[2025] A roundup of recommended UK bands, featuring many up-and-coming artists!
In Japan, both now and in the past, bands from the UK have been especially popular among Western music.
As fellow island nations, there’s a shared sensibility—those slightly damp, melancholic melodies and lyricism resonate perfectly with Japanese tastes, and many people are also drawn to the distinctly European worldview.
In this article, we’ve researched recommended UK bands.
The first half spotlights up-and-coming and new artists you should watch to understand the “now” of Britain, while the second half takes a broader look—centered on rock—at veterans and mid-career acts you ought to know.
It features plenty of bands that are great for beginners to UK rock and Western music alike, so be sure to check it out!
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- [2025] Australia’s Band Scene: Talented Artists on a Rapid Rise in Popularity!
[2025] A roundup of recommended British bands: lots of up-and-coming acts too! (91–100)
Price Tag ft. B.o.BJesseJ

As a singer from London, UK, her poppy and charming voice is very popular.
This track also features the American rapper B.
o.
B and is one of her signature songs.
With its upbeat, irresistible rhythm that makes everyone want to move, it hit number one in the UK and later reached number one in 19 countries worldwide.
Topping the UK chart is a major goal for artists around the world, second only to the U.
S.
The light, catchy yet slow melody brings back memories of older Western pop songs.
It really feels like a quintessential UK track.
Her fashionable, cool image is also one of the reasons she’s so popular among women.
21st Century Schizoid ManKing Crimson

King Crimson, the progressive rock band that epitomizes the UK music scene.
Formed in London in 1968, they have continued to captivate music fans around the world with their boundary-defying, innovative sound.
Their 1969 debut album, In the Court of the Crimson King, is still celebrated as a landmark of progressive rock.
With their diverse musicality and original approach, they exerted a profound influence on contemporaries such as Yes and Genesis.
During their world tours from 2014 to 2021, they overwhelmed audiences with a bold stage setup that placed three drum kits front and center.
Highly recommended not only for progressive rock fans but also for anyone seeking a fresh musical experience.
Whole Lotta LoveLed Zeppelin

The legendary British rock band Led Zeppelin has continued to captivate rock fans around the world since their formation in 1968.
The overwhelming sound woven by Jimmy Page’s innovative guitar playing, Robert Plant’s piercing vocals, John Bonham’s powerful drumming, and John Paul Jones’s versatile musicianship remains as vibrant as ever.
The tracks on their 1971 album Led Zeppelin IV are known as timeless masterpieces in rock history.
In December 2007, they delivered a breathtaking performance before 30,000 fans at a legendary concert held at London’s O2 Arena.
They’re a must-listen not only for hard rock enthusiasts but also for anyone who wants to experience music history.
AfterlifeNapoleon

Formed in 2011, this is a progressive metalcore band.
Their sound features a contrast between shouts and clean vocals interwoven with complex yet fluid guitar work.
While the band’s ensemble is heavy, the melodies remain distinctly melodic, maintaining a certain accessibility.
They have performed in Japan, and their relentless guitar playing has earned them a dedicated fanbase.
D’You Know What I Mean? (NG’s 2016 Rethink)Oasis

Oasis, a rock band that represents the UK music scene, was formed in Manchester in 1991 and centered around the Gallagher brothers.
They shot to stardom with their 1994 debut album, Definitely Maybe.
They then broke through in a major way with the album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, becoming a leading force of Britpop and gaining worldwide popularity.
The band won numerous awards and sold over 100 million records globally.
Until their breakup in 2009, they continued to captivate many fans with their distinctive lyrics and powerful sound.
For many, Oasis’s songs are intertwined with memories of their youth.
Their passionate, powerful music continues to resonate with people to this day.
Story of My LifeOne Direction

A five-member group brought together on an audition show.
From that time, they caught the attention of teens, and since their 2010 debut they’ve captured the hearts of young women around the world, growing into a famous boy group.
But their popularity wasn’t just about looks or youth; thanks to their melodious vocals and harmonies, they evolved from idols into true artists.
This song was a hit right when their talent and popularity were at their peak.
They’re currently on hiatus to focus on solo careers, and among them, Zayn has been particularly successful, showcasing a more mature appeal in his solo work.
Many artists are following in his footsteps.
Australia’s 5 Seconds of Summer is one example.
One reason the UK music scene is so strong is the presence of skilled boy bands that resonate with teens.
High HopesPink Floyd

Pink Floyd, the legendary rock band from the United Kingdom, was formed in 1965 and is known as a pioneer of progressive rock.
Their 1973 album The Dark Side of the Moon became a massive hit, selling over 45 million copies worldwide.
With philosophical lyrics, innovative sounds, and elaborate live shows, they continue to captivate countless fans.
Boasting total sales of over 250 million records, their music shines brightly in rock history.
Highly recommended for those drawn to experimental sounds and grand concepts.






