Roxy Music was one of the most innovative and influential bands to emerge from the UK in the 1970s. Led by frontman Bryan Ferry, the band was known for their unique blend of art rock, glam rock, and pop music, creating a sound that was both sophisticated and edgy. With a career spanning over three decades, Roxy Music produced a string of hit albums and singles, solidifying their place in music history as one of the most important bands of the 20th century. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at the best Roxy Music songs of all time. From their breakthrough hit single “Virginia Plain” to their iconic ballad “More Than This,” we will explore the band’s most iconic and influential tracks, highlighting the unique qualities that made Roxy Music so groundbreaking. We will delve into the band’s experimentation with musical genres, their use of unconventional instrumentation and lyrical themes, and their distinctive visual style that helped to shape the glam rock movement. Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the world of Roxy Music, this article will provide an in-depth look at the band’s most timeless and essential songs, showcasing why their legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
1. ‘If There Is Something’
‘If There Is Something’ is a standout track from Roxy Music’s self-titled debut album, released in 1972. The song features a dynamic and theatrical vocal performance by frontman Bryan Ferry, backed by the band’s unique blend of rock, pop, and avant-garde elements. The song’s lyrics are surreal and poetic, with Ferry’s voice moving between delicate whispers and powerful wails. The song’s complex arrangement and unpredictable shifts in tone make it one of Roxy Music’s most memorable and distinctive songs, and a must-listen for fans of ’70s art rock.
2. ‘Avalon’
Avalon’ is one of Roxy Music’s most beloved songs, and for good reason. Released as the title track from the band’s final album in 1982, the song is a haunting and atmospheric ballad that showcases the band’s mastery of both pop and art rock. The song’s ethereal soundscapes, combined with Bryan Ferry’s smooth and emotive vocals, create a sense of dreamlike nostalgia that has made the song a timeless classic. At the heart of the song lies the idea of longing for a distant, idealized place or state of being. Ferry’s lyrics paint a picture of an idyllic, mythical land called Avalon, a place where one can escape from the harsh realities of the world. The song’s shimmering instrumentation, including lush synths, a saxophone solo, and a subtle, pulsating rhythm section, evoke the mood of the mythical land, transporting the listener to a place of longing and desire.
3. ‘Mother of Pearl’
“Mother of Pearl” is a track from Roxy Music’s 1973 album “Stranded.” The song features the band’s signature blend of rock, pop, and art-rock elements. It opens with a catchy guitar riff, and the vocal delivery from lead singer Bryan Ferry is smooth and sophisticated. The lyrics are cryptic and abstract, with imagery that is difficult to pin down. However, they suggest themes of decadence, materialism, and excess. The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with its repetition of the phrase “Mother of Pearl” creating a hypnotic effect. The track features a powerful saxophone solo from Andy Mackay, which adds an element of jazz to the proceedings. Overall, “Mother of Pearl” is a standout track from Roxy Music’s early period, showcasing the band’s unique sound and style.
4. ‘Out of the Blue’
“Out of the Blue” is the opening track from Roxy Music’s 1974 album “Country Life.” The song features a pounding drum beat and a driving bassline, setting a propulsive rhythm for the rest of the album. The track’s lyrics are dark and moody, describing a sense of alienation and despair. Lead singer Bryan Ferry’s vocals are particularly intense, with a rawness and vulnerability that adds emotional depth to the track. The song’s instrumentation is sparse but effective, with Andy Mackay’s saxophone adding an element of mournful beauty to the proceedings. “Out of the Blue” sets the tone for “Country Life,” which is widely regarded as one of Roxy Music’s best albums. The track’s themes of isolation and desperation are universal, and the band’s delivery is both powerful and poignant. Overall, “Out of the Blue” is a standout track in Roxy Music’s discography, showcasing the band’s ability to blend rock and art-rock elements in a unique and powerful way.
5. ‘Ladytron’
“Ladytron” is a synth-pop song from Roxy Music’s self-titled debut album released in 1972. Written by Bryan Ferry, the song is a tribute to an imaginary robot and features a prominent Moog synthesizer sound. The track was considered ahead of its time and highly influential to the development of electronic music. The repetitive synth melody and mechanical sound effects make the song feel futuristic and otherworldly. The track’s structure and production techniques are still considered highly innovative today.
The song’s title inspired the name of a popular electronic music group called Ladytron that formed in the late 1990s. The band achieved critical and commercial success with their unique blend of electronic, new wave, and shoegaze genres, and were known for their moody and atmospheric soundscapes. The influence of Roxy Music and “Ladytron” can be heard in many of their tracks.
6. ‘In Every Dream Home a Heartache’
“In Every Dream Home a Heartache” is a haunting and surreal track from Roxy Music’s second album “For Your Pleasure,” released in 1973. Written by Bryan Ferry, the song tells the story of a man who has fallen in love with an inflatable doll and imagines a life with her in his dream home. The song’s themes of obsession and desire are conveyed through Ferry’s enigmatic lyrics and the song’s eerie, atmospheric sound.
The track features a prominent bassline played by John Wetton, which adds to the song’s dark and foreboding tone. The use of experimental production techniques, such as the manipulation of tape loops and sound effects, creates a sense of disorientation and unease. The song’s unusual structure, with its extended instrumental passages and sudden shifts in tempo, reflects the surreal and dreamlike quality of the lyrics.
7. ‘Re-Make/Re-Model’
“Re-Make/Re-Model” is a song by the English rock band Roxy Music. It was released in 1972 as the opening track of their self-titled debut album. The song is a fast-paced, energetic number that combines elements of rock, blues, and jazz. Its lyrics describe a man’s search for the perfect woman, whom he can mold and shape to his liking. The song features Bryan Ferry’s distinctive vocals and Phil Manzanera’s guitar work, which are both prominent throughout. “Re-Make/Re-Model” has been praised for its innovative use of multiple guitars and its incorporation of elements from different genres. It has also been cited as an influence by several other musicians, including David Bowie and Johnny Marr. The song’s title has also become a popular phrase used in discussions about remixing and reinterpreting art.
8. ‘Jealous Guy’
“Re-Make/Re-Model” is a song by the English rock band Roxy Music. It was released in 1972 as the opening track of their self-titled debut album. The song is a fast-paced, energetic number that combines elements of rock, blues, and jazz. Its lyrics describe a man’s search for the perfect woman, whom he can mold and shape to his liking. The song features Bryan Ferry’s distinctive vocals and Phil Manzanera’s guitar work, which are both prominent throughout. “Re-Make/Re-Model” has been praised for its innovative use of multiple guitars and its incorporation of elements from different genres. It has also been cited as an influence by several other musicians, including David Bowie and Johnny Marr. The song’s title has also become a popular phrase used in discussions about remixing and reinterpreting art.
9. ‘To Turn You On’
‘To Turn You On’ is a sensual and haunting song by Bryan Ferry, the lead singer of Roxy Music. Released in 1982 as a part of the album “Avalon,” the song showcases Ferry’s distinctively sultry vocals and the band’s signature blend of pop, rock, and art music. The lyrics of the song are an ode to the power of physical attraction and the all-consuming desire it can provoke. The song’s slow and mesmerizing melody, coupled with Ferry’s evocative lyrics, make it a standout track in Roxy Music’s discography and a must-listen for fans of ’80s pop-rock.
10. ‘Editions of You’
‘Editions of You’ is a lively and upbeat track by Roxy Music, released in 1973 as a single from their album “For Your Pleasure.” The song features the band’s unique blend of glam rock and art rock, with Bryan Ferry’s playful vocals and Brian Eno’s experimental synth work. The lyrics of the song celebrate the beauty and variety of the human form, with references to art and fashion. The song’s driving beat and catchy chorus make it a standout track in Roxy Music’s early discography and a fan favorite to this day.
11. ‘Love Is the Drug’
Love Is the Drug” is a hit single by the British rock band Roxy Music, released in 1975. The song’s lyrics revolve around the idea of love as a kind of addiction or drug that is hard to resist. The track features a funky bass line, infectious rhythm, and Brian Ferry’s suave vocals. It’s a classic example of the band’s unique blend of rock, pop, and disco. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, and it has been covered by several other artists. It was even used in the soundtrack of the film “The Great Gatsby” in 2013. The song’s catchy chorus and irresistible beat make it a timeless classic that continues to delight music fans.
Roxy Music’s “Love Is the Drug” remains a testament to the band’s musical ingenuity and influence on the music industry. Its iconic sound has inspired generations of musicians and continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
12. ‘Virginia Plain’
Virginia Plain’ is a breakthrough hit single by the English rock band, Roxy Music. Released in 1972, the song features lead singer Bryan Ferry’s theatrical and enigmatic vocals, backed by the band’s unique blend of art rock and glam rock. The lyrics of the song are surreal and abstract, with references to pop culture and avant-garde art. The song’s driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and playful synth lines make it one of Roxy Music’s most iconic and influential songs, and a must-listen for fans of ’70s rock and pop. ‘Virginia Plain’ is widely regarded as one of the greatest debut singles in rock history.
13. ‘The Thrill of It All’
‘The Thrill of It All’ is a powerful and emotional ballad by the English rock band, Roxy Music. Released in 1974, the song features lead singer Bryan Ferry’s passionate and introspective vocals, backed by the band’s signature blend of art rock and glam rock. The lyrics of the song speak of the highs and lows of fame, and the thrill and the loneliness that comes with it. The haunting melody, coupled with the raw emotion in Ferry’s voice, makes ‘The Thrill of It All’ one of Roxy Music’s most unforgettable and timeless songs.
14. ‘A Song for Europe’
‘A Song for Europe’ is a beautifully crafted and melancholic track by Roxy Music, released in 1973 as a part of their album “Stranded.” The song features lead singer Bryan Ferry’s emotive vocals, accompanied by the band’s lush orchestral arrangements and atmospheric synths. The lyrics of the song speak of the loss of love and the longing for a distant past, evoking a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The song’s haunting melody and evocative lyrics make it one of Roxy Music’s most enduring and moving compositions, and a must-listen for fans of art rock and sophisticated pop.
15. ‘Angel Eyes’
‘Angel Eyes’ is a seductive and sensual track by Roxy Music, released in 1979 as a part of their album “Manifesto.” The song features lead singer Bryan Ferry’s smooth and velvety vocals, backed by the band’s polished and sophisticated pop-rock sound. The lyrics of the song speak of the allure of a mysterious and alluring woman, with references to jazz and film noir. The song’s infectious groove and catchy chorus make it one of Roxy Music’s most popular and enduring songs, and a staple of ’70s pop-rock.
16. ‘Do the Strand’
‘Angel Eyes’ is a seductive and sensual track by Roxy Music, released in 1979 as a part of their album “Manifesto.” The song features lead singer Bryan Ferry’s smooth and velvety vocals, backed by the band’s polished and sophisticated pop-rock sound. The lyrics of the song speak of the allure of a mysterious and alluring woman, with references to jazz and film noir. The song’s infectious groove and catchy chorus make it one of Roxy Music’s most popular and enduring songs, and a staple of ’70s pop-rock.
17. ‘Both Ends Burning’
‘Both Ends Burning’ is an electrifying and upbeat track by Roxy Music, released in 1975 as a part of their album “Siren.” The song features lead singer Bryan Ferry’s energetic and passionate vocals, backed by the band’s signature blend of art rock and disco. The lyrics of the song speak of the dangers and excitement of living life to the fullest, with references to love and desire. The song’s driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and pulsating synth lines make it one of Roxy Music’s most dynamic and irresistible songs, and a must-listen for fans of ’70s pop-rock and disco.
18. ‘Running Wild’
‘Running Wild’ is a fast-paced and exhilarating track by Roxy Music, released in 1980 as a part of their album “Flesh and Blood.” The song features lead singer Bryan Ferry’s urgent and impassioned vocals, backed by the band’s polished and sophisticated pop-rock sound. The lyrics of the song speak of the thrill of pursuing one’s dreams and desires, with references to travel and adventure. The song’s driving beat, soaring guitar solos, and anthemic chorus make it one of Roxy Music’s most exhilarating and inspiring songs, and a must-listen for fans of ’80s pop-rock.
19. ‘Oh Yeah’
‘Oh Yeah’ is a catchy and upbeat track by Roxy Music, released in 1980 as a part of their album “Flesh and Blood.” The song features lead singer Bryan Ferry’s smooth and confident vocals, backed by the band’s polished and sophisticated pop-rock sound. The lyrics of the song speak of the power and allure of physical attraction, with references to fashion and luxury. The song’s funky bassline, groovy synth lines, and memorable chorus make it one of Roxy Music’s most memorable and danceable songs, and a must-listen for fans of ’80s pop-rock and funk.
20. ‘More Than This’
‘More Than This’ is a hauntingly beautiful track by Roxy Music, released in 1982 as a part of their album “Avalon.” The song features lead singer Bryan Ferry’s melancholic and introspective vocals, backed by the band’s atmospheric and elegant pop sound. The lyrics of the song speak of longing and nostalgia, with references to memory and regret. The song’s lush and dreamy instrumentation, including a memorable saxophone solo, make it one of Roxy Music’s most evocative and emotionally resonant songs, and a must-listen for fans of ’80s pop and art rock.
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.
