Few bands have left as indelible a mark on the music world as The Stranglers. Emerging from the punk explosion of the late 1970s, this British band carved their own unique path, blending punk, new wave, and rock with an edge that’s both dark and magnetic. From their snarling basslines to haunting keyboards, their eclectic sound and razor-sharp lyrics captivated generations of fans. The Stranglers weren’t just another band; they were innovators who pushed boundaries, delivering songs that were bold, unflinching, and timeless.
Over the years, The Stranglers have amassed a treasure trove of unforgettable tracks. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer looking to dive into their legendary discography, this list of their top 10 most popular songs is your gateway to their genius. From rebellious anthems to introspective ballads, these tracks showcase the band’s versatility, creativity, and raw power. Each song tells a story, evoking a range of emotions while solidifying their place as one of the most influential bands of their era.
So, turn up the volume and prepare to immerse yourself in the unforgettable sounds of The Stranglers. Let’s count down their most iconic tracks and celebrate the legacy of a band like no other!
1. Peaches (1977)
“Peaches” stands as one of The Stranglers’ most iconic and groundbreaking tracks, released in 1977 as part of their debut album Rattus Norvegicus. The song immediately grabs attention with its unforgettable bassline, courtesy of Jean-Jacques Burnel, which serves as the track’s pulsating heartbeat. Burnel’s bass creates an infectious rhythm that’s both seductive and raw, setting the tone for the song’s gritty yet playful nature. Alongside him, Hugh Cornwell’s sardonic and often provocative lyrics give “Peaches” its edge, telling a cheeky yet darkly humorous tale that captures the essence of urban life in the late ’70s. The song’s laid-back tempo and sharp, observational tone make it a perfect blend of punk’s rebellious spirit and The Stranglers’ own distinctive style.
The track’s lyrics, while seemingly about a romantic entanglement, are filled with subtext, commenting on the societal norms and the frustrations of living in a metropolitan environment. The line between lust and critique is often blurred, and it’s this complexity that makes “Peaches” resonate with listeners even today. It’s a song that doesn’t just exist as a catchy tune—it challenges the status quo and invites listeners to question what they see around them. The Stranglers, at this stage, were not just another punk band—they were establishing themselves as artists who could push boundaries. With its combination of sharp humor, infectious rhythm, and keen social commentary, “Peaches” remains a standout track in their catalog, perfectly encapsulating the rebellious energy of 1970s music.
What truly sets “Peaches” apart is its ability to combine this boldness with accessibility. The track’s infectious groove makes it impossible not to move to the beat, and its unique sound made it a fixture of the punk era, allowing it to stand out in a genre known for its fast-paced, raw energy. It’s a perfect example of how The Stranglers effortlessly blended rebellion with catchiness, establishing themselves as key players in the punk revolution.
2. No More Heroes (1977)
Released in 1977, “No More Heroes” quickly became a rallying cry for disillusioned youth and a defining anthem of the late ’70s. Featured on their second album No More Heroes, the song takes aim at the notion of heroism, tearing down the pedestal on which society places its idols. Through references to historical figures like Leon Trotsky and comedian Lenny Bruce, the band critiques the failure of these so-called heroes to live up to their mythic status, pointing out the fallibility and disillusionment that comes with idolizing people who are just as flawed as anyone else.
The song opens with a driving guitar riff that sets the tone for the urgency and intensity of the track. As the song builds, Dave Greenfield’s swirling keyboards add an atmospheric layer that gives it a sense of complexity, reinforcing the notion that nothing is as simple as it seems. The energetic, propulsive rhythm of the song mirrors the frustration and restlessness of the punk movement itself, as if the music is challenging the listener to wake up and question the narratives they’ve been fed. The power of “No More Heroes” lies in its relentless pace and the way it perfectly encapsulates the disillusionment and anger felt by many in the face of a changing world. It’s a call to arms—rejecting false idols and embracing the real, raw, and imperfect aspects of life.
Lyrically, the song is both biting and witty, with Cornwell’s delivery of the words adding a sardonic layer to the commentary. His voice drips with skepticism and dissatisfaction, creating a mood that captures the essence of the era. The chorus, with its repeated refrain, becomes an anthem of defiance against the idea of hero worship and a reminder that we all must face the reality of human imperfection. “No More Heroes” remains a punk classic, embodying the genre’s core message of rebellion, individuality, and a refusal to conform.
3. Golden Brown (1981)
“Golden Brown,” released in 1981 as part of The Stranglers’ La Folie album, represents a striking departure from the punk sound the band initially embraced. Instead of the fast-paced aggression of their earlier work, the song features a slower, more hypnotic tempo, underscored by harpsichord melodies that give it an almost baroque feel. This shift in sound marked The Stranglers’ increasing willingness to experiment with different musical influences, and “Golden Brown” became one of their most commercially successful tracks, reaching the Top 10 in the UK charts.
The song is a masterclass in lyrical ambiguity. While many listeners have interpreted “Golden Brown” as a metaphor for heroin, others have suggested it could be a love song, possibly about a woman. The cryptic lyrics are open to multiple interpretations, and the band’s deliberate vagueness adds to the song’s haunting allure. The refrain “Golden brown, texture like sun” evokes images of both warmth and addiction, and the lush arrangement, including the harpsichord and gentle rhythm, contributes to the dream-like quality of the song. It’s a track that feels both timeless and ephemeral, capturing the allure of something both beautiful and dangerous.
The music itself is equally captivating. The harpsichord creates a regal atmosphere, while the rhythm section is tight and restrained, providing a gentle backbone to the otherwise dreamy melody. Hugh Cornwell’s vocals are smooth and measured, contrasting with the sharpness of the band’s earlier work, yet perfectly suited to the sensual nature of the track. “Golden Brown” is a track that you can lose yourself in, its melodies and lyrics weaving together into a surreal, intoxicating experience. It’s a song that demonstrates The Stranglers’ musical versatility, proving they were not just a punk band but a group capable of crafting intricate and beautiful music.
As much as “Golden Brown” marked a departure from the band’s previous sound, it also solidified their ability to transcend genre limitations. The song’s success, both commercially and critically, highlighted the band’s evolution and their skill in blending various musical styles into something entirely unique.
4. Always the Sun (1986)
Released in 1986, “Always the Sun” represents a more polished, radio-friendly side of The Stranglers, but it remains one of their most uplifting and enduring tracks. Featured on the album Dreamtime, the song’s themes revolve around the cycles of life, the inevitability of change, and the fleeting nature of time. With its shimmering guitars and anthemic chorus, “Always the Sun” carries a sense of optimism that contrasts with some of the darker, more cynical tones of earlier Stranglers’ work. The song’s uplifting nature makes it a stand-out track, one that resonates with listeners on a deeper, more universal level.
The lyrics to “Always the Sun” reflect on the inevitability of change and how life, despite its ups and downs, continues to move forward. The line “Always the sun, always the same” serves as a reminder of the constancy of nature, despite the personal struggles people may face. It’s a meditation on resilience and the idea that, no matter how difficult life may seem at times, there is always the potential for renewal, much like the sun rising each day.
The music itself is infectious and has an almost anthemic quality, driven by bright, jangly guitars and a melody that is both uplifting and reflective. The vocals, delivered with warmth and sincerity by Hugh Cornwell, enhance the song’s message of hope and resilience. While the song’s production is slicker and more radio-friendly compared to earlier, rawer Stranglers’ material, it still retains the band’s distinctive edge. The track became one of their biggest hits and remains a fan favorite, in part because of its hopeful message and its ability to resonate with listeners across generations.
“Always the Sun” stands as a testament to The Stranglers’ ability to evolve while still retaining the core elements that made them unique. It’s a perfect balance between catchy, accessible pop and the band’s signature introspective lyricism. Even decades after its release, the song continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and its powerful, hopeful message.
5. Strange Little Girl (1982)
Released as a standalone single in 1982, “Strange Little Girl” is a haunting and atmospheric track that delves into themes of isolation and misunderstanding. The song tells the story of a young woman who is emotionally distant, lost in her own world, and misunderstood by those around her. The track’s ethereal melodies and moody atmosphere create a sense of unease, perfectly matching the melancholic tone of the lyrics. The Stranglers’ ability to capture the essence of emotional complexity through music is showcased brilliantly here, as the band paints a vivid portrait of this mysterious character.
Musically, “Strange Little Girl” stands out for its eerie, almost gothic quality. The track features a brooding keyboard arrangement from Dave Greenfield that complements the mood of the lyrics, while Burnel’s bassline provides a solid, dark foundation. The overall production gives the song a sense of space, creating a feeling of loneliness and introspection. The hauntingly beautiful melody, paired with Hugh Cornwell’s subdued yet evocative vocals, creates an atmosphere that is both mysterious and captivating. The song’s slow, methodical pace further contributes to the sense of isolation and emotional distance that pervades the lyrics.
“Strange Little Girl” was written before the band’s debut album, but it was finally recorded and released after they had left EMI. The song’s emotional depth and introspective tone made it a standout in their catalog, offering a stark contrast to their more aggressive, punk-infused material. While not as commercially successful as some of their other hits, “Strange Little Girl” has remained a fan favorite due to its haunting beauty and emotional resonance. It’s a testament to The Stranglers’ ability to explore darker, more complex emotions through their music.
6. Get a Grip (On Yourself) (1977)
“Get a Grip (On Yourself)” is one of The Stranglers’ quintessential punk anthems, capturing the raw, rebellious spirit of the late ’70s. Released in 1977 as part of their debut album Rattus Norvegicus, this track is fast, frenetic, and uncompromising, showcasing the band’s punk roots in full force. The song opens with a blistering guitar riff that immediately sets the tone, followed by an aggressive bassline and Dave Greenfield’s sharp, swirling keyboards. It’s a sonic explosion that demands attention, reflecting the band’s early energy and defiance.
The lyrics, as delivered by Hugh Cornwell with a mixture of sneering bravado and urgency, convey a message of self-reliance and personal responsibility. The title itself, “Get a Grip (On Yourself),” serves as a call to action, urging listeners to take control of their lives and emotions. It’s a straightforward message, but it’s delivered with the kind of energy that resonates deeply with anyone familiar with the punk ethos of rejecting authority and embracing independence. The song’s aggressive pace and in-your-face attitude make it a perfect example of the raw, untamed spirit of early punk.
Despite its aggressive sound, “Get a Grip (On Yourself)” also features moments of playful humor, particularly in the way the band uses their instruments to create tension and release throughout the track. The rhythm section, tight and driving, propels the song forward, while Greenfield’s keyboards add an unexpected twist, giving the track a bit of a surreal edge amidst the chaos. The interplay between the instruments adds a complexity to the song that elevates it beyond simple punk noise, giving it an irresistible pull.
“Get a Grip (On Yourself)” is an essential track in The Stranglers’ catalog because it perfectly encapsulates the raw, unpolished aggression of their early years while also hinting at the band’s growing musical sophistication. It’s one of those songs that still sounds as urgent and relevant today as it did when it first hit the airwaves.
7. Skin Deep (1984)
“Skin Deep” marked a pivotal shift in The Stranglers’ sound, moving away from their gritty, punk-infused roots and embracing a more polished, synth-driven style. Released in 1984 as part of the album Aural Sculpture, this track is a sleek, introspective exploration of the themes of trust, betrayal, and the superficial nature of appearances. With its sophisticated production, the song represents The Stranglers’ maturation as artists, demonstrating their ability to craft more radio-friendly material without sacrificing the depth and complexity that defined their earlier work.
The song opens with a smooth, hypnotic synth line, which sets the tone for the track’s reflective and somewhat melancholy mood. As the song progresses, the rhythm section builds, layering more textures and creating an immersive, atmospheric sound that contrasts with the raw energy of the band’s earlier work. Hugh Cornwell’s vocals are delivered with a sense of detachment, which adds to the song’s overall sense of emotional distance. His performance captures the feeling of someone reflecting on a broken relationship, and the lyrics convey a sense of hurt and disillusionment, particularly in lines like “Skin deep, but it’s still the same.”
The musical arrangement is one of the song’s standout features, with its intricate use of synthesizers, layered guitars, and a steady rhythm that gives the track a smooth, almost seductive quality. The song builds and evolves throughout its runtime, creating an emotional journey that mirrors the lyrical themes of deception and emotional distance. The chorus, with its infectious hook, is one of the track’s most memorable elements, while the verses create a sense of quiet reflection and emotional complexity.
“Skin Deep” remains one of The Stranglers’ most enduring hits, thanks to its combination of sophisticated production, catchy melodies, and introspective lyrics. It’s a song that stands out in the band’s catalog for its ability to merge new-wave sensibilities with their signature dark, introspective lyricism, showing the band’s versatility and willingness to evolve with the times.
8. Nice ‘n’ Sleazy (1978)
“Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” is one of The Stranglers’ most experimental tracks, showcasing the band’s ability to craft a song that is both provocative and hypnotic. Released in 1978 on their album Black and White, the track features a slinky, repetitive bassline that immediately draws you in. The song’s lyrics, delivered with a knowing sneer by Hugh Cornwell, tell a tale of the darker side of life, with references to indulgence, hedonism, and moral ambiguity. It’s a track that doesn’t shy away from its subject matter, instead embracing its sleazy, almost seductive tone.
The song’s production is a standout feature, with its murky bass and eerie keyboard lines creating a feeling of unease. The rhythm section, driven by Jean-Jacques Burnel’s bass, gives the track its sensual, almost sinister energy, while Dave Greenfield’s keyboards provide a touch of otherworldliness, enhancing the song’s eerie atmosphere. The tension between the bassline and the swirling keyboards creates a hypnotic effect that keeps the listener engaged, even as the lyrics paint a picture of moral decay and excess.
Lyrically, “Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” is a commentary on the seedy underbelly of society, highlighting the contradictions and complexities that exist in a world where appearances can be deceiving. It’s a song that walks the fine line between attraction and repulsion, seducing the listener with its infectious groove while simultaneously challenging them to think about the moral implications of its subject matter. Cornwell’s delivery, dripping with sarcasm and cynicism, adds to the track’s allure, making it impossible to ignore.
“Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” remains one of The Stranglers’ most intriguing tracks, not only for its musical experimentation but also for its daring exploration of taboo subjects. The song is a perfect example of the band’s ability to create music that is both challenging and catchy, making it a standout in their discography. It’s a track that continues to captivate listeners, offering a glimpse into the darker side of life with a groove that is impossible to resist.
9. Walk On By (1978)
The Stranglers’ cover of Dionne Warwick’s classic “Walk On By” is a prime example of the band’s ability to take an iconic track and transform it into something completely their own. Released in 1978 as a standalone single, The Stranglers’ version of “Walk On By” is a sprawling, seven-minute epic that reinterprets the original song through the lens of their punk and new-wave influences. While Warwick’s version is smooth and soulful, The Stranglers inject their own brand of urgency and intensity into the track, creating a version that feels raw and emotionally charged.
The song begins with a haunting, minimalist keyboard arrangement that sets the mood for the track. From there, the band builds the song with layers of instruments, including Burnel’s seductive bassline and Greenfield’s atmospheric keyboards, creating a tension that grows throughout the track. The Stranglers’ version of “Walk On By” is slower and more methodical than the original, but it retains the emotional core of the song. As the band gradually builds to a powerful crescendo, the track takes on a dramatic, almost cinematic quality, leaving the listener captivated from beginning to end.
Hugh Cornwell’s vocal delivery is one of the key elements that sets this version of “Walk On By” apart from the original. His voice is more restrained and haunting than Warwick’s, adding a layer of melancholy and introspection to the song. The song’s extended length allows the band to stretch out musically, with long instrumental breaks and moments of tension that make the track feel more like an immersive experience than a simple cover. The Stranglers turn “Walk On By” into a sweeping, atmospheric journey, one that showcases their ability to reinvent a classic in their own image.
Despite not being a commercial hit like some of their other tracks, “Walk On By” remains a fan favorite due to its bold reinvention of a familiar song and its emotional depth. It stands as a testament to The Stranglers’ ability to take risks and push boundaries while still capturing the essence of the original material.
10. Duchess (1979)
“Duchess” is a quirky and playful track from The Stranglers’ 1979 album The Raven, and it stands out as one of the band’s more accessible and catchy songs. The song blends a jaunty melody with sharp social commentary, offering a biting critique of class and societal expectations. The track’s upbeat tempo and infectious chorus make it one of the band’s most radio-friendly songs, but the lyrics reveal a deeper, more cynical view of the world.
The song tells the story of a woman, the Duchess, who is caught up in the expectations of her social class and the rigid roles imposed upon her by society. Through the lyrics, The Stranglers critique the hypocrisy and superficiality of the upper class, all while wrapping the message in a catchy, upbeat package. The juxtaposition of the song’s lighthearted melody with its cutting commentary is one of its most striking features, showcasing the band’s ability to mix humor and critique seamlessly.
Musically, “Duchess” features a jaunty piano riff and a driving rhythm section that gives the song an infectious energy. The melody is bouncy and memorable, making it a track that sticks in your head long after it’s over. Cornwell’s vocals are delivered with a sense of sarcasm and irony, adding to the song’s biting tone.
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.
