List of Famous Bands from Cleveland

List of Cleveland bands, listed by their level of fame. This Cleveland musicians list includes both bands and solo artists. All famous Cleveland bands are included, as well as many Cleveland musicians of underground status. This list of Cleveland musical artists includes information like what genre the artist falls under, what albums they've put out and more. If you want to know more about these famous Cleveland bands you can click on their names to learn more about them. Bands from every genre are listed here, including rock, pop, hip-hop/rap, jazz, and more.

List includes Nine Inch Nails, Tracy Chapman, more.

If you're wondering, "What bands are from Cleveland?" or "What is a list of Cleveland bands?" then this list will answer your questions. {#nodes}
Ranked by
  • Nine Inch Nails
    Dark ambient, Industrial metal, Electronic music
    • Albums: The Downward Spiral, The Fragile, With Teeth, Pretty Hate Machine, Year Zero

    Trent Reznor, the creative force behind Nine Inch Nails, revolutionized the industrial music scene with his unique blend of intense electronic and rock elements. Hailing from Cleveland, the groundbreaking band has achieved massive success since its formation in 1988, responsible for iconic albums such as The Downward Spiral and Pretty Hate Machine. Reznor's dark and introspective lyricism, alongside the innovative production techniques, have awarded Nine Inch Nails an enduring and influential legacy in the world of alternative music.

  • Tracy Chapman
    Blues-rock, Pop music, Folk music
    • Albums: Tracy Chapman, Crossroads, Fast Car, Where You Live, Matters of the Heart

    Tracy Chapman's unique voice and powerful songwriting skills have made her a legendary figure in the contemporary folk scene. Born and raised in Cleveland, her songs address social and political issues with both poetic grace and raw honesty. From her critically acclaimed self-titled debut album to her hit Fast Car, Chapman's heartfelt lyrics and passionate performances have solidified her as one of the most important musicians to emerge from the city.

  • Joe Walsh
    Blues-rock, Rock music, Folk rock
    • Albums: "But Seriously, Folks...", The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get / You Can't Argue With a Sick Mind, Rocky Mountain Way

    You can't talk about guitar virtuosos without mentioning Joe Walsh, one of the most celebrated musicians in rock history. Gaining prominence with the James Gang before joining the Eagles, this Cleveland native has more than earned his place among the greats. With a distinctive blues-inspired playing style and unforgettable riffs like those on "Life in the Fast Lane," Walsh has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music.

  • Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
    Urban contemporary, Hip hop music, Horrorcore
    • Albums: E. 1999 Eternal, BTNHResurrection, The Art of War, Creepin on Ah Come Up, The Collection Volume One

    Known for their innovative flow and harmonious vocal stylings, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony put Cleveland on the map in the world of hip-hop. With their groundbreaking debut album E. 1999 Eternal, the group quickly gained international prominence, due in part to their collaboration with the late Eazy-E. Combining elements of rap, R&B, and gospel, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony's unique sound and enduring influence have secured their spot as one of the best bands that Cleveland has ever produced.

  • James Gang
    Rock music, Hard rock
    • Albums: Rides Again, Passin' Thru, Miami, Thirds, Bang

    The James Gang, featuring guitar legend Joe Walsh, emerged in the late 1960s from the growing Cleveland rock scene. Their classic albums, such as Yer' Album and Rides Again, showcased their signature blues-rock sound, characterized by Walsh's incredible guitar work and Dale Peters' compelling bass lines. As a pivotal force in the early days of American hard rock, the James Gang helped pave the way for many artists who followed in their footsteps.

  • Chimaira
    Nu metal, Thrash metal, Groove metal
    • Albums: This Present Darkness, The Infection, The Age of Hell, Pass Out of Existence, The Impossibility of Reason

    Blending elements of heavy metal with a touch of industrial ferocity, Chimaira has been a staple of the Cleveland metal scene since their formation in 1998. With relentless energy and a take-no-prisoners attitude, their live performances and powerful albums, like The Impossibility of Reason, have had lasting impact on the genre. Chimaira's brutal sound and unwavering dedication to their craft make them a true standout in Cleveland's storied music history.