Few bands have managed to capture the raw energy, poetic lyricism, and genre-defying sound that The Only Ones brought to the late ’70s and early ’80s music scene. With their unique blend of punk, rock, and new wave, The Only Ones carved out a niche that has stood the test of time. Fronted by the enigmatic Peter Perrett, their songs are a masterclass in storytelling, wrapped in irresistible melodies and delivered with an emotional intensity that still resonates with fans old and new.
In this list, we’ll take you on a journey through the top 10 most popular songs by The Only Ones—tracks that have defined their legacy, inspired countless artists, and cemented their place as cult icons. From the hauntingly beautiful ballads to the anthemic hooks that get stuck in your head for days, these songs showcase the band’s incredible versatility and artistic brilliance.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering their music, this countdown is a celebration of everything that makes The Only Ones unforgettable. So, crank up the volume, get ready to sing along, and relive the magic of some of the greatest tracks ever recorded by this iconic band!
1. Another Girl, Another Planet (1978)
“Another Girl, Another Planet” is one of the most iconic rock tracks of the late ’70s, and it’s easy to see why. Released as part of The Only Ones’ self-titled debut album in 1978, the song quickly established the band’s unique voice in the punk and new wave scenes. The track is driven by a jangly, electrifying guitar riff that perfectly complements Peter Perrett’s raw, yearning vocals. Lyrically, the song explores themes of love, escapism, and emotional distance. Perrett’s delivery conveys a sense of disillusionment while still retaining a sense of desire. The chorus—catchy and powerful—resonates with anyone who’s ever experienced love’s fleeting nature. It’s a blend of upbeat energy and melancholic reflection, capturing the complexity of romantic relationships. With its timeless sound, “Another Girl, Another Planet” has remained a fan favorite for decades, and it still holds a significant place in the annals of rock history. The track is not just a defining moment for The Only Ones but also a key piece of music from a transformative era in rock. It’s a song that continues to captivate listeners, making it an essential staple in the genre’s pantheon.
2. Lovers of Today (1977)
“Lovers of Today” is where it all began for The Only Ones. Released as their debut single in 1977 on Vengeance Records, this track exemplifies the band’s early sound—a perfect mix of raw punk energy and melodic sophistication. The song showcases Peter Perrett’s exceptional vocal delivery, which conveys both vulnerability and defiance, painting a picture of youthful disillusionment. The instrumentation is tight and dynamic, with sharp guitars that cut through the mix and a rhythm section that pushes the song forward. The song’s blend of angst and introspection made it an instant favorite for fans and helped establish The Only Ones as a band to watch in the burgeoning punk scene. Lyrically, “Lovers of Today” touches on themes of fleeting romance and existential questioning, delivering these ideas with a directness that was both rare and captivating for the time. With its infectious chorus and driving energy, “Lovers of Today” became a touchstone of the late ’70s punk movement, offering a glimpse into the emotional depth that would become characteristic of The Only Ones’ music. It’s a song that still stands up as a brilliant piece of songwriting, cementing its place in the annals of punk rock history.
3. No Peace for the Wicked (1978)
“No Peace for the Wicked” stands out as one of the most haunting tracks from The Only Ones’ 1978 debut album. The song captures the disillusionment and unrest of the late 1970s with its dark, brooding melody and sharp, incisive lyrics. Peter Perrett’s voice takes center stage here, carrying a sense of bitterness and frustration as he croons about the emotional turmoil of a life in turmoil. The instrumental arrangement is sparse yet effective, with an atmospheric guitar line that perfectly matches the somber mood. There’s a sense of inevitability in the music, with each note pushing the listener deeper into the bleak world Perrett has created. Lyrically, the song touches on themes of isolation, personal struggle, and the inevitability of facing one’s demons. “No Peace for the Wicked” isn’t just a track about personal anguish—it’s a reflection of the broader cultural malaise of the time, making it a piece of music that resonates with anyone who has ever felt like they were caught in the relentless cycle of despair. This track remains one of the most emotionally intense in The Only Ones’ catalog, showcasing their ability to craft songs that are both musically and thematically rich.
4. The Beast (1979)
“The Beast,” featured on The Only Ones’ second album Even Serpents Shine (1979), is a slow-burning masterpiece that shows the band’s musical growth and lyrical depth. The track opens with a haunting guitar line that gradually builds in intensity, setting the stage for Peter Perrett’s raw, emotive vocals. The song is about inner turmoil and self-destruction, with lyrics that delve into personal struggles and dark introspection. Perrett’s delivery is nothing short of captivating as he sings with a vulnerability that’s both arresting and deeply relatable. The instrumental arrangement is haunting, with a hypnotic rhythm that complements the brooding atmosphere of the song. As the song progresses, it slowly grows in intensity, with layers of instrumentation building to create a sense of emotional release. “The Beast” is more than just a rock song—it’s a poignant exploration of the complexities of human emotion, particularly the destructive tendencies that can often accompany inner conflict. The track’s brooding nature and its reflective lyrics make it one of the standout tracks on Even Serpents Shine and a testament to The Only Ones’ ability to blend emotional depth with musical sophistication.
5. Miles From Nowhere (1978)
“Miles From Nowhere” is one of those tracks that perfectly encapsulates The Only Ones’ ability to combine upbeat energy with melancholic introspection. Featured on their 1978 debut album, the song opens with a bright, catchy rhythm that contrasts sharply with its more somber lyrical content. The upbeat tempo, accompanied by soaring guitar solos, creates a dynamic that keeps the listener hooked, while the lyrics offer a more reflective and bittersweet look at life. Peter Perrett’s voice, which can sound both yearning and resigned, adds depth to the song’s emotional landscape. The juxtaposition of the song’s cheery sound and its deeper, more introspective themes gives “Miles From Nowhere” a timeless quality, making it one of the band’s most memorable tracks. It’s a perfect example of how The Only Ones were able to make music that was both emotionally complex and accessible. The song’s lyrics explore themes of distance—both physical and emotional—and the longing for connection, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who’s ever felt disconnected or far from where they want to be. The track remains a fan favorite for its catchy, yet introspective nature, capturing a feeling of yearning that resonates with listeners to this day.
6. Why Don’t You Kill Yourself? (1979)
“Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” from Even Serpents Shine (1979) is a provocative track that showcases The Only Ones’ ability to blend dark humor with insightful social commentary. The song’s sardonic title immediately grabs attention, but beneath its provocative surface lies a biting exploration of despair, resilience, and human vulnerability. Musically, the song is infectious, with catchy hooks and a driving rhythm that gives it an anthemic quality. The upbeat nature of the track contrasts with its ironic, almost nihilistic message, creating a dynamic that keeps listeners engaged. The song’s lyrics reflect on existential themes, questioning the meaning of life and the ways in which individuals cope with inner turmoil. The contrast between the track’s energetic sound and its darker, more introspective lyrics is a hallmark of The Only Ones’ style. “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” is an exploration of the complexity of human emotion, offering an ironic, yet ultimately hopeful, commentary on resilience in the face of life’s darker moments. It’s a song that balances bleakness with a sense of defiance, making it one of the most memorable tracks in their catalog.
7. Out There in the Night (1979)
“Out There in the Night” is a lively and energetic track from The Only Ones’ second album Even Serpents Shine (1979). The song captures a sense of adventure and longing, as Peter Perrett sings about the desire to escape and experience life beyond the confines of everyday existence. The track features a catchy, driving rhythm, with vibrant guitars and dynamic percussion that give it a sense of urgency. The instrumentation is upbeat, yet there’s an underlying sense of restlessness that permeates the song, reflecting the themes of searching for meaning and new experiences. The song’s infectious chorus, paired with Perrett’s signature delivery, makes it one of the band’s most accessible tracks, appealing to a wider audience. “Out There in the Night” is about embracing the unknown, living in the moment, and chasing after freedom, making it a perfect anthem for anyone who’s ever felt the need to break free from the mundane. Its themes of adventure and yearning for something more have made it a beloved track for fans, and its lively energy continues to make it a staple in the band’s live performances.
8. From Here to Eternity (1979)
“From Here to Eternity,” also from Even Serpents Shine (1979), is a contemplative ballad that showcases the lyrical and emotional depth of The Only Ones. The song opens with a haunting melody that sets the tone for Peter Perrett’s reflective vocals. Lyrically, the track delves into themes of timeless love and existential longing, as Perrett sings about the desire for a love that transcends the boundaries of time and space. The song’s wistful, longing tone is underscored by a delicate arrangement of acoustic guitar and subtle percussion, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. Perrett’s voice, filled with both longing and passion, perfectly complements the song’s themes of eternal love and desire. “From Here to Eternity” is a standout track because of its emotional depth and the way it captures the complexities of love, longing, and the passage of time. The song’s melancholic beauty makes it one of the most poignant moments on Even Serpents Shine, and it continues to resonate with listeners who have experienced the bittersweet nature of love and loss. It’s a song that remains a favorite among fans, showcasing the softer, more introspective side of The Only Ones.
9. The Whole of the Law (1978)
“The Whole of the Law,” from The Only Ones’ self-titled debut album, is a tender yet haunting track that highlights the band’s ability to craft emotionally charged music. The song features a minimalist arrangement, with delicate guitar lines that intertwine with Peter Perrett’s raw, vulnerable vocals. The lyrics, while simple, convey a deep sense of longing and vulnerability, with Perrett singing about the search for meaning and connection. The song’s stripped-down instrumentation adds to its emotional weight, allowing the focus to remain on the raw emotion in Perrett’s voice. “The Whole of the Law” is a perfect example of how The Only Ones could convey complex emotional states with minimal musical embellishments. The track’s melancholy tone and its themes of longing and desire make it one of the most introspective songs in their catalog. Despite its simplicity, “The Whole of the Law” is a deeply moving piece that showcases the band’s ability to make a lasting emotional impact with just a few carefully chosen words and notes. It’s a song that continues to resonate with listeners because of its honesty and its ability to tap into universal feelings of loneliness and yearning.
10. Someone Who Cares (1980)
“Someone Who Cares,” from Baby’s Got a Gun (1980), is a poignant and introspective anthem that reflects a shift in The Only Ones’ sound. The track blends elements of new wave with the band’s signature emotional depth, resulting in a song that is both forward-thinking and deeply rooted in the band’s earlier style. The song’s lyrics reflect a sense of vulnerability and the longing for connection, with Peter Perrett singing about the desire for someone who truly understands and cares. The music complements this emotional theme, with atmospheric keyboards and a driving rhythm that gives the track a sense of urgency. “Someone Who Cares” is a reflection on the universal need for understanding and empathy, and Perrett’s heartfelt delivery adds an extra layer of sincerity to the song. As the closing track of Baby’s Got a Gun, it offers a poignant conclusion to the album, marking a moment of emotional reflection and hope. The song’s blend of new wave influences and timeless emotional themes make it a standout track in the band’s catalog, and its introspective nature continues to resonate with fans 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.
