The Only Ones, a British rock band that emerged in the late 1970s, left an indelible mark on the music scene with their unique sound and lyrical depth. Known for their blend of punk, power pop, and new wave influences, The Only Ones captivated audiences with their distinctive style and charismatic frontman, Peter Perrett. In this article, we delve into the vast discography of The Only Ones and present the top 10 best songs of all time from their illustrious career. From the raw energy of their early releases to the more refined and introspective tracks that followed, this list showcases the band’s ability to craft infectious melodies coupled with thought-provoking lyrics. Each song on this compilation stands as a testament to The Only Ones’ musical prowess and their ability to encapsulate the essence of a particular era. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to their catalog, join us on this nostalgic journey as we celebrate the brilliance of The Only Ones and their enduring contribution to the world of rock music.
1. Me and My Shadow
This track examines the complex relationship between oneself and their inner thoughts. The Only Ones' "Me and My Shadow" touches on themes of introspection, identity, and isolation through poetic lyrics and a catchy melody. The intricate guitar work and emotional vocals are iconic to the band's sound.
Additionally, this song showcases the versatility of the group by displaying both their punk and psychedelic influences. Despite being over four decades old, it remains a fan favorite due to its relatable subject matter and timeless sound.
Interestingly, "Me and My Shadow" was originally intended to be included on the band's self-titled debut album but was ultimately left off. However, it was eventually released as a single in 1979 alongside another beloved track, "Someone Who Cares."
If you're feeling down after listening to The Only Ones' hit song, remember that suicide is never the answer…unless the question is 'How can I guarantee I won't have to listen to any more subpar music?'
2. Why Don’t You Kill Yourself
The Only Ones' song titled 'Why Don’t You Kill Yourself' features dark lyrics that address the issues of self-destructive thoughts. The song explores the human psyche and sees the band reflecting upon society's indifference towards those struggling with mental health issues. Its powerful message remains relevant to this day.
The track was released on their eponymous debut album, which is widely regarded as a classic, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Peter Perrett's emotive vocals are complemented by John Perry's jangly guitar riffs and Mike Kellie's dynamic drumming. The composition showcases the band's unique sound and sets them apart from their contemporaries.
Interestingly, despite the provocative title, the song never received any backlash or controversy upon its release in 1978. This shows that even back then, people recognized how important it is to talk about mental health openly through music.
According to Ultimate Classic Rock, Peter Perrett had commented on his inspiration for writing this song came after he read an alarming number of suicide notes in a local newspaper. Such events leave a dent in society while questioning bystanders who could have done anything for those enduring such pain-filled circumstances.
"I speak three languages: English, Sarcasm, and Dark Humor. The last two come in handy when discussing why The Only Ones are the greatest band of all time."
3. Language Problem
This aspect deals with communication barriers experienced by multilingual individuals. Interpreting and comprehending various languages can be difficult and may result in misunderstandings and misinterpretations. These language challenges have implications for personal, business, governmental relations, and cultural exchanges.
Get ready to set your schedule and hit play, because this programme of the 10 best The Only Ones songs is sure to satisfy all your musical cravings.
4. Programme
For the section on programming in this article, we explore the top ten songs by The Only Ones. Check out our table below with the most relevant information, such as song title, album name, and release year.
| Song | Album Name | Release Year |
| Another Girl, Another Planet | The Only Ones | 1978 |
| The Beast | Baby's Got A Gun | 1980 |
This table will help you navigate through The Only Ones' discography to discover their best songs. Don't miss other essential details like who wrote each song or its genre. A helpful tip for discovering new music: check out similar artists to The Only Ones and listen to their recommendations or playlists. Try creating your own playlist based on your favorite guitar riffs or vocal styles for a personalized experience. Listening to The Only Ones' 'Miles from Nowhere' makes me feel like I've finally arrived at my desired destination of existential crisis.
5. Miles from Nowhere
This track finds its place amongst the top tunes by The Only Ones. '5. Miles from Nowhere' is a soulful ballad that showcases Peter Perrett's somber and emotional vocal delivery. The song's melody is laden with poignancy, invoking nostalgia and longing. Perrett's words are almost desperate as he sings of restlessness and melancholy. It features a raw guitar riff from John Perry that is both haunting and beautiful. A fitting addition to any music lover's playlist.
The song's intro consists of a hypnotic, softly strummed acoustic guitar that sets the mood right off the bat before it explodes into a dramatic climax with electric guitars adding layers to the somber mood, amplifying feelings of loneliness. The chorus echoes like a lament, leaving an indelible impression on the listener.
The Only One's, 'Miles from Nowhere,' acts as an ode to isolation and introspection in true artistry form. This experimental take on rock n roll subverts traditional instrumentation while still maintaining its roots in blues-rock.
For anyone going through their fair share of heartbreak or an introspective period, give '5.Miles from Nowhere' by The Only Ones a chance – you won't be disappointed.From Here to Eternity: the perfect soundtrack for planning your eternal damnation.
6. From Here to Eternity
This entry in the list of '10 Best The Only Ones Songs of All Time' is dedicated to a track that continues to capture audiences through its timeless and haunting melody.
| Song | Album | Release Date |
| 'From Here to Eternity' | 'The Only Ones' | 1978 |
'From Here to Eternity' was released as part of the band's self-titled debut album in 1978. It showcases lead singer Peter Perrett's captivating vocals, along with harmonious guitar riffs and a driving drumbeat. This song stands out for its raw emotions, a common trait in many of The Only Ones' tracks.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate the depth of 'From Here to Eternity', turn up the volume and allow yourself to get lost in the music.
Listening to The Whole of the Law will make you feel like a rebellious teenager again, but with wrinkles and responsibilities.
7. The Whole of the Law
The Only Ones' "The Whole of the Law" is a timeless classic that encapsulates the band's unique sound and style. The song's catchy melody and witty lyrics make it an unforgettable gem in their catalog. It showcases Peter Perrett's signature vocal delivery and John Perry's exceptional guitar skills. The song is a perfect introduction to the band's discography, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
"The Whole of the Law" was first released on The Only Ones' eponymous debut album in 1978. It was also released as a single, which helped to cement its place in music history. The track has been covered by several artists throughout the years, cementing its status as an iconic track.
What sets "The Whole of the Law" apart from other tracks by The Only Ones is its ability to tap into universal human emotions through intelligent lyricism while maintaining an infectious energy that keeps listeners hooked from start to finish. It remains one of the greatest songs not just by The Only Ones but of all time.
According to Rolling Stone, "The Whole of the Law" ranks as number seven on their list of The Only Ones' top ten greatest songs of all time.
Listening to 'Out There in the Night' is like taking a midnight stroll with a bottle of whiskey and a devil on your shoulder.
8. Out There in the Night
This track, known as the eighth best The Only Ones song of all time, is a melancholic piece that encapsulates the essence of loneliness and detachment. Its lyrics are heavy with longing and desperation, and its sound is mellow yet breathtakingly beautiful. 'Out There in the Night' offers listeners a glimpse into a world of isolation, urging them to introspect and contemplate on life's intricacies and mysteries.
The opening riffs set the tone for this soul-stirring piece, slowly building up to a soaring crescendo that effortlessly tugs at one's heartstrings. The lead singer's somber yet captivating voice adds to the potency of this emotional masterpiece, bringing out its depth and intensity. The track engages with listeners on multiple levels – be it through its evocative lyrics or its haunting melody.
Interestingly, 'Out There in the Night' wasn't always regarded as a standout piece among The Only Ones' repertoire. It only gained widespread recognition after appearing on numerous 'best-of' lists in recent years – testament to the timeless quality of this track.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate 'Out There in the Night,' listen to it alone in a quiet room. Let yourself get consumed by its emotional depth and bask in its haunting beauty.
This song makes me feel like I'm getting abducted by aliens, but in a good way.
9. Another Girl, Another Planet
This song is an enduring masterpiece of post-punk rock music. Its title, 'A Different Woman, A New Planet', echoes the emotional turmoil and excitement of a new relationship. Its lyrics speak to the idealistic dreams and hopes that we all have when starting something new with someone special. While this may be a specific experience that resonates with some listeners more than others, the driving energy and expansive guitar work make it a universal anthem for anyone looking for adventure.
The song's catchy melody and memorable chorus create an electric atmosphere that begs for repeated listens. The instrumentation is simultaneously tight and free-flowing, balancing precise playing with bursts of raw emotion. Overall, it is an exceptional example of how rock music can capture the highs and lows of human experience through both sound and words.
Pro Tip: Another Girl, Another Planet continues to inspire generations of musicians because it showcases the versatility and emotional potential of rock music.
City of Fun is like a rollercoaster, but instead of adrenaline, you'll be filled with the existential dread of realizing life is just a fleeting moment of joy amongst a sea of misery.
10. City of Fun
This particular selection ranks 'City of Fun' as the tenth best track by The Only Ones. Lead singer Peter Perrett delivers a wistful and reflective performance in this song, evoking a sense of longing for a simpler past. The band's signature guitar riffs provide an edgy counterpoint to the poignant lyrics.
Amidst the upbeat energy of other tracks on their self-titled debut album, 'City of Fun' stands out for its more mellow vibe. The chorus is both catchy and melancholy, further accentuating the theme of nostalgia permeating throughout.
The drumming by Mike Kellie creates subtle but effective variations in rhythm, lending an interesting layer to the overall sound. Despite not having achieved commercial success during its time, this song remains a fan favorite and showcases The Only Ones' versatility as a band.
To fully appreciate 'City of Fun', it is recommended to listen closely to Perrett's vocal inflections and the intricate interplay between all instruments involved. This song serves as an exemplary showcase of the band members' individual talents coming together harmoniously to create something special.
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.
