Fine Young Cannibals were an English rock band formed in Birmingham in 1984, consisting of Roland Gift on vocals, Andy Cox on guitar, and David Steele on bass. Their music is a unique blend of soul, rock, and new wave, which earned them international success in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The band’s distinctive sound, coupled with Gift’s powerful and soulful voice, made them one of the most influential bands of the era. Fine Young Cannibals produced some of the most memorable and iconic songs of the time, and their music continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Fine Young Cannibals songs of all time, from their early hits to their later releases. We will delve into the stories behind the music, the inspiration for the lyrics, and what made each song a standout hit. So, sit back, relax, and let’s take a journey through the timeless music of Fine Young Cannibals.
1. She Drives Me Crazy
“She Drives Me Crazy” is a catchy and upbeat song by Fine Young Cannibals that was released in 1988. It features a distinct guitar riff and powerful vocals by lead singer Roland Gift. The song’s lyrics describe the intense and all-consuming feelings of being in love with someone, and how it can drive a person crazy. “She Drives Me Crazy” became an instant hit and climbed to the top of the charts in several countries, including the US and UK. It has since become a beloved classic and is often featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials.
2. Good Thing
“Good Thing” is a hit song by Fine Young Cannibals, released in 1989. The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and a mix of soul and pop influences. The lyrics describe a man who is grateful for the positive changes in his life, thanks to his significant other. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the US and UK.
3. Johnny Come Home
“Johnny Come Home” is a 1985 single that was one of Fine Young Cannibals’ earliest hits. The song features a blend of pop, soul, and reggae influences, and showcases lead singer Roland Gift’s unique vocal style. The lyrics tell the story of a man who has left home and his lover behind, and the emotions that arise as a result.
4. Suspicious Minds (featuring Jimmy Somerville)
“Suspicious Minds” is a cover of Elvis Presley’s classic hit, featuring the unique vocals of Jimmy Somerville. The Fine Young Cannibals put their own spin on the song, infusing it with their signature blend of pop and soul. The result is a fresh take on a timeless classic that showcases the band’s musical versatility and talent. The song features the band’s trademark funky basslines and groovy rhythms, coupled with Somerville’s soaring vocals that add an extra layer of emotion to the already powerful lyrics. It is a standout track on the album and a favorite among fans of both the band and the original song.
5. Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve)
“Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve)” is a cover of a song originally recorded by the punk rock band Buzzcocks. The Fine Young Cannibals gave the song their own unique spin, infusing it with their trademark pop-soul sound. The song features lead singer Roland Gift’s distinctive vocals and a catchy guitar riff, making it one of the band’s most memorable tracks. It was released as a single in 1986 and became a hit, reaching the top 10 on the UK singles chart. The song has since been covered by many other artists and has become a staple of the post-punk and new wave genres.
6. I’m Not the Man I Used to Be
“I’m Not the Man I Used to Be” is a soulful ballad with poignant lyrics about self-discovery and personal growth. The song showcases Roland Gift’s smooth and emotive vocals, backed by the band’s signature blend of pop, soul, and rock. It was released as a single from their second album “The Raw & the Cooked” in 1989, and became a top 20 hit in several countries, including the UK and the US. The song’s powerful message of introspection and transformation resonated with many listeners, making it one of the band’s most beloved tracks.
7. Don’t Look Back
“Don’t Look Back” is a catchy and upbeat song by Fine Young Cannibals, featuring a lively blend of pop and rock sounds. The song was released in 1989 as part of their album “The Raw & the Cooked.” With its rhythmic percussion, soulful vocals, and catchy guitar riffs, the song became a hit and is still beloved by fans today. The lyrics speak to the idea of letting go of the past and moving forward, with lines like “Don’t look back, don’t look back, nothing to see, everything’s ahead of me.”
8. I’m Not Satisfied
“I’m Not Satisfied” is a high-energy track that showcases the Fine Young Cannibals’ unique blend of pop, rock, and soul. The song features driving drums, funky guitar riffs, and lead singer Roland Gift’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics express a dissatisfaction with the status quo and a desire for change, making it a socially conscious and thought-provoking piece of music.
9. The Flame
“The Flame” is a smooth and soulful ballad by Fine Young Cannibals. It features Roland Gift’s emotive vocals and the band’s signature mix of pop, rock, and R&B influences. The song was released in 1989 as a single from their album “The Raw & the Cooked” and reached the top 10 in several countries. Its romantic lyrics and catchy chorus make it a fan favorite and a staple of 80s and 90s pop playlists. The song showcases the band’s versatility and ability to craft both upbeat dance tracks and tender ballads. Overall, “The Flame” is a beautiful and timeless love song that captures the essence of Fine Young Cannibals’ unique sound.
10. Love for Sale
“Love for Sale” is a song by Fine Young Cannibals, known for its upbeat tempo and catchy rhythm. The song is a fusion of pop, soul, and rock genres, which perfectly blends the band’s unique sound. “Love for Sale” was released in 1989 as the third single from their album “The Raw & the Cooked.” It features lead singer Roland Gift’s distinctive voice and showcases the band’s skillful use of horns and percussion. The song’s lyrics tell a story of a heartbreak and a painful experience of loving someone who does not reciprocate the same feelings. Despite the serious topic, the song’s upbeat melody and funky beat make it a fun and enjoyable listen. “Love for Sale” was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 in several countries, including the US, UK, and Canada. It remains a popular track among Fine Young Cannibals fans and a classic representation of the band’s sound.