which features another hit single, “Let Me Love You Tonight,” which reached #10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
If you want to explore Pure Prairie League’s discography, the two albums mentioned are essential listens. Additionally, their self-titled debut album is worth checking out for a glimpse into their early sound and musical direction.
9. The Byrds
Although our next band, The Byrds, was best known for playing a crucial role in the popularization of psychedelic rock, much of their earlier work helped in the development of folk rock, which, in turn, influenced The Eagles.
Formed in 1964, the band gained attention with their version of Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man,” which topped the charts the following year. This song showcased their signature vocal harmonies and introduced the world to their unique sound.
Throughout their career, The Byrds experimented with blending traditional folk songs, original compositions, and covers of popular artists, creating a sound that resonated with the emerging counterculture movement of the time.
If you’re looking to delve into the Byrds’ music, albums like Mr. Tambourine Man, Turn! Turn! Turn!, Fifth Dimension, and Byrdmaniax are essential listens. These albums capture the band’s evolution and highlight their most significant contributions to folk rock, psychedelic rock, and country rock.
10. Outlaws
Rock band Outlaws began in 1967, but it was until the early ’70s that they began to gain popularity. Known for their energetic performances, dual lead guitar harmonies, and a blend of rock, country, and blues influences, they made a significant impact on the Southern rock genre.
The band’s breakthrough came in 1975 with their self-titled debut album, which featured the hit song “There Goes Another Love Song.” It was their first Billboard+charting track, peaking at #34 on the Hot 100 chart.
Fans of the Eagles who appreciate their brand of country rock may find a similar appeal in the Outlaws’ work. Both bands incorporated elements of country and rock into their music, blending catchy melodies with guitar-driven hooks, so go check the Outlaws out.
11. Creedence Clearwater Revival
California rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) achieved immense popularity in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Formed in 1967, the group consisted of John and Tom Fogerty, Stu Cook, and Doug Clifford. Their music drew inspiration from various genres, including rock and roll, blues, country, and folk, resulting in a distinctive and timeless sound.
CCR’s success skyrocketed with a string of hit singles that captured the essence of American roots music. Their song “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” became an iconic anthem. Other works that took them to legendary status are “Proud Mary” and “Fortunate Son,” among many others.
Fans of the Eagles who appreciate the combination of rock, country, and folk influences should definitely explore Creedence Clearwater Revival’s work. Both bands share a similar musical ethos, incorporating elements of Americana and crafting memorable songs with strong hooks and harmonies.
12. Poco
Though not as well-known as the Eagles, Poco, a rock band from California, has played an influential role in shaping the country rock sound. They helped create this genre of music that combines traditional country themes with rock melodies and rhythms.
Formed by Richie Furay, Jim Messina, and Rusty Young, who were all former members of Buffalo Springfield, Poco brought together a blend of musical styles. The band’s debut album, Pickin’ Up the Pieces, released in 1969, showcased their unique approach to country rock.
For Eagles fans seeking a similar musical experience, Poco’s work is highly recommended. Albums like Poco and Crazy Eyes are excellent starting points. These albums showcase the band’s musical evolution and include notable tracks like “Rose of Cimarron” and “Heart of the Night.”
13. Loggins And Messina
Hit-making duo Loggins and Messina formed in the 1970s. It consisted of singer-songwriter Kenny Loggins and former Poco and Buffalo Springfield member Jim Messina. The two created a sound that blended elements of folk, rock, pop, and country, similar to the Eagles’ style.
In 1972, they released their self-titled debut album and introduced audiences to their signature sound. The album featured the songs “Your Mama Don’t Dance” and “Danny’s Song,” which became fan favorites and received significant radio airplay.
Fans of the Eagles who appreciate melodic folk rock with strong harmonies will find a similar appeal in the Loggins and Messina’s music, making it well worth exploring to enjoy the harmonies, melodies, and relatable songwriting that defined the duo’s legacy.
14. Firefall
Emerging from the vibrant music scene of the 1970s, Firefall embodied the essence of soft rock, blending their melodies with a touch of country that has awed listeners over the years.
Led by frontman Rick Roberts, the Colorado band captured the hearts of many with songs like “You Are the Woman,” “Strange Way,” and the chart-topping “Just Remember I Love You.”
As bands that came out during the same era, both Firefall and the Eagles rose to fame alongside each other. Their country rock sound drew comparisons, although Firefall lacked the folk rock essence the Eagles was known to impart in their songs.
This, however, did not diminish Firefall’s popularity, but only served to make them unique. Their works earned them numerous accolades, including an induction into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame in 2015.
15. Buffalo Springfield
We would be remiss if we did not discuss the band that influenced the Eagle’s sound: Buffalo Springfield. Formed back in 1966 in Los Angeles, California, they band consisted of Stephen Stills, Neil Young, Richie Furay, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin.
If you’re an Eagles fan, exploring Buffalo Springfield’s discography can be an enriching experience, as both bands share some similarities in their sound and style. Songs like “For What It’s Worth,” “Expecting to Fly,” and “Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing” might interest you.
Sadly, Buffalo Springfield did not last as long as the other bands on this list. Their first years together ended in 1968. They came back for a reunion in 2010, but that, too, only lasted two years. Despite this, their influence on bands like the Eagles and Crosby, Stills & Nash has continued their legacy.
Summing Up Our List Of Bands Like The Eagles
We hope this article has been helpful in introducing you to new artists who share similarities with the Eagles and expanding your musical horizons.
From their harmonies and melodic sensibilities to their fusion of rock, country, and folk influences, there’s a wealth of great music to discover.
If we missed any notable artists, we would love to hear your recommendations. We’ll add them on this list for you!
