Stiff Little Fingers are a punk rock band hailing from Belfast, Northern Ireland. They formed in 1977 during the height of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and their music was heavily influenced by the political and social unrest of the time. Their debut album, “Inflammable Material,” released in 1979, became an instant classic of the punk rock genre, featuring songs that tackled issues such as police brutality, sectarian violence, and unemployment.
Stiff Little Fingers’ music was characterized by their fast-paced, high-energy sound and Jake Burns’ distinctive vocals. They were known for their politically charged lyrics, which offered a scathing critique of the social and political conditions of their time.
Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, Stiff Little Fingers have remained a fixture in the punk rock scene, releasing numerous albums and touring extensively around the world. They continue to be a powerful voice for social justice and political activism, and their music has inspired countless fans and musicians alike.
Stiff Little Fingers’ legacy as one of the most important punk bands of all time remains secure, and their music continues to resonate with listeners who share their passion for social justice, human rights, and the power of punk rock to effect change.
1. Johnny Was
“Johnny Was” by Stiff Little Fingers is a powerful and emotional song that tells the story of a young man who was senselessly killed during a riot in his hometown. The lyrics are raw and poignant, painting a vivid picture of the devastation and heartbreak that follows such a tragic event. The music is fast-paced and energetic, with driving guitar riffs and pounding drums adding to the sense of urgency and anger in the song. “Johnny Was” is a powerful commentary on the senseless violence and injustice that can occur in society, and remains a classic protest song to this day.
2. Bits of Kids
“Bits of Kids” is a classic punk rock track by Stiff Little Fingers, released in 1980. The song features a fast-paced, high-energy sound and Jake Burns’ signature vocals. The lyrics explore the theme of youth culture and the alienation felt by young people in the face of social and political unrest. “Bits of Kids” showcases Stiff Little Fingers’ ability to create music that is both politically charged and emotionally raw, and it remains a fan favorite to this day. The track’s urgent energy and biting lyrics continue to inspire listeners to challenge the status quo and fight for a better future.
3. Listen
“Listen” is a powerful anti-authoritarian anthem by the Northern Irish punk rock band Stiff Little Fingers. The song urges listeners to pay attention to the world around them and not blindly follow those in power. It criticizes the hypocrisy of politicians and the media, and urges people to think for themselves and question the status quo. The song’s urgent, driving rhythm and intense guitar riffs perfectly capture the sense of frustration and anger felt by many during the tumultuous political climate of the late 1970s and early 1980s in Northern Ireland.
4. State of Emergency
“State of Emergency” is a powerful punk rock track by Stiff Little Fingers, released in 1979. The song features an urgent, high-energy sound and Jake Burns’ distinctive vocals. The lyrics express a sense of frustration and anger with the political and social conditions of the time, as the narrator pleads for change in the face of police brutality and political corruption. “State of Emergency” showcases Stiff Little Fingers’ ability to create music that is both emotionally charged and socially conscious, and it remains a fan favorite to this day. The track’s urgent energy and powerful message continue to resonate with listeners who share their passion for political activism and social justice.
5. Doesn’t Not Make It Alright
“Doesn’t Make It Alright” by Stiff Little Fingers is a powerful punk rock anthem that speaks out against racism and discrimination. The song features fast-paced guitar riffs and pounding drums, and the urgent vocals of frontman Jake Burns. The lyrics describe the senseless violence and injustice that results from prejudice and bigotry, urging listeners to take action and stand up against hatred. The track was released in 1979, during a time of rising racial tensions in the UK, and remains a poignant reminder of the need for equality and acceptance in society.
6. At the Edge
“At the Edge” is a classic punk rock track by Stiff Little Fingers, released in 1980. The song features a high-energy, driving rhythm and Jake Burns’ signature vocals. The lyrics explore the theme of personal freedom and the desire to break free from societal constraints. “At the Edge” showcases Stiff Little Fingers’ ability to create music that is both musically dynamic and socially relevant, and it remains a fan favorite to this day. The track’s driving energy and powerful lyrics continue to inspire listeners to challenge the status quo and embrace their individuality.
7. Barbed Wire Love
“Barbed Wire Love” is a punk rock anthem that captures the angst and frustration of Northern Ireland during the height of The Troubles. The song speaks to the sense of isolation and confinement felt by many in Belfast, surrounded by barbed wire and military checkpoints. The driving guitar riffs and urgent vocals convey a sense of desperation and rebellion against the oppressive forces that seem to be closing in. At the same time, the song expresses a longing for connection and intimacy, even in the face of such harsh circumstances. “Barbed Wire Love” is a powerful and timeless statement of resistance and hope.
8. Alternative Ulster
“Alternative Ulster” is a classic punk rock anthem by Stiff Little Fingers, released in 1978. The song features a driving, fast-paced rhythm and Jake Burns’ distinctive vocals. The lyrics offer a scathing critique of the political and social conditions of Northern Ireland at the time, calling for an alternative to the sectarian violence and political corruption that were endemic in the region. “Alternative Ulster” remains one of Stiff Little Fingers’ most popular and enduring tracks, and its urgent energy and powerful message continue to inspire listeners to fight for social justice and political change.
9. Nobody’s Hero
“Nobody’s Hero” is a song by punk rock band Stiff Little Fingers, released in 1980 as part of their album “Nobody’s Heroes.” The song is a powerful anti-war anthem, written in response to the Falklands War. The lyrics speak of the senselessness of war and the tragic consequences it has for the individuals who fight it. The chorus, “He’s nobody’s hero/ saves a drowning child, cures a wasting disease/ Hero – lands the crippled airplane, solves great mysteries” is a condemnation of the glorification of violence and war, and a call for peace and understanding between nations.
10. Suspect Device
“Suspect Device” is a classic punk rock track by Stiff Little Fingers, released in 1978. The song features a fast-paced, high-energy sound and Jake Burns’ signature vocals. The lyrics offer a scathing critique of the violence and political unrest that was rampant in Northern Ireland at the time, urging listeners to reject sectarianism and embrace unity and peace. “Suspect Device” remains one of Stiff Little Fingers’ most powerful and iconic tracks, and its message of hope and resistance continue to inspire listeners to challenge the status quo and fight for a better future.
Edward Tomlin 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.
