Peter Gabriel is a legendary British musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer, who first gained fame as the lead vocalist of the progressive rock band Genesis in the 1970s. He embarked on a successful solo career in the 1980s, creating a distinctive and eclectic sound that drew on a wide range of musical genres, from rock and pop to world music and electronic music. Over the years, Gabriel has released numerous hit singles and albums, and his unique style and creative vision have won him a legion of fans around the world.
In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best Peter Gabriel songs of all time. We will explore the diverse range of his musical output, from his early days with Genesis to his solo career, and highlight some of his most iconic and memorable tracks. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a newcomer to Gabriel’s music, this list is sure to provide an engaging and entertaining journey through the career of one of the most talented and influential musicians of our time.
10. Games Without Frontiers
“Games Without Frontiers” is a hit single from Peter Gabriel’s self-titled 1980 album, and it remains one of his most popular and enduring songs. The track features a catchy melody, a driving beat, and a memorable chorus that is instantly recognizable to fans of Gabriel’s music. The lyrics of the song are both playful and political, using a children’s game as a metaphor for the dangerous games played by politicians on the world stage. The track is also notable for its innovative use of instrumentation, including the famous opening synth riff, and for its lush production, which incorporates elements of African and Brazilian music. With its infectious energy and thought-provoking lyrics, “Games Without Frontiers” is a classic example of Peter Gabriel’s unique and boundary-pushing musical style.
9. D.I.Y.
“D.I.Y.” is a track from Peter Gabriel’s 1978 album “Peter Gabriel” (also known as “Scratch”), and it is a standout example of the artist’s early solo work. The song features a driving rhythm, punchy horns, and a catchy chorus that showcases Gabriel’s powerful vocals. Lyrically, “D.I.Y.” is a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the joys of home improvement, and it has been interpreted as a commentary on the DIY punk movement that was emerging at the time. The track is also notable for its use of electronic effects, which were cutting-edge for their time and demonstrate Gabriel’s innovative approach to music-making. With its irreverent lyrics, infectious groove, and groundbreaking sound, “D.I.Y.” is a classic track from Peter Gabriel’s early career that still resonates with listeners today.
8. Shock the Monkey
“Shock the Monkey” is a popular single from Peter Gabriel’s 1982 album “Security”, and it is widely regarded as one of his most iconic and influential songs. The track features a haunting melody, atmospheric synths, and a distinctive guitar riff, as well as Gabriel’s trademark emotive vocals. Lyrically, “Shock the Monkey” is a metaphorical exploration of jealousy and possessiveness, with the monkey representing the darker impulses that can drive human behavior. The song’s enigmatic lyrics, combined with its moody and atmospheric sound, have made it a favorite of fans and critics alike. “Shock the Monkey” is also notable for its innovative use of electronic effects, including the famous “monkey screams” that punctuate the chorus. With its evocative lyrics, haunting sound, and powerful emotional impact, “Shock the Monkey” remains a classic track from Peter Gabriel’s extensive catalog of music.
7. Here Comes the Flood
“Here Comes the Flood” is a poignant and introspective ballad from Peter Gabriel’s 1977 debut solo album. The track features Gabriel’s soulful vocals and gentle piano playing, as well as sparse and delicate instrumentation that underscores the song’s emotional impact. Lyrically, “Here Comes the Flood” is a powerful meditation on isolation, loss, and the human condition, with Gabriel’s haunting imagery and evocative wordplay resonating deeply with listeners. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, attesting to its enduring appeal and timeless quality. With its heartfelt lyrics, understated musicality, and powerful emotional resonance, “Here Comes the Flood” is a masterpiece of Gabriel’s early solo work, and it remains one of his most beloved and enduring songs.
6. Big Time
“Big Time” is a popular single from Peter Gabriel’s 1986 album “So”, and it is a quintessential example of his unique and eclectic musical style. The track features a driving beat, catchy synth riffs, and Gabriel’s distinctive vocals, which are equal parts playful and powerful. Lyrically, “Big Time” is a satirical commentary on the excesses of the entertainment industry and the cult of celebrity, with Gabriel adopting a larger-than-life persona that parodies the self-importance and vanity of many famous musicians. The song’s bold and irreverent style, combined with its memorable hooks and infectious energy, have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Gabriel’s live shows. With its catchy lyrics, upbeat tempo, and inventive use of electronic effects, “Big Time” is a classic track from Peter Gabriel’s discography that showcases his unique creative vision and dynamic musical range.
5. Sledgehammer
“Sledgehammer” is a highly popular and iconic single from Peter Gabriel’s 1986 album “So”, and it is considered one of his most successful and recognizable songs. The track features a distinctive horn section, catchy guitar riff, and Gabriel’s powerful and soulful vocals, which range from smooth crooning to gritty falsetto. Lyrically, “Sledgehammer” is a playful and erotic celebration of desire and passion, with Gabriel using vivid and imaginative metaphors to describe the pleasures of physical intimacy. The song’s innovative and groundbreaking music video, directed by Stephen R. Johnson, is also widely regarded as a classic of the form, and its use of stop-motion animation, live-action footage, and surreal imagery has made it a fan favorite. With its infectious groove, memorable hook, and irrepressible energy, “Sledgehammer” remains a timeless classic that epitomizes the creative vision and musical mastery of Peter Gabriel.
4. In Your Eyes
“In Your Eyes” is a beloved and highly emotional ballad from Peter Gabriel’s 1986 album “So”, and it is widely regarded as one of his most iconic and memorable songs. The track features a powerful and soulful vocal performance from Gabriel, as well as lush and atmospheric instrumentation that underscores the song’s emotional intensity. Lyrically, “In Your Eyes” is a tender and romantic ode to the power of love and connection, with Gabriel’s heartfelt lyrics and soaring vocals striking a chord with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s unforgettable chorus and gentle melody have made it a favorite for weddings, romantic moments, and cinematic soundtracks, and its emotional resonance and timeless quality continue to captivate audiences to this day. With its powerful message of love and hope, “In Your Eyes” is a classic track from Peter Gabriel’s discography that will always be remembered as a masterpiece of emotional songwriting.
3. Come Talk To Me
“Come Talk To Me” is a haunting and introspective ballad from Peter Gabriel’s 1992 album “Us”, and it is a standout example of his unique and evocative musical style. The track features Gabriel’s powerful and emotive vocals, as well as an array of world music-inspired instrumentation that includes African drums, Middle Eastern strings, and Indian flutes. Lyrically, “Come Talk To Me” is a poignant exploration of love and loss, with Gabriel using rich and evocative imagery to describe the pain and longing that can accompany the end of a relationship. The song’s atmospheric sound and Gabriel’s raw and vulnerable delivery have made it a favorite of fans and critics alike, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality and emotional resonance. With its powerful message of love and hope, “Come Talk To Me” is a classic track from Peter Gabriel’s discography that will always be remembered as a masterpiece of introspective songwriting.
2. Red Rain
“Red Rain” is a moody and atmospheric track from Peter Gabriel’s 1986 album “So”, and it is widely regarded as one of his most powerful and emotionally resonant songs. The track features a driving beat, lush orchestration, and Gabriel’s distinctive and emotive vocals, which range from soft and introspective to raw and passionate. Lyrically, “Red Rain” is a haunting exploration of guilt, trauma, and the human condition, with Gabriel using vivid and evocative imagery to describe the emotional aftermath of a devastating event. The song’s atmospheric sound and Gabriel’s powerful delivery have made it a favorite of fans and critics alike, and its emotional resonance and timeless quality continue to captivate audiences to this day. With its deep and thought-provoking lyrics, innovative soundscapes, and raw emotional power, “Red Rain” is a classic track from Peter Gabriel’s discography that will always be remembered as a masterpiece of introspective songwriting.
1. Solsbury Hill
“Solsbury Hill” is a timeless and inspiring track from Peter Gabriel’s 1977 debut solo album, and it is widely regarded as one of his most iconic and beloved songs. The track features a simple yet powerful arrangement, with Gabriel’s gentle acoustic guitar playing and soulful vocals creating a feeling of intimacy and introspection. Lyrically, “Solsbury Hill” is a deeply personal song about Gabriel’s decision to leave the band Genesis and strike out on his own, with the titular hill representing a symbol of both the challenges and opportunities of taking a new path in life. The song’s emotional resonance and universal themes have made it a favorite of fans and critics alike, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality and emotional depth. With its uplifting message of hope and possibility, “Solsbury Hill” is a classic track from Peter Gabriel’s discography that will always be remembered as a masterpiece of inspirational songwriting.
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.
