The MC5, also known as the Motor City Five, were one of the most iconic bands to emerge from the 1960s Detroit music scene. Their music was characterized by a raw, high-energy sound that blended rock, blues, and jazz with radical political lyrics that challenged the status quo of American society. Their incendiary live performances, which often ended in riots and arrests, helped to establish them as one of the most controversial and influential rock bands of their time.The best MC5 songs of all time capture the band at their raw and revolutionary best. From the explosive energy of “Kick Out the Jams” to the radical social commentary of “The American Ruse,” the MC5’s music remains as relevant and powerful today as it did when it was first released over 50 years ago. Other classic tracks like “Looking at You,” “Sister Anne,” and “Shakin’ Street” showcase the band’s undeniable musical prowess and their ability to combine complex instrumentation with unforgettable hooks and lyrics.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the MC5 or just discovering their music for the first time, these ten songs are a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of rock and roll and the role that music can play in social and political change. So turn up the volume, and get ready to kick out the jams with the MC5’s best songs of all time.
1. Looking at You
“Looking at You” is a classic rock song by MC5, released in 1969 on their debut album, “Kick Out the Jams.” The song is a high-energy, garage-rock anthem that showcases the band’s raw and intense sound. The track begins with a pounding drumbeat and a riff-driven guitar intro, which immediately sets the tone for the rest of the song. The lyrics describe a provocative and seductive encounter between the singer and his subject, with the refrain “Looking at you, I’m picking up on something new” serving as the song’s central hook.
The song is known for its iconic guitar solo, which is a fiery display of fast-picked notes and scorching distortion. The solo perfectly captures the energy and excitement of MC5’s live performances, and it has become a defining moment of the band’s career. “Looking at You” has since become a staple of classic rock radio, and it has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
Overall, “Looking at You” is a thrilling rock and roll anthem that captures the rebellious spirit of the late 1960s. The song’s raw energy and catchy hooks have ensured its lasting legacy, and it remains a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of rock music.
2. Kick Out the Jams
“Kick Out the Jams” is a powerful, high-energy rock song by MC5, released in 1969 as the title track of their debut album. The song is considered a classic of the garage rock genre and is known for its iconic opening line, “Kick out the jams, motherf***ers!”
The song begins with a call to arms, urging listeners to let loose and break free from societal norms. The lyrics address themes of revolution, rebellion, and counterculture, all while showcasing the band’s raw and frenetic sound. The driving guitar riff and pounding drums create a sense of urgency and excitement that captures the rebellious spirit of the late 1960s.
One of the most notable features of the song is the extended call-and-response section between the lead singer and the audience. This section, which is performed live in front of a roaring crowd, adds to the song’s sense of urgency and unbridled energy.
“Kick Out the Jams” was a controversial song upon its release due to its profanity and explicit content. Despite this, the song has gone on to become a beloved classic, and its message of rebellion and liberation continues to resonate with listeners today.
Overall, “Kick Out the Jams” is a powerful and influential rock song that captures the energy and spirit of a generation. Its rebellious lyrics and iconic sound have secured its place as a cornerstone of rock music history, and it remains a must-listen for fans of classic rock and roll.
3. Rocket Reducer No 62 (Rama Lama Fa Fa Fa)
“Rocket Reducer No. 62 (Rama Lama Fa Fa Fa)” is a high-energy, punk rock song by MC5, released in 1969 on their debut album, “Kick Out the Jams.” The song is known for its driving bassline, distorted guitar riffs, and pounding drums, which create a frenzied and chaotic sound that captures the essence of the band’s live performances.
The lyrics of the song are nonsensical and filled with references to popular culture, making it a classic example of the psychedelic rock of the late 1960s. The refrain, “Rama Lama Fa Fa Fa,” is a playful and catchy hook that adds to the song’s infectious energy.
“Rocket Reducer No. 62” is also notable for its guitar solo, which features a frenzied and dissonant riff that perfectly captures the song’s chaotic spirit. The solo is a testament to the band’s musicianship and their ability to create complex and innovative rock music.
Despite its nonsensical lyrics and chaotic sound, “Rocket Reducer No. 62” has become a classic of punk rock and continues to be celebrated for its energy and innovation. The song’s raw and uncompromising sound has inspired generations of musicians, and its influence can still be heard in the punk rock music of today.
Overall, “Rocket Reducer No. 62 (Rama Lama Fa Fa Fa)” is a thrilling and influential rock song that showcases MC5’s raw and innovative sound. Its infectious energy and chaotic spirit have secured its place in rock music history, and it remains a must-listen for fans of punk rock and psychedelic rock alike.
4. The American Ruse
“The American Ruse” is a politically charged rock song by MC5, released in 1970 on their second album, “Back in the USA.” The song addresses the state of American society during the late 1960s and early 1970s, criticizing the government, the media, and the cultural norms of the time.
The song’s lyrics address themes of social inequality, war, and consumerism, all while showcasing the band’s signature sound of distorted guitars and pounding drums. The chorus, “The American dream/Ain’t nothing but a scheme,” serves as a biting critique of the promise of the American dream and the disillusionment felt by many during this era.
The song’s political message is further emphasized by its spoken-word introduction, which is delivered in a dramatic and confrontational style. The spoken-word section calls out the government and the media for their role in perpetuating the American ruse, and sets the stage for the song’s scathing critique of society.
“The American Ruse” is a powerful and influential rock song that captures the spirit of rebellion and dissent that characterized the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its politically charged lyrics and raw sound continue to resonate with listeners today, making it a classic of the protest rock genre. Overall, “The American Ruse” is a powerful and thought-provoking song that showcases MC5’s ability to use music as a means of social commentary and political activism. Its message of dissent and critique of societal norms continue to be relevant today, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of rock music and its role in shaping society.
5. Shakin’ Street
“Shakin’ Street” is a high-energy rock song by MC5, released in 1970 on their album “Back in the USA.” The song is known for its driving bassline, fast-paced guitar riffs, and pounding drums, which create a sense of urgency and excitement that captures the band’s signature sound.
The song’s lyrics are simple yet powerful, focusing on the theme of rebellion and the desire for change. The chorus, “We want the kingdom, we want the street/We want a reason to live,” reflects the band’s frustration with the status quo and their desire to shake up the establishment.
One of the most notable features of “Shakin’ Street” is the interplay between the guitars and drums, which creates a sense of tension and excitement throughout the song. The guitar solos are fast and furious, showcasing the band’s musicianship and their ability to create complex and innovative rock music.
“Shakin’ Street” has become a classic of the garage rock genre, and its influence can still be heard in the music of today. The song’s raw and energetic sound has inspired generations of musicians, and its message of rebellion and desire for change continues to resonate with listeners.
Overall, “Shakin’ Street” is a powerful and influential rock song that showcases MC5’s signature sound and their ability to create music that is both energetic and thought-provoking. Its message of rebellion and desire for change has secured its place in rock music history, and it remains a must-listen for fans of garage rock and classic rock and roll.
6. Human Being Lawnmower
“Human Being Lawnmower” is a high-octane punk rock song by MC5, released in 1970 on their album “Back in the USA.” The song’s lyrics are an explicit and visceral metaphor for the brutality of war and the dehumanizing effects of violence.
The song’s opening lyrics, “Cutting down the human being/Like a machine, gotta keep clean,” immediately set the tone for the song’s unrelenting and intense message. The song’s chorus, “Human being lawnmower, cut you up much faster than any army,” serves as a scathing indictment of war and the inhumanity that it represents.
The song’s fast-paced guitar riffs and pounding drums create a sense of urgency and intensity that reflects the song’s theme. The guitar solo in the middle of the song is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the band’s musicianship and their ability to create complex and innovative punk rock music.
“Human Being Lawnmower” is a powerful and politically charged song that showcases MC5’s ability to use music as a means of social commentary and political activism. Its message of opposition to war and violence is as relevant today as it was in 1970, and the song’s raw and intense sound continues to inspire and influence punk rock musicians around the world.
Overall, “Human Being Lawnmower” is a powerful and intense punk rock song that showcases MC5’s ability to create music that is both thought-provoking and energizing. Its message of opposition to war and violence continues to resonate with listeners today, making it a classic of the punk rock genre.
7. Sister Anne
“Sister Anne” is a hard-driving rock song by MC5, released in 1971 on their album “High Time.” The song’s lyrics are a celebration of female empowerment and sexual liberation, and the song is widely regarded as a classic of the hard rock genre.
The song’s opening riff is instantly recognizable, and sets the tone for the song’s energetic and infectious sound. The chorus, “Sister Anne, she’s a mover, she’s a mover/She’s got all the love, you know what I mean,” celebrates the power and sexuality of women, and the song’s driving beat creates a sense of excitement and energy that captures the spirit of the era.
One of the most notable features of “Sister Anne” is the interplay between the guitars and drums, which creates a sense of tension and excitement throughout the song. The guitar solos are fast and furious, showcasing the band’s musicianship and their ability to create complex and innovative rock music.
“Sister Anne” has become a classic of the hard rock genre, and its influence can still be heard in the music of today. The song’s celebration of female empowerment and sexual liberation was ahead of its time, and its message continues to be relevant today.
Overall, “Sister Anne” is a powerful and influential rock song that showcases MC5’s signature sound and their ability to create music that is both energetic and thought-provoking. Its celebration of female empowerment and sexual liberation has secured its place in rock music history, and it remains a must-listen for fans of classic rock and roll.
8. Over and Over
“Over and Over” is a fast-paced rock song by MC5, released in 1971 on their album “High Time.” The song’s lyrics are a powerful commentary on the monotony and routine of daily life, and the song’s driving beat and high-energy guitar riffs create a sense of urgency and excitement that captures the spirit of the era.
The song’s opening riff is instantly recognizable, and sets the tone for the song’s energetic and infectious sound. The chorus, “Over and over, over and over/Nothing is new, nothing is new,” reflects the band’s frustration with the sameness of daily life and the desire for something more.
One of the most notable features of “Over and Over” is the interplay between the guitars and drums, which creates a sense of tension and excitement throughout the song. The guitar solos are fast and furious, showcasing the band’s musicianship and their ability to create complex and innovative rock music.
“Over and Over” has become a classic of the rock genre, and its influence can still be heard in the music of today. The song’s message of frustration and desire for something more is as relevant today as it was in 1971, and the song’s raw and intense sound continues to inspire and influence rock musicians around the world.
Overall, “Over and Over” is a powerful and energetic rock song that showcases MC5’s signature sound and their ability to create music that is both thought-provoking and energizing. Its message of frustration and desire for something more continues to resonate with listeners today, making it a classic of the rock genre.
9. Skunk (Sonically Speaking)
“Skunk (Sonically Speaking)” is a high-energy rock song by MC5, released in 1972 on their album “High Time.” The song’s lyrics are a powerful commentary on the social and political issues of the era, and the song’s driving beat and heavy guitar riffs create a sense of urgency and excitement that captures the spirit of the times.
The song’s opening riff is immediately recognizable, and sets the tone for the song’s energetic and infectious sound. The chorus, “Sonically speaking, the world is a ghetto/Sonically speaking, the world is a ghetto,” reflects the band’s frustration with the social and political issues of the era, and their desire for change.
One of the most notable features of “Skunk (Sonically Speaking)” is the interplay between the guitars and drums, which creates a sense of tension and excitement throughout the song. The guitar solos are fast and furious, showcasing the band’s musicianship and their ability to create complex and innovative rock music.
“Skunk (Sonically Speaking)” is a classic of the rock genre, and its influence can still be heard in the music of today. The song’s message of social and political activism is as relevant today as it was in 1972, and the song’s raw and intense sound continues to inspire and influence rock musicians around the world.
Overall, “Skunk (Sonically Speaking)” is a powerful and energetic rock song that showcases MC5’s signature sound and their ability to create music that is both thought-provoking and energizing. Its message of social and political activism continues to resonate with listeners today, making it a classic of the rock genre.
10. Black to Comm
“Black to Comm” is a psychedelic rock song by MC5, released in 1969 on their album “Kick Out the Jams.” The song’s eerie and haunting sound creates a sense of unease and tension that is unique within the band’s discography.
The song’s opening features a spoken word intro, delivered by band member Wayne Kramer, that sets the tone for the song’s dark and unsettling sound. The lyrics explore themes of fear and paranoia, and the song’s repetitive guitar riff and pounding drums create a sense of urgency and tension that is palpable throughout.
One of the most notable features of “Black to Comm” is the band’s experimentation with sound and production techniques. The use of feedback and distortion creates a chaotic and unsettling sound that is both challenging and rewarding for the listener.
“Black to Comm” is a standout track in MC5’s discography, and its influence can still be heard in the music of today. The song’s use of experimental production techniques and exploration of themes of fear and paranoia make it a classic of the psychedelic rock genre.
Overall, “Black to Comm” is a powerful and unique rock song that showcases MC5’s willingness to experiment with sound and production techniques. Its exploration of themes of fear and paranoia create a sense of unease and tension that is unparalleled in the band’s discography, making it a must-listen for fans of psychedelic rock music.
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.
