Trying to get into older music but don’t know where to start? One way to find classic songs you’ll love is by seeing who inspired your current favorite artists. There’s a whole world out there of artists from previous decades who you might love, even though it can be daunting to try and find new music. So, to make it easier, here’s a guide to discovering older artists you’ll actually like based on who you love today.
Frank Ocean & Sade
Drawn to Frank Ocean’s smooth, late-night summer vibe with his hit song “Thinkin Bout You?” Sade’s “By Your Side” will be your perfect next listen. The same way Ocean blends his smooth lyrics with downtempo production, “By Your Side” offers a comforting and relaxed listen with a soulful sound that wraps around you like a warm hug. If you’re looking for R&B songs to set the mood for a long study session with a pumpkin candle, try out Sade.
Olivia Rodrigo & Fiona Apple
If you connect with the raw emotion and angst of Olivia Rodrigo’s music, you should definitely check out Fiona Apple. Rodrigo’s number one song, “drivers license,” embraces heartbreak and frustration through impressive vocals that capture the messy emotions of a teenage girl finding her way through love and betrayal. Apple’s “Fast as You Can” expresses similar feminine rage in her own unique style. Both artists write about the specific experiences and frustrations of girlhood, so if you need to get out some anger or heartbreak, try Apple.
Phoebe Bridgers & Elliott Smith
Elliott Smith’s somber music paved the way for the reflective lyricism and somber sound that indie-folk artist Phoebe Bridgers is celebrated for today. Both singers have a way of making immense sadness feel comforting, turning vulnerability into something beautiful. Smith’s song “Between the Bars” is one of the best representations of his deeply personal lyrics and soft folksy melodies, which can also be found in Bridgers’ “Funeral,” a song that captures hopelessness and grief, for anyone who’s ever felt lost.
The Weeknd & Prince
The Weeknd’s hit “Starboy” is a futuristic combo of R&B and pop, with a cool and sleek production and a laid-back delivery, creating an infectious, jubilant track. Prince’s “1999” is a classic you shouldn’t miss out on with plenty of similarities. Like “Starboy,” “1999” is also driven by heavy synths and energetic chords, making it a song that you can vibe to no matter where you are. Both artists are popular for a great reason: they make you feel good, and their bold, electrifying sound keeps their hits timeless.
Miley Cyrus & Stevie Nicks
If you’re a fan of Miley Cyrus’ recent rock-tinged work, you will definitely love Stevie Nicks, one of the most legendary rock artists of the ‘70s and ‘80s. With hits like “Edge of Seventeen,” Nicks’ lyrics showcase the same rebellious spirit and hard-edged sound that can be found in a lot of Cyrus’ music. Her song “Midnight Sky” was directly inspired by Nicks, and has even been remixed with a feature from Nicks. One more reason to check out Nicks? She went to M-A.
Kendrick Lamar & The Roots
The Roots’ song “What They Do” mirrors the same mellow and conscious rap that is found on Kendrick Lamar’s hit “Money Trees.” Both tracks have a laid-back beat and mix soft soulful sounds with strong rap flows. Further, what sets these two apart from other rappers is how they create thoughtful, narrative-driven albums, which can be seen with Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly and The Roots’ Undun. Both albums explore social justice issues and push beyond surface-level lyricism into complex storytelling in a way other artists work their entire careers to achieve.
Zach Bryan & John Prine
Zach Bryan has become a modern day staple in country music, and the same could have been said about John Prine in the ‘90s. Bryan’s rise to stardom was accelerated with “I Remember Everything,” a standout track that showcases his ability to connect with listeners through honest lyrics and raw instrumentation, turning personal experiences into universal truths. Prine demonstrates the same skills throughout his discography, including “Far From Me,” where he reflects on the end of a relationship with a bittersweet tone. Both artists share an ability to tap into personal heartache and transform it into something audiences resonate with through simple yet profound songwriting.
