When it comes to defining the sound of late ’70s British punk and post-punk, few bands stand out quite like The Only Ones. With their unmistakable blend of raw energy, intricate guitar work, and the distinct voice of frontman Peter Perrett, the band created a catalog of songs that have captivated fans for decades. Though they never achieved massive commercial success, The Only Ones carved out a unique place in rock history, their music influencing countless artists who followed in their footsteps.
In this article, we’re diving deep into the top 10 most popular The Only Ones songs of all time. From the anthemic “Another Girl, Another Planet”—widely regarded as one of the greatest songs of the era—to hidden gems that showcase the band’s masterful songwriting, these tracks have solidified The Only Ones as cult legends. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the band’s music, this list will take you on a journey through their most iconic moments. Get ready to rediscover—or fall in love with—the songs that have made The Only Ones an enduring force in rock history. Let’s hit play on these timeless classics!
1. Another Girl, Another Planet (1978)
Released as the lead single from The Only Ones’ debut album in 1978, “Another Girl, Another Planet” is widely regarded as the band’s most iconic track, and for good reason. It’s an infectious fusion of punk energy and melodic sophistication, a song that captures the raw power of the punk movement while showcasing the band’s musical range. The track opens with a sharp, jangly guitar riff played by John Perry, which quickly establishes its vibrant, almost irresistible energy. What truly sets this song apart, however, are the wistful, longing lyrics by lead singer Peter Perrett. The lyrics, which are a poetic meditation on love, fleeting relationships, and the complex emotional spaces between them, are both personal and universal. The chorus—”Oh, yeah, I’ve got another girl, another planet”—feels like a declaration of freedom and disillusionment wrapped up in a simple yet deeply emotional line.
While the song wasn’t a chart-topping hit upon its release, its emotional depth, paired with the upbeat, driving rhythm of the song, has turned it into a punk classic over time. It’s the perfect blend of energy and introspection, something that many punk songs of the time struggled to balance. The track’s appeal lies not only in its musical hook but also in its relatability, as Perrett’s reflections on love, isolation, and escape still resonate with listeners today. The song’s effortless cool and bold guitar-driven sound made it an instant favorite among fans of the genre, and it remains a staple of The Only Ones’ catalog. As a piece of punk history, “Another Girl, Another Planet” is unforgettable, its blend of youthful rebellion and tender melancholy capturing the essence of a generation in turmoil.
2. The Beast (1979)
“The Beast,” released as part of The Only Ones’ second album Even Serpents Shine in 1979, takes the band’s sound into darker, moodier territory. It’s a track that stands out for its slow, brooding build and the ominous atmosphere it creates from the first note. The guitar riff is haunting, with John Perry’s licks swirling around Peter Perrett’s impassioned vocal delivery. The lyrics are cryptic, full of internal conflict and existential dread, giving the song a sense of unease and emotional weight that makes it one of the most intense in The Only Ones’ catalog.
At the heart of “The Beast” is the theme of temptation—whether it’s personal demons, love, or addiction, the song presents a battle within oneself, one that cannot easily be escaped. The dark, seething quality of the song is amplified by the tension in the instrumental arrangements, which give the impression of a struggle, both internally and externally. Perrett’s voice is both vulnerable and menacing, a perfect reflection of the song’s subject matter. The track’s slow pace, along with its haunting atmosphere, makes it one of the most brooding and introspective moments on the album.
While not as immediately catchy as some of the band’s other work, “The Beast” has become a fan favorite for its emotional complexity and its ability to explore darker themes without losing the band’s unique musical edge. The track showcases The Only Ones’ versatility and willingness to explore deeper, more introspective territory. It’s a song that lingers in the mind long after it ends, its tension-filled atmosphere impossible to shake.
3. Lovers of Today (1977)
As The Only Ones’ debut single, “Lovers of Today” is an essential piece of the band’s legacy. Released in 1977, the song marked the beginning of their exploration of punk, rock, and pop fusion, with a distinctively raw yet melodic sound. From the outset, the track blends an urgent rhythm section with Peter Perrett’s melancholic, yet magnetic, vocals, creating a sense of urgency that mirrors the lyrical themes of disillusionment and isolation. The song’s hook is memorable, yet its emotional depth makes it stand apart from many of the era’s more straightforward punk anthems.
The lyrics, while dealing with themes of heartache and despair, are tempered by Perrett’s wistful delivery. He sings of love lost and the feeling of being on the outside looking in, his voice carrying both the weight of sadness and a quiet sense of resignation. The guitar work here is a perfect complement to the vocals, with John Perry’s jangly riffs providing a bit of brightness amid the song’s melancholy tone.
Though not as widely known as some of the band’s later releases, “Lovers of Today” is a quintessential early punk track that signals the band’s potential to blend raw, unpolished energy with emotionally complex songwriting. It’s an excellent introduction to the world of The Only Ones, establishing them as a band that would not only help define the punk era but also subvert it with introspective, bittersweet reflections. The track holds a special place in the hearts of fans who appreciate the band’s ability to capture the loneliness and despair of youth without losing the musical edge that made their sound so unique.
4. Why Don’t You Kill Yourself? (1978)
“Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” is one of the most provocative and controversial tracks on The Only Ones’ self-titled debut album. Released in 1978, the song immediately grabs attention with its jarring title and the scathing tone of its lyrics. It’s a raw and unflinching commentary on depression, isolation, and existential nihilism. Perrett’s vocal delivery is biting, yet there’s an underlying sense of vulnerability and confusion that makes the track more than just shock value. The title itself serves as an unsettling provocation, but it also reflects the bleak, self-destructive tendencies that run through the song.
Musically, the song is powered by the band’s signature jangly guitars and driving rhythm section. While it has all the hallmarks of classic punk rock, there’s a depth to the composition that elevates it above the usual fast-paced, rebellious anthems. Perrett’s voice, often sarcastic and caustic, carries the weight of the song’s darker themes while also conveying the inner conflict of the narrator. As unsettling as it is, the song speaks to something more profound: the often-overlooked mental anguish of the human experience.
Despite—or perhaps because of—its controversial title and harsh lyrics, “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” is a standout track that exemplifies The Only Ones’ ability to balance punk energy with deeper emotional and psychological exploration. It’s a testament to their willingness to tackle difficult subjects without pulling punches, and its dark, sardonic humor has earned it a place as one of the most memorable tracks in the band’s discography.
5. Out There in the Night (1979)
Released as part of Even Serpents Shine in 1979, “Out There in the Night” is one of The Only Ones’ more accessible tracks, yet it doesn’t lose the intensity that defines their sound. The song is fast-paced and energetic, with a driving rhythm and a raucous, almost anarchic vibe that perfectly captures the sense of urgency and restlessness that the title suggests. Perrett’s lyrics are cryptic but evocative, painting a picture of the sleepless, restless nights spent in the city—an environment filled with danger, alienation, and a yearning for something beyond the mundane.
What makes “Out There in the Night” stand out, however, is how it balances this frantic energy with moments of introspection. While the song is undeniably fast-paced, there are subtle shifts in dynamics that allow the track to breathe and give Perrett’s vocals room to express the underlying tension. The song doesn’t just reflect the chaos of the night; it also delves into the emotional isolation of its protagonist, who is “out there” searching for meaning amid the confusion and noise.
This duality of energy and introspection is a key part of The Only Ones’ appeal, and “Out There in the Night” is an excellent example of how they can capture a chaotic feeling and make it resonate emotionally. It’s a track that pulls you in with its driving rhythm, but its deeper layers become apparent on repeat listens. It’s a perfect snapshot of the band at their most dynamic and urgent, capturing a moment in time where everything feels at once exhilarating and fleeting.
6. From Here to Eternity (1979)
“From Here to Eternity,” another standout track from The Only Ones’ Even Serpents Shine (1979), is a sweeping, emotionally intense song that illustrates the band’s ability to craft sprawling narratives filled with passion and longing. The song’s lyrics deal with love, loss, and the yearning for something beyond the mundane existence. As the title suggests, the track hints at eternity, a concept that evokes both a sense of timelessness and existential angst. The song’s music reflects this weight, beginning with a delicate, almost haunting verse before building to a powerful, cathartic chorus.
Peter Perrett’s vocal performance is particularly notable here, his voice shifting between moments of vulnerability and raw emotion. The verses are soft and introspective, as if pondering the meaning of love and existence, but when the chorus hits, it erupts with the force of someone who has been holding back for far too long. The band’s instrumental arrangement mirrors this ebb and flow, starting gently and growing into a wall of sound that feels as monumental as the lyrics themselves. The combination of delicate moments and powerful crescendos creates a sense of emotional release that makes “From Here to Eternity” one of the band’s most compelling tracks.
Lyrically, the song is drenched in longing and desire for something that seems just out of reach—perhaps an ideal love, or a sense of fulfillment that can never be attained. It’s a beautiful example of how The Only Ones could balance melancholy with optimism, offering a glimpse of hope even as they explore dark, existential themes. “From Here to Eternity” remains a favorite among fans who appreciate the band’s ability to express complex emotions and make them resonate long after the song ends.
7. No Peace for the Wicked (1978)
“No Peace for the Wicked,” a standout track from The Only Ones’ self-titled 1978 debut album, captures the band at their most intense and unrelenting. The song’s jagged guitars and propulsive rhythm section create an urgent, almost frantic energy that perfectly complements the song’s dark themes. Peter Perrett’s lyrics are full of inner turmoil and existential angst, as he sings of a soul at war with itself, trapped in a cycle of emotional unrest. The track feels both claustrophobic and explosive, as if the narrator is trapped within their own mind, unable to escape the chaos of their thoughts and emotions.
Musically, the song drives forward with an undeniable energy, with each guitar riff and drumbeat building toward a relentless intensity. The rhythm section here is particularly tight, supporting Perrett’s impassioned vocal delivery as he explores themes of alienation, self-doubt, and the inability to find peace in a world filled with turmoil. There’s a rawness to the song that reflects the emotional honesty at the core of The Only Ones’ sound—there’s no sugarcoating or avoidance of difficult topics.
Though the song’s message is bleak, it’s this honesty that makes “No Peace for the Wicked” such a compelling track. It captures a very real sense of existential dread, but also a determination to face it head-on, no matter how difficult. It’s a reflection of the band’s ability to merge punk aggression with profound emotional depth, creating a song that feels as powerful as it does unsettling. The song’s relentless energy and raw emotion have made it a fan favorite and a testament to The Only Ones’ unique ability to tap into the darker aspects of the human experience.
8. Miles from Nowhere (1979)
“Miles from Nowhere,” a hidden gem from The Only Ones’ Even Serpents Shine (1979), is a haunting, atmospheric track that stands in stark contrast to the more energetic, punk-driven songs in the band’s catalog. The song’s slow tempo and melancholy mood create a sense of isolation, with Peter Perrett’s introspective lyrics echoing the feeling of being far removed from everything familiar. It’s a song that explores themes of alienation, longing, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels distant and indifferent.
The instrumentation is subtle, with the band opting for a more restrained approach compared to their usual driving rhythms. The music here feels almost dreamlike, with the guitar lines weaving in and out, creating a sense of movement through a vast, empty space. Perrett’s vocals are quiet and introspective, almost whispering his thoughts as he sings of being “miles from nowhere.” There’s a sense of sadness in his voice, but it’s tempered by a quiet resignation, as if he’s come to accept the isolation he feels.
The beauty of “Miles from Nowhere” lies in its ability to convey such a strong sense of melancholy without becoming overwhelming. The track’s subtle, atmospheric qualities give it a timeless quality, and its introspective mood makes it one of the more reflective and emotionally resonant songs in the band’s catalog. It’s a track that rewards repeated listening, with each listen revealing new layers of meaning and emotion. “Miles from Nowhere” is a perfect example of how The Only Ones could craft deeply emotional songs that felt both personal and universal, capturing the essence of loneliness and introspection in a way that still resonates today.
9. In Betweens (1978)
“In Betweens,” another standout from The Only Ones’ self-titled debut album, is a song that encapsulates everything that made the band so unique. It’s a mix of punk swagger, infectious melodies, and introspective lyrics, all delivered with the raw energy that defined their sound. The track opens with a driving guitar riff and a beat that propels the song forward, giving it a sense of urgency and motion. Peter Perrett’s vocals are equal parts defiant and vulnerable, his voice capturing the tension between the need for connection and the feeling of being disconnected from the world around him.
Lyrically, the song explores themes of uncertainty, disillusionment, and the struggle to find a sense of belonging. Perrett’s words convey a sense of being caught between two worlds—no longer fully part of one, but not yet able to commit to the other. It’s a feeling of being in limbo, unsure of where to go or who to turn to. This theme of existential uncertainty is a recurring motif in the band’s work, and “In Betweens” captures it perfectly, making it one of the most relatable songs in their catalog.
The song’s infectious chorus, paired with its punchy rhythm and memorable guitar riffs, makes it one of the more upbeat tracks in their discography. Despite the heavy themes of the lyrics, the song has a certain energy that makes it impossible to ignore. It’s a perfect snapshot of The Only Ones’ ability to balance punk energy with emotional depth, creating a song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt caught between two places, unsure of where they belong.
10. The Big Sleep (1978)
“The Big Sleep,” the haunting closer of The Only Ones’ 1978 debut album, is a track that lingers long after the music has stopped. It’s a slow, atmospheric song that builds gradually, creating a sense of unease and introspection. Peter Perrett’s lyrics are cryptic and poetic, exploring themes of mortality, despair, and the inevitable passage of time. The song’s mood is dark and introspective, and it feels like the band’s way of confronting the ultimate question of existence—the big sleep, or death, that we all must face eventually.
Musically, the song is less frantic than some of the other tracks on the album, instead opting for a more deliberate pace that allows the haunting melody to take center stage. The instrumentation is sparse at times, with the band allowing space for the atmosphere to breathe. This creates a sense of tension, as if the song is building toward something monumental, but it never quite resolves. It’s a track that refuses to offer easy answers or closure, much like the questions it raises about life and death.
“The Big Sleep” is not an easy song to digest, but it’s one of the band’s most powerful and thought-provoking moments. Its somber tone and introspective lyrics make it a fitting end to an album that explores themes of love, loss, and existential uncertainty. It’s a testament to The Only Ones’ ability to push boundaries and tackle complex, heavy topics without resorting to melodrama. The song’s lingering melancholy is a perfect reflection of the band’s ability to create music that stays with the listener, long after the final note has been played.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
