Top 10 Best British Bands of the 21st Century

When it comes to music, the UK has always had a reputation for producing groundbreaking bands, and the 21st century is no exception. The British music scene continues to thrive, giving rise to bands that have shaped the sound of the modern era. From the stadium-fillers with huge anthems to indie favorites that redefined rock for a new generation, the influence of British bands is impossible to ignore.

This list highlights the very best of what the UK has to offer, and it's up to you to help decide who should take the top spot. Which bands have had the biggest impact? Which ones are still on repeat in your playlists, and who has managed to stay relevant, evolving their sound through the years?

The Top Ten

Muse

Muse are an English alternative rock band from Teignmouth, Devon, formed in 1994. The members are Matt Bellamy (lead vocals, lead guitar, piano, keyboards), Dom Howard (drums, percussion), and Chris Wolstenholme (bass, backing vocals). They have won numerous awards, including five MTV Europe Music Awards... read more

This band is the definition of progress. Since 1999, starting with their first album, Showbiz, the variations in musical styles have been unbelievable. Songs like Sunburn and Unintended started them off strong. Then, they came out with Origin of Symmetry, which is still in my top six favorite albums ever (the other five being Showbiz, Absolution, Black Holes and Revelations, The Resistance, and Second Law).
But now, with the change from somewhat classical rock to electro-rock with their latest album, I'm just blown away by the sheer amount of awesome this band can compose. Thank you, Matt, Chris, and Dom, for your perfection in this industry!
Arctic Monkeys

The Arctic Monkeys, also known by the pseudonym Death Ramps, are a British indie rock band formed in 2002 in Sheffield, England. The lineup includes Alex Turner (lead vocalist, songwriter, electric and rhythm guitarist), Jamie Cook (electric and rhythm guitarist, songwriter), Matt Helders (drummer, backing... read more

Who let Muse get to number one? I like Coldplay and Oasis, despite only two of their albums in the 2000s being any good. Franz Ferdinand is rightly in the top ten, too, as is Radiohead. But Mumford and Sons? Why?
Arctic Monkeys are the most consistently good band - only Humbug was a slight letdown. They have reinvented themselves a few times, and the results have always been good. Alex Turner is a great lyricist, and the songs are brilliant too. No band this century has been as good as the Arctic Monkeys.

Arctic Monkeys are talented, interesting, and consistent. They've yet to put out a bad record. Alex Turner's lyrics and vocals are unparalleled, and the musicianship from Cook, Helders, and O'Malley is always innovative and strong. They're great live - brilliant performers, as well as technically perfect. Have you ever heard them miss a note?
Not to mention, they've been going strong for about 10 years and have only gotten better. Nobody can compete with their talent and consistency.
Coldplay

Coldplay is a British rock band formed in 1996. The group includes Chris Martin (lead vocals, piano), Jonny Buckland (lead guitar), Guy Berryman (bass), and Will Champion (drums, backing vocals). Their manager, Phil Harvey, is often referred to as the unofficial fifth member.... read more

I love '60s and '70s music. There was so much progression and creativity in music during those decades, and, in my opinion, no modern band will ever be able to replicate the masterpieces and geniuses of the '60s and '70s. But Coldplay comes damn close.
I have not taken the time to explore modern music very much due to it being bogged down in mainstream pop and worse that fails to contain a note of creative thought. However, since becoming familiar with Coldplay, it has become clear that there are a few bands out there today that still value innovation, creativity, good melodies, actual orchestration, and poetic lyrics.
I'm not saying Coldplay is the best band of the 21st century, as I have not listened to enough modern artists to have a real opinion. But Coldplay is the first modern band of this caliber I have found, and so they will always be the most important to me for introducing me to the creative influences extant today. I now look forward to discovering other great bands that still produce albums today. Thank you, Coldplay, for reviving my faith in the modern music industry.
Oasis

Oasis is an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1991. The original lineup consisted of Liam Gallagher (lead vocals), Paul Arthurs (guitar), Paul McGuigan (bass guitar), and Tony McCarroll (drums). A few months later, Liam invited his older brother Noel Gallagher (lead guitar, vocals) to join the... read more

They were the last rock band to embody sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll and rule the world simultaneously, and to play concerts without a single phone in the audience. They had the best songs of the '90s, and they're basically about nothing. But they're so catchy! No band has had as many brilliant B-sides as them. Also, they looked awesome. From 1994-1996, they were unstoppable.

Oasis is one of the best bands here, besides Gorillaz. Plus, they had the best frontman ever and one of the best songwriters of our century. I personally can relate to lots of their songs, and they have that attitude that makes them look kind of cocky, but that's why I love them.
Radiohead

Radiohead are an English rock band from Abingdon, Oxfordshire, formed in 1985. The band consists of Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Colin Greenwood, Phil Selway, and Ed O'Brien.
Known for their experimentation and sonic evolution, they rose to international prominence with OK Computer and continued... read more

All the bands above Radiohead right now, like Coldplay, Muse, etc., wouldn't exist without Radiohead. Radiohead has invented more music genres than the Beatles did. Though, of course, the Beatles had a much larger influence. Radiohead is still just as good and innovative as the Beatles, if not more so. The Beatles should be the number one best British band, followed by Radiohead, Oasis, and so on.

Radiohead is the most unique band of all time and one of my all-time favorites. With the most iconic frontman, Thom Yorke, and the world's most gifted producer, Nigel Godrich, they stand out. The best guitarists, Jonny and Ed O'Brien, and bassist Colin Greenwood, experiment with rock music, and their beats are insane. I have all their albums, including Kid A and OK Computer, some of the greatest albums of the new era of rock.
Muse is also my favorite band, but they are newcomers in front of Radiohead's legacy.
Kasabian

Kasabian are an English rock band formed in Leicester in 1997. The original lineup included vocalist Tom Meighan, guitarist and vocalist Sergio Pizzorno, guitarist Chris Karloff, and bassist Chris Edwards. After Meighan's departure in 2020, Pizzorno took over as the lead vocalist.

For me personally, they're my second favorite band of all time, only beaten by the Beatles. They draw inspiration from so many great bands, and their music spans many genres. They've made so many great songs over the years that have been used for many events. Kasabian for number one!

Possibly the best live act I have seen, followed very closely by Biffy Clyro and Red Hot Chili Peppers! No other act has exceeded the standards of their recordings in their live performances to the extent of Kasabian. No doubt about it.
Mumford & Sons

Mumford & Sons is a British indie folk band formed in London in 2007. The band includes Marcus Mumford, Ben Lovett, Winston Marshall, and Ted Dwane. They rose to prominence with their debut album Sigh No More and became known for their energetic live performances and folk-influenced sound.

I love their folk rock sound. It is really interesting. I didn't even know the genre existed until I found these guys. Truly amazing.

About the only band of which I can say I love every one of their songs.

This is music you'll like your whole life. It's timeless.
Franz Ferdinand

Franz Ferdinand is a Scottish rock band based in Glasgow. The group was formed in 2002 and became known for its energetic style and post-punk revival sound. The original lineup included Alex Kapranos, Nick McCarthy, Bob Hardy, and Paul Thomson.

I'm from the U.S., and I can't find anything as unique and original as Franz Ferdinand! Especially living in Arizona, it's not something that's usually come across, but I saw them open for Green Day, and they were incredible! Definitely up there in my top bands with Muse. Plus, it's undeniable that their songs are catchy and infectious.
Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden are an English heavy metal band formed in Leyton, East London, in 1975 by bassist and primary songwriter Steve Harris. Their most critically acclaimed period is widely considered to be from 1983 to 1989, during which they released landmark albums like Piece of Mind, Powerslave, Somewhere... read more

Iron Maiden has varied their style and stayed fresh. If you don't like one album, try another. There's everything. They're a one-stop shop, complete with a zombie salesperson.

Iron Maiden is one of the greatest bands of all time. Not everyone can make a good-sounding, inspired, original work 40 years after the conception of the band.

Seriously, Maiden are gods. Give yourselves a shake.
Bring Me the Horizon

Bring Me the Horizon is a British rock band from Sheffield, Yorkshire. Formed in 2004, the group currently consists of vocalist Oliver Sykes, guitarist Lee Malia, bassist Matt Kean, drummer Matt Nicholls, and keyboardist Jordan Fish. They are signed to RCA Records globally and Columbia Records in the... read more

From deathcore to metalcore, to alternative metal, to hard rock, Bring Me The Horizon never fails to bring something new to the table. Despite wanting to escape their old deathcore days, BMTH still puts out some of the best rock today. Striving towards a modern sound while retaining the punch they have packed ever since their first album in 2006. From screaming to singing, this band is a group of talented individuals who always release something good.

Although people are always going to disagree with one another, I personally think that some of the top 10 at the moment don't deserve the spot as much as this band.

The Newcomers

?
Clean Bandit

Clean Bandit are a British electronic music group formed in Cambridge in 2008. The band consists of Grace Chatto and brothers Jack and Luke Patterson. They gained international success with their 2014 single Rather Be, featuring Jess Glynne, which won a Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording.

All around a good time, lots of great songs, and I absolutely adore Rather Be.
?
The Libertines

Genius band - so diverse in terms of influence and so British-sounding. This is what rock and roll music is all about.

The Contenders

One Direction

One Direction (commonly abbreviated as 1D) was a British and Irish pop boy band composed of Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and originally Zayn Malik, who departed on March 25, 2015.
The group formed on The X Factor UK in 2010, finishing third, and then signed with Simon... read more

The reason why One Direction deserves to be on this list is that they are one of the greatest boy bands there is. They are so inspirational and have inspired the lives of many. They have even inspired me in many ways as well. They taught me that it's okay to be different, to not forget who you are, always stay true to yourself, and to face my fears.
Thanks to them, I can say that my life has changed for the better, and I'm sure many other fans feel the same way. Thank you, One Direction, for being my inspiration and for being my everything. Words cannot describe how thankful I am to you for making my life better. I love each one of you with all my heart, and I pray that you may all get the success that you deserve in your lives, individually and as a band. Although you guys are now currently on a hiatus, I am waiting with my fingers crossed for your comeback as a band - all five of you - and continue to rock my world as you have these past eight years.
Manic Street Preachers

Manic Street Preachers are a Welsh rock band formed in Blackwood, Wales, in 1986. The group consists of James Dean Bradfield, Nicky Wire, and Sean Moore. Known for their political lyrics and energetic sound, the band has released several acclaimed albums and remains active in the music scene.

Not many bands are like the Manics. Quite possibly the best remaining British band, they don't get enough credit for consistently making amazing songs and albums. Also, they are a fantastic live band.
Asking Alexandria

Asking Alexandria are an English metalcore band from York, North Yorkshire, initially formed in 2008 by lead guitarist Ben Bruce along with former lead singer Danny Worsnop, bassist Joe Lancaster, keyboardist and synth player Ryan Binns, and current members drummer James Cassells and rhythm guitarist... read more

Asking Alexandria is probably one of the best metalcore bands. They have changed tremendously and have really "grown up." I think they should be ranked higher, but at least they are part of the top 10.

I love this band. They really deserve to be ranked higher than Bullet For My Valentine. And Black Sabbath should be number 1.
McFly

McFly is an English pop band formed in London in 2003. The group took its name from the Back to the Future character Marty McFly.hey became the youngest band to have a debut album enter the UK Albums Chart at number one, breaking a record previously held by The Beatles.

McFly is an inspirational band. Not only do they support many charities and promote great causes, but their music has also helped thousands of young people through tough times with uplifting and quirky songs. They have gained a massive following, not only in the UK but around the world. Their journey from boys to men hasn't been easy. However, the music has helped them as well as so many of their fans.

I love McFly. They are the most amazing band and people. They are so underrated and deserve the world. They are also very talented. Harry won Strictly, Dougie won I'm a Celeb, Tom is an author, and Danny made a solo career when the band was on a break. Their new album, The Lost Songs, is amazing.
Stereophonics

Stereophonics are a rock band from Wales that formed in 1992 in the village of Cwmaman in the Cynon Valley. The band achieved mainstream success in the late 1990s and early 2000s with albums like Word Gets Around and Performance and Cocktails. Their lineup includes Kelly Jones, Richard Jones, and Adam... read more

Best band you have never heard of, period. Not too many bands can say they are admired by The Rolling Stones, The Who, AC/DC, U2, Oasis, The Black Crowes, Tom Jones, and Rod Stewart, to name a few. YouTube them and their covers. They've been around since 1996 and released a greatest hits album called Decade in the Sun.

One of the greatest rock bands in our decade! From a small little town in the valleys (Cwmaman), they rose to fame. They have amazing tracks like Just Looking, Maybe Tomorrow, Mr. Writer, and so much more. Worth a listen. Anyway, I'm just looking.
Bullet for My Valentine

Bullet for My Valentine are a Welsh metalcore band from Bridgend, formed in 1998. The band consists of Matthew Tuck (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Michael Paget (lead guitar, backing vocals), Michael Thomas (drums), and Jamie Mathias (bass guitar). Former members include Nick Crandle and Jason James,... read more

Bullet For My Valentine are just undeniable in their quality. No one can compete with their playing style and musical quality. None of this whiny pop that people seem to like nowadays.

How the hell are Wrong Direction higher than these? Bullet For My Valentine are awesome! Loving their new stuff, but nothing beats Fever.

BFMV are the best band, Fever is the best album, and The Last Fight, Tears Don't Fall, and Scream Aim Fire are the best songs.
Gorillaz

Gorillaz are an English virtual band created in 1998 by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett. The group consists of four animated members: 2D, Murdoc Niccals, Noodle, and Russel Hobbs. Their music spans genres such as alternative rock, hip hop, and electronic, with notable albums including... read more

The originality of Damon Albarn, combining synth and other instruments, makes him a great artist. Some underrated songs of Gorillaz should be better known.

Bullet For My Valentine is one of my favorite bands ever. I don't understand why Coldplay would be in front. Bullet For My Valentine is real music.

Gorillaz gained most of their fame with their Demon Days album, which was produced by an American, DJ Danger Mouse. So, they should be removed from this list.
Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

Top-quality music. We have indeed the chance of having Noel's pure talent on its own.

The first 2 albums were very good. Noel's still got the ability to make great songs.
Placebo

Placebo is an English alternative rock band formed in London in 1994 by Brian Molko and Stefan Olsdal. They became known for their unique sound and for hits like Every You Every Me and Pure Morning. The band developed a strong international following and continues to record and perform.
Snow Patrol

Snow Patrol are a Northern Irish-Scottish rock band formed in 1994, originally from Dundee, Scotland, and later based in Northern Ireland. The band consists of Gary Lightbody, Nathan Connolly, Paul Wilson, Jonny Quinn, and Johnny McDaid. They achieved international success with their 2006 single Chasing... read more

There is so much meaning to their songs! Their songs are about our world issues today with an indie-like feel. I love them to death.

Half British, half Irish band. However, Snow Patrol are eligible here due to their half-British origins.
Kaiser Chiefs

Kaiser Chiefs are an English indie rock band from Leeds who formed in 2000 under the name Parva. They released one studio album, 22, in 2003 before changing their name to Kaiser Chiefs later that year. They rose to prominence with their debut album Employment in 2005.

Love the boys' unique sound and down-to-earth attitude.
Florence + the Machine

Florence and the Machine are an English indie rock band that formed in London in 2007. The band consists of lead singer Florence Welch, keyboardist Isabella Summers, and a collaboration of other musicians. Their debut album, Lungs, received critical acclaim and commercial success.

This band develops beautiful harmonies throughout the song. Florence sings so open-heartedly and strongly.

Heavenly voice and overall alchemy are here, floating in blue space - this is Florence and the Machine.

Florence Welch is from another world! Without a doubt, my favorite band on this list.
Keane

Keane is an English post-Britpop, piano rock, and pop rock band from Battle, East Sussex, formed in 1995. The group consists of Tim Rice-Oxley, Richard Hughes, Jesse Quin, and Tom Chaplin. Keane achieved major success in the 2000s with albums such as Hopes and Fears.

Keane are undoubtedly one of the best bands at present, and in my opinion, very unfairly underrated. They are such great musicians. They create a unique sound. Their songs are timeless, universal, and so emotional. We listen to them and immediately feel identified and connected in a very deep way. Many of their songs are true masterpieces, outstanding pieces of music and lyrics.
Their music comes from their heart and soul, with no artifacts, no tricks - it's pure and honest. That's one of the reasons why they sound as awesome live as on records, perhaps even more amazing live. No special effects are needed, just the four of them with their own amazing skills and talents, their own unique chemistry. And magic happens.
When we attend a Keane live performance, we can never forget it. Very few bands can achieve this level of perfection and magic. And facts are there to prove all this: their music is loved and cherished worldwide, all their albums went directly to number 1 on sales charts. Very few have equaled this achievement so far. Keane... ROCK!
You Me at Six

You Me At Six are the most unique rock band I have come across. It's hard to even name their genre. They are a true talent and the best rock band of the 21st century!

You Me At Six are an awesome band! I love every one of their songs, and they bring such a new and unique approach to rock, alternative, and punk music. You rock, You Me At Six!

The band is amazing, the music is amazing, their concerts are amazing. I love them so much.
Blur

Blur is an English rock band formed in London in 1988. The group consists of singer Damon Albarn, guitarist Graham Coxon, bassist Alex James, and drummer Dave Rowntree. They were a leading force in the Britpop movement and achieved massive international success with their 1997 hit Song 2.

What the heck is Blur doing at #29? They were arguably among the best songwriters and live performers of the '90s. They basically defined British identity! Easily top 10 for me, alongside Muse, Radiohead, Arctic Monkeys, and Kasabian.