Pulp was a British band that emerged in the 1980s and became one of the defining acts of the Britpop era in the 1990s. The band was known for their witty lyrics, catchy hooks, and energetic live shows, as well as lead singer Jarvis Cocker’s distinctive voice and style. Pulp’s music often dealt with themes of love, loss, and the complexities of modern life, and their unique sound and style helped establish them as one of the most influential bands of their time. They released a string of successful albums and singles throughout their career, including the iconic albums “Different Class” and “This is Hardcore”.
Pulp’s music blended elements of rock, pop, and electronic music, with influences ranging from disco and glam rock to punk and new wave. Their lyrics were often acerbic and incisive, dealing with themes of class, gender, and sexuality, as well as more universal themes of love and loss. Pulp’s live shows were renowned for their energy and sense of spectacle, with Cocker often incorporating elements of performance art into his stage presence.
Pulp’s enduring legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans around the world. Their music and style remain influential, and their contributions to the Britpop era and British music as a whole cannot be overstated. Pulp remains a testament to the power of music to capture the complexity and beauty of human experience, and their legacy continues to resonate with fans around the world.
1. After You
“After You” is a song by British band Pulp, released in 2012. The song features a lush, atmospheric sound, with lead singer Jarvis Cocker delivering a haunting vocal performance. The lyrics describe the aftermath of a failed relationship, with Cocker singing, “After you, nothing else will do. Just like the sun after the rain, you’re the cure for all my pain.” The song’s introspective lyrics and atmospheric sound have made it a fan favorite and a testament to Pulp’s continued relevance and innovation. “After You” showcases the band’s ability to explore new sounds and themes while remaining true to their unique style and sensibility.
2. Underwear
“Underwear” is a song by British band Pulp, released in 1995. The song features a sultry, seductive sound, with lead singer Jarvis Cocker delivering a provocative performance. The lyrics describe a romantic encounter, with Cocker singing, “She’s got a date at midnight with Nosferatu. Oh baby, Lilly Munster, ain’t got nothing on you.” The song’s sensual sound and evocative lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a standout track on Pulp’s album “Different Class”. “Underwear” remains a testament to the band’s ability to capture the complexity and intensity of human relationships in their music.
3. The Fear
“The Fear” is a song by British band Pulp, released in 1998. The song features a brooding, atmospheric sound that contrasts with the band’s more upbeat and energetic hits. The lyrics deal with themes of anxiety and existential dread, with lead singer Jarvis Cocker singing, “This is the sound of someone losing the plot. Making out that they’re okay when they’re not.” The song’s introspective tone and haunting melody have made it a favorite among fans and a highlight of Pulp’s discography. “The Fear” showcases the band’s versatility and willingness to explore new sounds and themes, cementing their status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of their era.
4. Countdown
“Countdown” is a song by British band Pulp, released in 1992. The song features a driving beat and a sense of urgency, with lead singer Jarvis Cocker delivering his signature blend of wit and social commentary. The lyrics describe the challenges of modern life, with Cocker singing, “Countdown starts at one, now tell me, will it ever be done?” The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a highlight of Pulp’s early work. “Countdown” remains a testament to the band’s ability to capture the anxieties and frustrations of modern life in their music.
5. Sorted for E’s and Whizz
“Sorted for E’s and Whizz” is a song by British band Pulp, released in 1995. The song features a driving beat and catchy melody, with lead singer Jarvis Cocker delivering a scathing critique of the rave culture of the time. The lyrics describe the experiences of a group of young people as they attend a rave, taking drugs and losing themselves in the moment. The song’s incisive lyrics and infectious beat have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Pulp’s live shows. “Sorted for E’s and Whizz” remains a testament to the band’s ability to combine social commentary with catchy pop hooks.
6. Bad Cover Version
“Bad Cover Version” is a song by British band Pulp, released in 2002. The song features Little Richard on backing vocals, and pays tribute to the legendary musician. The lyrics describe a failed attempt at recreating a classic song, and compare it to a “bad cover version” of Little Richard’s music. Little Richard’s contribution to the song adds a touch of authenticity and homage to the track, and highlights his influence on popular music. “Bad Cover Version” is a testament to Little Richard’s enduring legacy, and his impact on generations of musicians and fans.
7. Common People
“Common People” is a quintessential Britpop song by Pulp, released in 1995. It tells the story of a wealthy girl who wants to experience life with the “common people”, and the singer’s attraction to her. The upbeat music and catchy chorus make it a crowd favorite, while the lyrics delve into themes of social class and cultural appropriation. Jarvis Cocker’s distinctive vocals and the band’s use of orchestral instruments add to the song’s unique sound. “Common People” became a massive hit in the UK and helped solidify Pulp’s place in the Britpop movement. It remains a beloved anthem of the 1990s.
8. Razzmatazz
“Razzmatazz” is a song by Pulp, released as a single in 1993. It has a catchy, upbeat sound with a driving guitar riff, and features the distinctive vocals of lead singer Jarvis Cocker. The lyrics tell the story of a girl who has become famous and successful, but has lost her sense of self and authenticity in the process. The song is a commentary on the shallow and superficial nature of fame, and the price that people pay to attain it. With its memorable melody and social commentary, “Razzmatazz” has become one of Pulp’s most enduring and beloved songs.
9. Do You Remember the First Time?
“Do You Remember the First Time?” is a song by British band Pulp, released in 1994. The song features a reference to Little Richard, with lead singer Jarvis Cocker singing, “Do you remember the first time? I can’t remember a worse time / But you know that we’ve changed so much since then, Oh yeah, we’ve grown.” The song deals with themes of nostalgia and reflection, and Little Richard’s inclusion serves as a nod to the past and the influence of rock and roll music on modern culture. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Little Richard’s enduring legacy.
10. Disco 2000
“Disco 2000” is a song by British band Pulp, released in 1995. The song features a reference to Little Richard, with lead singer Jarvis Cocker singing, “Well we were born within an hour of each other. Our mothers said we could be sister and brother. Your name is Deborah, Deborah. It never suited ya. And they said that when we grew up, we’d get married, and never split up.” The song deals with themes of lost love and unfulfilled expectations, and Little Richard’s inclusion serves as a nod to the influence of rock and roll on modern music. The song remains a classic of the Britpop genre, and a testament to Little Richard’s enduring legacy.
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.
