The 10 best songs by The Stranglers of all time

The Stranglers are a British rock band formed in 1974 and known for their distinctive blend of punk rock, new wave and post-punk. Originally emerging from the punk scene of the mid-1970s, their music evolved to incorporate elements of reggae, jazz and electronic music, setting them apart from their contemporaries. Hits such as “Golden Brown”, with its haunting melody and harpsichord, showed their versatility beyond punk conventions. The band’s longevity and influence span decades, making them key figures in alternative rock. Their bold sound and provocative lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, cementing their legacy in British music history.

1. Hanging out

“Hanging Around” is a notable song by The Stranglers, released in 1977 as part of their album Rattus Norvegicus. It exemplifies the band’s unique blend of punk rock and new wave influences. The track features raucous guitar riffs, driving basslines, and distinctive vocals from Hugh Cornwell. Lyrically, “Hanging Around” deals with themes of urban alienation and disillusionment, characteristic of the band’s social commentary. Its infectious energy and rebellious spirit made it a standout song of the punk rock movement and contributed to The Stranglers’ reputation as pioneers of the genre. “Hanging Around” remains a classic of their discography, celebrated for its raw intensity and sharp observations of modern life.

2. Nice and greasy

“Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” is a song by The Stranglers, released as a single from their 1978 album “Black and White”. The song is known for its raw sound and controversial lyrics, which deal with urban decay and the seedy side of city life. Musically, “Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” features a driving bass line, edgy guitar riffs and aggressive vocals, characteristic of The Stranglers’ punk and new wave style.

The song’s lyrics describe a nightmarish urban landscape with references to prostitution, drug use and violence. Despite its dark subject matter, “Nice ‘n’ Sleazy” became one of The Stranglers’ most popular songs, reaching the top 20 of the UK singles chart. The song’s edgy sound and rebellious attitude made it a favorite among fans of punk and alternative music, and it remains a classic in The Stranglers’ catalog.

3. All day and all night

“All Day and All of the Night” is a rock song by The Kinks, released in 1964. Known for its distinctive riff and energetic delivery, the track became one of the band’s signature songs and a classic of the rock genre. Written by Ray Davies, the song features aggressive guitar work and intense vocals, and reflects the band’s early mod rock style. Its lyrics are about longing and obsession, capturing the youthful exuberance and rebellious spirit of the 1960s. “All Day and All of the Night” cemented the Kinks’ reputation as influential pioneers of British rock music, and remains a timeless anthem full of rock ‘n’ roll energy.

4. Golden brown

“Golden Brown” is a captivating song by The Stranglers, released on their 1981 album “La Folie”. Known for its distinctive sound and complex melody, the track blends elements of rock, pop and baroque music. The song features a distinctive harpsichord riff played by Dave Greenfield, giving it a unique and memorable character. Lyrically, “Golden Brown” deals with themes of temptation, addiction and nostalgia, and contains poetic references to the joys and dangers of surrender. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the UK Singles Chart. It remains one of The Stranglers’ most iconic and enduring tracks, celebrated for its musical craftsmanship and moving storytelling.

5. Peaches

“Peaches” is a song by The Stranglers, released as a single from their 1977 album “Rattus Norvegicus”. The song is known for its catchy melody, catchy chorus and playful lyrics. Musically, “Peaches” features a driving rhythm, a distinctive bass line and keyboard flourishes that are characteristic of The Stranglers’ punk and new wave sound.

The lyrics of “Peaches” are humorous and ironic, describing a summer romance with a girl named Peaches. The song’s chorus, “Walking on the beaches, looking at the peaches,” has become one of The Stranglers’ most famous lines.

“Peaches” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 of the UK singles chart. The song’s mix of punk attitude and pop sensibility helped establish The Stranglers as one of the leading bands of the punk and new wave eras.

6. No more heroes

“No More Heroes” is a notable song by The Stranglers, released as a single in 1977 and later included on their album No More Heroes. Characterized by its punk rock energy and edgy lyrics, the track reflects the band’s rebellious and provocative style. Lyrically, “No More Heroes” criticizes societal figures and questions the idea of ​​idolizing individuals without merit. Musically, the song features driving basslines, aggressive guitar riffs, and Hugh Cornwell’s distinctive vocals, which contributed to its impact within the punk rock movement. “No More Heroes” remains a seminal piece in The Stranglers’ repertoire, embodying their outspoken attitude and musicianship.

7. Always the sun

“Always the Sun” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1986 as the first single from their album “Dreamtime”. The song is characterized by its cheerful melody, catchy chorus and optimistic lyrics. Musically, “Always the Sun” offers a mixture of rock, pop and new wave elements with distinctive keyboard and guitar interludes.

The lyrics of “Always the Sun” convey a message of hope and resilience, suggesting that no matter how difficult things may seem, there is always a better future. The song’s chorus, “Who’ll stop the rain?”, has become one of The Stranglers’ most memorable lines.

“Always the Sun” was a commercial success, reaching the top 30 of the UK singles chart. The song’s positive message and anthemic sound made it a favourite among The Stranglers fans and a staple of their live performances.

8. Skin deep

“Skin Deep” is a song by The Stranglers, released as a single in 1984 and later included on their album Aural Sculpture. The track represents a departure from their earlier punk sound towards a more sophisticated and melodic rock style. “Skin Deep” has a catchy chorus and introspective lyrics that address themes of superficiality, identity, and self-awareness. The song’s production features synthesizers and a softer musical arrangement compared to their earlier work, reflecting the band’s evolving musical direction during the 1980s. “Skin Deep” was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 of the UK Singles Chart, and remains a popular and enduring song in The Stranglers’ discography, showcasing their ability to adapt and innovate within the rock genre.

9. Duchess

“Duchess” is a song by The Stranglers, released in 1979 as the second single from their album “The Raven”. The song is known for its catchy melody, fast tempo and witty lyrics. Musically, “Duchess” is characterized by a driving rhythm, melodic guitar riffs and keyboards that are typical of The Stranglers’ new wave sound.

The lyrics of “Duchess” are playful and satirical, poking fun at the idea of ​​nobility and wealth. The song’s chorus, “Duchess, Duchess, light up your candles,” is an ironic reference to the lavish lifestyle of royalty.

“Duchess” was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 of the UK singles chart. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious energy made it a favourite with Stranglers fans and a highlight of their live shows.

10. 5 minutes

“5 Minutes” is a dark and intense song by The Stranglers, released in 1978 as part of their album The Gospel According to The Meninblack. The track features aggressive guitar riffs, driving basslines, and Hugh Cornwell’s gravelly vocals, characteristic of the band’s punk rock roots. Lyrically, “5 Minutes” tackles themes of paranoia, surveillance, and the oppressive nature of authority. The song’s urgent and confrontational tone reflects the band’s social commentary and rebellious spirit in the late 1970s. “5 Minutes” remains a powerful example of The Stranglers’ ability to combine punk aggression with thought-provoking lyrics, cementing their reputation as influential figures in the punk and post-punk movements.

Edward Tomlin is a regular contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.