The Stranglers are an English punk rock band formed in 1974 in Guildford, Surrey. They emerged as part of the UK punk scene in the mid-1970s, with their music incorporating elements of punk, new wave, and post-punk. The band’s original lineup consisted of Hugh Cornwell (vocals, guitar), Jean-Jacques Burnel (bass), Jet Black (drums), and Dave Greenfield (keyboards).
The Stranglers were known for their aggressive and confrontational style, with politically charged lyrics and controversial stage antics. Their early albums, such as “Rattus Norvegicus” and “No More Heroes,” established them as one of the most influential punk bands of the era. However, as their career progressed, they diversified their sound, incorporating elements of reggae, jazz, and other genres into their music.
The band’s enduring popularity and critical acclaim are reflected in their extensive discography, which spans over four decades. Some of their most popular and enduring tracks include “Golden Brown,” “Peaches,” “Always the Sun,” and “No More Heroes.”
Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, The Stranglers continue to tour and record new music to this day, with a dedicated fanbase that spans generations. Their music remains an enduring legacy of the UK punk scene, and their influence can be heard in countless punk and alternative bands that followed in their wake.
1. Something Better Change
“Something Better Change” is a punk rock anthem by The Stranglers, released in 1977. The song features aggressive guitar riffs and driving drum beats, with lead singer Hugh Cornwell’s vocals delivering biting social commentary on the state of the world. The lyrics critique the oppressive nature of society and call for a revolution to bring about change. “Something Better Change” captures the rebellious spirit of the punk movement and its desire for a better future. The song’s hard-hitting sound and provocative lyrics have made it a standout in The Stranglers’ discography and a classic punk rock track.
2. No More Heroes
“No More Heroes” is a punk rock anthem by the English band The Stranglers, released in 1977. The song features a driving rhythm and a catchy chorus, with lyrics that criticize the idea of hero worship and the cult of celebrity. The band members describe a world where there are “no more heroes,” and encourage listeners to reject conformity and think for themselves. With its raw energy and rebellious spirit, “No More Heroes” became an instant hit and remains a classic of the punk rock genre. It is a reminder of the power of music to inspire change and challenge the status quo.
3. Skin Deep
“Skin Deep” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1984. It’s a new wave and post-punk influenced track, featuring a catchy melody, driving bassline, and haunting synth sounds. The song’s lyrics explore the themes of beauty and superficiality, questioning society’s obsession with physical appearance. “Skin Deep” was a commercial success for the band, reaching the top five in the UK charts and earning them critical acclaim for their ability to combine thoughtful lyrics with infectious hooks. The song remains a classic example of The Stranglers’ unique blend of punk rock energy and new wave sensibility.
4. European Female
“European Female” is a new wave hit by The Stranglers, released in 1982. The song features a pulsating electronic beat and melodic synth lines, with lead singer Hugh Cornwell’s vocals delivering a nostalgic ode to a European lover. The lyrics describe the allure of a mysterious and captivating woman, and the desire to be with her despite the distance between them. “European Female” is a quintessential 80s track that captures the era’s fascination with electronic music and romantic yearning. The song’s infectious rhythm and Cornwell’s emotive vocals make it a standout in The Stranglers’ repertoire.
5. Peaches
“Peaches” is a punk rock classic by the English band The Stranglers, released in 1977. The song features a catchy melody and driving rhythm, with lyrics that are both humorous and provocative. The band members sing about their love for a particular body part of women, using suggestive language and innuendo to create a playful yet risqué atmosphere. Despite its controversial subject matter, “Peaches” became an instant hit and remains one of the band’s most popular songs. It is a testament to the power of punk rock to challenge social norms and push boundaries in music and culture.
6. Golden Brown
“Golden Brown” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1981. It’s a melancholic and dreamy track, featuring a distinctive harpsichord melody, acoustic guitar, and poetic lyrics. The song’s title and lyrics allude to the use of heroin, with “golden brown” being a reference to the color of high-quality heroin. Despite the dark subject matter, “Golden Brown” became a hit for the band, reaching number two in the UK charts and earning them critical acclaim for their unique and innovative sound. The song remains a timeless classic, with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics capturing the mood of the era.
7. Duchess
“Duchess” is a post-punk classic by The Stranglers, released in 1979. The song features a distinctive bassline and catchy guitar riff, with lead singer Hugh Cornwell’s vocals delivering poetic lyrics about the complexities of love and relationships. The lyrics describe the ups and downs of a romantic partnership, with Cornwell lamenting the fickleness of his lover. “Duchess” is a masterful composition that showcases The Stranglers’ musical prowess and Cornwell’s songwriting talents. The song’s infectious melody and relatable lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple of the post-punk genre.
8. Nuclear Device
“Nuclear Device” is a punk rock protest song by the English band The Stranglers, released in 1979. The track features a fast-paced rhythm and driving guitar riffs, with lyrics that criticize the arms race and the danger of nuclear war. The band members urge listeners to take action and protest against the military-industrial complex that threatens the safety of the world. With its urgent message and explosive sound, “Nuclear Device” became an anthem for the anti-war movement and remains a powerful example of punk rock’s ability to tackle political issues in music. It is a call to action for a more peaceful and just world.
9. Bear Cage
“Bear Cage” is a punk rock song by The Stranglers, released in 1979. It’s a fast-paced and aggressive track, featuring driving guitars, pounding drums, and confrontational lyrics. The song’s title and lyrics allude to the idea of being trapped and confined, with the “bear cage” being a metaphor for a restrictive and oppressive society. “Bear Cage” showcases The Stranglers’ punk rock energy and confrontational style, with its raw and unapologetic lyrics and hard-hitting instrumentation. The song remains a classic example of the band’s ability to convey their social and political message through their music.
10. Walk On By
“Walk On By” is a classic cover song by the English band The Stranglers, released in 1978. Originally written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David for Dionne Warwick, the song features a haunting melody and emotional lyrics about heartbreak and loss. The Stranglers put their own unique spin on the song, adding a punk rock edge with driving guitar riffs and a raw, powerful vocal performance. With its combination of raw emotion and edgy rock sound, “Walk On By” became an instant hit and remains one of the band’s most beloved songs. It is a testament to the power of great songwriting and the ability of musicians to reinvent and reinterpret classic material.
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.
