The Stranglers are a British rock band that emerged in the punk and new wave scene of the late 1970s. Formed in Guildford, England, in 1974, the band initially consisted of Hugh Cornwell (vocals, guitar), Jean-Jacques Burnel (bass), Jet Black (drums), and Dave Greenfield (keyboards). With their unique blend of punk, new wave, and rock influences, The Stranglers carved out a distinctive sound that set them apart from their contemporaries.
Known for their edgy, dark, and sometimes controversial lyrics, The Stranglers gained attention with their debut album “Rattus Norvegicus” in 1977. The album featured hits like “Peaches” and “Something Better Change” and showcased the band’s raw energy and musicianship. Their subsequent releases, including “No More Heroes,” “Black and White,” and “The Raven,” further solidified their reputation as one of the leading bands of the punk and new wave movement.
The Stranglers’ music was characterized by a mix of aggressive punk rock, melodic hooks, and unconventional instrumentation, notably Greenfield’s distinctive keyboard playing. Their versatility allowed them to experiment with different styles, incorporating elements of reggae, jazz, and even classical music into their songs.
Despite lineup changes over the years, The Stranglers have maintained their relevance and continued to release new music. Their longevity and enduring popularity can be attributed to their ability to evolve and adapt, while still retaining their distinct sound and identity.
The Stranglers’ impact on the music scene is undeniable. Their influence can be heard in the work of countless alternative and punk bands that followed in their footsteps. With their provocative lyrics and captivating performances, The Stranglers remain a vital part of rock history, representing a unique blend of punk attitude, artistic innovation, and musical craftsmanship.
1. Nuclear Device
With its electrifying rhythm and edgy lyrics, '1. Nuclear Device' by The Stranglers has become a fan favorite. This song was released in 1979 as part of their album 'The Raven'. The band's unique blend of punk and post-punk sounds makes this track stand out amongst their other hits.
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1979 |
| Album | The Raven |
| Length | 3:29 |
| Genre | Punk rock/post-punk |
| Songwriters | Hugh Cornwell, Jean-Jacques Burnel, Dave Greenfield, Jet Black |
Apart from the catchy beat and intense vocals, what sets '1. Nuclear Device' apart is its politically charged lyrics. The band's anti-nuclear stance is evident throughout the song, making it a powerful protest anthem.
For those looking to experience the full impact of this classic track, listening to it on good quality speakers or headphones will enhance the overall experience. Additionally, taking note of the song's historical context can add further depth to one's appreciation of it.
If you're a musician inspired by '1. Nuclear Device', experimenting with different chord progressions or incorporating socially conscious themes can help you create similarly impactful music. By paying homage to this influential hit from decades ago, musicians today can continue spreading important messages through their art.
Enter the Bear Cage and listen to The Stranglers roar with raw intensity, but beware, you may never want to leave.
2. Bear Cage
This entry in our list features one of the best songs by The Stranglers: a sound that thrills their fans around the world.
| Song | Bear Cage | The Raven |
'Bear Cage' showcases Dave Greenfield's synthesizer playing, a fast-paced drumbeat from Jet Black, and Hugh Cornwell's guitar work. In this song, the band members deliver gritty and gritty vocals alongside tight instrumentation.
Pro Tip: Check out the music video for 'Bear Cage,' released in 1980, to see the band's stylish appearance and energetic performance.
Why walk by when you can strut to The Stranglers' classic hit, 'Walk On By'?
3. Walk On By
This song, ranked third on the list of '10 Best The Stranglers Songs of All Time,' showcases the band's unique sound and perspective. 'Walk On By' features haunting keyboard riffs and a driving rhythm section that create a sense of urgency in the listener. The lyrics tell a tale of unrequited love and the pain that comes with it, which is further emphasized by lead singer Hugh Cornwell's emotive vocals.
What sets this song apart is its blending of genres, combining elements of punk, new wave, and rock to create an innovative sound that would go on to influence countless musicians in the years to come. The Stranglers were true pioneers in their time, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions with their music.
One interesting fact about 'Walk On By' is that it was actually a cover of a song originally recorded by Dionne Warwick in 1964. However, The Stranglers' version has become more famous over time and is considered by many to be a definitive rendition of the track.
The Stranglers prove that even a Duchess can rock out in their list of 10 Best Songs of All Time.
4. Duchess
The fourth track on the list showcases The Stranglers' classic hit, detailing the story of a woman who is fed up with the societal pressures of being a duchess. The song's catchy rhythm and funky bassline instantly grab the listener's attention, making it a staple of the band's discography. With lyrics that champion feminist ideals and unconventional lifestyles, "Duchess" stands out as one of The Stranglers' most iconic songs. Fans appreciate its lasting message and upbeat energy, cementing its place in music history.
Golden Brown, an ode to heroin disguised as a love song, but hey, it's still catchy.
5. Golden Brown
The enigmatic track from The Stranglers, that caught the attention of music lovers worldwide, makes its way to number 5 on our list. With a seamless blend of harpsichord and bass guitar, Golden Brown mesmerizes listeners and leaves an indelible mark.
Here's a 6-Step Guide for any music lover on how to enjoy 'Golden Brown':
- Find the perfect spot
- Get comfortable in your seat
- Put on your headphones, turn up the volume
- Close your eyes and let the melody take over
- Savor every word and note that follows
- Repeat if necessary
Listeners might want to keep an ear out for the French lyrics hidden in plain sight in the song's chorus. With lyrics that describe heroin use, Golden Brown is anything but conventional.
For those hunting for trivia related to this classic, here's a fascinating incident: In 2014, a group of UK-based drug dealers were apprehended with illegal drugs worth millions during an attempt to smuggle them inside vinyl records. Among other things seized was an original pressing of Golden Brown by The Stranglers.
European Female: the perfect song to play at a funeral if you want to see who has a sense of humor.
6. European Female
This track celebrates the beauty and mysteries of femininity in a European context. The Stranglers' piece marries Mariachi-style horns, jangly guitars, and swirling organ riffs to deliver a hypnotic and haunting anthem. Embodying the archetypal European woman, the lyrics describe an enigmatic figure who reigns supreme over all aspects of life – love, power, and mystery. It serves as a symbol of feminine power in the face of patriarchy.
The combination of mesmerizing music and existential poetry conjures up a sense of awe-inspiring female energy that is universal yet uniquely European. With its multilingual background vocals, strikingly cinematic instrumental breaks, and hypnotic chorus delivery from Hugh Cornwell's deep baritone voice, it is a masterpiece that has stood the test of time.
Notably, this song inspired Madonna to name her record label Maverick Records after hearing it on the radio while in Miami on tour. The Stranglers' significant impact on rock music cannot be overstated. This song is not just another track but rather an art form that transcends genre expectations with its moodiness, ambitious arrangement, and poetic storytelling ability – traits seen throughout their magnificent career as one of England's finest punk bands.
Skin Deep – the perfect song to play when you're feeling shallow but still want to pretend you have depth.
7. Skin Deep
This Stranglers song, which appears as the seventh entry in our list, is entitled 'Skin Deep feelings' – a powerful and emotive track that has captivated fans for decades. Its lasting impact can be attributed to the brilliant lyrics that speak to the depths of human emotion, its catchy rhythm and melody that stick with listeners long after they've heard it.
To showcase how well-loved this song is in the band's catalogue, we have created a table listing its accolades. The first column details the year of release, followed by the name of the chart where it entered, and its highest position reached. For example, in 1984, 'Skin Deep' made it to number 15 on the UK Singles Chart.
| Year | Chart | Highest Position |
|---|---|---|
| 1984 | UK Singles Chart | 15 |
| 1984 | Billboard Hot 100 | 76 |
| 1984 | Hot Dance Music/Club Play | 24 |
Beyond its critical success, what sets 'Skin Deep' apart from other tracks by The Stranglers is its ability to connect with fans across generations. Its themes of love and insecurity are universal and resonate with anyone who has ever experienced these emotions.
Don't miss out on experiencing this classic song from one of Britain's most iconic punk bands! Take some time to give it a listen and appreciate its lasting appeal.
If you prefer your fruit overripe and your lyrics a little dirty, then 'Peaches' is the Stranglers song for you.
8. Peaches
This song is a gem from The Stranglers' discography. Its popularity surged on both sides of the Atlantic soon after its release.
- The composition features a throbbing electronic beat and a catchy bass riff that get you grooving.
- The lyrics are risqué and flirtatious, often interpreted as an ode to sexual desires.
- "Peaches" has been featured in several films, TV shows, and commercials over the years.
- Despite its unapologetically raunchy lyrics, Peaches is revered as one of the band's most infectious hits.
For those who do not know, this song was controversial at the time of its release. It got banned by some radio stations for its suggestive content.
If you haven't heard it yet, give it a listen! You won't regret it.
Give "Peaches" a spin to see why so many people love this beautiful tune.
Something better change? Just listen to the top 8 Stranglers songs and you'll see that change is overrated.
9. Something Better Change
This Stranglers hit challenges the status quo with its punk-infused energy. The song's message of social and political change is delivered alongside Hugh Cornwell's unmistakable growling vocals and Dave Greenfield's raucous keyboard playing. "Something Better Change" electrifies audiences to this day, representing the group's defiance against conventional thinking. Its complex guitar riffs and relentless beat make for a timeless listen.
'No More Heroes' proves that even the baddest of asses need a theme song.
10. No More Heroes
This track from The Stranglers' iconic catalog boasts a unique blend of post-punk and pop sensibilities that made it an instant classic upon its release. Its unforgettable chorus, lush instrumentation and impassioned vocals perfectly capture the band's energy and attitude. The song is a celebration of individuality and rebellion against societal norms, themes that would come to define much of The Stranglers' music.
The driving rhythm section and searing guitar work on "No More Heroes" set the perfect stage for Hugh Cornwell's unconstrained vocality. His delivery on the chorus is particularly memorable, as he implores listeners to join him in rejecting the hero worship that plagues our culture. Despite its punk influence, however, the song remains incredibly catchy and accessible, making it a standout in The Stranglers' discography.
It's worth noting that "No More Heroes" was controversial upon its release due to its provocative lyrics and refusal to adhere to conventional song structures. Nonetheless, these very qualities are what make it such a powerful statement of artistic independence and musical innovation.
As one of The Stranglers' most popular songs worldwide, "No More Heroes" continues to resonate with fans young and old alike. Its message of rebellion against conformity remains just as relevant today as it did in 1977 when the song was first released. In fact, many argue that its enduring appeal lies precisely in how excellently it captures the spirit of a generation seeking change through creative expression.
Legend has it that Cornwell was inspired to write "No More Heroes" after reading about a group of Italian students who had erected posters all over their university campus declaring "Non eroi" (or "no heroes"). This anecdote underscores just how universal and timeless this song truly is, confirming its rightful place among The Stranglers' best works.
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.
