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The Best Indie Duos Of All-Time

Here are the greatest duos in indie music history. Independent music is not just for hipsters anymore. With the advent of online streaming, it is easier than ever for people to discover indie artists who upload their music onto Spotify or Soundcloud. Plenty of artists have proven that it is possible to create stellar music without the backing of a major record label. In fact, what is even more impressive is that many of these artists can do so with just two people in the band. This list has the best indie duos from today and decades ago. Which two-person groups fill your heart with joy? Indie music tends to fall into various other subgenres, including lo-fi, noise rock, jangle pop, and math rock. These bands come from all over the globe. Matt and Kim originally hailed from Brooklyn, and now they make infectious indie pop and rock music worldwide. Meanwhile, Japandroids come from Vancouver, Canada, and have really made a name for themsleves in the alternative rock scene throughout North America. You may not have heard of all the artists on this list, and that is totally okay. There are plenty of new indie duos to familiarize yourself with, and after checking out this list, you may just discover your new favorite male/female duet! Vote for the artists you end up liking most below, and try to vote based on the quality of their songs rather than simply their fame or social media following.

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  1. 1

    MGMT

    MGMT, comprised of Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser, has been synonymous with genre-defying brilliance since their debut in 2007 with Oracular Spectacular. Known for their kaleidoscopic fusion of psychedelia, electronica, and indie rock, this duo has pushed the boundaries of conventional pop music. Their iconic songs, such as "Kids" and "Electric Feel," have left a lasting impact on the indie scene, making MGMT a defining force for the ages.

    80% upvoted
  2. 2

    Beach House

    Immersive and ethereal, Beach House is renowned for their dreamy soundscapes, blending lush synths, reverb-drenched guitars, and Victoria Legrand's mesmerizing vocals. With a discography spanning seven albums, this Baltimore-based duo has left an indelible mark on the indie scene since their debut in 2006. Some of their most notable tracks, such as "Myth" and "Lazuli," showcase their ability to create music that transports listeners to another realm. Few bands have captured the hearts and minds of fans quite like Beach House, earning them a rightful place among the greats.

    78% upvoted
  3. 3

    Ibeyi

    French-Cuban twins Lisa-Kaindé and Naomi Diaz form the spellbinding duo known as Ibeyi. Blending elements of soul, electronica, and traditional Yoruba music, they craft a sonic universe that transcends borders and genres. Their debut album, released in 2015, garnered widespread acclaim for its evocative storytelling and mesmerizing harmonies. Standout tracks like "River" and "Deathless" showcase the duo's ability to weave a rich tapestry of sound, cementing their place among the most innovative and powerful voices in indie music.

    89% upvoted
  4. 4

    Better Oblivion Community Center

    A potent collaboration between indie heavyweights Phoebe Bridgers and Conor Oberst, Better Oblivion Community Center burst onto the scene in 2019 with their critically acclaimed self-titled debut. Boasting introspective lyrics and a rich sonic palette, their unique brand of folk-rock seamlessly bridges the gap between their respective solo careers. Songs like "Dylan Thomas" wonderfully showcase the duo's ability to craft memorable hooks and poignant storytelling. There's no denying the immense impact Better Oblivion Community Center has had in such a short time.

    79% upvoted
  5. 5

    She & Him

    She & Him, the enchanting partnership of actress Zooey Deschanel and musician M. Ward, has delighted fans since their debut album in 2008. Their seamless fusion of indie-folk, vintage pop, and Americana showcases Deschanel's warm vocals and Ward's masterful arrangements. Memorable tunes like "Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?" and "In the Sun" illustrate their talent for creating timeless, feel-good music. She & Him's charming sound and enduring appeal have secured their place among the best in indie music.

    81% upvoted
  6. 6

    Matt and Kim

    Brooklyn-based duo Matt and Kim have been spreading joy with their infectious indie-pop anthems since 2005. Comprised of Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino, their energetic sound is characterized by upbeat melodies, catchy hooks, and undeniably fun lyrics. Tracks like "Daylight" and "Get It" showcase their ability to infuse positivity and excitement into every tune. Matt and Kim's lively performances and irresistible charm have earned them a dedicated fanbase and a spot among the finest in indie music.

    78% upvoted
  7. 7

    Cults

    Since bursting onto the scene in 2010, Cults has been captivating fans with their hypnotic blend of indie-pop and dreamy nostalgia. Madeline Follin's hauntingly beautiful vocals, paired with Brian Oblivion's lush arrangements, create a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. Songs like "Go Outside" and "Abducted" showcase the duo's talent for crafting evocative tunes that transport listeners to a bygone era. Cults has undoubtedly secured their place among the indie elite with their alluring melodies and compelling songwriting.

    78% upvoted
  8. 8

    The Kills

    The Kills, composed of Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince, forged their reputation as indie icons with their distinctive blend of garage rock, punk, and blues. Since forming in 2000, they have continued to push the boundaries of rock music, delivering powerful riffs and commanding lyrics that captivate audiences worldwide. Signature tunes like "U.R.A. Fever" and "Sour Cherry" highlight their undeniable talent for creating raw, visceral, and infectious music. The Kills' distinctive style and fearless approach have earned them a well-deserved place in indie history.

    78% upvoted
  9. 9

    The Blue Stones

    The Blue Stones stand out as a powerhouse of blues-rock, melding together heavy guitar riffs with soulful vocals and thunderous drumming. Consisting of Tarek Jafar and Justin Tessier, this Canadian duo has injected new life into the genre since their formation in 2011. Tracks like "Black Holes (Solid Ground)" perfectly embody the raw emotion and energy that has become synonymous with their live performances. This potent combination of talent and vision solidifies The Blue Stones' status as indie royalty.

    83% upvoted
  10. 10

    Wild Belle

    Sibling duo Natalie and Elliot Bergman, known as Wild Belle, have captivated fans since 2011 with their distinctive blend of indie rock, reggae, and soul. Their sultry sound, characterized by Natalie's smoky vocals and Elliot's versatile instrumentation, exudes an air of timeless cool and effortless charm. Standout singles like "Keep You" and "Throw Down Your Guns" showcase their unique style and undeniable allure. Wild Belle's seamless melding of diverse genres ensures their place among the indie pantheon.

    83% upvoted