Fatboy Slim, also known as Norman Cook, is a British musician, DJ, and producer who rose to fame in the 1990s with his innovative electronic dance music. Cook’s music is known for its catchy beats, infectious grooves, and high-energy performances, which have made him a popular figure in the dance music scene. Over the years, Fatboy Slim has released a number of critically acclaimed albums and singles, including “Praise You,” “Right Here, Right Now,” and “The Rockafeller Skank.” His music often incorporates elements of funk, hip-hop, and house music, and his innovative approach to sampling and remixing has made him a pioneer in the electronic dance music genre. In this article, we will explore some of the best Fatboy Slim songs of all time. From the anthemic “Weapon of Choice” to the funky “Gangster Trippin’,” we will delve into the themes and musical elements that make these songs so memorable. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering Fatboy Slim’s music, this list is sure to showcase the best of his unique style and talent. Join us as we take a journey through the best Fatboy Slim songs of all time, and discover why he remains one of the most influential figures in the dance music world.
1. Fatboy Slim – “Praise You”
“Praise You” is a song by British DJ and producer Fatboy Slim, released in 1999. The track features a sample from “Take Yo’ Praise” by Camille Yarbrough, which is used throughout the song. The music video, directed by Spike Jonze, features a group of amateur dancers performing in front of a movie theater. The video won multiple awards, including three MTV Video Music Awards. “Praise You” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in multiple countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States. It remains one of Fatboy Slim’s most popular and recognizable songs.
2. Fatboy Slim – “The Rockafeller Skank”
“The Rockafeller Skank” is a song by Fatboy Slim, released in 1998. The track features samples from “Sliced Tomatoes” by Just Brothers and “Beat Girl” by John Barry, among others. The song’s distinctive vocal hook, “Right about now, the funk soul brother / Check it out now, the funk soul brother”, is taken from a Wildstylez track called “The Funk Soul Brother”. The song’s music video features a group of people performing a dance routine in front of a cinema in Los Angeles. “The Rockafeller Skank” became a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries and earning critical acclaim for its use of sampling and danceability.
3. Fatboy Slim – “Weapon of Choice” Feat. Bootsy Collins
“Weapon of Choice” is a classic track from Fatboy Slim’s 2000 album “Halfway Between the Gutter and the Stars.” The song features the legendary funk bassist Bootsy Collins and has an unforgettable music video directed by Spike Jonze, featuring actor Christopher Walken dancing and flying around a hotel lobby. The track’s infectious beat and catchy lyrics make it an instant party anthem, and its popularity has endured through the years, making it a staple of dance floors and sports events alike. “Weapon of Choice” is a true testament to Fatboy Slim’s innovative approach to electronic music and his ability to create tracks that are both fun and meaningful.
4. Fatboy Slim – “Right Here, Right Now”
“Right Here, Right Now” is a 1999 big beat track by Fatboy Slim, released as a single from his album “You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby”. The song features a prominent sample of the track “Ashley’s Roachclip” by The Soul Searchers. The music video, directed by Spike Jonze, features a continuous shot of a man walking down a busy street, transforming into different people and scenarios, while the song plays in the background. The track was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning Fatboy Slim a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video.
5. Fatboy Slim & Riva Starr – “Eat, Sleep, Rave, Repeat” Feat. Beardyman
“Eat, Sleep, Rave, Repeat” is a collaboration between Fatboy Slim and Riva Starr featuring Beardyman. The song is a dance floor anthem that features the repetitive lyrics “Eat, sleep, rave, repeat” set to an infectious beat. The song has become a staple in electronic dance music, with its catchy hook and energetic vibe. The music video for the song features a group of partygoers who continue to party through the night and into the early morning, embodying the spirit of the song. The track is a testament to Fatboy Slim’s ability to create timeless electronic music that continues to captivate audiences.
6. Groove Armada – “I See You” Feat. Gram’ma Funk (Fatboy Slim Remix)
“I See You” is a song by British electronic music duo Groove Armada featuring Gram’ma Funk. The track was released in 1999 and later remixed by Fatboy Slim, which added a more energetic and upbeat sound to the original track. The remix features a driving bassline and an infectious drum beat that are complemented by Gram’ma Funk’s soulful vocals. The track became a hit in the UK and earned Fatboy Slim a nomination for Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical at the 43rd Annual Grammy Awards in 2001.
7. Fatboy Slim – “Star 69”
“Star 69” is a song by Fatboy Slim, released in 2001. The song is based on a sample from “I Get Deep” by Roland Clark, which has been pitched up and down to create a catchy hook. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, with the titular phrase “Star 69” repeated throughout the song. The song’s music video features an animated version of Fatboy Slim, as well as several women dancing and performing acrobatics. “Star 69” became a hit in dance clubs and on radio stations, and remains a popular track in Fatboy Slim’s discography.
8. Fatboy Slim – “Gangster Trippin’”
“Gangster Trippin’” is a classic dance track from Fatboy Slim’s 1998 album “You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby”. The song features a prominent sample from the 1975 track “The Kettle” by Colosseum, as well as a vocal sample from the track “Beat Girl” by John Barry. The song’s catchy beat and infectious energy made it a hit on dance floors around the world, and it has since become a staple of Fatboy Slim’s live performances. The accompanying music video, directed by Spike Jonze, features a group of elderly people breaking out into a spontaneous dance party in a nursing home.
9. Fatboy Slim – “Demons” Feat. Macy Gray
“Demons” is a collaboration between Fatboy Slim and American singer Macy Gray. Released in 2001, the track features Gray’s distinctive soulful vocals over a funky, up-tempo beat that is characteristic of Fatboy Slim’s signature sound. The song’s lyrics explore the idea of confronting one’s inner demons and overcoming them, with Gray singing “Demons, I’ve got demons, I’ve got demons inside, so I pray, I’m hoping the Lord will take me away”. The combination of Gray’s emotive vocals and Fatboy Slim’s infectious production make “Demons” a standout track from both artists’ discographies.
10. Fatboy Slim – “Sunset (Bird of Prey)”
Fatboy Slim’s “Sunset (Bird of Prey)” is a downtempo electronic track with a haunting melody and ethereal vocals. The song features samples from Jim Morrison’s poetry, layered over a hypnotic beat and atmospheric synths. The track is both reflective and melancholic, evoking a sense of introspection and contemplation. The accompanying music video, directed by Hammer & Tongs, features a solitary figure walking through a desolate landscape, mirroring the song’s themes of solitude and introspection. “Sunset (Bird of Prey)” is a departure from Fatboy Slim’s signature upbeat dance tracks, showcasing his versatility as a producer and his ability to experiment with different genres.
Jared Parker 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.
