The Only Ones have stood the test of time as one of the most enigmatic and influential bands to emerge from the late 1970s post-punk scene. With their signature blend of punk energy, romantic lyricism, and intricate guitar work, the band carved out a unique space in music history that continues to captivate listeners across generations. At their heart was the charismatic Peter Perrett, whose haunting voice and poetic songwriting became the cornerstone of their sound. Though their initial career was brief, The Only Ones left behind a treasure trove of unforgettable songs that have earned cult status among fans and musicians alike.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular The Only Ones songs of all time, a celebration of their greatest hits and hidden gems. From the anthemic allure of “Another Girl, Another Planet” to the raw intensity of tracks like “The Beast,” this list charts the highs of a band that defined an era and influenced countless acts to follow. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their music, get ready to revisit the magic and power of The Only Ones—where every song is a journey into emotion, rebellion, and artistry. Let’s begin!
1. “Another Girl, Another Planet” (1978)
“Another Girl, Another Planet” stands out as one of The Only Ones’ most iconic tracks, and for good reason. Released in 1978 on their self-titled debut album, the song captures a rare blend of punk energy and emotional depth. It opens with shimmering guitar riffs that instantly pull you in, setting the tone for the rest of the song. Peter Perrett’s vocals carry a longing, almost wistful quality, making the track feel deeply personal and relatable. The lyrics, often interpreted as a reflection on love, addiction, and the fleeting nature of relationships, resonate with listeners on multiple levels. The infectious guitar solo that appears midway through is a moment of pure musical brilliance, elevating the track to another dimension. It’s a song that is both anthemic and introspective, combining the rush of youthful energy with a sense of melancholy that lingers long after the song ends. The emotional weight of the lyrics paired with the track’s upbeat tempo creates a perfect juxtaposition, making “Another Girl, Another Planet” feel timeless. This song has been covered by numerous artists across different genres, further cementing its place as a beloved classic in the alternative and rock music scenes. It’s not just a song; it’s a journey, and it continues to speak to new generations, proving its staying power and universal appeal. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, “Another Girl, Another Planet” never loses its charm, solidifying its place as a quintessential anthem of the late 70s and beyond.
2. “The Beast” (1979)
Released in 1979 as part of Even Serpents Shine, “The Beast” is a haunting masterpiece that blends brooding power with melancholic beauty. From the very first note, the track’s foreboding bassline pulls you into its dark world. The menacing rhythm section, coupled with dramatic guitar work, sets a tone that feels both oppressive and intense. Peter Perrett’s vocals take on an almost cinematic quality as he explores themes of inner turmoil and personal demons. The lyrics are evocative, painting a vivid picture of an almost mythical struggle, as if the song is a glimpse into the soul of someone grappling with their darker side. The stark contrast between the song’s menacing verses and its sweeping, almost ethereal chorus creates an emotional pull that’s impossible to ignore. It’s a song that feels heavy, yet there’s a raw vulnerability in its delivery. “The Beast” has a sense of inevitability to it, as if it’s moving toward some unchangeable conclusion. The track’s intensity is palpable, with each note feeling like it carries a weight that can’t be shrugged off. It’s a song that lingers long after it’s over, leaving listeners with a sense of unease and contemplation. With its haunting atmosphere and emotionally charged lyrics, “The Beast” is a standout in The Only Ones’ catalog and a track that continues to captivate anyone who listens closely. It’s a song that captures the band’s ability to combine darkness with beauty in a way that few bands can replicate.
3. “Lovers of Today” (1977)
“Lovers of Today,” the debut single from The Only Ones, is a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the complexities of relationships. Released in 1977, the song set the tone for the band’s distinctive sound, blending punk rock energy with a raw, emotional vulnerability that wasn’t commonly found in the genre. The track opens with a steady, straightforward rhythm that allows the lyrical content to take center stage. Peter Perrett’s voice, both raw and sincere, conveys a depth of emotion that perfectly complements the song’s melancholic lyrics. It’s a song about the uncertainty of love, about the fleeting nature of romantic connections, and the sense of longing that accompanies them. The minimalistic arrangement highlights the sincerity of the lyrics, allowing the listener to connect with the message on a personal level. What makes “Lovers of Today” stand out is its ability to convey a deep sense of yearning while still maintaining a sense of optimism, as if the narrator is resigned to the impermanence of love but still finds comfort in the experience itself. The song became an instant hit with fans of The Only Ones, laying the groundwork for their ever-growing cult following. It’s a track that captures the band’s ability to merge punk ethos with an almost romantic sensitivity, setting them apart from their peers in the late 70s music scene. “Lovers of Today” remains a timeless favorite, a song that speaks to the complexities of love and the human condition with both honesty and grace.
4. “Out There in the Night” (1979)
“Out There in the Night,” featured on Even Serpents Shine (1979), is a track that blends urgency with introspection in a way that few songs manage to do. The upbeat tempo and jangly guitars inject an energy that contrasts beautifully with the song’s deeper, more reflective lyrics. It’s a song that invites you to lose yourself in its infectious rhythm while still offering something to think about. Peter Perrett’s vocals have a sense of both excitement and contemplation as he sings about the restless, sometimes chaotic energy of the night. The lyrics evoke feelings of wanderlust and uncertainty, as if the night holds endless possibilities, but also a sense of vulnerability. The contrasting elements in the song—the upbeat tempo, the reflective lyrics, and the upbeat instrumental work—create a dynamic experience that keeps you engaged from start to finish. The track’s energy is contagious, pulling the listener into its narrative and making them feel like they’re part of the journey. The song reflects a feeling of searching, of being “out there” in the world, both physically and emotionally. It’s an exhilarating ride, one that resonates with anyone who has ever found themselves caught in the moment, lost in the thrill of the night. “Out There in the Night” showcases The Only Ones’ ability to craft a song that feels both grounded and expansive, capturing the restlessness of youth and the complexity of the human experience. It’s a song that continues to feel fresh and invigorating, even decades after its release.
5. “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” (1978)
The title of “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” is undeniably provocative, and the song itself is equally as daring. Released in 1978 on The Only Ones’ debut album, this track is a bold blend of dark humor and sharp social commentary. Despite its grim title, the song is infused with irony, wit, and a biting critique of society’s ills. The song opens with an infectious rhythm that belies its dark subject matter, setting the tone for a track that is both energetic and rebellious. Peter Perrett’s vocals, as always, have a raw quality that gives the song an edge, but there’s a certain playful attitude in his delivery that suggests the title is meant more as a challenge than a serious suggestion. The track’s driving instrumentation creates a sense of urgency, reflecting the frustration and confusion that comes with feeling disconnected from the world around you. “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” tackles themes of alienation, depression, and the societal pressures that push people to the edge, all while maintaining an irreverent tone that refuses to take itself too seriously. The song’s blend of punk attitude and melodic sensibilities makes it stand out in The Only Ones’ catalog, showcasing their ability to merge dark, heavy topics with catchy and accessible music. It’s a song that might initially shock the listener, but once they dig deeper, they realize that it’s actually a clever, thought-provoking commentary on life’s struggles. “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” is a song that continues to provoke conversation and remains one of the band’s most daring and memorable tracks.
6. “From Here to Eternity” (1979)
“From Here to Eternity,” from Even Serpents Shine (1979), is a beautiful, introspective ballad that demonstrates The Only Ones’ softer side, showcasing their range beyond their punk roots. The song begins with lush instrumentation, featuring intricate guitar work that creates a dreamy atmosphere from the first note. Peter Perrett’s vocals are tender and full of longing, delivering the track’s romantic lyrics with a depth of emotion that pulls the listener into its world. The song is an exploration of love, devotion, and the passage of time, with Perrett singing about a love that feels as if it could last forever. The lush instrumentation and ethereal guitar lines complement the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating a track that feels timeless and reflective. “From Here to Eternity” is a departure from the raw energy of some of the band’s other songs, but it’s just as powerful in its own way. The lyrics evoke a sense of yearning and desire, expressing a love that is both all-consuming and eternal. It’s a song that seems to exist outside of time, as if it could belong to any era. “From Here to Eternity” showcases The Only Ones’ ability to craft emotionally rich songs that are as musically beautiful as they are lyrically profound. It’s a track that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt the power of lasting love or the ache of unrequited affection, and it remains one of the band’s most enduring and beloved songs.
7. “Miles from Nowhere” (1979)
“Miles from Nowhere,” another standout from Even Serpents Shine (1979), is a haunting blend of melancholy and defiance. The song opens with a brooding bassline and a sparse arrangement that immediately sets a reflective tone. Peter Perrett’s voice, filled with longing and vulnerability, tells a story of isolation and the yearning for connection. The lyrics capture the feeling of being far from where you want to be, both physically and emotionally, and the sense of desolation that accompanies it. The band’s tight instrumentation builds throughout the track, adding a sense of urgency that contrasts with the song’s somber mood. “Miles from Nowhere” feels like an emotional journey, one that rises and falls with the tension of the music, ultimately reaching a climactic crescendo. The song is both a reflection of the internal struggle that comes with isolation and a declaration of resilience, as if the narrator is determined to find their way, no matter the cost. The track’s cathartic energy leaves listeners both exhilarated and contemplative, making it one of the band’s most powerful songs. The Only Ones’ ability to channel raw emotion into their music is on full display here, making “Miles from Nowhere” a standout track in their catalog. It’s a song that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt lost or distant, yet still determined to push forward in the face of adversity.
8. “Someone Who Cares” (1978)
“Someone Who Cares,” from The Only Ones’ 1978 debut album, is an intimate and heartfelt song that speaks directly to the listener’s need for connection. The song’s gentle melody and introspective lyrics create an atmosphere of vulnerability and longing. Peter Perrett’s voice is tender, delivering the lyrics with a quiet, almost pleading sincerity. The track’s sparse instrumentation allows the emotional weight of the words to take center stage, creating a deeply personal and relatable experience. “Someone Who Cares” is a song about loneliness and the search for understanding, a theme that resonates with anyone who has ever felt isolated or misunderstood. The song’s simplicity is part of what makes it so powerful—there are no frills or embellishments, just a raw, honest expression of need. The gentle guitar lines and subtle rhythms complement the song’s lyrical themes of longing and emotional vulnerability. The track builds in intensity as it progresses, capturing the feeling of desperation and hope that often accompanies the search for human connection. “Someone Who Cares” remains a poignant and timeless track, one that speaks to the universal human experience of wanting to be seen and heard. It’s a song that feels both personal and universal, evoking empathy and understanding in anyone who listens closely.
9. “In Betweens” (1978)
“In Betweens,” from The Only Ones’ debut album, is a dynamic and emotionally charged track that showcases the band’s ability to blend punk rock energy with melodic complexity. The song opens with a driving rhythm that propels it forward, creating an immediate sense of urgency. The guitar work is urgent and passionate, perfectly complementing the raw intensity of Peter Perrett’s vocals. The lyrics of “In Betweens” explore the idea of being caught in a limbo, stuck between two worlds and unsure of where you belong. There’s a palpable sense of tension throughout the song, as if the narrator is desperately searching for a way out of their emotional confusion. The band’s tight musicianship shines through in the way the song builds and shifts, with moments of calm followed by bursts of energetic instrumentation that reflect the emotional highs and lows of the lyrics. “In Betweens” is a song about identity, alienation, and the struggle to find a place in the world, themes that resonate with anyone who has ever felt out of place or torn between different parts of themselves. The song’s blend of punk energy and lyrical introspection makes it one of the band’s most compelling tracks, showcasing The Only Ones’ unique ability to balance raw emotion with musical complexity. It’s a track that continues to resonate with listeners, both for its personal relevance and its powerful musical execution.
10. “No Solution” (1978)
“No Solution,” from The Only Ones’ 1978 debut album, is a gritty, no-nonsense track that captures the raw energy of the band’s early years. From the very beginning, the song’s pounding beat and aggressive guitar riffs make it clear that this is a track driven by urgency and defiance. Peter Perrett’s vocals are sharp and direct, matching the intensity of the song’s instrumentation. The lyrics, which reflect a sense of frustration and rejection, create an anthem of rebellion that speaks to the disillusioned and the outcasts. “No Solution” is a song about feeling trapped, without answers or escape, yet still possessing the strength to push back against the constraints of society. It’s a track that embodies the spirit of punk rock, with its raw aggression and defiance, but it also carries a deeper message about resilience and survival. The song’s relentless energy and driving beat make it an unforgettable anthem, one that resonates with anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t fit in. “No Solution” is a perfect closer to the album, showcasing the band’s uncompromising artistry and capturing the spirit of rebellion that defined their early years. The track’s mix of power and vulnerability has made it a fan favorite, and its message of resistance continues to resonate with listeners today.
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.
