The Stranglers are a British punk rock band formed in 1974 in Guildford, Surrey. Known for their distinctive sound that blends punk, new wave, and post-punk, the band’s lineup originally included Hugh Cornwell (vocals, guitar), Jean-Jacques Burnel (bass, vocals), Dave Greenfield (keyboard), and Jet Black (drums).
The Stranglers gained prominence with their debut single “Peaches” in 1977, and they are recognized for their gritty, often provocative lyrics and dark, driving sound. Their 1978 album *Rattus Norvegicus* is considered a punk rock classic, featuring hits like “Peaches” and “Grip.” Over the years, the band evolved, incorporating a variety of musical styles while maintaining their core punk ethos. The Stranglers are known for their energetic live performances and their contributions to the evolution of punk and new wave music.
1. Hanging Around
“Hanging Around” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1977 as a single from their debut album, *Rattus Norvegicus*. The track is notable for its catchy, upbeat melody and its distinctive blend of punk rock and new wave influences.
The song features a prominent bassline by Jean-Jacques Burnel, driving guitar riffs by Hugh Cornwell, and a memorable keyboard part by Dave Greenfield. “Hanging Around” showcases The Stranglers’ signature sound with its raw energy and edgy lyrics. The track became a hit for the band, helping to solidify their reputation in the punk and new wave scenes and contributing to the success of their debut album.
2. Nice n Sleazy
“Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1978 as part of their second album, *Black and White*. The track exemplifies the band’s distinctive style, combining punk rock with elements of new wave and a touch of funk.
The song features a gritty, driving bassline by Jean-Jacques Burnel, edgy guitar work by Hugh Cornwell, and a memorable keyboard riff by Dave Greenfield. “Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” is known for its provocative lyrics and catchy rhythm, reflecting The Stranglers’ ability to blend dark, often controversial themes with infectious melodies. The track became one of the band’s signature songs, demonstrating their talent for creating music that is both edgy and accessible.
3. All Day and All of the Night
“All Day and All of the Night” is a song by The Kinks, released in 1964 as a follow-up single to their hit “You Really Got Me.” Written by Ray Davies, the track is a quintessential example of the band’s early rock sound, characterized by its driving rhythm and powerful guitar riffs.
The song features a prominent, raw guitar riff that became one of the hallmarks of The Kinks’ sound during the early 1960s. With its energetic tempo and catchy chorus, “All Day and All of the Night” became a hit, reaching the top 10 in both the UK and the US. The track’s dynamic performance and straightforward rock’n’roll style cemented its place as one of The Kinks’ classic songs.
4. Golden Brown
“Golden Brown” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1981 as a single from their album *La Folie*. Written by Jean-Jacques Burnel and Hugh Cornwell, the track is notable for its distinctive harpsichord riff and its blend of rock, new wave, and baroque influences.
The song’s lyrics, often interpreted as a reflection on drug use or a romantic relationship, are accompanied by a memorable and hypnotic melody. “Golden Brown” achieved significant commercial success, reaching the top 2 on the UK Singles Chart. Its unique sound and atmospheric quality have made it one of The Stranglers’ most enduring and acclaimed tracks, showcasing their ability to innovate within the rock genre.
5. Peaches
“Peaches” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1977 as the lead single from their debut album *Rattus Norvegicus*. Written by Hugh Cornwell, Jean-Jacques Burnel, Dave Greenfield, and Jet Black, the track is known for its provocative lyrics and catchy melody.
The song features a driving bassline by Jean-Jacques Burnel, edgy guitar work by Hugh Cornwell, and a distinctive keyboard riff by Dave Greenfield. Its bold, sometimes controversial lyrics and upbeat, punk-inspired sound made “Peaches” a standout track and helped establish The Stranglers as a significant force in the punk rock scene. The song reached number 8 on the UK Singles Chart and remains one of the band’s most recognizable hits.
6. No More Heroes
“No More Heroes” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1977 as the title track of their second album. Written by Hugh Cornwell, the song reflects the band’s gritty, punk rock ethos and features a driving, energetic rhythm.
The track’s lyrics express disillusionment with hero worship and the loss of idealism, addressing themes of societal decay and the failure of traditional role models. Musically, “No More Heroes” is characterized by its powerful guitar riffs, prominent bassline, and dynamic vocals. The song became a significant hit, reaching number 8 on the UK Singles Chart, and is considered one of The Stranglers’ classic tracks, showcasing their ability to blend punk rock with thoughtful, provocative commentary.
7. Always the Sun
“Always the Sun” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1986 as a single from their album *Dreamtime*. Written by Jean-Jacques Burnel, the track features a more polished sound compared to their earlier punk rock material, incorporating elements of pop and new wave.
The song’s lyrics reflect themes of existential contemplation and the search for meaning, set against a backdrop of a smooth, melodic arrangement. The track is characterized by its memorable chorus, layered instrumentation, and the distinctive vocal delivery of Hugh Cornwell. “Always the Sun” became a hit, reaching number 15 on the UK Singles Chart, and is noted for its blend of introspective lyrics with accessible, radio-friendly sound.
8. Skin Deep
“Skin Deep” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1984 as a single from their album *Feline*. Written by Jean-Jacques Burnel, the track is a reflective piece that deals with themes of superficiality and the search for deeper meaning in relationships.
The song features a smooth, melodic sound with a prominent bassline and laid-back rhythm, reflecting the band’s shift toward a more sophisticated and polished style in the mid-1980s. The lyrics address issues of self-worth and the impact of external appearances, adding a layer of social commentary to the track. “Skin Deep” became a commercial success, reaching number 15 on the UK Singles Chart and showcasing The Stranglers’ ability to evolve their sound while maintaining their characteristic lyrical depth.
9. Duchess
“Duchess” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1980 as a single from their album *The Gospel According to The Meninblack*. Written by Hugh Cornwell and Jean-Jacques Burnel, the track features a blend of rock and new wave influences.
The song is known for its catchy melody, distinctive guitar riff, and engaging lyrics, which explore themes of societal expectations and personal relationships. “Duchess” showcases The Stranglers’ ability to combine thoughtful commentary with accessible, melodic rock. The track reached number 8 on the UK Singles Chart and remains one of the band’s notable hits, reflecting their evolution in sound and style during the early 1980s.
10. 5 Minutes
“5 Minutes” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1983 as a single from their album *Feline*. Written by Jean-Jacques Burnel, the track is characterized by its smooth, melodic sound and reflective lyrics.
The song features a prominent bassline and laid-back rhythm, consistent with The Stranglers’ more polished and sophisticated style during the 1980s. “5 Minutes” explores themes of time and urgency, with introspective lyrics that delve into the fleeting nature of life and personal reflection. The track was well-received, showcasing the band’s ability to blend thoughtful lyrical content with a radio-friendly, accessible sound.