“The Only Ones” were an influential English rock band formed in 1976. The band’s lineup consisted of Peter Perrett (vocals, guitar), John Perry (guitar), Alan Mair (bass), and Mike Kellie (drums). They are best known for their 1978 single “Another Girl, Another Planet,” which has become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
The band’s music is characterized by a blend of punk, power pop, and new wave influences, with Perrett’s distinctive voice and Perry’s guitar work being particularly notable. Despite their relatively short initial career, which lasted until 1982, The Only Ones left a lasting legacy on the punk and new wave scenes. They released three studio albums: “The Only Ones” (1978), “Even Serpents Shine” (1979), and “Baby’s Got a Gun” (1980).
The band reunited several times over the years, with various line-up changes. Their work, especially “Another Girl, Another Planet,” has been covered by numerous artists and continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
1. Miles from Nowhere
“Miles from Nowhere” is a song by the British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens, from his 1970 album “Tea for the Tillerman.” This album is one of Stevens’ most acclaimed works, featuring a blend of folk, rock, and pop influences. The song reflects themes of searching and introspection, consistent with the broader spiritual and philosophical explorations in Stevens’ music during this period.
In “Miles from Nowhere,” Stevens contemplates the journey of life, its meaning, and the personal quest for understanding and fulfillment. The lyrics convey a sense of wandering and existential inquiry, capturing the artist’s quest for purpose and connection beyond the material world. The song’s arrangement includes Stevens’ emotive vocals and acoustic guitar, complemented by orchestral elements that enhance its reflective mood.
Cat Stevens, who later changed his name to Yusuf Islam after converting to Islam in 1977, has continued to perform and record music under both names. “Tea for the Tillerman” remains one of his seminal works, with “Miles from Nowhere” standing out as a poignant expression of his lyrical and musical artistry.
2. The Whole of the Law
“The Whole of the Law” is a song by The Only Ones, featured on their self-titled debut album released in 1978. Written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist Peter Perrett, the song is known for its infectious melody, catchy guitar riffs, and darkly poetic lyrics.
“The Whole of the Law” showcases The Only Ones’ unique blend of punk rock, new wave, and power pop, with a driving rhythm and edgy guitar work. The lyrics explore themes of desire, temptation, and moral ambiguity, with Perrett’s distinctive vocals adding to the song’s haunting and atmospheric quality.
While “The Whole of the Law” was not released as a single, it became a fan favorite and a standout track on The Only Ones’ debut album. The song’s raw energy and introspective lyrics have earned it a place as one of the band’s most enduring and beloved songs, celebrated for its timeless appeal and emotional depth.
3. Another Girl, Another Planet
“Another Girl, Another Planet” is the standout track by British rock band The Only Ones, released in 1978 on their self-titled debut album. Renowned for its catchy melody, energetic tempo, and John Perry’s dynamic guitar riffs, the song explores themes of love and longing with a cosmic twist. Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals add a layer of introspection and vulnerability. Though it achieved modest commercial success initially, the track has garnered critical acclaim over the years, often cited as one of the greatest rock songs of all time, and remains a timeless anthem in rock music history.
4. City of Fun
“City of Fun” is a song by The Only Ones, included on their second studio album “Even Serpents Shine,” released in 1979. Written by the band’s frontman Peter Perrett, the track is characterized by its energetic punk rock sound infused with elements of new wave and post-punk.
“City of Fun” features a driving rhythm, catchy guitar hooks, and Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, the song depicts a vibrant urban landscape filled with excitement and hedonism, capturing the exhilarating atmosphere of nightlife and youthful rebellion.
While “City of Fun” did not achieve significant commercial success, it remains a cult favorite among fans of The Only Ones and is regarded as a standout track on “Even Serpents Shine.” The song’s infectious energy and rebellious spirit encapsulate the essence of the late 1970s punk and new wave scene.
5. Out There in the Night
“Out There in the Night” is a song by The Only Ones, included on their third studio album “Baby’s Got a Gun,” released in 1980. Written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist Peter Perrett, the track embodies the band’s distinctive blend of punk rock, new wave, and post-punk.
“Out There in the Night” features a driving rhythm, jangly guitar riffs, and Peter Perrett’s emotive vocals. Lyrically, the song explores themes of alienation, longing, and existential uncertainty, with Perrett’s poetic lyrics painting a vivid picture of urban life after dark.
While “Out There in the Night” was not released as a single and the album “Baby’s Got a Gun” received mixed reviews, the song remains a fan favorite and a testament to The Only Ones’ songwriting prowess and unique sound. Its haunting melody and introspective lyrics capture the mood of late-night wanderings and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.
6. From Here to Eternity
“From Here to Eternity” is a song by The Clash, included on their album “Combat Rock,” released in 1982. Written by the band’s guitarist Mick Jones and lead vocalist Joe Strummer, the track showcases The Clash’s blend of punk rock, reggae, and rockabilly influences.
“From Here to Eternity” features a driving rhythm, catchy guitar hooks, and Joe Strummer’s impassioned vocals. Lyrically, the song explores themes of rebellion, defiance, and the search for meaning in a turbulent world.
While “From Here to Eternity” was not released as a single, it remains a fan favorite and a standout track on “Combat Rock.” The song’s infectious energy and anthemic chorus capture the spirit of The Clash’s politically charged punk rock ethos, making it a timeless classic in the band’s catalog.
7. Programme
“Programme” is a song by The Only Ones, featured on their album “Baby’s Got a Gun,” released in 1980. Written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist Peter Perrett, the track is known for its catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and introspective lyrics.
“Programme” features a driving rhythm, jangly guitar riffs, and Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, the song explores themes of conformity, disillusionment, and the search for identity in a modern world dominated by societal expectations and mass media.
While “Programme” was not released as a single and “Baby’s Got a Gun” received mixed reviews, the song remains a fan favorite among followers of The Only Ones. Its infectious energy and thought-provoking lyrics exemplify the band’s unique blend of punk rock sensibilities and introspective songwriting.
8. Why Don’t You Kill Yourself
“Why Don’t You Kill Yourself” is a song by The Only Ones, featured on their second studio album “Even Serpents Shine,” released in 1979. Written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist Peter Perrett, the song is known for its darkly humorous lyrics and gritty punk rock sound.
“Why Don’t You Kill Yourself” features a driving rhythm, aggressive guitar riffs, and Peter Perrett’s sneering vocals. Lyrically, the song adopts a sarcastic and confrontational tone, with Perrett delivering biting commentary on societal pressures and personal struggles.
While “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself” may be provocative in its title and lyrics, it is ultimately a critique of societal norms and expectations rather than an endorsement of self-harm. The song’s rebellious spirit and unapologetic attitude reflect the ethos of punk rock and The Only Ones’ confrontational approach to music and social commentary.
9. Me and My Shadow
“Me and My Shadow” is a classic song first published in 1927, with music by Dave Dreyer and lyrics by Al Jolson and Billy Rose. The song poignantly captures the theme of loneliness, with the singer’s shadow as their only companion. Known for its smooth melody, “Me and My Shadow” has been adapted into various musical styles, becoming a standard in the American songbook. Notable performances include the playful duet by Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., which added a charismatic twist. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its simple yet profound expression of human solitude and companionship.
10. Language Problem
“Language Problem” is a song by The Only Ones, featured on their second studio album “Even Serpents Shine,” released in 1979. The track is characterized by its energetic punk rock sound, catchy guitar riffs, and Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals.
“Language Problem” features a driving rhythm and sharp, angular guitar work, typical of The Only Ones’ style. Lyrically, the song explores themes of communication breakdown and frustration, with Peter Perrett lamenting the difficulties of expressing oneself and connecting with others.
While “Language Problem” was not released as a single, it remains a fan favorite and a standout track on “Even Serpents Shine.” The song’s infectious energy and relatable lyrics capture the essence of punk rock’s rebellious spirit and existential angst.
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.
