10 Bands That Sound Like 311

Finding 10 bands that sound like 311 is no easy task. Their hybridized sound transcends many different musical genres. 311 blends rock, hip-hop, ska, reggae, pop and funk to form a unique mix that’s not only pleasing to the ears but also danceable. These ten bands that sound like 311 also employ a similar mixture of musical styles.

1. Sublime: Pop, ska and reggae came together to form the basis for Sublime’s sound on their major label debut single "What I Got." Like 311, Sublime held a healthy adoration for marijuana culture, which explains why many fans love both bands.
2. Sugar Ray: In terms of commercial success, Sugar Ray is perhaps the most successful of the bands that sound like 311. With their hip-hop and reggae-tinged breakout hit “Fly,” the band found a winning formula and never looked back.
3. The Bloodhound Gang: Hip-hop, rock and alternative punk peppered with lyrical innuendo are the mainstays of this band’s sound. Many 311 fans also find this band enjoyable. Listen to their breakthrough album "Hooray for Boobies" and you'll see why.
4. Goldfinger: Although usually categorized as a “punk band,” Goldfinger should not be omitted from a list of bands that sound like 311. Their albums are heavy with ska, reggae and funk influence. Songs like "Here in Your Bedroom" and "This Lonely Place" are prime examples of their hybridized style.
5. Rage Against the Machine: Fully stocked with an arsenal of rock, hip-hop, funk and a clear-cut political agenda, this band’s sound on the album "Evil Empire" closely resembles 311’s heavier song catalog.
6. 2 Skinnee J’s: Before breaking up in 2003, this Brooklyn band was a frequent touring partner of 311. Their mix of old school hip-hop, funk and rock on songs like "Riot Nrrrd" and "BBQ" results in a unique listening experience.
7. Zebrahead: Blending punk, hip-hop, funk and rock with a heavy dose of humor is this band’s recipe for success. Zebrahead’s blistering guitars and melody-drenched choruses throughout the albums "Playmate of the Year" and "Waste of Mind" result in a sound like 311.
8. Ballyhoo!: Of the bands that sound like 311, this band is probably the most similar. Songs like "I Lately Notice" and "Cali Girl" feature influences from reggae, pop, rock and funk.
9. The Urge: This band broke into the mainstream in 1998 with the single "Jump Right In," blending rock, ska, reggae and tight harmonies. Their mixture of styles produces a sound like 311.
10. Smash Mouth: Reggae, hip-hop, pop and rock come together in Smash Mouth’s sound. Like 311, their unique combination of genres has resulted in multiple hits, such as "All Star" and "Walking on the Sun."