Midnight Oil is a legendary Australian rock band that has been making music for over four decades. Known for their powerful lyrics and socially conscious themes, Midnight Oil has become one of the most influential bands in Australian music history. With their distinctive sound that blends rock, punk, and alternative influences, they have produced countless hits over the years that have resonated with fans around the world. In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 best Midnight Oil songs of all time. From political anthems to high-energy rockers, these songs showcase the best of what Midnight Oil has to offer. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering the band for the first time, this list is sure to provide a memorable trip through the highlights of Midnight Oil’s impressive career. So sit back, turn up the volume, and get ready to rock out to the best of Midnight Oil.
1. Power And The Passion
“Power and the Passion” by Midnight Oil is a politically charged rock anthem that speaks to the band’s commitment to social justice and activism. The song features energetic instrumentation, with pounding drums and driving guitar riffs, while the lyrics paint a picture of a world in turmoil, where power is wielded by the few at the expense of the many. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “the power and the passion,” serves as a rallying cry for listeners to take action and fight for change. The song’s message is as relevant today as it was when it was released in 1982, and it remains an iconic representation of Midnight Oil’s commitment to using their music as a tool for social and political activism.
2. Only The Strong
“Only The Strong” is another politically charged rock song by Midnight Oil that addresses the issue of environmental destruction and the impact it has on Indigenous communities. The song features a strong, driving beat and intense guitar riffs, with lyrics that paint a vivid picture of the destruction wrought by corporate greed and indifference. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “only the strong survive,” speaks to the resilience of Indigenous people in the face of oppression and environmental devastation. The song is a powerful call to action for listeners to take a stand against environmental destruction and support Indigenous communities in their fight for justice. “Only The Strong” is a prime example of Midnight Oil’s commitment to using their music as a platform for social and political change, and it remains a powerful and relevant anthem for activists and environmentalists today.
3. Beds Are Burning
“Beds Are Burning” is a socially and politically conscious rock song by Midnight Oil that became an international hit in 1987. The song’s driving beat and infectious melody mask its powerful message, which is a call to action for listeners to recognize the injustices suffered by Indigenous Australians and to take steps to address them. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “how can we dance when our earth is turning, how do we sleep while our beds are burning,” is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address issues like climate change and social inequality. “Beds Are Burning” is a timeless anthem for social justice that has resonated with listeners around the world for over three decades.
4. The Dead Heart
“The Dead Heart” is a haunting and powerful song by Midnight Oil that addresses the destruction of Indigenous culture and the ongoing struggle for land rights in Australia. The song features a driving beat and atmospheric instrumentation, with lyrics that paint a vivid picture of a landscape scarred by colonialism and industrialization. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “we don’t serve your country, don’t serve your king, know your custom, don’t speak your tongue,” speaks to the need for Indigenous voices to be heard and their rights to be respected. “The Dead Heart” is a powerful and poignant tribute to the Indigenous people of Australia and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and reconciliation.
5. Forgotten Years
“Forgotten Years” is a powerful and uplifting rock song by Midnight Oil that speaks to the need to confront the mistakes of the past and move forward towards a better future. The song features driving instrumentation and soaring vocals, with lyrics that address issues like environmental destruction, social inequality, and political corruption. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “we must be the great underestimated, we must be the least appreciated,” speaks to the need for individuals to come together and work towards positive change. “Forgotten Years” is a timeless anthem for social and political activism that encourages listeners to take action and make a difference in the world.
6. Back On the Borderline
“Back On the Borderline” is a rock song by Midnight Oil that addresses the struggles of everyday life and the pressures that can push people to the brink. The song features driving instrumentation and powerful vocals, with lyrics that speak to the feelings of isolation and despair that can accompany difficult times. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “I’m back on the borderline, yes I’m back on the borderline,” speaks to the idea of teetering on the edge of a precipice, unsure of what the future holds. “Back On the Borderline” is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.
7. Rising Seas
“Rising Seas” is a haunting and prescient rock song by Midnight Oil that addresses the threat of climate change and the urgent need to address it. The song features atmospheric instrumentation and powerful vocals, with lyrics that paint a stark picture of the devastation that rising sea levels can wreak. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “what will we do when the water comes up to our door,” speaks to the urgency of taking action to address climate change before it is too late. “Rising Seas” is a powerful call to action for listeners to take responsibility for the health of the planet and work towards a more sustainable future.
8. Truganini
“Truganini” is a rock song by Midnight Oil that tells the story of Truganini, a Tasmanian Aboriginal woman who survived the genocide of her people and became an advocate for Indigenous rights. The song features driving instrumentation and powerful vocals, with lyrics that pay tribute to Truganini’s resilience and courage in the face of unimaginable hardship. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Truganini, Truganini,” serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring the experiences of Indigenous people in Australia and around the world. “Truganini” is a powerful and moving tribute to an inspiring figure in Australian history.
9. Blue Sky Mine
“Blue Sky Mine” is a politically charged rock song by Midnight Oil that addresses the issue of corporate greed and the exploitation of workers. The song features driving instrumentation and powerful vocals, with lyrics that call attention to the dangers of unsafe working conditions and the need for fair compensation. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “nothing’s as precious as a hole in the ground,” speaks to the idea that natural resources and human labor are often exploited for profit at the expense of workers’ health and safety. “Blue Sky Mine” is a powerful and timely reminder of the importance of worker’s rights and the need for corporate accountability.
10. Hercules
“Hercules” is a high-energy rock song by Midnight Oil that celebrates the power of the human spirit and the resilience of those who face adversity. The song features driving instrumentation and powerful vocals, with lyrics that speak to the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of challenges. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Hercules, Hercules,” serves as a rallying cry for listeners to embrace their inner strength and overcome obstacles. “Hercules” is a powerful and uplifting anthem for anyone who has faced challenges in their life and found the courage to keep going.
Samuel Moore 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.
