Gig Review: Muse @ Emirates Stadium

Muse- Emirates Stadium 26/5

Wow. It’s a widely held belief that Muse are one of the best live acts around at the moment and after last night’s show I can totally understand why. Not only was this my first Muse gig, but it was also my first stadium concert. With that in mind, I was expecting something a bit special. They didn’t disappoint. To say that that was one of the best gigs I have ever been to would not be an exaggeration. They were phenomenal and totally lived up to expectations. From start to finish they showed why they are one of the biggest bands around at the moment.

Before Muse took to the stage however, there was support from Manchester four-piece The 1975. I caught the majority of their set and they were pretty good. They admitted themselves that it was the biggest venue they had ever played, and even though it wasn’t at capacity while they were on, they were generally well received by the crowd. Only being familiar with their single ‘Chocolate’ myself, I was interested to hear what their other material sounded like. Even though their songs all sounded fairly similar, they did a good job considering they were the first band on at six in the evening. They definitely made enough of an impression for me to look into downloading their EP.

Next up was London rapper Dizzee Rascal. I was disappointed when he was announced as the main support act as I thought a more established rock artist would be a better choice. I have never been a Dizzee Rascal fan, in fact I can’t stand him, but I went with an open mind thinking he might win me over with his live act. He didn’t. And I wasn’t the only one. They were quite a few murmurs of discontent, certainly around where I was standing. He was just the wrong act for the wrong audience. The fact that when they showed the crowd on the big screens and the first few rows were all static spoke volumes. A couple of his biggest hits went down quite well, but generally there was a sense of relief when his set finished. Not to worry though, because it just ramped up the anticipation for the headline act.

Muse exploded onto the stage, quite literally, as a giant pyrotechnic went off, taking me and everyone else nearby, by surprise. I was no-where near the front, but being halfway back I was pretty close to the end of the catwalk of the ‘B Stage’, which is where a huge flame shot up into the air. Further pyrotechnics were attached to the top of the stage where, even where I was, you could feel to heat strongly. Starting with the massive Bond theme-esque ‘Supremacy’ from their latest album ‘The 2^nd Law’, it epitomised Muse’s exuberant sound and style. This was followed up with ‘Supermassive Black Hole’ and current single ‘Panic Station’. It was during the latter that cartoon avatars of various world leaders such as David Cameron, Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin danced along to the music. It was just one of a number of times where it became more of a spectacle than just your usual gig.                          

After going through classics ‘Map of the Problematique’ and ‘Hysteria’, it was during ‘Animals’ that the next part of the show took place. With a film on the big screen showing a banker shouting into a camera, the character made his way onto the stage. Still ranting to camera, he carried on down the catwalk to the ‘B Stage’ where there an explosion and fake Muse money rained down on the audience. During this, the banker character had a heart attack and died, lying on stage covered in money. It was one of a number of political statements made during the performance, but was all just part of the show.

‘Knights of Cydonia’ followed which had everyone singing and jumping as one. A piano was placed at the end of the ‘B Stage’ where Matt Bellamy played ‘Sunburn’, one of their earliest hits. After a lull of a couple of songs, it soon picked up again with the crowd pleaser ‘Feeling Good’. It was during this that a female secretary type character came out onto the stage, much in the same way as the banker did previously. She made her way down to the end of the catwalk where an old style petrol pump had been placed. She then proceeded to start drinking from the pump before drowning herself.

The set concluded with ‘Madness’ (with Matt Bellamy wearing LCD glasses displaying the lyrics), ‘Time Is Running Out’ (with a ‘House of the Rising Sun’ intro) and Stockholm Syndrome. There was a brief interlude before they re-emerged on the ‘B Stage’. During the performance of ‘Blackout’, a giant light bulb floated across the arena, before a trapeze artist popped out the bottom, wowing the crowd with an impressive performance performed at quite a height above the stage. By now the sun had long since gone down, which meant the atmosphere had greatly improved. During ‘Undisclosed Desires’, Bellamy jumped down from the stage, with a camera in toe, and wondered down the gangway interacting with the crowd, high fiving people and posing for pictures. He even took a couple of flags, all while continuing the song. He then walked under the B-Stage where we the bodies of the dead girl and banker were lying in open coffins. 

 

The band then left the stage again before coming out for an encore. They continued with the dubstep epic ‘The 2^nd Law: Unsustainable’ where Charles, a five metre tall robot, made an appearance on stage. There was then the old air guitar favourite ‘Plug in Baby’, which got the whole crowd bouncing, before finishing with ‘Survival’. They then disappeared before emerging and finishing the night off superbly with big fan favourites ‘Uprising’ and ‘Starlight’.

Even though they were fantastic from start to finish, I couldn’t help but feel that by starting in daylight, there was something missing. Once darkness fell however, the atmosphere was a lot better. Even though there were a couple of lulls, there were more than enough visual elements, such as the pyro and the big screens, to keep you engaged in the performance. Critics may say that this detracts from the music, but it’s all part of the show. When you go to a Muse gig, you know it’s going to be an extravagant show and that’s what you’ve come to see. The music is just part of that. There are enough old favourites to really get the crowd pumped, and off the top of my head I can’t think of anything I would have added to the setlist. Except maybe for ‘Resistance’.


Muse have been on my bucket list of bands to see for a while now and I’m glad I’ve finally managed to tick them off. They really were fantastic and more than lived up to the expectations I had before the show. The one problem they have now is, working how to top it. I’m sure they’ll find a way of doing it somehow.

Thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share.

 

 

 

 

Best Song Covers

For as long there has been music, there have been cover versions. Various orchestras have played music by various composers, and popular music is no different. In fact playing other people’s song seems to be part of the business; be it a recorded version or just something spontaneous done during a live performance. If it’s a well song, there is usually a bit of pressure to get the song right as more people are likely to know it. Done badly and the result is usually horrific (I won’t name any, but quite a few spring to mind). Done well however and you find yourself giving a small clap and an appreciative nod to the artist knowing they’ve done a good job. Usually you find yourself liking a song you hated before because an artist has done the song justice by performing it in a totally different way.

Below you’ll find 20 odd of my personal favourite cover songs. Some you might know, some you won’t. They’re not all songs that have been released, some are just videos I have found on the internet and been impressed by. I could have included a lot more but decided to keep it concise, so sit back and enjoy J

Amy Winehouse/Mark Ronson- Valerie: Appearing on Mark Ronson’s second studio album in 2007, the single peaked at number 2 in the UK, and spent 36 consecutive weeks in the Singles Chart between 2007 and May 2008. Performed originally by indie band The Zutons, it’s totally different to their version. Instead of indie rock, there is more of an R&B/Jazz vibe to it, something I personally prefer. Amy Winehouse does a great job making the song her own and was an inspired choice by Mark Ronson.

Original/Most Famous Version: The Zutons

Amy MacDonald- Dancing In The Dark: Question- How do you cover a song by an artist as big as Bruce Springsteen and not mess it up? Answer- You strip it back so people concentrate on you, not the song. May sound silly, but that’s exactly what Amy MacDonald has done here. By stripping the song back and slowing it down she’s created something quite wonderful. By letting her talent as a singer shine through, she really stamps her authority on it. Having seen her perform the song live, with just her and an acoustic guitar, the song is taken from a big anthem/ballad to a beautiful, heartfelt show stopper. The song can be found as a “hidden track” on the end of the second album, ‘A Curious Thing’. It means listening to whole album but it’s worth it. In both senses.

Original/Most Famous Version: Bruce Springsteen

Brandon Flowers- Bette Davies Eyes: Recorded during an Abbey Road session whilst promoting his solo album ‘Flamingo’, Flowers covered this old classic. Luckily I discovered it on YouTube as it doesn’t appear on the album. It's a real shame because it’s a fantastic cover. As always, he manages to weave his own style into the song. There is always a touch of class with The Killers, and it’s no different here, even though Flowers is solo.  It’s different from the original but then that’s not a bad thing. It’s a modern take on an old song, and it’s done fantastically.

Original/Most Famous Version: Kim Carnes

Eliza Doolittle- Fuck You, Yellow: Two songs here performed by British singer-songwriter Eliza Doolittle. You may be familiar with songs such as ‘Skinny Genes’ and ‘Pack Up’, but dig a little deeper on YouTube and you’ll trip across a couple of great covers that show Eliza as the genuine article. The first is a cover of Cee Lo Green’s huge hit ‘Fuck You’, performed live with just herself, a double bass and two backing singers her dressing room by the looks of it. The second is a cover of the Coldplay song ‘Yellow’. Again it’s recorded live, but this time is accompanied solely by an acoustic guitar while her and band are on the tour bus driving through LA.  What I like about these covers is the pure rawness of them. It’s just her voice as she sings, nothing else, and it sounds just as good as it does on her album. They really are a couple of gems worth listening to.

Original/Most Famous Version: Cee Lo Green/Coldplay

Foo Fighters- Tie Your Mother Down: Foo Fighters are probably one the biggest bands of the last 20 years. Actually there’s no probably about it. And they are one of the best live acts around (something I have sadly not yet experienced). So when they perform a live cover version you know it’s going to be, at the very least, good. Now ‘Tie Your Mother Down’ might not be the best known Queen song, but after listening to this it’s likely to be one of your favourites. With Brian May on guitar and Roger Taylor on drums, it was up to Taylor Hawkins to take role of vocals. I didn’t realise he had such a good voice. There’s a real similarity between him and fellow Foo’s bandmate Dave Grohl in that leaving the drum kit behind, they both have the talent, voice and stage presence to make fantastic frontmen. Don’t believe me? Just watch this.

Original/Most Famous Version: Queen

Goldfinger- 99 Red Balloons: Recorded for their 2000 album ‘Stomping Ground’, Goldfinger created a pop punk version of Nena’s 80s classic. And to be fair, they did a really good job. Adding the rock element to it gives it extra attitude and a sense of angst. Which is all relevant considering the original was a protest song. Talking of the original, it was performed in German before an English version was released, and Goldfinger pay homage to that by performing half the song in English and the other in German. This is a nice touch and it works really well. The song proved to be popular appearing in films such as ‘Not Another Teen Movie’ and ‘Eurotrip’ as well as appearing on the soundtrack for the video game ‘Gran Turismo 3’.

Original/Most Famous Version: Nena

Halestorm- Empire State of Mind: I’ve written quite a bit about Halestorm, I’m a big fan and deserve a wider recognition. Their last album ‘The Strange Case Of…’ was my favourite album of 2012. However it’s not just their own material that impresses. The cover versions that they perform are general stunning. If anyone is in doubt about the talent within the band, need to them a listen. With Lzzy Hale’s voice they really do make songs their own. Lady Gaga’s ‘Bad Romance’, Heart’s ‘All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You’ and Guns ‘n’ Roses’ ‘Outta Get Me’ are all mightily impressive. However it’s their cover of ‘Empire State of Mind’ that is my favourite. Recorded live and acoustically it shows a band at the top of their game. The raw power and range in Lzzy’s voice is bewitching and it sends shivers down my spine every time hear this song. You’ll know exactly what I’m talking about when you give this a listen. They are a band that is really going places.

Original/Most Famous Version: Jay Z & Alicia Keys

Imelda May- Tainted Love: Spoiler alert! This is not the only time this song is appearing on this list. However this version could not be any different from either the original or the other version which you will find below. I’ve included it twice because I love both versions (3 including the original) plus you should know about Imelda May if you don’t already. She is a real talent. Singing a mixture of rockabilly and jazz she has a sound that is very refreshing and different to other music around at the moment. The possible exception is Caro Emerald, but she’s got a slightly different style. Anyway, if you wanted to know what an 80s classic sounded like rockabilly style, give this a listen. It will at the very least get your foot tapping.

Original/Most Famous Version: Soft Cell

Jose Gonzalez-Heartbeats: One of my favourite ever songs, this is another one that is totally different and unrecognisable from the original. It is one of those songs as soon as it comes on I have to turn the volume up. Originally by The Knife, the song appears on Gonzalez’s 2003 album ‘Veneer’. It wasn’t until 2006 that it was released as a single however, and hit the number 9 spot in the UK. It is totally different from the original, with Gonzalez performing his version acoustically compared to the electro version by The Knife. The gentleness of the guitar and vocals is soothing if nothing else, which makes it a great song to chill out to. Of course it helps that gained popularity through the use in Sony TV advert, which is where I first it. I’m glad though because it exposed me to this near perfect piece of music.

Original/Most Famous Version: The Knife

Keane- Under Pressure: This song is actually a B-Side to Keane’s 2007 single ‘The Night Sky’. However it proved to be so successful, it was a released a single in its own right. Deciding to cover a song by two of Britain’s best known and best loved artists of all time is a brave move. If there’s one thing Keane have though, its talent and they pull it off brilliantly. Tom Chaplin is one of the most underrated front men around, and having seen Keane live myself, he puts everything into his performances. That can clearly be heard on this track as he’s got a couple of big names to live up to, but if anything he thrives on it. It’s a great cover that would make Freddie Mercury proud.

Original/Most Famous Version: Queen

Lacuna Coil- Enjoy the Silence: A cover of a Depeche Mode classic, Italian rockers Lacuna Coil change the song from 80s New Wave/Synthpop to Gothic rock. Rather surprisingly, the change of sound does the song justice. Rather like Marilyn Manson’s cover of ‘Personal Jesus’, the song seems geared up to have a heavier edge to it. The dark, Evanescence-esaue style actually suits the song really well. It gives the song a moody atmosphere before kicking up a gear during the chorus. Even though there are two vocalists, it is the voice of Cristina Scabbia that dominates the song. This isn’t a bad thing though as she has a fantastic voice. The original might an 80s classic, but it sounds just as good a pounding rock anthem.

Original/Most Famous Version: Depeche Mode

Manic Street Preachers- Umbrella: Covering pop songs is not uncommon, with the likes of Lady Gaga and Adele having their songs covered by an array of rock artists. And it’s not different here, with Welsh veterans Manic Street Preachers cover of Rihanna’s smash hit ‘Umbrella’.  Not intended to be a single, the song was released in 2008 and in my opinion it’s a fantastic cover. Where the original is a well-polished pop song, this version a raw and has more a punch to it. James Dean Bradfield’s voice surprisingly suits the song really well and does the song justice. It also helps that the riff at the beginning instantly grabs your attention and makes you want to listen to the rest of the song. I prefer this to the original, but then that’s just me.

Original/Most Famous Version: Rihanna

Marilyn Manson- Tainted Love: Some of you may not be surprised at the inclusion of this given what I said a few songs back. Now I’m not a huge Marilyn Manson fan, but I love this song. Like Imelda May, he’s taken the song, and totally made it his own. It’s totally different from the original, but that angst and attitude that he puts into the song gives a real presence and adds a different dimension to it. Having also covered ‘Personal Jesus’ and ‘Sweet Dreams’, Manson seems to have a thing for the 80s, but he’s done each one justice.  The video is also good, but that’s mostly down to Chyler Leigh being in it.

Original/Most Famous Version: Soft Cell

Metallica- Whisky In The Jar: This song is actually a traditional Irish song with its exact origins unknown. It has been covered by many artists since the 1950s. Arguably the most famous is the one by Irish rock band Thin Lizzy released in 1972. However the version I’m concentrating on here, is the version by American metal goliaths Metallica. Appearing on their 1999 album ‘Garage Inc.’, the song won them a Grammy for ‘Best Hard Rock Performance’ in 2000. The song is close to the Thin Lizzy version, but is much heavier and has a distinct “Metallica” element to it. By that I mean you’re in no doubt it’s done by Metallica. James Hetfield’s snarling vocals make sure of that. I’m a big fan of both versions, but when I’m in the mood for something heavy, this wins hands down.

Original/Most Famous Version: Thin Lizzy

Muse- Feeling Good: Earlier I said that Foo Fighters are one of the biggest bands in the world at the moment, well Muse are arguably Britain’s equivalent, although they are far more flamboyant and experimental than their American counterparts. On their 2001 album ‘Origin Of Symmetry’, they included a song that was originally written for the 1964 musical ‘The Roar of the Greasepaint- The Smell of the Crowd’ and later made famous by Nina Simone.  The song is of course ‘Feeling Good’ and is one of the most popular Muse and is a massive fan favourite. It’s a bit different from the Nina Simone version, but then you wouldn’t want it sounding exactly the same would you? Yes it’s big and over the top but that’s just typical Muse, and the sense of occasion that it brings to their music is a reason why they’re so popular. In 2010 it was voted the best cover ever on an NME poll ahead of ‘Twist and Shout’ by The Beatles and ‘Hurt’ by Johnny Cash. I don’t think anyone can have any complaints about that.

Original/Most Famous Version: Nina Simone

Pet Shop Boys- Always On My Mind: First recorded in 1972 by Brenda Lee, ‘Always On My Mind’ is originally a country that has since been covered by the likes of Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson and Pet Shop Boys, which is the version I’m going to concentrate on. I’m a big fan of the Pet Shop Boys version; I think it’s a fantastic song. They first performed the song on a show on British TV commemorating the tenth anniversary of Elvis’ death in 1987. The performance was so well received that the duo decided to go ahead and record the song and release it as a single. It went on to spend four weeks at the top of the charts in the UK, and was Christmas number one for that year. It also went to number one in Canada, Germany and Sweden amongst other places, although it only reached number 4 in the US. I can totally understand its popularity as it’s a classic 80s track that has stood the test of time and still sound as good today as would have done back then.

Original/Most Famous Version: Elvis Presley

The Baseballs: ‘Umbrella’ by Rihanna. ‘Hey There Delilah’ by Plain White T’s. ‘Hot n Cold’ by Katy Perry. ‘I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’’ by Scissor Sisters.  ‘Angels’ by Robbie Williams. ‘Chasing Cars’ by Snow Patrol. ‘Torn’ by Natalie Imbruglia. Just a small selection of songs that have been given “The Baseballs treatment”. If you are unfamiliar with The Baseballs, basically what they do is take a song and perform it as if Elvis had sung it in the late 50s. It is quite brilliant what they do and the songs sound fantastic with the injection of a rock n roll vibe. Not only is it captivating, but it puts a huge smile on your face. They are a huge amount of fun and an group you should certainly check out.

The Killers- Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love To Town/Moon River: The Killers have performed a lot of cover versions. ‘Shadowplay’ and ‘Romeo and Juliet’ instantly spring to mind. However it’s another song off their album of rarities and B-Sides ,‘Sawdust’, that gets included here. ‘Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love To Town’ is a cover of an old country song and shows perfectly The Killers versatility. Having gone with an 80s sound on both Hot Fuss and Day and Age, and a “Stadium Rock” sound on ‘Sam’s Town’ picking a country song seems a bit out of character. However they nail it, and I love it (I say that about all their songs though to be fair). They really do make it their own, and shows why they are one of the best bands around at the moment. The second song is a cover of the classic ‘Moon River’. Performed live at Hard Rock Calling at Hyde Park in 2011 (I was lucky enough to be there), it is a beautiful cover that was a real surprise in the middle of their set.

Original/Most Famous Version: Kenny Rogers/ Audrey Hepburn

The Lemonheads- Mrs Robinson: This is a little gem. A great song from the 90s, I’ve never heard The Lemonheads do much else, all though they are still touring. Or at least were until recently. Anyway I digress.  This a cover of the Simon and Garfunkel classic putting a very Brit Poppy take their song. To be honest, and this might not be popular, I prefer this to the original. Maybe it’s because I’ve listening to this version more, but I think the sound The Lemonheads bring to it suits the song better. Suppose it’s easy to do a good cover when the song is already brilliant in the first place. The hard part is making it your own though, and that’s exactly what they’ve done.

Original/Most Famous Version: Simon and Garfunkel

Volbeat- I Only Want To Be With You/My Body: A heavy metal version of a Dusty Springfield classic? How on earth can that work? Well let me explain; Volbeat covered it. If you are unfamiliar with the Danish metal act, they play, according to their Wiki page, “a fusion of rock n roll, heavy metal, schlager (Google it, I had to) and rockabilly inspired by artists such as Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley.” This is certainly evident as soon as vocalist Michael Poulsen starts singing. They could not have made it any more different from the original, but in doing so they’ve created something really special. Yes it’s loud, but it’s metal it’s meant to be. Metal is a synonym for screamo either. If you can get past the guitars at the beginning, you’ll realise Poulsen has a very strong voice. Still sceptical? Try the second song. Being a cover of Young The Giant’s ‘My Body’ it’s a bit more recent, but equally as good. I’m a big fan of the original, so was interested to here Volbeat’s version. I wasn’t disappointed. They’ve essentially taken it and filled it out slightly giving it a bolder, heavier sound. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it fits their style very well. It can be found on their new album and is likely to win them quite a few new fans.

Original/Most Famous Version: Dusty Springfield/ Young The Giant

Wayward Daughter: I’ve mentioned Wayward Daughter before in a previous blog, and as they first caught my attention performing covers, I thought they deserved another mention. That and they’re a talented duo who I really think you should check out. From Wheatus to Paramore, from Ed Sheeran to The Cranberries and Stereophonics to Jessie J they have covered all sorts and by using YouTube and other social media, they’ve built up a strong fan base already. As I’ve followed them for a while, I’m definitely one of them. Singer Lydia McAllister has a brilliant voice while guitarist Becky east provides a great accompaniment. There’s a real chemistry between the two of them, just two musicians enjoying making music. Their own material is very impressive but check out their cover versions because I think you might just be impressed.

Original/Most Famous Version: Stereophonics/Wheatus/Ed Sheeran

Well that's it, just a small selection of some of my favourite cover versions of various songs. Hope you liked it, I think there's some real gems in there.

Thanks for reading and feel free to share and comment.

Next blog will be a review of the Muse gig at Emirates Stadium on 26th May, so keep a look out from the 27th onwards as that's when I'll try and get it posted :)

Greatest Songs Of All Time

Before I start, I would just like to say that this is not a definitive list. This is a list of 30 songs that could be replaced by another 30. However I have picked 30 songs that are, without doubt all time classics. They are certainly all songs that you should download if you don’t already have them in your music collection. There was just one prerequisite that I set myself for this; the songs had to have been released before I was born. Since I was born in 1990, the end of the 80s is the cut-off point. I’ve made a slight exception for one song, but 1991 is acceptable (no it’s not ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’). I have since changed my mind and included another 90s song, but I think it deserves to be on the list. To be fair though, I had enough trouble whittling this lot down to 30 let alone having the 90s and 00s to choose from as well.

Just to give you an idea of who isn’t in the list, there’s no AC/DC, Elton John or Meat Loaf. All huge artists that have ‘classic’ tracks, but no space for them here. I even toyed with the idea of including Neil Diamond (that’s parent’s musical influence for you), but decided against it. Once you start reading through, I think you’ll agree with every song that’s on the list. There may be one or two surprises in there, but they are all legendary artists who have had massive songs. So sit back and enjoy one of the best playlists you’ll see J

 

Aerosmith- I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing: Released in 1998, ‘I Don’t Want To Miss a Thing’ became Aerosmith’s biggest hit, going straight to number one in America and staying there for 4 weeks. Even though it only peaked at number 4 in the UK, it topped the charts in Australia, Ireland and Germany amongst others. It was also the 17^th best-selling single of 1998 in the UK. Even though it is the band’s biggest hit, it was actually penned by Dianne Warren and was used as the theme for the film ‘Armageddon’, featuring Liv Tyler, daughter of vocalist Steven. It is a real fan favourite and still included in the set list for the band’s live performances.

Ben E King- Stand By Me: Released originally in 1961, there has since been over 400 recorded versions of this song including covers by John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix and Otis Redding. However it is the original that is the most notable and arguably well known.  Hitting the number one spot in the US upon original release, it had to wait until 1987 before it hit the top of the charts in the UK. This was due partly to its use in a popular TV commercial at the time. It’s a wonderfully simple song that oozes class, and one that sounds just as good as it did 50 odd years ago.

Blondie- Heart of Glass: Released as a single in 1979, ‘Heart of Glass’ features on the album ‘Parallel Lines’. It hit the number one spot in several countries including both the UK and US. Even though there was some controversy surrounding its “disco” sound compared the ‘New Wave’ scene the band was part of, the song launched the band into the mainstream. Reaching number one in 8 countries, it remains one of the band’s biggest hits.

Bob Dylan- Blowin’ In The Wind: Released in 1963, ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’ is one of Bob Dylan’s most instantly recognisable songs. Impressive considering it only took him 10 minutes to write (It took longer than that for me to write about this song). The single sold 300,000 copies in the first week of release alone, and went on to reach over one million sales.  With the use of simple guitar and harmonica accompanying the lyrics it’s a wonderfully simple song. However it’s also a song full of deep meaning, and captured the feelings and imagination of many freedom groups, particularly civil rights groups and has been described as the anthem of the ‘60s civil rights movement. For many it is the ultimate freedom fighter song and is still as relevant today as it was the day it was written.

Bruce Spingsteen- Dancing In the Dark: Taken from Springsteen’s 1984 album ‘Born in the USA’, ‘Dancing in the Dark’ went on to become his biggest hit. Even though it only reached number 4 in UK charts, it hit the top spot in the US and helped make ‘Born in the USA’ the best-selling album of Springsteen’s career. The video of the song also gained popularity Springsteen offering a female audience member the chance to come up on stage and dance with him during a performance of the song.  The song was voted “Song of the Year” in 1985 by a poll of Rolling Stone readers. It has also been covered by a number of artists including Tegan and Sara and Amy MacDonald.

David Bowie- Life on Mars: Released in 1973, but actually first appearing on Bowie’s 1971 album ‘Hunky Dory’, ‘Life on Mars’ surprisingly didn’t make it to number one. Even though it stayed in the charts for thirteen weeks, it only peaked at number 3 in the UK charts. Featuring Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman on piano, BBC Radio 2 described the song as “a cross between a Broadway musical and a Salvador Dali painting.” I became hooked on this song when it was used in the BBC TV show ‘Life on Mars’ and have loved it ever since. In fact the song re-entered the charts 30 years since its original release thanks to its appearance in the TV show. It’s my personal favourite Bowie song, and one of the best songs of all time.

Don McLean- American Pie: Considered by many to be Don McLean’s signature song, ‘American Pie’ was released in 1972 and stayed at number one in the US for four weeks. It didn’t do so well over the pond, only hitting the number 2 spot. The song is a narration, or recounting of “The Day the Music Died”; the 1959 plane crash which claimed the lives of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and Jiles Perry Richardson Jr, aka The Big Bopper, and its aftermath. It is has been covered by many artists, most notably Madonna. The song is well known for its cryptic lyrics, and that’s part its beauty, you can listen to it on so many different levels. You can listen purely to the narration because the lyrics are fantastic, or you dive a little deeper and read more into it. McLean himself stated that the lyrics are “beyond analysis, they’re poetry.” Don’t think anyone can argue with that.

 

Dobie Gray- Drift Away: Originally recorded by John Henry Kurtz in 1972, ‘Drift Away’ became the biggest hit for soul singer Dobie Gray the following year, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100. It was one of the biggest hits of the year selling over one million copies. The song became a hit again in 2003, when it was covered by Uncle Kracker as a duet with Gray. It has been covered live by many bands, due to the ease in which it can be fitted in between songs. Even though the song is now 40 years old, it is still a popular radio choice and still receives generous airplay. Not surprising considering it’s a classy song that won’t get old.

Eagles- Take It Easy: The band that possibly defines the term ‘Dad Music’, ‘Take It Easy’ was the band’s first single, released back in 1972. It spent eleven weeks in the chart, peaking at number twelve.  It was also the opening track on their self-titled debut album, and is one of their signature songs.  I could go onto describe the song, but the review of the Eagles’ debut in Rolling Stone sums it up perfectly: 

"Take it Easy" was "simply the best sounding rock single to come out so far this year. The first time through, you could tell it had everything: danceable rhythm, catchy, winding melody, intelligent, affirmative lyrics, a progressively powerful arrangement mixing electric guitar and banjo, and a crisp vocal, with vibrant four-part harmony at just the right moments for maximum dramatic effect."

Again, I don’t think anyone can disagree with that. Many of you may have been expecting 'Hotel California', but there's just something about this song that I love.

Electric Light Orchestra- Mr Blue Sky: Arguably one of their best well known songs, ‘Mr Blue Sky’ features on ELO’s seventh album ‘Out of the Blue’ from 1977. It managed to only peak at number 6 in the UK though upon release. Influenced by The Beatles, the song has been described as a ‘pop symphony’, which is very apt considering the dramatic finale to the song. If anything, similarities can be drawn to operatics of Queen. Jeff Lynne in fact wrote the song while staying in a Swiss chalet. He recalled:

“It was dark and misty for 2 weeks, and I didn't come up with a thing. Suddenly the sun shone and it was, 'Wow, look at those beautiful Alps.' I wrote Mr. Blue Sky and 13 other songs in the next 2 weeks.”

     The song  has remained popular over the years, and was used in both the opening and closing  ceremonies of the 2012 London Olympics.

 

 

Fleetwood Mac- Go Your Own Way: One of Fleetwood Mac’s most recognisable and best known songs ‘Go Your Own Way’ was the first single from their hugely successful album ‘Rumours’.  The song, written by guitarist Lindsey Buckingham, is famously about the complicated relationship going on between himself and fellow band member Stevie Nicks at the time ‘Rumours’ was being written and recorded. Even though it only reached number 38 in the UK when released in 1976, the song is a firm fan favourite and has been covered a number of artists including Boy George, Keane and Lissie.

Guns N Roses- November Rain: Known more for their sleazy hard rock songs, ‘November Rain’ taken from their 1991 album ‘Use Your Illusion I’, shows a different side to the LA rockers. Along with ‘Estranged’, it is a symphonic and orchestral ballad. It is one of GnR’s longest songs, clocking in at a smidge under 9 minutes. It is one of the band’s most popular and iconic songs, and still features in the playlists of many ‘Rock Radio’ stations around the world. According to Tracii Guns of LA Guns, Axl Rose was working on ‘November Rain’ as early as 1983. It wasn’t until nine years later that it was released as a single and reached number 3 in the US charts. The video is just as dramatic, winning the MTV Video Music Award for Best Cinematography. It is also one of the most expensive videos ever made with a budget of approximately $1 million. The video is also famous for its wedding theme and Slash’s guitar solo outside the church.

Janis Joplin-Mercedes Benz:  Amazingly, Janis Joplin’s career only lasted four years. She rose to prominence as the singer of the band Big Brother and the Holding Company and before later becoming a solo artist. This is actually one of the last songs that she ever recorded , as she died three days later, joining the now famous ’27 Club’.  Part of the songs charm is that it is sung a cappella, with Joplin’s distinctive yet characterful vocals. Recorded in just one take and coming in well under two minutes, it shows that genius comes through in simplicity.

John Lennon- Imagine: One of the most beautiful songs ever written, ‘Imagine’ was the best-selling single of Lennon’s solo career. It reached number one in the UK and is regularly featured around the business end of polls of the best songs of all time. Part of the songs brilliance is its simplicity, with that wonderful piano melody accompanying Lennon’s vocals. Only later on is a simple drum beat added. Even though it had massive success, it wasn’t without it critics, with some calling Lennon contradictory given that he is asking if people can live without possessions while performing the song in a mansion. I think however that’s the mark of a great song; one whose lyrics spark debate about meaning. Certainly what can’t be debated is that it’s one of the best songs of all time. 

 

Johnny Cash- Ring of Fire: Released in 1963, ‘Ring of Fire’ became the biggest hit of Cash’s career, spending seven weeks at number one in the US. Originally recorded by his wife’s sister, when it failed to become a hit Cash re-recorded it with some slight changes and the rest they say is history. There is some debate about who actually wrote the song, whether Cash solely wrote it, or his wife June Carter, who is credited also had input. The song is instantly recognisable and has been covered by artists ranging from Frank Zappa to Bowling for Soup. The song was also sung by fans of Liverpool Football Club during half time of the 2005 Champions League Final, helping to inspire a second half comeback.

Led Zeppelin- Stairway to Heaven: Often cited as one of the best rock songs of all time, ‘Stairway to Heaven’ is arguably the signature of British rock legends Led Zeppelin. Appearing on their classic fourth album, often referred to as Led Zep IV, it is a real anthem that is to this day receives regular requests for airplay on the radio. One myth surrounding the song is guitar shops banning people from playing the solo as it played so often. Although never released as a single, it is still one of the bands most successful songs, and entered the charts in 2007 due to the number of downloads promoting their ‘Mothership’ release. Coming in at over 8 minutes long, the song is a real epic, but quite rightly considered a masterpiece.

Louis Armstrong- What A Wonderful World: Another song that topped the charts in the UK, ‘What A Wonderful World’ is arguably Louis Armstrong’s most iconic song. When released as a single in 1967, it stayed at number one for a month. At the time it made him the oldest male to top the charts in the UK. It is a perfect example of Armstrong’s distinctive voice. A trumpet player by trade, Armstrong only took to singing later. His success is particularly impressive given the racial divisions that were going on in America at the time. However it says something about the talent of the man, when the song is still being enjoyed all these years later. It is a timeless classic that will continue being enjoyed by future generations.

Peter Sarstedt- Where Do You Go To My Lovely: Right I’m going to admit a bit of a guilty pleasure here. Over here in the UK, we a music channel called Vintage TV which is dedicated to playing ’older’ music. More often than not, when you tune in, they’re playing stuff from the 60s. I really like it. It makes a nice change from MTV Rocks/Classic, Kerrang, Bliss or Scuzz which I usually listen to. One song in particular I’ve heard quite a bit on there is this, and it’s become a real favourite of mine. Released in 1969, it was number one in the UK for four weeks. Originally it was thought that the song was about Sophia Loren, but Sarstedt later said he wrote it about a girl he fell love with in Vienna who died in a hotel fire. It’s a brilliant song with wonderful flowing lyrics and a catchy continental sound.

Pink Floyd-Another Brick In The Wall pt2: Even though ‘Another Brick In The Wall’ is the title of a three song set from Pink Floyd’s legendary 1979 album ‘The Wall’, the one that is being concentrated on here, is part two. With the working title ‘Education’, it provided the band with their only number one hit, claiming the number one spot in the UK, US and West Germany, amongst others. It was a protest against the rigid education systems in both state and private schools in the UK. It starts off with the instantly recognisable bass line before the famous lines “We don’t need no education, we don’t need no thought control.”  It’s a classic song that quite rightly takes place in many ‘Greatest Songs Ever’ lists.

Queen- Bohemian Rhapsody: What can be said about this song that hasn’t been said already? It’s perhaps the Queen song that has received the most attention and is arguably their most iconic song. Some going considering their back catalogue. It is the third biggest selling single of all time in the UK having spent a total of 14 weeks at number one, split between 1975/6 and again after Freddie Mercury’s death in 1991. However it took an appearance in the film Wayne’s World for it to eventually reach the number two spot in the US. It remains to this day one of the most elaborate and ground breaking songs in history and its popularity has endured throughout the years. There hasn’t been a song like it since, and I doubt there will be.

Stevie Wonder- Superstition: With one of music’s most recognisable riffs , ‘Superstition’ is one of the most popular songs of the 70s. It is also one of the biggest Motown hits. Released in 1972, it pushed Stevie Wonder into the big time. It reached number one in the US charts and peaked at number 11 in the UK. Rolling Stone magazine named it #74 on their list of the ‘500 Greatest Songs of All Time’. Wonder’s and indeed ‘Superstion’s’ legacy can be seen in that it is still a mainstay of his live performances, including a rousing performance when he headlined at the 2010 Glastonbury festival.

The Beatles- Let It Be: Released in 1970, this is one of the most popular Beatles songs ever. Written by Paul McCartney, it was the band’s final single before McCartney left and the subsequent break up. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest songs of all time, something that I agree wholeheartedly with. There is a beautiful simplicity to it that makes it very difficult not to like.  It peaked at number 2 in the UK charts, but stayed at number one in America for two weeks. It’s fitting that one of their most loved songs is one of their last; going out on a high certainly follows on from their previous work.

The Bee Gees- You Win Again: One of the Bee Gees’ most popular songs, ‘You Win Again’ shows a progression from the ‘disco’ sound and image of the 70s. They experimented with different sounds, and ended up with the now famous stomping drums in the intro. The sound wasn’t very popular, with pretty much everyone trying to talk them out of using it, but they stuck with it and the rest they say is history. It’s an iconic song and went to number one in the UK as well as Ireland, Switzerland and Germany amongst others. Released in 1987, it meant that the Bee Gees were the first group to hit the number one spot in the UK in the 60s, 70s and 80s. It’s a fantastic song and catches the harmony of the three brothers perfectly.

The Clash- London Calling: One of The Clash’s most famous songs, ‘London Calling’ is instantly recognisable due to its distinctive riff. The song reflects concerns about world events at the time and the precarious situation of the band due to financial and management issues. Released as a single in 1979 off their double album of the same name, the song reached number 11 in the UK charts. It was the bands highest placed single until ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go’ went to number one. It is regarded by critics to be one of their finest songs, and regularly included in all-time greatest songs lists.

The Jam- Going Underground: Released in 1980, ‘Going Underground’ was the first chart topping single for mod rockers The Jam, going straight to number one in the process. This is punk, but presented in a slightly different way. Like with ‘London Calling’ by The Clash, it is a protest song about events that were happening at the time. In this case it was a song against trident and a possible nuclear holocaust. It never actually features on any of The Jam’s studio albums however it does appear on ‘Best Of’ and ‘Greatest Hits’.  In 2006, Q Magazine named it amongst the 100 Greatest Songs Ever.

 
The Police- Every Breath You Take: Taken from the album ‘Synchronicity’, ‘Every Breath You Take’ was one of the biggest songs of 1983. It stayed at time top of the UK Charts for 4 weeks, and topped the Billboard Hot 100 in America for eight. Overall in the charted in the top ten in 16 countries. The song is instantly recognisable due its catchy base line riff and Sting’s distinctive vocals. It’s also a song that has had immense scrutiny about its meaning. Sting himself has said he is disconcerted about how many people read the lyrics in a positive way. He told BBC Radio 2 in an interview, "I think the song is very, very sinister and ugly and people have actually misinterpreted it as being a gentle, little love song.” What cannot be misinterpreted is that it is an iconic song and one of the biggest songs of the 80s.

The Rolling Stones- Start Me Up: I’m not the biggest Stones fan, but this song is absolutely fantastic. It is trademark Rolling Stones, with Keith Richards irresistible riff, Charlie Watt’s solid backbeat down to Jagger’s distinctive delivery, they  created a song that is encapsulates their brand of rock n roll. Oddly enough, ‘Start Me Up’ was rejected from two albums before it finally made an appearance of the 1981 album ‘Tattoo You’. Released as the album’s lead single, it reached number 2 in America, and number 7 in the UK. Even though the lyrics could be interpreted one of two ways, it is widely acknowledged that the meaning of the song is sexual in nature.

The Who- Won’t Get Fooled Again: The final song off their legendary 1971 album ‘Who’s Next’ see’s The Who at their very best. It starts with that brilliant intro with the synthesizer and Townshend’s distinctive riff and Roger Daltery’s famous howl. However it is arguably more iconic for its ending sequence, which was used as the theme for the hit American TV show CSI Miami. It received mixed reception in the charts, hitting number 9 and 15 in the UK and US charts respectively. However, the single was drastically edited and shortened. Clocking in at over eight and half minutes, it’s a real epic that deserves its legendary status.

The Undertones- Teenage Kicks:  The debut single from Northern Irish band The Undertones, ‘Teenage Kicks’ is an all-time classic. John Peel famously liked this song so much, that he played the song twice in a row on his Radio 1 show. In fact he liked it so much, that he named it as his favourite song. However it’s taken time for it to be considered a classic. Upon original release, it failed to chart, and only hit number 31 in the UK when it was reissued. That is really surprising when it is has all the ingredients as a perfect pop/rock song. It has the brilliant, catchy riff coupled with simple, sing along lyrics. It captures perfectly the feeling around that age. There’s a real soul and character to this song that draws you in, which is probably why it has aged so well.

U2- Where the Streets Have No Name: Is there a better opening to an album than U2’s ‘Joshua Tree’? I’m not so sure there is. Just three tracks in and you know you’re listening to something special. ‘Where the Streets Have No Name’ is the opening track to the album and helped lift U2 to a totally different level. It received very favourable reviews, both in the UK and abroad with The Boston Globe, NME and Rolling Stone amongst others all going wax lyrical over the single and the album in general. Even though it opens the album, described as the “perfect album opener” by one journalist, it was the third single, hitting number 4 in the UK charts. It is a firm fan favourite and one of the bands most iconic songs. The video is also iconic, with the song being performed on the roof of a liquor store in LA to the public below. This is something that has been replicated by other bands since.

There you go, hopefully you’ve enjoyed your journey through 30 of the best songs of all time. I know there’s too many to include in one list, but as I said at the beginning, I don’t think you can begrudge the inclusion of any of the songs above.

Thanks for reading.

Feel free to share and comment. Comments are always welcome.

 Until next time J