Few bands have captured the raw energy, poetic lyricism, and genre-defying spirit of The Only Ones, a group that remains a cornerstone of late 1970s post-punk and new wave. With their infectious melodies, gritty guitar riffs, and the unmistakable voice of frontman Peter Perrett, The Only Ones carved out a legacy that continues to resonate with fans old and new. From their breakout anthem Another Girl, Another Planet to hidden gems that reveal the depth of their artistry, their music transcends time, blending punk’s rebellious edge with rock’s melodic allure.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular songs by The Only Ones—a celebration of a band whose impact far outweighs their relatively short-lived career. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious listener eager to explore their catalog, this list is your gateway to the songs that defined a generation and continue to influence artists to this day. Get ready to dive into a sonic journey filled with passion, heartbreak, and electrifying soundscapes as we rank the tracks that have stood the test of time. Let’s uncover the magic behind The Only Ones and the timeless hits that made them legends.
1. Another Girl, Another Planet (1978)
Arguably the defining song of The Only Ones, “Another Girl, Another Planet” is a dazzling blend of punk energy and melodic sensitivity, making it one of the most beloved tracks of its era. Released in 1978 as part of their self-titled debut album, the song encapsulates the wild rush of love and infatuation with a cosmic twist, drawing listeners into its dreamy, intoxicating world.
Peter Perrett’s evocative, slightly fragile vocals deliver a sense of longing and excitement, while the shimmering guitar riffs and tight rhythm section create an irresistible urgency. There’s a certain weightlessness to the track, as if it hovers between euphoria and melancholy, capturing the dizzying highs and inevitable crashes of love. The guitar work—particularly the soaring solo—adds a layer of grandeur, elevating the song beyond typical punk fare.
Despite never becoming a major chart hit, “Another Girl, Another Planet” has stood the test of time, influencing countless artists and cementing its place as a cult classic. It remains a staple of power pop and punk playlists, its cosmic themes and emotional depth making it feel just as fresh and vital today as it did in 1978.
2. The Whole of the Law (1978)
“The Whole of the Law” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases The Only Ones’ ability to merge delicate melodies with raw, heartfelt emotion. Released in 1978, this track trades the band’s usual punk energy for something more reflective, unfolding like a wistful daydream. The gentle strumming of the guitars sets a somber yet mesmerizing tone, while Peter Perrett’s voice drips with longing and quiet despair.
Lyrically, the song feels poetic and surreal, almost as if it exists in a dreamscape. Lines like “I used to have the notion, I could swim the length of the ocean” carry an aching vulnerability, reinforcing the song’s themes of lost love and regret. The stripped-back arrangement allows every word and note to resonate deeply, creating an atmosphere that feels intimate and deeply personal.
Despite its understated nature, “The Whole of the Law” leaves a lasting impact, drawing listeners into its melancholic world. It’s one of those songs that slowly seeps into your soul, revealing new depths with each listen. A true hidden gem, it remains a standout moment in The Only Ones’ catalog, proving that sometimes, less really is more.
3. Breaking Down (1978)
“Breaking Down” is an emotional rollercoaster, capturing the fragility of the human experience with brutal honesty. Released in 1978, the song feels like a confession set to music—raw, unfiltered, and deeply relatable. The track builds gradually, starting with quiet introspection before bursting into a cathartic chorus, mirroring the ebb and flow of inner turmoil.
The instrumentation plays a key role in amplifying the song’s emotional weight. The melancholic guitar lines weave through the verses like a quiet lament, while the drums provide a steady, almost heartbeat-like rhythm, anchoring the track in a sense of urgency. Perrett’s voice, filled with equal parts resignation and defiance, makes every lyric feel deeply personal, as if he’s baring his soul for all to see.
Lyrically, “Breaking Down” explores themes of isolation, despair, and the overwhelming weight of existence. Yet, despite its heavy subject matter, there’s an underlying beauty in its vulnerability. It’s a song for anyone who has ever felt like they were on the brink, making it one of the most poignant and affecting tracks in The Only Ones’ discography.
4. No Peace for the Wicked (1978)
A biting, rebellious anthem, “No Peace for the Wicked” captures the frustration of a restless soul searching for meaning in a world that refuses to provide it. Released in 1978, the track delivers sharp social commentary wrapped in a deceptively upbeat melody, a signature move for The Only Ones.
From the very first note, the song bursts to life with its jangling guitars and driving beat, creating a sense of urgency that never lets up. Perrett’s vocals are filled with a sneering defiance, his lyrics dripping with cynicism as he laments a world where peace feels impossible to attain. The chorus, with its chant-like delivery, feels almost anthemic—an outcry against complacency and conformity.
While the track’s energy is undeniable, its real strength lies in its lyrics. “No Peace for the Wicked” is more than just a catchy song—it’s a statement. It resonates with anyone who has ever felt disillusioned by society, making it a powerful and enduring piece of music that continues to strike a chord with listeners decades later.
5. Out There in the Night (1979)
Fast-paced and electrifying, “Out There in the Night” is a high-energy rocker that perfectly captures the thrill and danger of nocturnal escapades. Released in 1979 on Even Serpents Shine, the track has an almost cinematic quality, painting vivid pictures of shadowy streets and mysterious encounters.
The relentless tempo keeps the listener on edge, as if they, too, are racing through the night alongside the song’s protagonist. The guitars are gritty yet melodic, creating an atmosphere of both excitement and unease. Perrett’s vocals, urgent and slightly detached, add to the song’s sense of mystery, making it feel like a journey into the unknown.
What sets “Out There in the Night” apart is its ability to evoke a mood so effortlessly. It’s not just a song—it’s an experience, transporting the listener into its neon-lit world of uncertainty and adventure. Whether you interpret it as a metaphor for love, escapism, or something more sinister, one thing is certain: this track is impossible to ignore.
6. From Here to Eternity (1979)
Sweeping, cinematic, and emotionally charged, “From Here to Eternity” feels like an epic journey through love, loss, and the passage of time. Released in 1979, the song carries a grandeur that sets it apart from much of The Only Ones’ catalog, blending rock, punk, and an almost orchestral sense of drama.
The song’s opening immediately grabs attention with its soaring guitar lines, setting the stage for Perrett’s introspective lyrics. There’s a sense of longing in his voice, as he reflects on fleeting moments and the inevitability of change. The instrumentation is lush yet never overpowering, allowing the emotions to take center stage. As the song builds, it feels almost like a plea—an attempt to hold onto something that’s slipping away.
What makes “From Here to Eternity” so powerful is its ability to feel both deeply personal and universally relatable. The idea of love transcending time, of memories outlasting reality, resonates with anyone who has ever feared losing something—or someone—forever. It’s a song that lingers in your mind long after it ends, much like the memories it evokes.
7. Miles from Nowhere (1979)
“Miles from Nowhere” is a song of solitude and self-discovery, capturing the feeling of being lost—both physically and emotionally. Released in 1979, it’s one of The Only Ones’ more introspective tracks, with a melancholy melody that mirrors the longing in Perrett’s voice.
The guitars are delicate yet expressive, weaving an atmosphere of quiet reflection. The song’s rhythm moves at a steady, almost hypnotic pace, reinforcing the theme of wandering aimlessly, unsure of where the road leads. Perrett’s lyrics are beautifully ambiguous—are we listening to someone escaping the past, searching for a future, or simply coming to terms with being adrift?
What makes “Miles from Nowhere” so compelling is its raw honesty. It doesn’t offer easy answers or a triumphant resolution. Instead, it sits with the discomfort of uncertainty, making it an anthem for anyone who has ever felt disconnected from the world around them. It’s haunting in its simplicity, proving that sometimes, the most powerful songs are the ones that don’t try to fix everything but instead acknowledge the beauty in the unknown.
8. Why Don’t You Kill Yourself? (1979)
With a title as provocative as “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?”, it’s no surprise that this 1979 track has remained one of The Only Ones’ most talked-about songs. But beneath the sharp-edged name lies a surprisingly playful melody, making for a striking contrast that only this band could pull off.
The song dances along with an upbeat, almost cheerful energy, complete with bouncy guitar riffs and a catchy rhythm that feels deceptively lighthearted. Yet, the lyrics drip with sarcasm and bitterness, hinting at deep-seated frustrations and emotional wounds. Perrett’s delivery is both deadpan and laced with an undercurrent of exhaustion, making it unclear whether the words are meant as a genuine challenge or a cynical observation of a toxic relationship.
This kind of dark humor is what sets The Only Ones apart from so many of their peers. “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” isn’t about glorifying despair; rather, it exposes the absurdity of emotional manipulation and societal pressures. It’s a song that demands a second listen, forcing the audience to reconsider its meaning. Even decades later, it remains a bold, unforgettable moment in the band’s discography.
9. Creature of Doom (1977)
Predating their debut album, “Creature of Doom” offers a raw and unfiltered look at The Only Ones’ early sound. Released in 1977, this track leans into a darker, more experimental space, foreshadowing the moody, poetic songwriting that would later define the band.
The song’s eerie guitar lines create an unsettling atmosphere, setting the stage for Perrett’s brooding vocals. There’s a sense of doom—not just in the title, but in every note, every pause, every breath. Unlike their more polished later releases, “Creature of Doom” has a roughness that makes it feel almost like an uncovered artifact from a forgotten era of rock.
Lyrically, the song paints a bleak picture, though its meaning remains ambiguous. Is the “creature” a metaphor for self-destruction? A symbol of addiction? Or simply a manifestation of paranoia and fear? Whatever the interpretation, the song’s haunting quality lingers long after it ends. It’s a fascinating glimpse into The Only Ones before they fully found their sound, proving that even in their early days, they had a knack for creating something unique and evocative.
10. Language Problem (1978)
Fast-paced and full of rebellious energy, “Language Problem” is The Only Ones at their most defiant. Released in 1978, this track captures the frustration of miscommunication—not just in personal relationships, but in a world that often refuses to understand or accept you.
The song’s driving rhythm pushes forward relentlessly, mirroring the agitation in Perrett’s voice. The guitars are raw and urgent, perfectly complementing the lyrics, which hint at deeper themes of alienation and the struggle to make oneself heard. There’s an almost desperate quality to the delivery, as if every word is fighting to break through the noise.
What makes “Language Problem” so powerful is its ability to channel frustration into something cathartic. It’s not just a song about struggling to be understood—it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. With its punchy, no-nonsense approach, it remains a fan favorite and a staple of The Only Ones’ live performances, proving that some messages—no matter how frustrated—are timeless.
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.
