La Roux is an English synthpop duo formed in 2006, consisting of singer and songwriter Elly Jackson and producer Ben Langmaid. The duo gained international success with their self-titled debut album “La Roux,” released in 2009. The album featured hit singles like “Bulletproof,” “In for the Kill,” and “Quicksand,” which earned them critical acclaim and multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Electronic/Dance Album.
La Roux is known for their unique blend of ’80s synthpop and modern electronic music, with Jackson’s distinctive high-pitched vocals and colorful stage presence. The duo has also been praised for their innovative use of electronic sounds and for pushing the boundaries of the pop genre.
Over the years, La Roux has gone through several lineup changes, with Langmaid leaving the group in 2012. Jackson continued to release music under the La Roux name, with her second album “Trouble in Paradise” being released in 2014.
Overall, La Roux is a talented and innovative duo that has left a lasting impact on the synthpop and electronic music scene. Their unique sound and colorful image continue to inspire and influence artists around the world.
1. Bulletproof
“Bulletproof” is a synthpop song by English duo La Roux, released in 2009 as part of their self-titled debut album. The song became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The lyrics speak of strength and resilience, with lead singer Elly Jackson singing “I’m bulletproof, nothing to lose.” “Bulletproof” features a pulsating and catchy beat, with a memorable chorus and Jackson’s distinctive vocals. The music video showcases the duo’s quirky and colorful visuals, adding to the song’s appeal. “Bulletproof” remains a fan favorite and a testament to La Roux’s ability to create infectious and empowering synthpop hits.
2. Let Me Down Gently
“Let Me Down Gently” by La Roux is a hauntingly beautiful synthpop ballad that captures the pain of a failing relationship. Elly Jackson’s emotive vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and desperation, as she pleads with her partner to end things gently and with compassion. The track’s sparse, dreamlike production provides the perfect backdrop for the song’s bittersweet lyrics, creating an atmosphere of sadness and longing. Despite its melancholic tone, “Let Me Down Gently” is a powerful and cathartic song that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the heartbreak of a relationship coming to an end.
3. IFTK
La Roux’s “I’m Not Your Toy” (IFTK) is a synth-pop song released in 2009. The song features a catchy electronic melody with a pulsating beat and a bouncy rhythm. The lyrics, which explore themes of empowerment and self-determination, express the singer’s desire to be free from a toxic relationship. Elly Jackson’s ethereal vocals add to the overall dreamy and atmospheric quality of the song. “I’m Not Your Toy” became a hit for La Roux, and was praised for its infectious beat and empowering message. The song showcases La Roux’s unique brand of synth-pop, combining elements of new wave, electronica, and dance music.
4. In For The Kill
“In for the Kill” is a synthpop hit by English duo La Roux, released in 2009 as part of their self-titled debut album. The song became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries. The lyrics speak of a strong and confident woman, with lead singer Elly Jackson singing “I’m going in for the kill, I’m doing it for a thrill.” “In for the Kill” features a haunting and atmospheric sound, with a memorable melody and Jackson’s distinctive vocals. The music video showcases the duo’s edgy and stylized visuals, adding to the song’s appeal. “In for the Kill” remains a fan favorite and a testament to La Roux’s ability to create unique and captivating synthpop hits.
5. Automatic Driver
“Automatic Driver” by La Roux is an upbeat synthpop track with a driving bassline and pulsing electronic beats. Elly Jackson’s vocals are delivered with a confident swagger, as she sings about the rush of being behind the wheel and the freedom it brings. The song’s futuristic production and catchy chorus make it an instant earworm, with its infectious rhythm and danceable energy. With its references to technology and automation, “Automatic Driver” also hints at themes of control and power, adding an intriguing layer to the song’s catchy and infectious pop hooks. Overall, “Automatic Driver” is a fun and energetic addition to La Roux’s synthpop canon.
6. Damaged Goods
“Damaged Goods” by La Roux is a synth-pop track from their third studio album, Supervision, released in 2020. The song features a catchy melody with a driving beat and a funky bassline, complemented by Elly Jackson’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics explore the aftermath of a failed relationship, and the singer’s desire to move on and start anew. The track showcases La Roux’s signature sound, which combines elements of electronic dance music, new wave, and pop. “Damaged Goods” is a catchy and introspective song that highlights the duo’s talent for crafting infectious and emotionally resonant synth-pop.
7. Quicksand
“Quicksand” is a synthpop track by English duo La Roux, released in 2009 as part of their self-titled debut album. The song showcases Elly Jackson’s unique vocals and Ben Langmaid’s innovative production style. The lyrics speak of a turbulent and uncertain relationship, with Jackson singing “I’m in the quicksand, I’m losing control.” “Quicksand” features a pulsating beat and a memorable chorus, with a melancholic and introspective sound. The music video showcases the duo’s distinctive visuals, adding to the song’s atmospheric and introspective vibe. “Quicksand” remains a fan favorite and a testament to La Roux’s ability to create captivating and introspective synthpop tracks.
8. Sexotheque
“Sexotheque” by La Roux is a provocative electro-pop track that explores themes of sexual desire and hedonism. The song’s pulsing electronic beats and seductive bassline create a hypnotic groove that is impossible to resist. Elly Jackson’s vocals are sultry and confident, as she sings about the thrill of sexual liberation and the freedom to explore one’s desires. The track’s futuristic production and provocative lyrics are a perfect match, creating a sound that is both modern and timeless. With its infectious rhythm and unabashed celebration of sexuality, “Sexotheque” is a bold and daring addition to La Roux’s discography.
9. Tigerlily
“Tigerlily” by La Roux is a synth-pop track from their self-titled debut album, released in 2009. The song features a driving beat, pulsating synths, and Elly Jackson’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics explore the pain of unrequited love, as the singer expresses her desire for a person who is out of reach. The track showcases La Roux’s unique brand of synth-pop, which combines elements of new wave and dance music. “Tigerlily” became a hit for the duo, earning critical acclaim for its infectious beat and Jackson’s emotive vocals. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to La Roux’s talent for crafting catchy and emotionally resonant synth-pop.
10. I’m Not Your Toy
“I’m Not Your Toy” is a synthpop track by English duo La Roux, released in 2009 as part of their self-titled debut album. The song showcases Elly Jackson’s unique vocals and Ben Langmaid’s innovative production style. The lyrics speak of a woman asserting her independence and refusing to be controlled, with Jackson singing “I’m not your toy, you stupid boy.” “I’m Not Your Toy” features a pulsating and energetic beat, with a memorable chorus and a catchy melody. The music video showcases the duo’s edgy and stylized visuals, adding to the song’s appeal. “I’m Not Your Toy” remains a fan favorite and a testament to La Roux’s ability to create infectious and empowering synthpop tracks.
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.
