Duran Duran, one of the most iconic bands of the 80s, captured the hearts of millions with their unique blend of new wave, synth-pop, and rock music. With hits like “Rio,” “Girls on Film,” and “Hungry Like the Wolf,” the band became a worldwide sensation, earning them legions of fans across the globe. Decades later, their music continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
In this article, we take a look back at the 10 best Duran Duran songs of all time. From their early days to their later albums, we’ll explore the tracks that defined the band and cemented their place in music history. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their music for the first time, this list is sure to take you on a journey through some of the greatest hits from one of the most influential bands of the 80s and beyond.
1. Girls on Film
“Girls on Film” is an iconic hit song by Duran Duran, released in 1981 as their third single. The track’s infectious groove and catchy lyrics made it an instant classic, and it became one of the band’s signature tunes. The song’s music video, which was directed by Godley and Creme, caused a stir with its risqué content, featuring scantily clad models and suggestive imagery. The video was banned by the BBC and other networks, but its controversial nature only served to increase the song’s popularity.
“Girls on Film” remains a fan favorite and a staple of Duran Duran’s live shows, with its driving beat and infectious chorus getting audiences dancing and singing along. The track’s combination of new wave, funk, and pop influences helped to define the band’s sound and set them apart from their peers. Today, “Girls on Film” is a beloved classic and a testament to Duran Duran’s enduring influence on the music world.
2. Ordinary World
“Ordinary World” is a powerful ballad by Duran Duran that was released in 1993. The track marked a new direction for the band, with its stripped-down instrumentation and emotionally charged lyrics. The song was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and earning the band a nomination for a Grammy Award.
“Ordinary World” is a poignant meditation on loss, regret, and the search for meaning in life. The song’s beautiful melody and heartfelt vocals from lead singer Simon Le Bon make it an instant classic. The track’s lyrics, which deal with the struggles of everyday life and the need to find a way forward, have resonated with listeners for decades. “Ordinary World” is a testament to Duran Duran’s ability to evolve and grow as a band, while still maintaining their signature sound and style.
3. Hungry Like the Wolf
“Hungry Like the Wolf” is one of Duran Duran’s most iconic songs, released in 1982 as the second single from their album “Rio.” The track’s catchy melody, pulsing rhythm, and infectious chorus made it an instant classic and a chart-topping hit around the world. The song’s music video, which was directed by Russell Mulcahy, features the band members in a cinematic adventure through Sri Lanka, pursuing a beautiful woman through jungles and rivers.
“Hungry Like the Wolf” perfectly captures the energy and excitement of the new wave and synth-pop scene of the 80s, with its driving beat and distinctive synthesizer riffs. The song’s lyrics, which describe the thrill of the chase and the excitement of pursuing one’s desires, have become a cultural touchstone and a favorite of fans old and new. “Hungry Like the Wolf” is a testament to Duran Duran’s lasting influence on pop music and their ability to craft unforgettable songs that stand the test of time.
4. Save a Prayer
“Save a Prayer” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by Duran Duran that was released in 1982 as the third single from their album “Rio.” The track’s lush instrumentation, dreamy synthesizers, and emotional vocals from lead singer Simon Le Bon make it a standout song in the band’s catalog. The song’s music video, which was also directed by Russell Mulcahy, features the band performing on a yacht in the Mediterranean Sea.
“Save a Prayer” is a love song that captures the yearning and uncertainty of romantic relationships. The track’s evocative lyrics and haunting melody have made it a favorite of fans and critics alike, with many considering it one of Duran Duran’s finest moments. The song’s emotional power and timeless appeal have kept it in rotation on radio stations and playlists around the world, cementing its place as one of the band’s most enduring hits.
5. Notorious
“Notorious” is a funky, upbeat song by Duran Duran that was released in 1986 as the title track of their album of the same name. The track’s catchy guitar riff, driving beat, and infectious chorus make it a standout in the band’s catalog. The song’s music video, directed by Peter Kagan and Paula Greif, features the band members strutting and dancing through a warehouse, exuding cool and confidence.
“Notorious” is a celebration of individuality and the power of self-expression. The song’s lyrics, which urge listeners to be true to themselves and follow their own path, have become a rallying cry for fans around the world. The track’s mix of funk, rock, and pop influences helped to cement Duran Duran’s place as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 80s. “Notorious” remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and musical legacy.
6. New Moon on Monday
“New Moon on Monday” is an electrifying song by Duran Duran that was released in 1984 as the second single from their album “Seven and the Ragged Tiger.” The track’s driving beat, soaring synthesizers, and epic chorus make it a standout in the band’s catalog. The song’s music video, directed by Brian Grant, features the band members as rebels fighting against a totalitarian regime.
“New Moon on Monday” is a song about rebellion, resistance, and the power of hope in dark times. The track’s lyrics, which describe a group of rebels fighting for freedom and a new world, have become a favorite of fans and critics alike. The song’s soaring chorus and cinematic instrumentation have made it a staple of Duran Duran’s live shows, with audiences around the world singing along to its anthemic refrain. “New Moon on Monday” is a testament to Duran Duran’s ability to craft unforgettable songs that capture the spirit of their times.
7. Rio
“Rio” is an iconic hit song by Duran Duran that was released in 1982 as the title track of their album of the same name. The track’s upbeat rhythm, infectious chorus, and distinctive keyboard riff make it one of the band’s most recognizable and enduring songs. The song’s music video, directed by Russell Mulcahy, features the band members partying and dancing on a yacht, surrounded by beautiful models and stunning landscapes.
“Rio” perfectly captures the spirit of the 80s, with its mix of new wave, pop, and rock influences. The song’s lyrics, which describe a carefree life of luxury and excitement, have become a cultural touchstone and a favorite of fans around the world. “Rio” remains a fan favorite and a staple of Duran Duran’s live shows, with its infectious energy and irresistible melody getting audiences dancing and singing along. The song is a testament to Duran Duran’s enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands of their time.
8. The Reflex
“The Reflex” is a catchy pop hit by Duran Duran that was released in 1984 as the lead single from their album “Seven and the Ragged Tiger.” The track’s memorable hook, funky bassline, and energetic chorus make it one of the band’s most successful and enduring songs. The song’s music video, directed by Russell Mulcahy, features the band members performing on a futuristic stage, surrounded by dazzling lights and special effects.
“The Reflex” is a song about the power of instinct and intuition in relationships. The track’s lyrics, which describe the importance of listening to one’s inner voice and following one’s heart, have resonated with fans for decades. The song’s infectious rhythm and memorable melody have made it a favorite of audiences around the world, with its catchy chorus getting listeners dancing and singing along. “The Reflex” is a testament to Duran Duran’s ability to craft timeless pop hits that continue to captivate new generations of fans.
9. Planet Earth
“Planet Earth” is a classic new wave song by Duran Duran that was released in 1981 as their debut single. The track’s atmospheric synths, driving rhythm, and haunting vocals from lead singer Simon Le Bon make it a standout in the band’s early catalog. The song’s music video, directed by Perry Haines, features the band members performing in a futuristic club surrounded by video screens and flashing lights.
“Planet Earth” is a song about the fragility of the planet and the need for humanity to protect it. The track’s lyrics, which describe the beauty of the natural world and the dangers facing it, have taken on even greater urgency in the decades since its release. The song’s mix of new wave, synth-pop, and rock influences helped to define Duran Duran’s sound and set them apart from their peers. “Planet Earth” remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s enduring influence on the music world.
10. A View to a Kill
“A View to a Kill” is a high-energy pop song by Duran Duran that was released in 1985 as the theme song for the James Bond film of the same name. The track’s driving rhythm, catchy chorus, and signature synthesizer riff make it a standout in the band’s catalog. The song’s music video, directed by Godley and Creme, features the band members performing on the Eiffel Tower, intercut with footage from the film.
“A View to a Kill” is a song about danger, intrigue, and the thrill of adventure. The track’s lyrics, which describe the excitement of being a secret agent and the risks involved, perfectly capture the spirit of the Bond franchise. The song’s mix of pop, rock, and electronic influences helped to cement Duran Duran’s place as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 80s. “A View to a Kill” remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s ability to craft unforgettable songs that capture the spirit of their times.
Darren Jamison 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.
