Few bands have managed to carve out a legacy as unique and captivating as The Only Ones. Emerging during the late 1970s punk and new wave explosion, this British quartet transcended genres, blending raw punk energy with melodic sophistication and poetic lyricism. With Peter Perrett’s unmistakable vocals and songwriting at the helm, The Only Ones created a sound that resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, earning them a devoted cult following that endures to this day.
Their catalog is a treasure trove of unforgettable songs filled with passion, melancholy, and undeniable charm. From heart-wrenching ballads to explosive anthems, The Only Ones delivered music that was both timeless and deeply personal. Whether you’re a lifelong fan revisiting old favorites or a newcomer looking to discover their brilliance, this list of their top 10 most popular songs will take you on an emotional ride through their finest moments.
So, get ready to immerse yourself in the artistry of The Only Ones as we count down their most iconic tracks. These songs have stood the test of time, capturing the hearts of music lovers across generations. Let’s dive in and rediscover the magic of one of the greatest bands of their era!
1. Another Girl, Another Planet (1978)
Widely considered The Only Ones’ greatest achievement, Another Girl, Another Planet is a rock classic that blends raw emotion with a sense of cosmic escapism. Released in 1978 on their self-titled debut album, the song is an exhilarating ride from start to finish, driven by its soaring guitar work, Peter Perrett’s yearning vocals, and a melody that refuses to fade from memory.
Lyrically, the song’s themes of love and addiction intertwine, creating an ambiguous yet deeply affecting narrative. Perrett’s detached yet passionate delivery enhances the song’s bittersweet nature, making it resonate on multiple levels. The iconic guitar solo, played by John Perry, is one of the most celebrated in rock history, perfectly capturing the song’s mix of urgency and euphoria.
Though it wasn’t a massive commercial hit upon release, Another Girl, Another Planet has since gained legendary status, frequently cited as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its influence can be heard in countless bands that followed, from punk rockers to indie stalwarts. Whether interpreted as a love song, an ode to addiction, or simply a perfect slice of power pop, Another Girl, Another Planet remains an enduring masterpiece, proving that The Only Ones had an undeniable magic that still captivates listeners today.
2. The Whole of the Law (1978)
A hauntingly beautiful track from The Only Ones’ 1978 debut album, The Whole of the Law is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. While the band is often recognized for their energetic rock anthems, this song highlights their ability to craft deeply introspective and poetic music.
Peter Perrett’s fragile, almost ghostly vocals set the tone for this melancholic ballad, weaving through a delicate arrangement of chiming guitars and restrained percussion. The lyrics convey a sense of lost love and existential longing, evoking an atmosphere of sadness and quiet desperation. It’s a song that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable, striking a chord with listeners who have experienced heartache and longing.
Musically, The Whole of the Law stands out for its understated elegance. The melody is haunting yet beautiful, and the interplay between the instruments adds depth without overwhelming the song’s delicate nature. Though it may not be as instantly recognizable as Another Girl, Another Planet, it remains one of The Only Ones’ most beloved tracks among fans who appreciate the band’s softer, more reflective side. Over the years, its emotional depth and poetic lyricism have solidified its status as a hidden gem within their catalog.
3. Out There in the Night (1979)
With its urgent rhythm and noir-like atmosphere, Out There in the Night is one of the most exhilarating tracks on Even Serpents Shine (1979). The song perfectly captures a sense of mystery and danger, pulling the listener into a world of shadowy streets and restless spirits.
Musically, the track is a high-energy fusion of punk and new wave, with a relentless driving beat that keeps the momentum going from start to finish. The guitars are sharp and electrifying, adding an edge of tension that complements the song’s darkly cinematic storytelling. Peter Perrett’s vocals, as always, carry an air of detached coolness, yet there’s an underlying vulnerability that makes the song feel deeply human.
Lyrically, Out There in the Night paints a vivid picture of someone searching for meaning or escape in the dead of night. The sense of paranoia and excitement in the lyrics pairs perfectly with the restless instrumentation, creating a track that feels both thrilling and haunting. While The Only Ones are often associated with their more melancholic songs, this track proves their ability to craft high-energy rockers that still carry emotional weight. It’s a song that demands to be played loud, preferably while speeding down an empty road under city lights.
4. Miles from Nowhere (1979)
A deeply introspective track from Even Serpents Shine, Miles from Nowhere is a song that captures the loneliness and alienation often felt in the modern world. Peter Perrett’s lyrics, filled with poetic longing, create an atmosphere of isolation that is beautifully complemented by the song’s lush, atmospheric instrumentation.
The track opens with a gentle, almost dreamlike guitar melody before building into something more expansive. The rhythm section provides a steady but melancholic pulse, grounding the song’s emotional weight. Perrett’s vocals are at their most fragile here, carrying a wistful quality that makes every line feel deeply personal. His lyrics convey a sense of being lost—both physically and emotionally—adding to the song’s profound impact.
Despite its somber tone, Miles from Nowhere is undeniably beautiful. It’s the kind of song that lingers long after the last note fades, resonating with anyone who has ever felt disconnected from the world around them. The Only Ones excel at blending melancholy with melody, and this track is a perfect example of their ability to create music that feels both deeply intimate and universally relatable.
5. Why Don’t You Kill Yourself? (1978)
Darkly humorous and undeniably bold, Why Don’t You Kill Yourself? is a song that exemplifies The Only Ones’ ability to mix biting sarcasm with infectious melodies. Released on their 1978 debut album, the track delivers an acerbic lyrical punch wrapped in an energetic and deceptively upbeat arrangement.
Peter Perrett’s songwriting has always carried an air of cynicism, but here, he leans fully into sharp, almost taunting lyricism. The song’s title alone is provocative, setting the stage for a track that feels both confrontational and strangely tongue-in-cheek. While the lyrics might suggest cruelty on the surface, they also hint at the frustration of dealing with someone self-destructive, making the song open to interpretation.
Musically, the track is a masterclass in blending punk attitude with classic rock sensibilities. The driving rhythm section keeps things tight and punchy, while the guitars add just enough grit to keep it from feeling too polished. Despite its dark themes, the song is oddly catchy, showcasing the band’s knack for writing memorable hooks. It’s a perfect example of The Only Ones’ ability to take difficult subject matter and turn it into something strangely exhilarating. Over the years, Why Don’t You Kill Yourself? has remained one of the band’s most notorious tracks—one that still provokes thought and discussion among listeners today.
6. Lovers of Today (1977)
The song that started it all, Lovers of Today was The Only Ones’ very first single, released in 1977, and it immediately set them apart from the punk explosion happening around them. While many bands of the era leaned into aggression and speed, Lovers of Today showcased a more melancholic, romantic side, proving that The Only Ones were far more than just another punk act.
Peter Perrett’s voice carries a fragile, almost weary tone, giving the song a sense of deep introspection. The lyrics speak to disillusionment with love and modern relationships, capturing a world-weary perspective that feels timeless. Unlike many debut singles that aim to be loud and in-your-face, Lovers of Today is understated yet emotionally powerful.
The instrumentation is beautifully restrained, with gentle guitar lines weaving in and out of a sparse but effective rhythm section. The result is a song that feels deeply personal, almost confessional. While it may not have had the immediate commercial success of later tracks, Lovers of Today became an essential part of the band’s legacy, a song that hinted at the brilliance that was to come. Even now, it remains a fan favorite, a hauntingly beautiful track that introduced the world to The Only Ones’ distinctive sound.
7. No Peace for the Wicked (1978)
A defiant anthem of rebellion and disillusionment, No Peace for the Wicked is one of the rawest tracks on The Only Ones’ 1978 debut album. With its sharp lyrics and unrelenting energy, the song perfectly captures the frustration and cynicism that defined much of Peter Perrett’s songwriting.
From the very first note, No Peace for the Wicked makes its presence known. The guitars cut through the mix with a gritty, bluesy edge, while the rhythm section drives the song forward with a relentless pulse. Perrett’s vocals, filled with a mix of sneering arrogance and weary resignation, add to the track’s rebellious feel. The lyrics suggest a deep discontent, whether with personal relationships, society, or the world in general. Lines like “You want me to believe everything you say” drip with sarcasm, making it clear that this is a song about pushing back against the forces trying to control or manipulate.
What makes No Peace for the Wicked stand out is its ability to be both aggressive and melodically engaging. It’s not just a rant—it’s a well-crafted, tightly constructed piece of rock music that keeps listeners hooked. The song remains one of the most powerful moments on their debut album, a reminder of The Only Ones’ ability to channel frustration into something truly electrifying.
8. Fools (1979)
There’s a poetic sadness to Fools, a track from 1979’s Even Serpents Shine, that makes it one of The Only Ones’ most deeply affecting songs. Peter Perrett’s introspective lyrics, combined with the band’s effortlessly sophisticated instrumentation, create a song that lingers in the mind long after it ends.
Lyrically, Fools explores themes of regret, self-deception, and the passage of time. Perrett’s words seem to reflect on personal mistakes and missed opportunities, capturing a sense of quiet resignation. His vocal delivery is particularly poignant here—soft yet filled with a weight that suggests deep emotional scars.
Musically, the song unfolds in a way that feels almost cinematic. The arrangement is carefully layered, allowing space for every instrument to breathe. The guitars shimmer with a delicate beauty, while the rhythm section provides a steady but unobtrusive foundation. The result is a track that feels incredibly intimate, as if Perrett is speaking directly to the listener.
While The Only Ones are often praised for their more energetic rock songs, Fools is a reminder of their ability to create something equally powerful through restraint. It’s a song for late nights and quiet reflections, a piece of music that speaks to the parts of ourselves we often try to ignore.
9. Someone Who Cares (1979)
Tender and heartfelt, Someone Who Cares is one of the most emotionally rich songs in The Only Ones’ catalog. Released on Even Serpents Shine (1979), the track showcases a side of the band that leans more toward balladry, proving they were just as skilled at crafting introspective, melodic songs as they were at writing high-energy rockers.
From the very start, the song’s gentle guitar work sets a reflective mood. The instrumentation remains subtle yet deeply expressive, with soft percussion and warm bass lines creating an intimate soundscape. Peter Perrett’s voice carries a sense of vulnerability, making each lyric feel personal and genuine. The lyrics themselves explore themes of longing and the search for connection, resonating with anyone who has ever felt alone in the world.
What makes Someone Who Cares so impactful is its simplicity. There’s no need for flashy solos or dramatic shifts—just a beautifully written song that speaks directly to the heart. It’s a testament to The Only Ones’ ability to create music that is both poetic and deeply human. Even decades after its release, the song remains one of the band’s most cherished tracks, a reminder that sometimes, the simplest messages are the most profound.
10. From Here to Eternity (1979)
Closing out Even Serpents Shine is From Here to Eternity, a track that perfectly encapsulates The Only Ones’ ability to blend poetic storytelling with dynamic instrumentation. The song moves seamlessly between gentle, introspective moments and powerful, dramatic crescendos, keeping the listener engaged from start to finish.
Lyrically, the song explores themes of fate, longing, and the unknown future. Peter Perrett’s delivery adds weight to every word, making the song feel like both a farewell and a new beginning. The shifting dynamics—soft, almost whispered verses giving way to grand, sweeping choruses—reflect the emotional tension at the heart of the song.
The instrumentation is lush and layered, with the guitars adding a dreamlike quality that makes the song feel almost ethereal. The result is a track that feels vast, like an epic journey unfolding within just a few minutes of music. As the final notes fade, From Here to Eternity leaves the listener with a sense of something unresolved, a lingering question about what lies ahead—both for the narrator of the song and for ourselves. It’s a fitting finale to an album filled with emotional highs and lows, proving once again that The Only Ones were masters of their craft.
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.
