The Stranglers are a British rock band formed in 1974 in Guildford, Surrey. Known for their distinctive sound that blends punk rock, new wave, and post-punk influences, the band initially consisted of Hugh Cornwell (vocals, guitar), Jean-Jacques Burnel (bass guitar, vocals), Dave Greenfield (keyboard), and Jet Black (drums).
Their early work, including albums like *Rattus Norvegicus* (1977) and *No More Heroes* (1977), featured a raw, aggressive punk sound with complex arrangements and dark, often controversial lyrics. The Stranglers are noted for their innovative use of keyboards and distinctive basslines, which set them apart from many of their punk contemporaries.
Hits like “Peaches,” “Golden Brown,” and “No More Heroes” showcase their ability to blend catchy melodies with gritty, edgy themes. Despite frequent lineup changes over the decades, The Stranglers have maintained a significant influence on the punk and new wave genres, and they continue to tour and release new music. Their career has been marked by both commercial success and critical acclaim, making them an enduring force in British rock music.
1. Hanging Around
“Hanging Around” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1979 as a single from their album *The Raven*. Known for its distinctive bassline and darkly humorous lyrics, the track reflects the band’s signature blend of punk rock with a more melodic and sophisticated edge.
The song features a catchy, repetitive riff and a driving rhythm, with Jean-Jacques Burnel’s prominent bass work playing a central role. The lyrics, written by Hugh Cornwell, offer a satirical commentary on social issues and personal alienation, showcasing The Stranglers’ knack for blending sharp, often provocative lyrics with engaging music.
“Hanging Around” is one of The Stranglers’ notable tracks from their late 1970s and early 1980s period, contributing to their reputation as a pioneering force in punk and new wave music.
2. Nice n Sleazy
“Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” is a song by The Stranglers, featured on their 1978 album *Black and White*. The track is known for its distinctive blend of punk rock with a touch of new wave, reflecting the band’s innovative approach to the genre.
The song features a prominent, sultry bass line by Jean-Jacques Burnel and a smooth, almost jazzy melody that contrasts with its edgy, provocative lyrics. “Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” is characterized by its darkly humorous and somewhat cynical take on relationships and social behavior, showcasing The Stranglers’ ability to combine catchy, engaging music with sharp, often controversial commentary.
The track became one of the band’s signature songs, noted for its memorable hook and its embodiment of The Stranglers’ unique style and lyrical wit. It remains a staple in their live performances and a favorite among fans.
3. All Day and All of the Night
“All Day and All of the Night” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1978 as a single. It’s a reworking of the classic hit originally by The Kinks, but The Stranglers put their own punk rock spin on it. The song features a driving, energetic rhythm and gritty guitar riffs, characteristic of The Stranglers’ style.
The track’s tempo is faster than the original, with a more aggressive and raw sound that aligns with the punk rock movement of the late 1970s. The Stranglers’ version retains the catchy, straightforward melody of the original while infusing it with a new edge.
“All Day and All of the Night” showcases The Stranglers’ ability to reinterpret classic rock songs through a punk lens, giving the track a fresh and dynamic feel. It became a hit, further establishing The Stranglers as a prominent band in the punk and new wave scenes of that era.
4. Golden Brown
“Golden Brown” is a distinctive song by The Stranglers, released in 1981 on their album *La Folie*. Written by the band’s keyboardist, Dave Greenfield, and featuring a unique harpsichord melody, the track stands out for its exotic, almost baroque sound.
The song’s prominent harpsichord line gives it a distinctive, melancholic feel, and it features a memorable, rolling rhythm that complements its haunting melody. Lyrically, “Golden Brown” is often interpreted as a love song, with its lyrics evoking themes of longing and desire.
“Golden Brown” achieved commercial success, reaching number 2 on the UK Singles Chart. It remains one of The Stranglers’ most popular and enduring hits, celebrated for its innovative sound and its ability to blend different musical influences into a unique and compelling track.
5. Peaches
“Peaches” is a hit single by The Stranglers, released in 1977 from their debut album *Rattus Norvegicus*. Known for its provocative lyrics and catchy bassline, the song is a standout track in The Stranglers’ discography and a defining example of their punk rock style.
The song features Jean-Jacques Burnel’s distinctive bass riff, which is both melodic and driving. The lyrics, written by Hugh Cornwell, are a satirical and somewhat controversial commentary on social norms and relationships, wrapped in a catchy, upbeat melody. “Peaches” is celebrated for its bold, irreverent approach and its blending of punk energy with a memorable hook.
“Peaches” became one of The Stranglers’ most iconic songs, contributing to the band’s reputation for pushing boundaries and delivering music with a unique blend of punk rock, new wave, and post-punk influences.
6. No More Heroes
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“No More Heroes” is a powerful punk rock song by The Stranglers, released in 1977 as the title track from their album *No More Heroes*. Written by the band’s lead vocalist, Hugh Cornwell, and keyboardist, Dave Greenfield, the song is known for its raw energy and socially conscious lyrics.
The track features a driving rhythm, aggressive guitar riffs, and a memorable chorus. Its lyrics critique the disillusionment with modern society and the idea of heroes, reflecting a sense of frustration and a desire for change. The song’s rebellious tone and catchy melody embody the spirit of the punk rock movement.
“No More Heroes” became one of The Stranglers’ most successful singles, reaching number 8 on the UK Singles Chart. It remains a quintessential example of the band’s punk rock style and continues to be celebrated for its sharp social commentary and energetic performance.
7. Always the Sun
“Always the Sun” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1986 as a single from their album *Dreamtime*. The track marks a shift in the band’s sound, incorporating more mainstream and melodic elements while maintaining their characteristic edge.
The song features a smooth, laid-back groove with a prominent bassline by Jean-Jacques Burnel and a melodic guitar riff. The lyrics, written by Hugh Cornwell, reflect themes of resilience and the inevitability of change, with a contemplative tone that contrasts with the upbeat rhythm.
“Always the Sun” became one of The Stranglers’ most commercially successful singles, reaching high positions on the charts and receiving considerable radio play. Its blend of accessible melodies with thoughtful lyrics showcases the band’s ability to evolve while retaining their distinctive style. The song remains a beloved part of The Stranglers’ catalog and is often praised for its catchy, reflective nature.
8. Skin Deep
“Skin Deep” is a soulful track by The Stranglers, released in 1984 as part of their album *Feline*. Written by the band’s lead vocalist, Hugh Cornwell, and guitarist, Jean-Jacques Burnel, the song is known for its smooth, melodic sound and introspective lyrics.
The track features a laid-back rhythm with a blend of rock and soul influences, characterized by its mellow guitar lines and smooth vocal delivery. Lyrically, “Skin Deep” explores themes of superficiality and the importance of looking beyond external appearances to understand deeper truths about people and relationships.
“Skin Deep” achieved commercial success, reaching number 15 on the UK Singles Chart. Its sophisticated sound and thought-provoking lyrics make it a standout track in The Stranglers’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to evolve their style while maintaining their distinctive edge.
9. Duchess
“Duchess” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1980 as a single from their album *La Folie*. Known for its distinctive blend of rock and new wave elements, the track features a memorable melody and thoughtful lyrics.
The song showcases a refined and melodic approach, with Jean-Jacques Burnel’s bassline and Dave Greenfield’s keyboards playing a significant role in its sound. The lyrics, written by Hugh Cornwell, are reflective and somewhat enigmatic, exploring themes of social status and personal identity.
“Duchess” became one of The Stranglers’ more popular tracks, reaching the top 10 on the UK Singles Chart. Its sophisticated sound and introspective lyrics exemplify the band’s ability to blend punk rock with more melodic and nuanced musical styles, making it a standout track in their catalog.
10. 5 Minutes
“5 Minutes” is a track by The Stranglers, released in 1983 as a single from their album *Feline*. Written by the band’s members Hugh Cornwell and Jean-Jacques Burnel, the song blends rock with funk influences, showcasing a slightly more polished and experimental sound compared to their earlier punk rock work.
The track features a catchy bassline, smooth guitar riffs, and a rhythmic groove. Lyrically, “5 Minutes” is about the fleeting nature of time and the desire to make the most of the moments we have. It combines introspective lyrics with a laid-back yet infectious rhythm.
“5 Minutes” did well on the charts, reflecting The Stranglers’ ability to adapt their sound and continue to achieve success while exploring new musical directions. The song remains a notable example of their mid-1980s output, illustrating their versatility and evolution as a band.