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The Best Bands & Artists That Start With X
We're ranking the best bands and solo artists that start with X across every music genre and generation. From Billboard Music Award-nominated supergroup X Ambassadors to rock bands XTC, Xanax 25, Xerath, XYZ, X-Sinner, and Xavier Moyano, this compilation of artists contains a diverse range of multi-talented musicians with names all beginning with the letter X.
Singer-songwriters Ximena Sariñana and Xavier Rudd never cease to captivate fans across their profound records and live performances; and hip-hop moguls Xzibit, XXXTentacion, and Xanman indisputably remain forces to be reckoned with among the rap world. BRIT Award-nominated pop rock band the xx continue to dominate the indie scene with their unique genre-blending minimalist sound; and British metalhead supergroup Xentrix redefined England's thrash metal industry during the late 1980s and 1990s.
Vote below for your favorite singers, bands, rappers, DJs, and composers whose names start with X, and feel free to check out these artists' discography lists afterwards if you'd like to discover more of their incredible music.
- 1
Hailing from England, this innovative band played a key role in shaping the sound of new wave music throughout the late '70s and '80s with their unique blend of punk rock energy, pop sensibilities, and experimental arrangements. Their masterful songwriting and musicianship led to a string of critically acclaimed albums, cementing their place as a revered act within the alternative music community. Although they disbanded in 2006, their legacy endures through countless artists who have cited them as an inspiration.
Fronted by the charismatic Poly Styrene, this English punk band emerged in the late '70s with a unique sound that blended raw energy, saxophone-driven melodies, and socially conscious lyrics addressing issues like consumerism and environmental degradation. Their fearless approach to tackling societal norms and pushing musical boundaries made them a standout act within the punk movement. Although short-lived, their influence can still be felt today in the sounds of countless artists who followed in their footsteps.
This British trio has captivated audiences worldwide since their debut in 2009 with their minimalist approach to indie pop that emphasizes atmospheric production, haunting vocals, and introspective lyrics. They have consistently pushed boundaries by incorporating elements from various genres such as electronic dance music and R&B into their signature sound. Their artistic evolution has garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying their status as a groundbreaking act in contemporary music.
This controversial rapper from Florida gained widespread attention for his emotionally charged lyrics that explored themes of depression, heartbreak, and anger over heavy trap beats. Despite numerous legal issues and a tragically short career due to his untimely death in 2018, he amassed an enormous following of devoted fans who were captivated by his raw vulnerability and unapologetic honesty. His impact on modern hip-hop remains significant as numerous artists continue to emulate his distinctive style.
- 5
As pioneers of the Los Angeles punk rock scene in the late '70s and early '80s, this influential band combined raw power with poetic lyrics that explored themes of love, despair, and social commentary. Their distinctive sound was marked by tight harmonies between vocalists Exene Cervenka and John Doe, while guitarist Billy Zoom's rockabilly-infused playing added another layer of depth to their music. Over four decades later, their impact on punk and alternative rock remains evident in both underground and mainstream acts.
Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, this influential hip-hop group rose to prominence in the early '90s with their Afrocentric themes and conscious lyrics that addressed social issues affecting the African-American community. Their unique sound incorporated elements of funk, jazz, and reggae while showcasing skillful lyricism and powerful messages. Although they disbanded in 1995, their impact on socially conscious hip-hop endures through countless artists who have cited them as an inspiration.
With a career spanning over two decades, this West Coast rapper is known for his gritty voice, intricate wordplay, and relentless work ethic that led him to collaborate with some of the biggest names in hip-hop. He also gained mainstream recognition as the host of MTV's Pimp My Ride, which helped introduce his music to a broader audience. Although his commercial success has waned in recent years, he remains a respected figure within the rap community and continues to release new material.
This American alternative rock band has been making waves since their formation in 2009 with their anthemic mix of rock, pop, and electronic elements that showcase powerful vocals and catchy melodies. Their breakout success came in 2015 when they released their debut album, which spawned several hit singles and earned them legions of fans around the world. Known for their captivating live performances, they continue to evolve as musicians while maintaining a strong connection with their audience.
Known as the "King of Latin Music," this Spanish-American bandleader was instrumental in popularizing Latin American dance music in the United States during the mid-20th century. His orchestra featured top-notch musicians who skillfully performed infectious rhythms that had audiences dancing to mambo, cha-cha-cha, and rumba beats. His contributions to the music industry earned him several awards throughout his career, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- 10
As a member of the massively popular South Korean-Chinese boy band EXO, this talented vocalist and dancer has played an essential role in their meteoric rise to fame since their debut in 2012. His powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence have made him a fan favorite within the group, while his solo work showcases his unique artistic identity. Despite being on hiatus due to mandatory military service, his impact on K-pop remains undeniable.
- 11
As one of Japan's most successful rock bands, their innovative fusion of heavy metal, glam rock aesthetics, and classical music elements helped define the visual kei movement in the late '80s and early '90s. Their theatrical live shows featuring elaborate costumes, pyrotechnics, and virtuosic musicianship have garnered them a devoted fan base around the world. Despite several lineup changes and hiatuses, they continue to release new music and tour, solidifying their status as icons of Japanese rock.
- 12
This Polish electronic music producer has been making waves within the bass music scene since the early 2010s with his intricate sound design and genre-blurring approach to production. Drawing from influences such as drum & bass, dubstep, and electro house, his innovative style has earned him respect among fans and fellow producers alike. With several successful releases under his belt, he continues to push boundaries within the world of electronic dance music.
This Australian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has been captivating audiences with his eclectic blend of world music, folk, and roots since the early 2000s. Known for playing various instruments simultaneously during live performances, his mesmerizing stage presence and heartfelt lyrics have earned him a devoted fan base around the globe. As an environmental activist, he uses his platform to raise awareness about social and environmental issues, further solidifying his legacy as a musician with a purpose.
- 14
With their roots in the glam metal scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s, this French-American group showcased impressive technical abilities on guitar and drums, emphasizing complex solos and powerful riffs. Their energetic live performances and infectious hooks earned them a dedicated fan base, despite being overshadowed by more prominent bands during that era. While they may not have achieved massive commercial success, their influence can still be felt in the hard rock genre today.
- 15
X-Sinner
Formed in the late '80s, this American hard rock band is known for their high-energy performances and message-driven lyrics that reflect their Christian faith. Often compared to bands like AC/DC and Def Leppard, their sound combines heavy riffs with catchy hooks that resonate with fans of both secular and religious rock music. Despite several lineup changes over the years, they continue to tour and release new material, maintaining their status as stalwarts within the Christian rock community.
This Argentine guitarist and composer has gained recognition for his technical prowess and unique approach to blending elements of progressive metal, neoclassical, and flamenco styles. His intricate compositions showcase his mastery of various guitar techniques, including fingerstyle, alternate picking, and sweep arpeggios. While he may not be a household name, his virtuosity has earned him respect among guitar enthusiasts worldwide.
- 17
This Dutch darkwave band has been captivating audiences since the early '80s with their atmospheric blend of synth-pop, post-punk, and gothic rock elements. Their haunting melodies, introspective lyrics, and innovative use of electronic textures have earned them a dedicated fan base within the underground music scene. As they continue to evolve musically while maintaining their distinctive sound, their influence on modern darkwave acts remains significant.
This German singer-songwriter is known for his soulful voice and emotive lyrics that often tackle themes of love, spirituality, and social issues. His fusion of R&B, pop, and hip-hop elements has helped him achieve widespread success in Germany and beyond since his debut in the late '90s. Despite facing some controversy due to his political views, he remains a prominent figure within the German music scene and continues to tour and release new material.
- 19
Xanman
Hailing from Maryland, this young rapper has been making a name for himself within the hip-hop community for his rapid-fire flow and catchy hooks over hard-hitting beats. Despite being relatively new to the scene, he has already amassed a significant following on social media platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube. As he continues to release new music and collaborate with other up-and-coming artists, his star is undoubtedly on the rise.
- 20
Formed in Germany in 1997, this symphonic metal band has built a loyal following over the years with their powerful blend of heavy guitars, orchestral arrangements, and soaring female vocals. Their evocative lyrics often explore themes of mythology, fantasy, and ancient history, further adding to their mystique. With numerous lineup changes throughout their career, they have continued to evolve musically while maintaining their signature sound that resonates with fans of the genre.
- 21
Born Anerae Brown, this American rapper gained notoriety in the early '90s for his gritty lyrics and controversial legal history. His time spent incarcerated did not hinder his musical output, as he continued to record and release material from behind bars, further solidifying his reputation as a hardcore gangsta rapper. Although his commercial success has been limited, his impact on West Coast hip-hop remains undeniable.
- 22
Xan Tyler
This British singer-songwriter is known for her ethereal vocals and eclectic musical style that incorporates elements of electronic pop, trip-hop, and ambient music. Her collaborations with various producers have resulted in a diverse body of work that showcases her versatility as an artist. Although she has yet to achieve mainstream success, her distinctive voice and innovative approach to songwriting have garnered her a dedicated fan base within the underground music scene.
23Xenia
This American singer-songwriter first gained attention as a contestant on the first season of NBC's The Voice in 2011, where her soulful voice and unique style captivated both judges and viewers alike. Since then, she has released several singles and EPs that showcase her powerful vocals and emotive songwriting abilities. While she has yet to achieve mainstream success, her talent and perseverance have earned her a devoted fan base within the indie music scene.
- 24
As a member of the South Korean-Chinese girl group Cosmic Girls (WJSN), this talented vocalist and dancer has played an essential role in their rise to fame since their debut in 2016. Her captivating stage presence and powerful vocals have made her a standout within the group, while her solo work showcases her unique artistic identity. As she continues to develop as a performer within WJSN, her impact on K-pop remains undeniable.
- 25
Xandee
As a member of the Belgian dance-pop duo Touch of Joy, this talented vocalist gained fame in the late '90s before embarking on a solo career in the early 2000s. She represented Belgium at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2004, showcasing her powerful vocals and energetic stage presence. While she may not be as active in the music industry today, her contributions to European dance-pop remain noteworthy.
- 26
Xasthur
As one of the most enigmatic figures within black metal's US underground scene, this one-man project helmed by musician Scott Conner (aka Malefic) gained notoriety for its lo-fi recordings that blend atmospheric soundscapes with raw aggression and haunting melodies. The mysterious aura surrounding the project only added to its appeal among fans seeking an alternative to more polished mainstream acts within the genre. Although Conner retired the Xasthur moniker in 2010, his influence on black metal and its offshoots remains significant.
Formerly known as Kid Sensation, this American rapper and producer first gained attention in the late '80s as a member of Sir Mix-a-Lot's posse. His solo career took off in the early '90s with a string of successful releases that showcased his smooth flow and catchy hooks over funk-infused beats. While he may not be as active in the music industry today, his contributions to West Coast hip-hop remain noteworthy.
This Mexican singer-songwriter and actress has been captivating audiences with her unique blend of pop, rock, and jazz influences since her debut in the mid-2000s. Her emotive lyrics, powerful vocals, and versatile musicianship have earned her numerous awards and critical acclaim both in her native country and abroad. As she continues to release new music and explore various artistic endeavors, her star only continues to rise.
- 29
Xero
Before they became known as Linkin Park, this American rock band was formed under the name Xero in the mid-'90s. Their early demos showcased their unique blend of alternative rock, nu-metal, and electronic elements that would eventually catapult them to global stardom. Although they never released an official album under this moniker, their early work laid the foundation for one of the most successful rock bands of the 21st century.
- 30
The Xcerts
This Scottish alternative rock band has been making waves since their formation in 2001 with their anthemic sound that combines elements of punk, indie, and power pop. Known for their energetic live shows and heartfelt lyrics, they have earned a dedicated fan base throughout the UK and beyond. As they continue to evolve musically while maintaining their signature sound, their influence on modern alternative rock is undeniable.
- 31
As one of Brazil's most iconic entertainers, this singer, actress, and television host has been captivating audiences for over three decades with her infectious blend of children's music, pop, and dance. Her energetic performances and colorful costumes have made her a beloved figure among generations of young fans, while her philanthropic work has earned her respect from adults as well. Despite facing some controversy throughout her career, her impact on Brazilian pop culture remains undeniable.
- 32
This short-lived American pop trio, consisting of sisters Nandy and Maya McClean along with singer-songwriter Renée Lamoureux, gained attention in the mid-2000s for their infectious blend of pop, R&B, and dance music. While they never achieved mainstream success, their catchy hooks and energetic performances earned them a devoted fan base within the underground music scene. Despite disbanding in 2006, their contributions to pop music remain noteworthy.
- 33
Xanax 25
This Italian electronic duo consists of producers Simone Canova and Gianluca Zambrotta, who have been making waves within the techno scene since their formation in 2013. Their innovative approach to production combines elements of minimal techno, ambient music, and experimental electronica to create a distinctive sound that resonates with fans of underground dance music. As they continue to release new material and perform live shows, their influence within the world of electronic music is on the rise.
- 34
Xutos & Pontapés
As one of Portugal's most iconic rock bands, they have been captivating audiences since their formation in 1978 with their infectious mix of punk rock energy and catchy melodies. Known for their powerful live shows and anthemic lyrics that resonate with fans across generations, they have become a symbol of Portuguese rock music both at home and abroad. As they continue to tour and release new material, their impact on Portuguese popular culture remains undeniable.
- 35
Xololanxinxo
As a member of the underground hip-hop collective Of Mexican Descent (OMD), this Los Angeles-based rapper and poet has been captivating audiences with his intricate wordplay and thought-provoking lyrics since the late '90s. His unique style combines elements of Chicano culture with experimental production techniques to create a distinctive sound within the world of independent hip-hop. While he may not be a household name, his contributions to West Coast hip-hop remain significant.
- 36
Formed in England in 1985, this thrash metal band gained prominence during the late '80s and early '90s with their aggressive sound, razor-sharp riffs, and politically charged lyrics. Often compared to American acts like Metallica and Megadeth, they helped put the UK thrash scene on the map during a time when it was largely overshadowed by its American counterpart. Despite several lineup changes and periods of inactivity, they continue to tour and release new music, solidifying their status as icons of British metal.
- 37
Xalam
Formed in Senegal in 1969, this influential African band is known for their unique fusion of traditional West African rhythms with elements of jazz, funk, and Latin music. Their innovative use of electric instruments alongside traditional percussion helped pave the way for the development of modern African pop music. While they disbanded in 1996, their legacy endures through countless artists who have been inspired by their groundbreaking sound.
- 38
Xororó
As one half of the legendary Brazilian sertanejo duo Chitãozinho & Xororó, this talented singer-songwriter and instrumentalist has been captivating audiences with his heartfelt lyrics and emotive performances since the late '70s. His contributions to the development of sertanejo music, a genre that blends traditional Brazilian folk with modern pop elements, have earned him numerous awards and critical acclaim throughout his career. As he continues to tour and release new material alongside his brother Chitãozinho, his impact on Brazilian music remains significant.
Born Alex Epton, this American producer is known for his innovative approach to electronic music production that incorporates elements of hip-hop, dancehall, and experimental electronica. As a founding member of the influential production collective Spank Rock, he has worked with numerous high-profile artists across various genres, showcasing his versatility as a producer. His contributions to modern electronic music have earned him respect among fans and fellow producers alike.
- 40
Xorcist
This American industrial music project helmed by producer Peter Stone (aka Bat) first gained attention in the early '90s for its dark soundscapes that combined elements of gothic rock, electronic dance music, and experimental noise. Their innovative approach to production and haunting visual aesthetic earned them a devoted fan base within the underground music scene. While they may not be as active today, their contributions to the development of industrial music remain significant.
- 41
Xerath
This British progressive metal band formed in 2007 is known for their unique blend of orchestral arrangements, heavy guitars, and aggressive vocals that push the boundaries of the genre. Their intricate compositions showcase their technical prowess as musicians while maintaining an accessible sound that resonates with fans of both extreme metal and symphonic rock. As they continue to evolve musically and explore new sonic territory, their influence within the world of progressive metal is on the rise.
- 42
Xome
This American experimental noise artist, also known as Bob Scott, has been pushing the boundaries of sound since the early '90s with his abrasive sonic collages that combine elements of harsh noise, power electronics, and musique concrète. His innovative use of unconventional sound sources and live improvisation techniques have made him a respected figure within the underground music scene. While his work may not be for everyone, his contributions to the development of experimental noise music are undeniable.
