Belle and Sebastian

United Kingdom, 1996–now

Glasgow band led by Stuart Murdoch, formed in 1996. If You're Feeling Sinister and The Boy with the Arab Strap wrapped bookish, bittersweet vignettes in gentle folk-pop and chamber arrangements, becoming a defining influence on twee and indie-pop.

MusicRoots documents 2 artists who influenced Belle and Sebastian and 0 artists Belle and Sebastian influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Belle and Sebastian?

• The Smiths — The Smiths' literate, melodic jangle-pop is a foundational model for Belle and Sebastian's bookish indie-pop.
• The Velvet Underground — The Velvet Underground's quieter, folk-tinged songs feed Belle and Sebastian's gentle chamber-pop.