Table of Contents
- 1. West End Girls
- 2. It’s a Sin
- 3. Being Boring
- 4. What have I done to deserve this?
- 5. Always on my mind
- 6. Suburbia
- 7. Rent
- 8. Opportunites (Let’s Make Lots of Money)
- 9. Go West
- 10. Heart
- 11. Left To My Own Devices
- 12. Can You Forgive Her?
- 13. Domino Dancing
- 14. Love Comes Quickly
- 15. So Hard
- 16. Love Etc.
- 17. Jealousy
- 18. Home and Dry
- 19. SE A VIDA É (That’s the Way Life is)
- 20. I wouldn’t Normally Do This Kind of Thing
Pet Shop Boys are a British synth-pop duo that have been making music for over four decades. Consisting of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, they have sold over 100 million records worldwide and are considered one of the most successful duos in the history of music. Their unique sound blends electronic music, pop, and dance, with lyrics that explore themes of love, sexuality, and society.
Over the years, Pet Shop Boys have released numerous albums and singles, each showcasing their distinct style and creativity. Their songs have been celebrated for their catchy melodies, witty lyrics, and intricate production. From their breakthrough hit “West End Girls” to their more recent releases, Pet Shop Boys have consistently pushed the boundaries of pop music.
This article will explore the 20 best Pet Shop Boys songs of all time. It will delve into their early hits like “It’s a Sin” and “Suburbia,” as well as their more experimental tracks like “Being Boring” and “Go West.” Each song on this list will be analyzed for its musical and lyrical strengths, and will provide a comprehensive overview of the duo’s career. Whether you are a long-time fan of Pet Shop Boys or just discovering their music, this article will serve as a definitive guide to their greatest hits. Get ready to dance, sing, and experience the magic of one of the most iconic pop duos of all time.
1. West End Girls
“West End Girls” is a classic synth-pop song by the British duo Pet Shop Boys. The song was released in 1984 and became a hit worldwide, reaching number one in the UK and many other countries. It features a memorable bassline, catchy melody, and lyrics about the experience of two boys growing up in the rough West End of London. The song is notable for its blend of electronic and orchestral sounds, as well as its deadpan vocal delivery by lead singer Neil Tennant. “West End Girls” remains a beloved classic of 80s pop music and a signature song for Pet Shop Boys.
2. It’s a Sin
“It’s a Sin” is a powerful and emotional song by Pet Shop Boys, released in 1987. The song addresses the AIDS epidemic that was ravaging the gay community at the time and reflects on the stigma and fear surrounding the disease. The lyrics are poignant and heartfelt, delivered with Neil Tennant’s distinctive vocal style over a dramatic, synthesized instrumental track. The song was a commercial and critical success, reaching number one in the UK and earning praise for its sensitive treatment of a difficult subject. “It’s a Sin” remains a poignant and affecting reminder of the toll that the AIDS epidemic took on so many lives.
3. Being Boring
“Being Boring” is a contemplative and melancholic song by Pet Shop Boys, released in 1990. The song reflects on the passing of time and the loss of youth and innocence, drawing on personal memories of the band’s own experiences. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, set to a subdued instrumental track that emphasizes the song’s wistful tone. “Being Boring” is a departure from the band’s more upbeat and dance-oriented material, showcasing their versatility as songwriters and musicians.
4. What have I done to deserve this?
“What have I done to deserve this?” is a collaboration between Pet Shop Boys and singer Dusty Springfield, released in 1987. The song is a playful and sardonic take on the ups and downs of romantic relationships, with Springfield and lead singer Neil Tennant trading vocal lines over a lively, synth-driven instrumental track. The song was a hit in both the UK and US, cementing Pet Shop Boys’ status as one of the premier synth-pop acts of the era. “What have I done to deserve this?” is a classic example of the band’s catchy, ironic style.
5. Always on my mind
“Always on My Mind” is a ballad originally written by Johnny Christopher, Mark James, and Wayne Carson, and famously covered by Pet Shop Boys in 1987. Their version became a worldwide hit, reaching the top ten in multiple countries, including the UK and the US. The song is a heartfelt and bittersweet ode to a lost love, with lead singer Neil Tennant delivering the poignant lyrics over a dramatic and sweeping instrumental track. The Pet Shop Boys’ rendition of “Always on My Mind” has become a beloved classic and is widely regarded as one of the greatest cover songs of all time.
6. Suburbia
“Suburbia” is a synth-pop anthem by Pet Shop Boys, released in 1986. The song explores the darker side of suburban life, depicting a world of conformity, boredom, and violence. The lyrics are evocative and vivid, painting a stark contrast between the bleak reality of suburban existence and the bright lights of the city. The instrumental track is driven by a catchy synth hook and a pulsing beat, capturing the energy and urgency of the song’s themes. “Suburbia” is a classic example of Pet Shop Boys’ talent for blending social commentary with infectious pop melodies.
7. Rent
“Rent” is a synth-pop ballad by Pet Shop Boys, released in 1987. The song’s lyrics depict a relationship that is based on financial transactions rather than love or affection, with lead singer Neil Tennant singing about the exchange of money for companionship and physical intimacy. The instrumental track is understated and atmospheric, providing a moody backdrop for the song’s introspective themes. “Rent” is a powerful and poignant exploration of the intersection between love, money, and power, and remains one of the most enduring and beloved tracks in Pet Shop Boys’ discography.
8. Opportunites (Let’s Make Lots of Money)
“Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots of Money)” is a satirical synth-pop song by Pet Shop Boys, released in 1985. The song’s lyrics poke fun at the capitalist mindset of the 1980s, with lead singer Neil Tennant singing about the desire to make money and live a luxurious lifestyle. The instrumental track is driven by a catchy synth riff and a bouncy beat, making it a dancefloor favorite. “Opportunities” is a tongue-in-cheek critique of the greed and excess of the era, showcasing Pet Shop Boys’ wit and irreverence as songwriters.
9. Go West
“Go West” is a song originally released by the Pet Shop Boys in 1993, and it quickly became a hit due to its catchy melody and inspiring lyrics about moving forward and pursuing one’s dreams. The music video for the song features the duo walking through the Mojave Desert, mirroring the song’s themes of adventure and exploration. The video also features various images of American iconography, such as cowboys and open roads, further emphasizing the idea of heading west to discover new opportunities.
10. Heart
“Heart” is a song by the Pet Shop Boys, released in 1988 as the fourth single from their album “Actually”. The song’s lyrics explore the complex emotions of a person who has had their heart broken, and their attempts to move on and find new love. The music video for the song features the duo performing in a stark, minimalist set, with vivid colors and dramatic lighting creating a sense of intensity and emotion. The video’s abstract visuals match the song’s introspective and poetic lyrics, which speak to the universal experience of love and heartbreak. The song and video both showcase the Pet Shop Boys’ ability to blend complex emotions with catchy pop hooks.
11. Left To My Own Devices
“Left to My Own Devices” is a song by the Pet Shop Boys, released in 1988 as the second single from their album “Introspective”. The song’s lyrics explore the idea of self-reliance and the potential pitfalls of being left alone with one’s thoughts and desires. The music video for the song features the duo in various surreal and imaginative settings, including a rocket ship and a laboratory. The video’s playful tone matches the song’s upbeat and optimistic melody.
12. Can You Forgive Her?
“Can You Forgive Her?” is another hit song by the Pet Shop Boys, released in 1993. The lyrics explore themes of jealousy, insecurity, and the complexities of relationships. The music video for the song features the duo in a variety of whimsical costumes and settings, including a medieval castle and a futuristic spaceship. The video’s colorful and extravagant visuals match the song’s lively and danceable rhythm. The song and video both showcase the Pet Shop Boys’ ability to blend poignant lyrics with catchy pop melodies.
13. Domino Dancing
Domino Dancing by Pet Shop Boys is a classic synthpop dance track that was released in 1988. The song has a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, with lyrics that tell the story of two people dancing together and falling in love on the dance floor. The music video features the duo performing on a stage in a Latin American-style nightclub, with dancers joining in to showcase the energetic choreography. The song was a hit in many countries around the world, and remains a popular choice for dance floors and retro playlists.
14. Love Comes Quickly
Love Comes Quickly is another classic synthpop track by Pet Shop Boys, released in 1986. The song has a slower tempo than Domino Dancing, but still features the duo’s signature electronic sound and witty lyrics. The song tells the story of someone who falls in love quickly, but also falls out of love just as quickly. The music video features the duo performing in a minimalist black and white set, with images of flowers and other romantic symbols appearing throughout. Love Comes Quickly was one of Pet Shop Boys’ early hits, and helped establish their unique sound and style in the world of 80s pop music.
15. So Hard
So Hard is a dance-pop track by Pet Shop Boys, released in 1990. The song features a driving beat and a catchy synth riff, with lyrics that explore themes of frustration and longing in a relationship. The music video features the duo performing in various surreal and abstract settings, including a room filled with television screens and a futuristic train station. So Hard was a hit in several countries, and remains a popular track in Pet Shop Boys’ discography, with its mix of upbeat energy and melancholy lyrics.
16. Love Etc.
Love Etc. is a synthpop track by Pet Shop Boys, released in 2009. The song features a bouncy electronic melody and a catchy chorus, with lyrics that explore the idea of love in a materialistic and consumerist society. The music video features the duo performing in a futuristic cityscape, with neon lights and geometric shapes creating a vibrant visual atmosphere. Love Etc. was well-received by critics, and was praised for its upbeat energy and clever lyrics, as well as its relevance to contemporary culture. The track continues to be a popular choice for dance floors and radio airplay.
17. Jealousy
Jealousy is an intense emotional response triggered by the fear of losing something or someone important to us. It can manifest as feelings of envy, resentment, suspicion, and insecurity, often leading to behaviors such as possessiveness, controlling, or manipulative actions. Jealousy is a complex emotion that can arise in various types of relationships, including romantic, professional, or social connections. While some level of jealousy is normal and can serve as a protective mechanism, excessive jealousy can be destructive and can damage relationships. Understanding and managing jealousy requires self-awareness, open communication, and trust-building efforts to promote healthy and fulfilling relationships.
18. Home and Dry
Home and Dry is a song by the English synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys. The song features electronic beats and melancholic lyrics that explore the theme of longing for home and stability. The lyrics describe a sense of isolation and disconnection from the world, as the narrator seeks comfort in the familiar surroundings of their home. The song’s title reflects the idea that despite life’s uncertainties and challenges, finding a sense of security and belonging can make one feel “home and dry.” With its catchy melody and introspective lyrics, “18: Home and Dry” is a poignant and relatable representation of the human desire for a place to call home.
19. SE A VIDA É (That’s the Way Life is)
“SE A VIDA É (That’s the Way Life is)” is a song by the British synth-pop band Pet Shop Boys. The song’s title translates to “If life is…” in Portuguese, reflecting the band’s influences and interest in Brazilian culture. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy lyrics offer a message of optimism and resilience, encouraging listeners to embrace life’s challenges and uncertainties. The lyrics acknowledge the difficulties and disappointments that people face in life but remind us that we have the power to overcome them and find happiness. With its uplifting message and infectious rhythm, “SE A VIDA É” is a classic example of Pet Shop Boys’ signature blend of electronic music and thoughtful lyrics.
20. I wouldn’t Normally Do This Kind of Thing
“I wouldn’t Normally Do This Kind of Thing” is another popular song by Pet Shop Boys. The song’s title reflects the narrator’s reluctance to engage in risky or unconventional behavior, but ultimately succumbing to temptation. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody contrast with the lyrics’ more introspective theme of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and taking chances. The song’s lyrics explore the excitement and uncertainty of new experiences, while acknowledging the risks and potential consequences. “I wouldn’t Normally Do This Kind of Thing” is a fun and energetic song that offers a lighthearted perspective on taking risks and living life to the fullest.
Macey West 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.
