Arctic Monkeys are a British indie rock band formed in 2002. Their debut album, “Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not,” became the fastest-selling debut album in UK chart history at the time of its release. The band’s sound is characterized by Alex Turner’s distinctive vocals and their raw, guitar-driven sound that draws influences from punk rock, garage rock, and post-punk revival. Their lyrics often explore themes of youth, nightlife, and relationships in a humorous and sometimes satirical manner.
The Arctic Monkeys have released seven studio albums, with their most recent, “Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino,” released in 2018. Their second album, “Favourite Worst Nightmare,” won the 2008 Brit Award for Best British Album. The band has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Best Alternative Music Album and Best Rock Performance.
Some of their most popular songs include “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor,” “Do I Wanna Know?,” “R U Mine?,” and “505.” The Arctic Monkeys have gained a loyal fan base and critical acclaim for their energetic live performances and their ability to continually evolve their sound. They are considered one of the most successful and influential indie rock bands of the 21st century.
10. “I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor”
“I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor” is the debut single by Arctic Monkeys, released in 2005. It quickly became a smash hit, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and earning widespread critical acclaim. The song is a high-energy indie rock track with catchy guitar riffs, driving drums, and Alex Turner’s distinctive vocals. Its lyrics, filled with clever wordplay and cultural references, tell the story of a night out at a club and the intrigue of observing someone on the dancefloor. The song has since become a staple of the band’s live performances and remains one of their most iconic and beloved tracks.
9. “Dancing Shoes” (Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, 2006)
Arctic Monkeys’ “Dancing Shoes” is an infectious indie rock tune that captures the band’s signature sound and clever lyrics. The track features lively guitar riffs, a driving drumbeat, and frontman Alex Turner’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics tell a story of a night out on the town, with Turner charmingly narrating the scene and his interactions with various characters. The chorus is catchy and upbeat, inviting listeners to join in on the fun. Overall, “Dancing Shoes” is a quintessential Arctic Monkeys track that showcases the band’s ability to craft smart and catchy rock songs with a British edge.
8. “Do I Wanna Know?” (AM, 2013)
“Do I Wanna Know?” is a moody and introspective song by English rock band Arctic Monkeys, released in 2013. The song features a hypnotic guitar riff and brooding vocals from frontman Alex Turner, as he questions whether his love interest shares his feelings. The track also incorporates elements of psychedelic rock and blues, adding to its haunting atmosphere. “Do I Wanna Know?” was a commercial and critical success, peaking in the top 10 in multiple countries and earning the band a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance. The song has since become a staple in the band’s live performances and a fan favorite.
7. “R U Mine?” (AM, 2013)
“R U Mine?” is a popular song by Arctic Monkeys, featured on their fifth studio album, AM. The song is a high-energy rock track with an infectious guitar riff, hard-hitting drums, and Alex Turner’s signature vocals. The lyrics are filled with sexual tension, expressing a yearning for a lover who may or may not be interested in reciprocating those feelings. The song’s music video features the band driving around the city at night, adding to the edgy and rebellious vibe of the track. “R U Mine?” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Arctic Monkeys’ live performances, showcasing their ability to craft catchy and dynamic rock songs.
6. “Mardy Bum” (Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, 2006)
“Mardy Bum” is a song by the British indie rock band Arctic Monkeys. It was released in 2006 as part of their debut album, “Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not.” The song features Alex Turner’s distinctively northern English vocals, singing about a strained relationship between a couple. The catchy guitar riff and upbeat tempo contrast with the melancholic lyrics, creating a unique sound that characterizes the band’s early work. “Mardy Bum” has become a fan favorite and is often performed live, cementing its status as one of the Arctic Monkeys’ most beloved tracks.
5. “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” (AM, 2013)
“Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” is a catchy and energetic song by English rock band Arctic Monkeys, released in 2013. The song features a groovy bassline and upbeat percussion, with frontman Alex Turner delivering the lyrics in a seductive, almost spoken-word style. The song centers around a late-night phone call from an old flame, with Turner questioning their intentions and trying to decipher their true feelings. “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” was a commercial success, peaking in the top 20 in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim for its infectious melody and clever lyrics.
4. “The View From The Afternoon” (Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, 2006)
“The View From The Afternoon” is a fast-paced and energetic opening track from Arctic Monkeys’ debut album. The song starts with a distinctive drum beat followed by aggressive guitar riffs, and Alex Turner’s snarling vocals delivering his observations on a night out in Sheffield, England. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the youthful energy and reckless abandon that often comes with a night out, while the band’s tight instrumentation and catchy hooks create an infectious and anthemic sound that quickly became a signature of Arctic Monkeys’ early music. The song’s frenetic energy and catchy chorus make it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows.
3. “Arabella” (AM, 2013)
“Arabella” is a powerful rock song from Arctic Monkeys’ 2013 album “AM”. It starts with a guitar riff that sets the tone for the track, which is both seductive and explosive. The lyrics tell the story of a woman named Arabella who captivates the singer with her confident and irresistible persona. The chorus features catchy and anthemic lines that are sure to get audiences singing along. The song is an excellent showcase of Arctic Monkeys’ ability to blend rock, pop, and psychedelic influences into a sound that is both classic and contemporary.
2. “Fluorescent Adolescent” (Favourite Worst Nightmare, 2007)
“Fluorescent Adolescent” is a popular song by Arctic Monkeys, released in 2007 as a single from their second album “Favourite Worst Nightmare”. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a groovy drum beat, along with the distinctive vocals of lead singer Alex Turner. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is struggling with her past and present life, reminiscing about her youthful days while trying to come to terms with her current situation. The song was a commercial and critical success, earning praise for its catchy melody, poignant lyrics, and energetic performance by the band.
1. “One For the Road” (AM, 2013)
“One For the Road” is a track from the Arctic Monkeys’ fifth studio album, AM. The song opens with a slow and sultry guitar riff, and builds to a lively and infectious chorus. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is trying to win back a lover who has moved on. The song has a vintage rock ‘n’ roll feel, with echoes of early Rolling Stones and T. Rex. The production is sleek and polished, with a mix of live instrumentation and electronic elements. “One For the Road” showcases the Arctic Monkeys’ ability to write catchy and memorable rock anthems, and has become a fan favorite.
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.
