List of Famous Bands from Glasgow

List of Glasgow bands, listed by their level of fame. This Glasgow musicians list includes both bands and solo artists. All famous Glasgow bands are included, as well as many Glasgow musicians of underground status. This list of Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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 bands range from Mark Knopfler to Simple Minds.

If you're wondering, "What bands are from Glasgow?" or "What is a list of Glasgow bands?" then this list will answer your questions. {#nodes}
Ranked by
  • Mark Knopfler
    Celtic rock, Blues-rock, Rock music
    • Albums: Private Investigations: The Best of Dire Straits & Mark Knopfler, Shangri-La, Sailing to Philadelphia, Golden Heart, The Ragpicker's Dream

    Mark Knopfler, the lead vocalist, and guitarist of the legendary band Dire Straits, has become a symbol of Glasgow's vibrant music scene. Since embarking on his solo career in 1996, Knopfler has continued to dazzle audiences worldwide with his unique fingerpicking guitar style and introspective songwriting. Notable tracks like "Sailing to Philadelphia" and "Boom, Like That" showcase his incredible skill as a musician and demonstrate why he is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.

  • Simple Minds
    New Wave, Rock music, Pop rock
    • Albums: Neon Lights, Don't You (Forget About Me), Glittering Prize 81/92, This Is Your Land, Once Upon a Time

    Glasgow's Simple Minds are synonymous with 1980s alternative rock music that remains highly popular today. Formed in 1977, they quickly gained international recognition with their chart-topping hits such as "Don't You (Forget About Me)" and "Alive and Kicking." Frontman Jim Kerr and guitarist Charlie Burchill have kept the band's infectious energy alive over the years, making them one of Glasgow's most enduring musical exports.

  • Franz Ferdinand
    New Wave, Rock music, Dance-punk
    • Albums: Franz Ferdinand, You Could Have It So Much Better, Tonight: Franz Ferdinand, Right Thoughts, Right Words

    Formed in 2002, Franz Ferdinand managed to revive the world's passion for indie rock with their explosive energy and infectious anthems. With their breakthrough self-titled debut album, which included hits such as "Take Me Out" and "This Fire," they helped redefine Glasgow's music scene, establishing it as a powerhouse for innovative rock music. Their dance-infused tunes and memorable hooks continue to keep fans captivated.

  • Belle & Sebastian
    Jangle pop, Indie pop, Rock music
    • Albums: If You’re Feeling Sinister, The Boy With the Arab Strap, Fold Your Hands Child, You Walk Like a Peasant, The Life Pursuit

    Belle & Sebastian have successfully carved out their niche within Glasgow's rich music scene through their evocative blend of indie-pop mixed with wistful lyrics. Since forming in the mid-1990s, their thought-provoking tracks, such as "The State I Am In" and "The Stars of Track and Field," helped redefine expectations for independent music at the time. Today, they remain a beloved staple in Glasgow's music community.

  • Lulu
    Blue-eyed soul, Pop music, Rock music
    • Albums: To Sir With Love, Heaven and Earth and the Stars, Lulu's Album, Together, Something to Shout About

    Since her emergence as a teenage chart-topper in the 1960s with "Shout," Lulu has maintained an illustrious career spanning over five decades in Glasgow's music scene. Her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence contributed to her success in a variety of genres, from pop and soul to television and film appearances. Lulu remains a legendary figure in the Glasgow entertainment world.

  • Mogwai
    Shoegazing, Rock music, Experimental rock
    • Albums: Mr. Beast, The Fountain, Rock Action, Hardcore Will Never Die, but You Will

    Emerging from Glasgow's music scene in the mid-90s, Mogwai expertly combines rich textures and expansive instrumentation to create evocative soundscapes. Known for their cinematic post-rock compositions, albums like Young Team and Come On Die Young solidified them as pioneers within the genre. Mogwai's consistent musical innovation ensures they remain one of Glasgow's most respected bands.