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The musical landscape is large and diverse. It’s populated with musicians who show their originality not only through their tunes and lyrics, but also via the names they give themselves.
One recurring theme that has been observed in band names across various genres and eras is the use of royal terms. This Killer Rig article, however, will focus specifically on bands with king in the names.
From blues legends like B.B. King to contemporary Christian pop duo For King & Country, the term has found its way into the names of numerous bands and artists. We will explore a selection of these bands, delving into their music, their impact, and the story behind their royal names.
Bands with King in the Name
B.B. King
B.B. King was an American blues singer, electric guitarist, songwriter, and record producer. His profound influence on blues music earned him the nickname “The King of the Blues”. His music was characterized by sophisticated solos known as the butterfly style.
Carole King
Carole King is a singer, songwriter, and pianist who has become a famous character in the pop music market.
Her album “Tapestry” has been hailed as one of the best in pop music history and earned four Grammy Awards. Warm melodies and sentimental lyrics are features that distinguish King’s music.
King Curtis
Saxophonist King Curtis gained notoriety for his work in rhythm and blues, rock & roll, and soul. Numerous artists featured his saxophone solos on successful songs.
For his contributions to the music industry, Curtis was presented with a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Albert King
Albert King was a major influence in the world of blues guitar playing. His powerful, single-string guitar solos and soulful voice made him one of the “Three Kings of the Blues Guitar”. His music continues to inspire blues musicians today.
Freddie King
Freddie King, known as “The Texas Cannonball”, was a blues guitarist and singer. His guitar skills and energetic performances made him one of the “Three Kings of the Blues Guitar” alongside B.B. King and Albert King. His music is characterized by a raw, passionate sound.
King Crimson
King Crimson is a British rock band that has been influential in progressive rock. Their music incorporates elements of jazz, classical, and experimental tunes. Their debut album, “In the Court of the Crimson King”, is considered a landmark in progressive rock.
Gipsy Kings
The Gipsy Kings are a group of flamenco, salsa, and pop musicians from the south of France. Their music, described as a place where Spanish flamenco and Romani rhapsody meet salsa funk, has a wide international appeal. They are best known for their hit “Bamboleo”.
The High Kings
The High Kings are an Irish folk group formed in Dublin in 2008. They are known for their ability to skillfully combine traditional Irish music with modern folk influences. Their harmonious vocals and engaging performances have earned them a dedicated fan base.
King Diamond
King Diamond is a Danish heavy metal band formed in 1985. The band is known for their theatrical live shows and the high-pitched falsetto of their lead vocalist, also named King Diamond. Their music often incorporates horror elements and complex narratives.
For King & Country
For King & Country is a Christian pop duo composed of Australian-American brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone.
They have won multiple Grammy Awards for their inspirational music, which frequently conveys messages of faith and hope. They have a sizable fan base in the current Christian music scene and are well-known for their energetic live performances.
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard
An Australian rock band, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard is known for their energetic performances and prolific recording output. Their music spans a variety of genres, including psychedelic rock, progressive rock, folk, jazz, and heavy metal.
King Sunny Adé
King Sunny Adé is a Nigerian musician, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist in the West African musical style jùjú. One of the first African pop musicians to gain international success, his music is characterized by the use of African beats and Western pop aesthetics.
King Krule
King Krule is the stage name of English singer-songwriter and musician Archy Ivan Marshall. His music, a mix of punk jazz, hip hop, darkwave, and trip hop, is noted for its raw energy and distinctive baritone vocals.
King Princess
King Princess is the stage name of American singer-songwriter Mikaela Straus. Known for her narrative songwriting and modern take on pop music, she gained popularity with her debut single “1950”.
King’s X
King’s X is an American rock band that combines progressive metal, funk, and soul in their music. Known for their vocal harmonies and philosophical lyrics, they have a dedicated following and have influenced numerous other bands.
King Missile
King Missile is an American avant-garde band known for their blend of spoken word, rock, and dadaist humor. Their most well-known song, “Detachable Penis”, showcases their unique approach to songwriting.
King Tubby
King Tubby was a Jamaican sound engineer who greatly influenced the development of dub in the 1960s and 1970s. His innovative production techniques and remixes were instrumental in shaping the sound of modern reggae music.
The Kingsmen
The Kingsmen are an American rock and roll band known for their 1963 hit version of the song “Louie Louie”. Their raw and energetic sound has made them one of the most influential garage rock bands.
Kings of Leon
Kings of Leon is an American rock band that formed in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1999. The band’s music ranges from southern rock and garage rock to commercial pop. Their hit songs like “Use Somebody” and “Sex on Fire” have gained them international fame.
King Von
King Von was an American rapper and songwriter from Chicago. Known for his vivid storytelling in his lyrics, he was considered one of the rising stars in drill music before his untimely death in 2020.
King’s Singers
The King’s Singers is a British a cappella vocal ensemble founded in 1968. They are known for their precision, warm vocal blend, and engaging performances of a wide range of music genres.
King Tuff
King Tuff is the stage name of American musician and recording artist Kyle Thomas. His music is a blend of garage rock, punk, and psychedelic rock. Known for his energetic performances and catchy melodies, King Tuff has carved out a unique space in the indie rock scene.
Kingmaker
Early in the 1990s, a British indie music group called Kingmaker came to be. They were one of the most prominent groups connected with the “Cool Britannia” movement, defined by their witty lyrics and punk-influenced music.
King Swamp
A British rock group called King Swamp was active in the late 1980s and early 1990s. They incorporated rock, blues, and funk into their music. Their biggest hit, “Is This Love?” made them a household name.
King Parrot
Australian grindcore band King Parrot have earned a reputation for their powerful sound and ferocious live shows. Thrash metal, grindcore, and punk rock are all present in their music.
