Members

Select a The Kinks band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

About

The Kinks are an iconic British rock band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of North London in 1963. Known for their distinct blend of rock, pop, and a uniquely English perspective, the group was formed by brothers Ray Davies (vocals, guitar) and Dave Davies (lead guitar, vocals), along with Pete Quaife (bass) and Mick Avory (drums). The Kinks' music traverses a variety of genres, including rock, pop, garage rock, and psychedelic rock, making them a pivotal part of the British Invasion and influential to generations of musicians. Their early work, characterized by raw energy and catchy hooks, evolved into more sophisticated storytelling and concept albums, solidifying their legacy as pioneers of rock music.

How to Sound Like The Kinks

The Kinks' sound is a dynamic tapestry of gritty guitar riffs and melodic hooks, often underpinned by Ray Davies' sharp, observational lyrics. This sonic character is both raw and melodic, striking a balance between aggression and tunefulness. Dave Davies' innovative use of distortion, famously achieved with a slashed speaker cone on an Elpico AC55 "Little Green Amp", contributed to the band's early proto-punk edge. The incorporation of varied guitars, such as the Fender Telecaster and Harmony Meteor, allowed for a diverse range of tones, from jangly rhythms to powerful leads. The band's music is further enriched by the rhythmic drive of Avory's drumming and Quaife's bass lines, creating a compelling blend of rhythm and melody that defines The Kinks' enduring sound.

Discography

Get the The Kinks Sound

Want to sound like The Kinks? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.

Similar Artists

The Beatles

The Beatles

The Move

The Move

The Zombies

The Zombies

The Yardbirds

The Yardbirds

The Small Faces

The Small Faces

The Who

The Who

The Pretty Things

The Pretty Things

The Troggs

The Troggs

Marc Bolan

Marc Bolan

Singer, Guitarist · T. Rex

Manfred Mann

Manfred Mann

Keyboardist · Manfred Mann's Earth Band

John Entwistle

John Entwistle

Singer, Bassist · The Who

T. Rex

T. Rex