Arctic Monkeys Songs; Arctic Monkeys are an English indie rock band that has been active since 2002. The band has released seven studio albums and has recorded over 100 songs during their career. They gained popularity in England before releasing their debut EP Five Minutes with Arctic Monkeys in 2005 on their own Bang Bang Recordings label, featuring the songs “Fake Tales of San Francisco” and “From the Ritz to the Rubble.”
Arctic Monkeys’ breakout album, Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, released in 2006, became the fastest-selling debut album in UK chart history. The album features hit singles such as “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor,” “When the Sun Goes Down,” and “The View from the Afternoon.” Since then, the band has continued to release albums that showcase their unique style and musical influences.
This article will explore the history of Arctic Monkeys’ music, from their early years to their most recent releases. It will delve into their musical style and influences and highlight some of their most notable singles. Additionally, the article will examine the band’s awards and achievements, their legacy and influence on music, and answer some frequently asked questions about the band.
Key Takeaways
- Arctic Monkeys are an English indie rock band that has been active since 2002, and has released seven studio albums and over 100 songs.
- Their breakout album, Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, became the fastest-selling debut album in UK chart history.
- This article will explore the history of Arctic Monkeys’ music, their musical style and influences, notable singles, awards and achievements, and their legacy and influence on music.
Early Years and Formation of Arctic Monkeys
Arctic Monkeys is an English indie rock band formed in Sheffield in 2002. The band consists of Alex Turner (lead vocals, guitar), Jamie Cook (guitar), Nick O’Malley (bass guitar, backing vocals), and Matt Helders (drums, backing vocals). The band members were all friends who grew up in Sheffield, and they began playing together in their early teens.
In 2002, Turner and Helders, who were neighbors and close friends, started playing music together. They met Andy Nicholson in secondary school, and he joined the band as a bassist. The three of them started playing gigs around Sheffield, and they quickly gained a following. In 2003, they recorded a demo tape, which they sold at their gigs.
In early 2004, the band added Jamie Cook as a second guitarist. With Cook on board, they started writing more songs and playing more gigs, including a residency at The Grapes pub in Sheffield. They also started recording their songs at 2fly Studios in Sheffield.
In May 2005, the band released their debut single, “Five Minutes with Arctic Monkeys,” on their own label, Bang Bang Recordings. The single sold out within hours of its release, and the band started to receive attention from the music press. They signed a record deal with Domino Records, and in January 2006, they released their debut album, “Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not.”
The album was a critical and commercial success, and it became the fastest-selling debut album in UK chart history. It won the Mercury Prize and earned the band a Brit Award for Best British Group. The album’s success established Arctic Monkeys as one of the most important bands of the mid-2000s indie rock scene.
Breakthrough With ‘Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not’
Arctic Monkeys’ debut album ‘Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not’ was released on 23 January 2006. The album was a massive commercial success, selling over 363,735 copies in its first week, which made it the fastest-selling debut album in UK chart history at the time.
The album’s success was mainly due to its relatable lyrics, catchy melodies, and the band’s unique sound. The album’s lead single, “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor,” was a massive hit and reached number one on the UK Singles Chart.
The album’s title was inspired by a quote from the 1960 film ‘Saturday Night and Sunday Morning’ by Alan Sillitoe. The quote reads, “Don’t let the bastards grind you down.” Alex Turner, the band’s lead singer and songwriter, adapted the quote to “Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not” to reflect the band’s feelings towards the media and people’s perception of them.
The album was praised by critics and was nominated for the Mercury Prize in 2006. The album’s success helped the band gain a massive following and establish themselves as one of the biggest bands in the UK.
Overall, ‘Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not’ was a breakthrough album for Arctic Monkeys, and it paved the way for their future success. The album’s raw energy, relatable lyrics, and catchy melodies still resonate with fans today, making it a timeless classic.
Subsequent Albums
Arctic Monkeys released their second studio album, Favourite Worst Nightmare, in April 2007. The album topped the UK Albums Chart and the Irish Albums Chart. In the United States, the album peaked at number seven on the Billboard 200, their first top-ten entry. The album features hit singles such as “Brianstorm” and “Fluorescent Adolescent”.
Humbug, the band’s third studio album, was released in August 2009. The album was produced by Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age and was recorded in the Mojave Desert. The album features a darker and heavier sound than their previous albums. The album peaked at number one on the UK Albums Chart and features hit singles such as “Crying Lightning” and “Cornerstone”.
In June 2011, Arctic Monkeys released their fourth studio album, Suck It and See. The album was produced by James Ford, who had previously worked with the band on their second and third albums. The album features a more stripped-back sound and includes hit singles such as “Don’t Sit Down ‘Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair” and “The Hellcat Spangled Shalalala”.
AM, the band’s fifth studio album, was released in September 2013. The album features a more R&B and hip hop influenced sound and includes hit singles such as “Do I Wanna Know?” and “R U Mine?”. The album was a commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and number six on the Billboard 200.
Arctic Monkeys’ sixth studio album, Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino, was released in May 2018. The album was produced by frontman Alex Turner and James Ford and features a more experimental and piano-driven sound. The album received mixed reviews from critics but still managed to reach number one on the UK Albums Chart and number eight on the Billboard 200.
Favourite Worst Nightmare
| Track Listing |
|---|
| “Brianstorm” |
| “Teddy Picker” |
| “D Is for Dangerous” |
| “Balaclava” |
| “Fluorescent Adolescent” |
| “Only Ones Who Know” |
| “Do Me a Favour” |
| “This House Is a Circus” |
| “If You Were There, Beware” |
| “The Bad Thing” |
| “Old Yellow Bricks” |
| “505” |
Humbug
| Track Listing |
|---|
| “My Propeller” |
| “Crying Lightning” |
| “Dangerous Animals” |
| “Secret Door” |
| “Potion Approaching” |
| “Fire and the Thud” |
| “Cornerstone” |
| “Dance Little Liar” |
| “Pretty Visitors” |
| “The Jeweller’s Hands” |
Suck It and See
| Track Listing |
|---|
| “She’s Thunderstorms” |
| “Black Treacle” |
| “Brick by Brick” |
| “The Hellcat Spangled Shalalala” |
| “Don’t Sit Down ‘Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair” |
| “Library Pictures” |
| “All My Own Stunts” |
| “Reckless Serenade” |
| “Piledriver Waltz” |
| “Love Is a Laserquest” |
| “Suck It and See” |
| “That’s Where You’re Wrong” |
AM
| Track Listing |
|---|
| “Do I Wanna Know?” |
| “R U Mine?” |
| “One for the Road” |
| “Arabella” |
| “I Want It All” |
| “No. 1 Party Anthem” |
| “Mad Sounds” |
| “Fireside” |
| “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” |
| “Snap Out of It” |
| “Knee Socks” |
| “I Wanna Be Yours” |
Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino
| Track Listing |
|---|
| “Star Treatment” |
| “One Point Perspective” |
| “American Sports” |
| “Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino” |
| “Golden Trunks” |
| “Four Out of Five” |
| “The World’s First Ever Monster Truck Front Flip” |
| “Science Fiction” |
| “She Looks Like Fun” |
| “Batphone” |
| “The Ultracheese” |
Notable Singles
Arctic Monkeys have released several notable singles throughout their career, many of which have become fan favourites and chart-toppers. Here are some of their most notable singles:
I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor
“I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” was Arctic Monkeys’ debut single, released in 2005. The song quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart. It features the band’s signature sound, with Alex Turner’s distinctive vocals and catchy guitar riffs. The lyrics are witty and observational, capturing the essence of the indie music scene at the time.
When the Sun Goes Down
“When the Sun Goes Down” was the second single from Arctic Monkeys’ debut album, released in 2006. The song tells the story of a prostitute in Sheffield and features a more sombre tone than the band’s previous singles. The chorus is haunting and memorable, with Turner’s vocals backed by a simple yet effective guitar riff.
Fluorescent Adolescent
“Fluorescent Adolescent” was released in 2007 as the second single from Arctic Monkeys’ second album, “Favourite Worst Nightmare”. The song is a fan favourite, with its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics about growing up and nostalgia. The music video is also notable, featuring a surreal and colourful visual representation of the song’s themes.
Do I Wanna Know?
“Do I Wanna Know?” was released in 2013 as the lead single from Arctic Monkeys’ fifth album, “AM”. The song features a slow, sultry groove and a memorable guitar riff that has become instantly recognisable. The lyrics are introspective and suggestive, with Turner’s vocals conveying a sense of longing and desire.
Overall, Arctic Monkeys have a strong catalogue of singles that showcase their unique sound and style. These notable singles are just a few examples of the band’s ability to capture the essence of modern indie rock.
Musical Style and Influences
Arctic Monkeys have been known for their unique sound that blends various genres such as indie rock, post-punk revival, and garage rock. Their music has evolved over the years, with each album showcasing a different musical style.
The band has cited several musical influences that have played a role in shaping their sound. Some of these influences include The Beatles, The Strokes, Queens of the Stone Age, The Clash, and The Jam. Alex Turner, the lead singer and songwriter, has also mentioned that he draws inspiration from literature and poetry.
One of the defining characteristics of Arctic Monkeys’ music is Turner’s distinctive lyrical style. He often uses vivid, observational language to tell stories and paint pictures of everyday life. This style is evident in songs like “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” and “Fluorescent Adolescent.”
Another notable aspect of their music is the use of intricate guitar riffs and driving rhythms. This is particularly evident in songs like “Do I Wanna Know?” and “R U Mine?” which feature catchy hooks and memorable melodies.
Overall, Arctic Monkeys’ music is a unique blend of various genres and influences, with a distinctive lyrical style and memorable guitar riffs. Their music has resonated with audiences around the world and continues to influence and inspire new generations of musicians.
Awards and Achievements
Arctic Monkeys have received numerous accolades and nominations throughout their career. Here are some of their most notable awards and achievements:
- In 2006, Arctic Monkeys won the Mercury Prize for their debut album “Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not”. The Mercury Prize is a prestigious annual music award in the UK and Ireland, awarded for the best album from the region.
- The band has won seven NME Awards, including Best British Band, Best Live Band, and Best Album. NME is a popular British music magazine that hosts its own annual awards ceremony.
- Arctic Monkeys have also been nominated for several Brit Awards, including Best British Group and Best British Album. The Brit Awards are the UK’s equivalent of the Grammy Awards.
- In 2014, the band won the Ivor Novello Award for Best Album for their fifth studio album “AM”. The Ivor Novello Awards are presented annually in London by the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors.
- Arctic Monkeys have also received international recognition, including a nomination for Best International Group at the 2019 Grammy Awards.
- In addition to their awards, the band has achieved numerous chart successes, including multiple number one albums in the UK and top 10 hits in the US.
Overall, Arctic Monkeys’ critical and commercial success has cemented their status as one of the most influential and popular indie rock bands of the 21st century.
Legacy and Influence on Music
Arctic Monkeys have had a significant impact on the music industry since their debut in 2006. Their unique sound, blending indie rock, punk, and pop influences, has inspired countless artists and helped to shape the direction of popular music.
One of the band’s most significant contributions has been their ability to bridge the gap between indie and mainstream music. Their fifth studio album, “AM,” saw them rise to fame in America and gain attention outside of the indie music scene, with lead singer Alex Turner becoming the ultimate rock ‘n’ roll heartthrob with perfectly combed hair. The album’s success paved the way for other indie bands to achieve mainstream success and opened up new avenues for alternative music to reach wider audiences.
Arctic Monkeys’ influence can also be seen in the way they have experimented with different genres and sounds throughout their career. From the punk-inspired riffs of “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” to the soulful balladry of “Cornerstone,” the band has never been afraid to take risks and explore new musical territory. This willingness to push boundaries has inspired other artists to do the same and has helped to keep alternative music fresh and exciting.
Furthermore, Arctic Monkeys’ lyrics have been praised for their wit, intelligence, and social commentary. Songs like “Fake Tales of San Francisco” and “A Certain Romance” offer biting critiques of the music industry and modern society, while tracks like “Mardy Bum” and “505” explore the complexities of relationships and human emotions. Their lyrics have resonated with fans around the world and have helped to establish the band as one of the most important voices in contemporary music.
Overall, Arctic Monkeys’ legacy and influence on music cannot be overstated. They have helped to redefine what it means to be an indie band in the 21st century and have inspired countless artists to follow in their footsteps. With seven critically acclaimed albums under their belt, it’s clear that Arctic Monkeys will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the music industry for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the members of the Arctic Monkeys band?
The Arctic Monkeys band consists of four members, namely Alex Turner (lead vocalist and guitarist), Jamie Cook (guitarist), Nick O’Malley (bassist), and Matt Helders (drummer).
What are the top 20 songs by Arctic Monkeys?
According to The Guardian, the top 20 songs by Arctic Monkeys are “Do I Wanna Know?”, “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor”, “505”, “Fluorescent Adolescent”, “Mardy Bum”, “When the Sun Goes Down”, “Arabella”, “R U Mine?”, “Four Out of Five”, “Crying Lightning”, “Cornerstone”, “The View from the Afternoon”, “Snap Out of It”, “Teddy Picker”, “One Point Perspective”, “Knee Socks”, “No. 1 Party Anthem”, “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?”, “Brianstorm”, and “Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino”.
What is the biggest hit by the Arctic Monkeys?
The biggest hit by Arctic Monkeys is “Do I Wanna Know?” which was released in 2013. The song peaked at number 11 on the UK Singles Chart and has been certified platinum in the UK and the US.
What is the best Arctic Monkeys song according to Reddit?
According to a poll conducted on the Arctic Monkeys subreddit, the best Arctic Monkeys song is “505”. It received the highest number of votes and is considered a fan favourite.
What is Arctic Monkeys famous for?
Arctic Monkeys are famous for being one of the most successful indie rock bands of all time. They have won numerous awards, including seven Brit Awards and a Mercury Prize. They are also known for their unique sound, which blends elements of punk, rock, and pop.
How are Arctic Monkeys songs ranked?
Arctic Monkeys songs are ranked based on their commercial success, critical acclaim, and fan popularity. The band has released seven studio albums to date, each with its own set of hit songs. The most successful songs are often those that chart well and receive widespread airplay, while fan favourites are those that resonate with listeners on a personal level.
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