Siouxsie and the Banshees

Siouxsie and the Banshees formed in London in 1976, emerging from the same punk scene that produced the Sex Pistols, and quickly became one of the defining acts of post-punk and the darker edges of new wave. Fronted by Siouxsie Sioux, with Steven Severin on bass as the band's other constant member, the group built a sound around icy, atmospheric guitar textures, tribal drumming, and Siouxsie's commanding, theatrical voice, moving well beyond punk's three-chord template into something more gothic, cinematic, and art-rock in spirit.

Over eleven studio albums released between 1978 and 1995, the band's lineup shifted considerably, with guitarist John McGeoch and drummer Budgie among the most influential contributors to their evolving sound. Singles like «Hong Kong Garden», «Spellbound», «Israel», and «Peek-a-Boo» showcased their range, from brittle, jagged post-punk to lush, almost orchestral pop, while their cover of «Dear Prudence» became one of their biggest hits.

Siouxsie and the Banshees are widely credited as a foundational influence on goth rock and alternative music more broadly, shaping artists across post-punk, dream pop, and industrial scenes. The band split in 1996, but their catalogue remains a touchstone for anyone tracing the roots of gothic and art-driven rock.