Gnarls Barkley, the collaborative project between singer-songwriter CeeLo Green and producer Danger Mouse, burst onto the scene in 2006 with their hit single “Crazy” and quickly became one of the most unique and innovative musical acts of the 21st century. Their genre-bending sound, combining elements of soul, funk, rock, and electronic music, along with their visually striking music videos, captivated audiences worldwide. Over the course of their career, Gnarls Barkley released two critically acclaimed albums and several chart-topping singles. In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best Gnarls Barkley songs of all time. From their iconic debut single “Crazy” to the soulful “Smiley Faces” and the hauntingly beautiful “Who’s Gonna Save My Soul,” we will be ranking and discussing the standout tracks that solidified Gnarls Barkley as one of the most innovative and influential musical acts of the 21st century. So, sit back, relax, and let’s take a journey through the best of Gnarls Barkley.
1. Crazy
“Crazy” is the iconic debut single from Gnarls Barkley, the collaborative project between CeeLo Green and Danger Mouse. Released in 2006, the song quickly became a global sensation, topping charts in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim for its unique blend of soul, funk, and psychedelic rock. The track features a memorable opening piano riff, which is soon joined by CeeLo’s soulful vocals that express the feeling of being overwhelmed by love. The chorus is the most memorable part of the song, with CeeLo passionately declaring, “Does that make me crazy? Possibly.” The song’s catchy melody and powerful lyrics, combined with its visually stunning music video, helped make it a cultural phenomenon that remains popular to this day. “Crazy” is a true testament to Gnarls Barkley’s ability to blend different genres into a sound that is entirely their own, and it continues to be a beloved song that has stood the test of time.
2. Smiley Faces
“Smiley Faces” is a soulful and upbeat track from Gnarls Barkley’s 2006 album “St. Elsewhere.” The song features a catchy melody and a fun, funky rhythm that is impossible not to dance to. The lyrics are playful and optimistic, with CeeLo singing about how he is surrounded by “smiley faces” and good vibes everywhere he goes. The track showcases the duo’s incredible talent for creating infectious hooks and irresistible grooves that keep the listener engaged from start to finish. The music video is a colorful and whimsical journey through a surreal landscape of smiling faces and quirky characters, adding to the overall sense of joy and positivity that the song exudes. “Smiley Faces” is a prime example of Gnarls Barkley’s ability to combine different genres into a cohesive and unique sound that is instantly recognizable. It’s a feel-good song that never fails to lift the spirits and put a smile on the listener’s face.
3. Who Cares?
“Who Cares?” is a hauntingly beautiful track from Gnarls Barkley’s 2008 album “The Odd Couple.” The song begins with a simple piano melody, which is soon joined by CeeLo’s soulful vocals, delivering powerful and thought-provoking lyrics about the state of the world and the human condition. The track is slower and more introspective than many of Gnarls Barkley’s other songs, creating a sense of melancholy and reflection. The music video is equally haunting, featuring images of destruction, violence, and despair that serve as a stark contrast to the song’s gentle melody. “Who Cares?” is a departure from Gnarls Barkley’s signature sound, but it showcases the duo’s versatility and ability to explore different themes and emotions through their music. The song is a poignant and moving reminder that sometimes, the most important questions we can ask are the ones that have no easy answers.
4. Run (I’m A Natural Disaster)
“Run (I’m A Natural Disaster)” is an energetic and rock-infused track from Gnarls Barkley’s 2008 album “The Odd Couple.” The song begins with a powerful guitar riff and a driving beat that sets the tone for the entire track. CeeLo’s vocals are passionate and intense, delivering lyrics that explore themes of self-destruction and inner turmoil. The chorus is especially memorable, with CeeLo declaring, “I’m a natural disaster, but even after all that I do, it’s you.” The music video is a frenetic and visually stunning journey through a dystopian world of violence and chaos, adding to the song’s sense of urgency and intensity. “Run (I’m A Natural Disaster)” showcases Gnarls Barkley’s ability to infuse different genres into their music, with elements of rock, soul, and funk all coming together to create a sound that is uniquely their own. It’s a powerful and dynamic track that leaves a lasting impression on the listener.
5. Going On
“Going On” is a lively and upbeat track from Gnarls Barkley’s 2008 album “The Odd Couple.” The song features a catchy melody and a funky rhythm that is impossible not to dance to. CeeLo’s vocals are smooth and soulful, delivering lyrics that speak to the joys and struggles of everyday life. The chorus is especially memorable, with CeeLo singing, “And I’m going on, and I’m taking over, and I’m going higher and higher.” The music video is a colorful and visually stunning journey through a surreal landscape of dancing flowers and otherworldly creatures, adding to the overall sense of joy and playfulness that the song exudes. “Going On” is a perfect example of Gnarls Barkley’s ability to create infectious hooks and grooves that keep the listener engaged from start to finish. It’s a fun and uplifting track that never fails to put a smile on the listener’s face.
6. Who’s Gonna Save My Soul
“Who’s Gonna Save My Soul” is a haunting and soulful track from Gnarls Barkley’s 2008 album “The Odd Couple.” The song features a melancholic melody and sparse instrumentation, allowing CeeLo’s powerful vocals to take center stage. The lyrics are introspective and introspective, exploring themes of heartbreak and loss. The chorus is especially memorable, with CeeLo pleading, “Who’s gonna save my soul now?” The music video is a stunning and emotional portrayal of a broken relationship, featuring a surreal and dreamlike sequence in which CeeLo’s heart is literally ripped out of his chest. “Who’s Gonna Save My Soul” is a departure from Gnarls Barkley’s more upbeat and energetic tracks, showcasing the duo’s ability to explore different emotions and themes through their music. It’s a poignant and beautiful track that resonates deeply with the listener, capturing the pain and uncertainty of a broken heart.
7. Charity Case
“Charity Case” is an upbeat and funky track from Gnarls Barkley’s 2008 album “The Odd Couple.” The song features a groovy bassline and a catchy melody that is impossible not to dance to. CeeLo’s vocals are playful and charismatic, delivering lyrics that are both humorous and socially conscious. The chorus is especially memorable, with CeeLo singing, “I’m not a charity case, I’m just a sucker for a pretty face.” The music video is a colorful and playful exploration of fame and fortune, featuring CeeLo and Danger Mouse in a variety of outrageous and extravagant outfits. “Charity Case” showcases Gnarls Barkley’s ability to infuse their music with humor and satire, while also addressing deeper issues of inequality and social justice. It’s a fun and funky track that never fails to get the party started.
8. St Elsewhere
“St. Elsewhere” is the title track from Gnarls Barkley’s debut album, released in 2006. The song features a driving beat and an infectious melody that is instantly recognizable. CeeLo’s vocals are raw and emotional, delivering lyrics that are both poetic and enigmatic. The chorus is especially memorable, with CeeLo singing, “St. Elsewhere could be such a lovely place to be.” The music video is a surreal and visually stunning journey through a post-apocalyptic landscape, adding to the overall sense of mystery and intrigue that the song exudes. “St. Elsewhere” showcases Gnarls Barkley’s unique blend of soul, funk, and rock, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. It’s a powerful and evocative track that captures the listener’s imagination, taking them on a journey through the unknown.
9. Just A Thought
“Just a Thought” is a reflective and introspective track from Gnarls Barkley’s 2006 debut album, “St. Elsewhere.” The song features a mellow and contemplative melody, with haunting guitar riffs and subtle electronic flourishes. CeeLo’s vocals are raw and emotional, delivering lyrics that explore themes of self-doubt and inner turmoil. The chorus is especially poignant, with CeeLo singing, “Maybe it’s not too late to try, maybe it’s not too late to climb.” The music video is a simple but effective visualization of the song’s message, featuring CeeLo wandering through a dark and desolate landscape. “Just a Thought” showcases Gnarls Barkley’s ability to blend different genres and create music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. It’s a beautiful and introspective track that encourages the listener to confront their own doubts and fears, and find the courage to keep moving forward.
10. The Last Time
“The Last Time” is a soulful and emotional track from Gnarls Barkley’s 2008 album “The Odd Couple.” The song features a slow and sultry melody, with atmospheric piano and guitar riffs that create a haunting and melancholic atmosphere. CeeLo’s vocals are raw and powerful, delivering lyrics that explore themes of heartbreak and loss. The chorus is especially powerful, with CeeLo singing, “This could be the last time I love you, this could be the last time unless we make it right.” The music video is a simple and understated visualization of the song’s message, featuring CeeLo and Danger Mouse in a stark and desolate landscape. “The Last Time” showcases Gnarls Barkley’s ability to create music that is both emotionally raw and musically sophisticated. It’s a beautiful and haunting track that captures the pain and complexity of love and loss.