Gary Numan is an English musician, singer, and songwriter who gained immense popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s with his unique blend of electronic and new wave music. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of electronic music and has influenced several artists with his innovative sound and style. Numan’s discography spans over four decades, and he has released more than 20 studio albums, making him one of the most successful and influential artists in the history of electronic music.
In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 best Gary Numan songs of all time. From his breakthrough hit “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” to his most recent work, Gary Numan has produced a vast array of exceptional songs that have stood the test of time. This list will showcase Numan’s diverse musical range and highlight his ability to create hauntingly beautiful melodies, coupled with his signature synth-driven sound. Whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer to Gary Numan’s music, this article will serve as an excellent guide to his most iconic and timeless tracks.
1. M.E.
“M.E.” is a mesmerizing synth-pop track from Gary Numan’s 1979 album, “The Pleasure Principle.” The song’s hypnotic and repetitive melody, accompanied by Numan’s signature synthesizer sound, creates an eerie and atmospheric vibe that perfectly captures the essence of his unique musical style. The lyrics are a reflection of Numan’s fascination with technology and machines, as he sings about being transformed into a mechanical being. The track features a memorable chorus and a captivating instrumental section that showcases Numan’s talent as a composer and musician. “M.E.” is a standout track from Numan’s early career and remains a fan favorite to this day, solidifying its place as one of the best examples of his innovative and influential sound.
2. We Are Glass
“We Are Glass” is a hauntingly beautiful synth-pop track from Gary Numan’s 1980 album, “Telekon.” The song’s ethereal opening, featuring a melancholic melody played on the synthesizer, sets the tone for the emotional depth of the track. The lyrics explore the theme of isolation and the feeling of being disconnected from others. Numan’s distinctive voice conveys a sense of vulnerability and loneliness that is amplified by the atmospheric instrumentation. The chorus is a memorable and catchy refrain that contrasts with the more subdued verses, creating a powerful and impactful listening experience. “We Are Glass” is a testament to Numan’s ability to create emotionally resonant music that transcends the boundaries of genre and time, making it a timeless classic in the world of electronic music.
3. She’s Got Claws
“She’s Got Claws” is an electrifying synth-pop track from Gary Numan’s 1981 album, “Dance.” The song’s driving bassline and powerful percussion create a dynamic and energetic rhythm that perfectly complements Numan’s signature synthesizer sound. The lyrics tell the story of a femme fatale character with dangerous claws, making for a captivating and intense listening experience. Numan’s vocals convey a sense of urgency and desperation that adds to the song’s intensity, and the chorus is a memorable and infectious earworm. “She’s Got Claws” is a testament to Numan’s ability to combine elements of punk, rock, and electronic music to create a unique and innovative sound that has stood the test of time. It remains a fan favorite and one of Numan’s most beloved tracks.
4. Are Friends Electric?
“Are Friends Electric?” is a groundbreaking synth-pop track from Gary Numan’s 1979 album, “Replicas.” The song’s haunting and atmospheric opening, featuring a chilling melody played on the synthesizer, sets the tone for the emotional depth of the track. The lyrics explore the theme of alienation and the feeling of being disconnected from others, making the song a poignant commentary on the human condition. Numan’s distinctively robotic voice perfectly complements the futuristic sound of the song, creating a truly unforgettable listening experience. The chorus is a memorable and catchy refrain that has become an iconic anthem in the world of electronic music. “Are Friends Electric?” is a timeless classic and a testament to Numan’s innovation and creativity, making it one of his most enduring and influential songs.
5. I Die; You Die
“I Die; You Die” is a mesmerizing synth-pop track from Gary Numan’s 1980 album, “Telekon.” The song’s pulsating and hypnotic melody, accompanied by Numan’s signature synthesizer sound, creates a haunting and atmospheric vibe that perfectly captures the essence of his unique musical style. The lyrics are a reflection of Numan’s fascination with the themes of life, death, and the human condition. Numan’s vocals are emotive and evocative, conveying a sense of melancholy and longing that resonates deeply with the listener. The chorus is a memorable and catchy refrain that perfectly complements the song’s eerie and atmospheric instrumentation. “I Die; You Die” is a testament to Numan’s ability to create emotionally resonant music that transcends the boundaries of genre and time, making it a timeless classic in the world of electronic music.
6. We Take Mystery (To Bed)
“We Take Mystery (To Bed)” is a captivating synth-pop track from Gary Numan’s 1982 album, “I, Assassin.” The song’s driving beat and pulsating bassline create a dynamic and energetic rhythm that perfectly complements Numan’s signature synthesizer sound. The lyrics explore the theme of escapism and the desire to escape from the mundane reality of everyday life. Numan’s vocals are emotive and expressive, conveying a sense of yearning and desperation that adds to the song’s intensity. The chorus is a memorable and infectious earworm that perfectly complements the song’s catchy melody. “We Take Mystery (To Bed)” is a testament to Numan’s ability to create innovative and infectious pop music that has stood the test of time, making it a fan favorite and a classic in the world of electronic music.
7. Metal
“Metal” is a powerful and intense synth-rock track from Gary Numan’s 1979 album, “The Pleasure Principle.” The song’s heavy and driving guitar riff, coupled with Numan’s signature synthesizer sound, creates a dynamic and electrifying sound that perfectly complements the song’s dark and brooding lyrics. The lyrics explore the theme of dehumanization and the loss of identity in a society dominated by machines and technology. Numan’s vocals are emotive and intense, conveying a sense of urgency and desperation that adds to the song’s intensity. The chorus is a memorable and powerful refrain that perfectly complements the song’s dynamic instrumentation. “Metal” is a testament to Numan’s ability to combine elements of rock and electronic music to create a unique and innovative sound that has influenced generations of musicians.
8. Complex
“Complex” is an intense and emotive synth-pop track from Gary Numan’s 1979 album, “The Pleasure Principle.” The song’s ethereal and atmospheric opening, featuring a haunting melody played on the synthesizer, sets the tone for the emotional depth of the track. The lyrics explore the theme of emotional complexity and the struggle to reconcile conflicting emotions. Numan’s vocals are emotive and powerful, conveying a sense of vulnerability and turmoil that adds to the song’s intensity. The chorus is a memorable and infectious refrain that perfectly complements the song’s catchy melody. “Complex” is a testament to Numan’s ability to create emotionally resonant music that transcends the boundaries of genre and time, making it a timeless classic in the world of electronic music.
9. Change Your Mind
“Change Your Mind” is a haunting and atmospheric synth-pop track from Gary Numan’s 2000 album, “Pure.” The song’s dreamy and ethereal opening, featuring a mesmerizing melody played on the synthesizer, sets the tone for the emotional depth of the track. The lyrics explore the theme of self-doubt and the struggle to overcome personal obstacles. Numan’s vocals are emotive and evocative, conveying a sense of vulnerability and introspection that adds to the song’s intensity. The chorus is a memorable and infectious refrain that perfectly complements the song’s dreamy instrumentation. “Change Your Mind” is a testament to Numan’s ability to create emotionally resonant music that speaks to the human experience, making it a standout track from his later career.
10. Cars
“Cars” is a classic and iconic synth-pop track from Gary Numan’s 1979 album, “The Pleasure Principle.” The song’s distinctive and infectious synth riff, coupled with Numan’s signature robotic vocals, has become a defining anthem of the electronic music genre. The lyrics are a commentary on the car culture of the time, and Numan’s vocals perfectly capture the emotionless and robotic nature of modern technology. The chorus is a memorable and catchy earworm that has become a cultural touchstone, remaining a staple of radio airplay and pop culture to this day. “Cars” is a testament to Numan’s ability to create innovative and timeless pop music that has resonated with audiences for decades, making it a classic in the world of electronic music.