17 best songs by Talking Heads

Talking Heads were one of the most innovative and influential bands of the new wave era. Their music was characterized by its angular rhythms, quirky lyrics, and frontman David Byrne's distinctive vocals. Some of their best-known songs include "Psycho Killer", "Once in a Lifetime", and "Burning Down the House". These songs are all classics of the new wave genre and continue to be enjoyed by fans around the world.

17 best songs by Talking Heads
SongAlbumReleaseListens
1. Psycho Killer Talking Heads '77 (Deluxe Version) 2010 151M+
2. Once in a Lifetime Remain in Light (Deluxe Version) 2018 73M+
3. Burning Down the House Back Stabbers 2018 21M+
4. Road to Nowhere Little Creatures 2018 15M+
5. Take Me to the River More Songs About Buildings and Food (Deluxe Version) 2014 14M+
6. Wild Wild Life True Stories 2018 12M+
7. And She Was Little Creatures 2018 12M+

1. Psycho Killer (2010)

Psycho Killer - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease17-01-2010
Time05:12View151M+
Likes 984K+SuitableEnglish speakers
AlbumTalking Heads '77 (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • Pop rock
  • New Wave
  • Post-Punk
  • Talking Heads

"Psycho Killer" by Talking Heads is a captivating and enduring track that has resonated with listeners for decades. Its pulsating bassline and haunting lyrics create an atmosphere of unease and tension, perfectly capturing the feelings of isolation and paranoia expressed in the song's protagonist. The repetitive chorus, with its ominous "Psycho Killer" refrain, adds to the song's unsettling yet infectious quality, making it both an unforgettable and iconic piece of music.

Despite its unsettling themes, "Psycho Killer" has become a beloved anthem for many, often associated with feelings of liberation and catharsis. Its raw energy and danceable groove have made it a staple of dance clubs and live performances, where its ability to evoke a sense of collective euphoria is undeniable.

2. Once in a Lifetime

Once in a Lifetime - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease02-02-2018
Time03:45View73M+
Likes 667K+SuitableIndie fans
AlbumRemain in Light (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Talking Heads
  • Art punk
  • Avant-garde

"Once in a Lifetime" by Talking Heads is a song that has captivated listeners with its enigmatic lyrics and hypnotic rhythm. Its emotional depth resonates with those who grapple with the complexities of existence, leaving an enduring impact on their hearts and minds. The song's unconventional choreography, described as a dance that teeters between brilliance and absurdity, has become a defining characteristic, adding to its intrigue and appeal.

The song's raw energy and driving beat evoke a sense of urgency, mirroring the relentless pace of life. Its lyrics question the nature of time and our place within its relentless march, stirring profound contemplation in the listener. Whether it's a late-night drive or a thought-provoking performance, "Once in a Lifetime" has the power to awaken and inspire, leaving an unforgettable mark on those who encounter its timeless message.

3. Burning Down the House

Burning Down the House - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease09-02-2018
Time03:54View21M+
Likes 201K+SuitableNew Wave enthusiasts
AlbumBack StabbersListen on Spotify
  • Funk Rock
  • New Wave
  • Post-Punk
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads
  • Dance-Punk
  • Avant-garde

If you haven't yet listened to 'Burning Down the House' by Talking Heads, now is the perfect time to indulge in its irresistible groove. This iconic track effortlessly blends infectious rhythms with clever lyrics, creating an exhilarating musical experience. Listeners are captivated by its electrifying energy and the band's innovative sound, which epitomizes the creativity and originality of early Talking Heads.

The song's undeniable appeal lies in its infectious beat and hypnotic energy. It's a track that demands movement, as listeners find themselves irresistibly drawn to its pulsating rhythms and captivating melodies. The song's emotional impact is profound, evoking a sense of liberation and uninhibited joy. With its timeless appeal and enduring relevance, 'Burning Down the House' remains a testament to Talking Heads' enduring legacy as pioneers of innovative and captivating music.

4. Road to Nowhere

Road to Nowhere - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease02-03-2018
Time04:07View15M+
Likes 128K+SuitableIndie Music Enthusiasts
AlbumLittle CreaturesListen on Spotify
  • Alternative rock
  • Shoegaze
  • New Wave
  • Post-Punk
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads

"Road to Nowhere" by Talking Heads is widely acclaimed as one of the band's most iconic and beloved songs. It was a pivotal track on their 1985 album, "Little Creatures," and has since been praised for its haunting and evocative portrayal of the often-futile search for meaning and purpose in life.

The song's melancholic lyrics, coupled with its driving bassline, hypnotic guitar riffs, and soaring vocals, create a captivating and immersive experience. Listeners are drawn into the narrative of a journey filled with uncertainty and a bittersweet sense of longing. The song's emotional impact is profound, leaving listeners with a lingering sense of contemplation and introspection.

5. Take Me to the River

Take Me to the River - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease25-12-2014
Time05:03View14M+
Likes 122K+SuitableIndie Rock Enthusiasts
AlbumMore Songs About Buildings and Food (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • Alternative rock
  • Post-Punk
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads

Whenever the hypnotic rhythms of "Take Me to the River" by Talking Heads fill the air, I'm transported to a realm of raw emotions and soulful melodies. The song's evocative lyrics, yearning for a place of solace and renewal, resonate deeply within me, mirroring my own longings for connection and meaning.

The track's musical arrangement is a masterpiece, blending elements of gospel, funk, and rock into a captivating sonic tapestry. The driving bassline and intricate guitar riffs provide an infectious groove, while the soaring harmonies and David Byrne's distinct vocals create an atmosphere of both urgency and tranquility. It's a timeless anthem that has touched the hearts of countless listeners, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

6. Wild Wild Life (Talking Heads)

Wild Wild Life - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease16-03-2018
Time03:41View12M+
Likes 82K+SuitableAlternative Enthusiasts
AlbumTrue StoriesListen on Spotify
  • Talking Heads
  • Punk Revival
  • Weird Dance
  • Avant-funk

Released in 1980, "Wild Wild Life" is one of Talking Heads' most beloved songs. Its unique blend of infectious rhythms, thought-provoking lyrics, and David Byrne's captivating vocals has resonated with generations of listeners.

The song's emotional impact is undeniable, with listeners expressing feelings of joy, nostalgia, and a deep connection to their own experiences. The musical arrangement is equally impressive, featuring intricate guitar work, driving basslines, and Byrne's signature staccato delivery. The overall appeal of "Wild Wild Life" is undeniable, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality.

7. And She Was (Little Creatures - 2018)

And She Was - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease16-02-2018
Time03:40View12M+
Likes 98K+SuitableIndie Music Enthusiasts
AlbumLittle CreaturesListen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Post-Punk
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads

"And She Was" by Talking Heads is a song that evokes a range of emotions, from joy and liberation to sadness and remembrance. The gentle rhythms and acoustic guitar strumming create a sense of nostalgia and longing, while the lyrics explore themes of loss and the passage of time. Listeners have shared how the song has touched them at different stages of their lives, from providing comfort during difficult times to reminding them of loved ones who have passed away.

The song's emotional impact is further enhanced by the accompanying music video, which features a woman who has died and is now free to move and explore in all directions. The video has resonated with listeners who have experienced loss, offering a sense of hope and liberation. As one listener commented, "'And She Was' made me feel good and happy for her like her soul was happy and letting us know as much."

8. This Must Be the Place - Speaking in Tongues (Deluxe Version)

This Must Be the Place - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease23-09-2022
Time04:52View4M+
Likes 36K+SuitableMusic enthusiasts
AlbumSpeaking in Tongues (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads
  • Dance-Punk

"This Must Be the Place" by Talking Heads is a timeless masterpiece that evokes a profound sense of longing and contentment. Its haunting melody and yearning lyrics create an emotional resonance that has captivated listeners for decades. The song's arrangement, with its driving bassline and shimmering guitars, perfectly complements the bittersweet sentiments expressed in the lyrics.

This song has become an anthem for those seeking solace and comfort. Its ability to capture the complexities of love, loss, and nostalgia has made it a beloved soundtrack to countless lives. As one listener remarked, "This song is the place, it's everything." Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to articulate the often ineffable emotions of the human experience, providing both a sense of catharsis and a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles.

9. Girlfriend Is Better

Girlfriend Is Better - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease15-02-2007
Time05:12View4M+
Likes 22K+SuitableIndie Enthusiasts
AlbumSpeaking in Tongues (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • Talking Heads
  • New Wave Classic
  • Quirky Indie
  • Art Rock Gem

Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? "Girlfriend Is Better" by Talking Heads is exactly that kind of song. Its emotional impact is undeniable, with listeners describing it as "heartbreakingly beautiful" and "a song that makes you feel everything."

Musically, the song is a masterpiece. The arrangement is sparse and haunting, with David Byrne's vocals taking center stage. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a love that is both passionate and doomed. As one listener put it, "This song is like a slow-motion car crash. You know it's going to end badly, but you can't look away."

10. Life During Wartime - Fear of Music (Deluxe Version)

Life During Wartime - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease25-06-2009
Time05:46View3M+
Likes 30K+SuitablePunk Rock Fans
AlbumFear of Music (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Post-Punk
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads
  • Punk Rock
  • Experimental rock

"Life During Wartime" by Talking Heads encapsulates the chaos of living in uncertain times, mirroring the intensity of a battlefield. David Byrne's electrifying performance, with spastic dance moves and impassioned vocals, amplifies the song's frenetic energy.

The driving bassline and syncopated rhythms propel the song forward, emphasizing the lyrics that vividly depict a world teetering on the edge of collapse.

11. Born Under Punches - Remain in Light (Deluxe Version)

Born Under Punches - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease08-11-2014
Time05:50View3M+
Likes 24K+SuitableIndie Rock Fans
AlbumRemain in Light (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads
  • Post-Punk Revival
  • Dance-Punk

From the very first notes of "Born Under Punches" by Talking Heads, I was captivated by its raw emotional power. The song's driving rhythm and angular guitars create a sense of urgency that perfectly captures the protagonist's feelings of alienation and frustration.

Listeners have praised the song's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from anger and resentment to a sense of liberation. The lyrics, which explore themes of violence, oppression, and the search for identity, resonate deeply with those who have felt marginalized or misunderstood.

12. Slippery People - Stop Making Sense (Live)

Slippery People - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease25-12-2014
Time05:07View2M+
Likes 17K+SuitableIndie Fans
AlbumStop Making Sense (Live)Listen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Post-Punk
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads

"Slippery People" by Talking Heads has drawn praise for its entrancing rhythms and thought-provoking lyrics. Commentators note its infectious, dance-infused beat and the eerie, hypnotic ambience it evokes. The song's mysterious lyrics, which explore themes of detachment and social alienation, have sparked discussion and intrigue among listeners.

The track's unconventional structure, featuring abrupt shifts and a disjointed vocal delivery, adds to its enigmatic appeal. Its compelling combination of musicality and lyrical depth has made "Slippery People" a favorite among Talking Heads fans, solidifying its status as a captivating and enduring work.

13. Moon Rocks - Speaking in Tongues (Deluxe Version)

Moon Rocks - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease08-11-2014
Time05:46View1M+
Likes 11K+SuitableIndie Music Lovers
AlbumSpeaking in Tongues (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads
  • Experimental rock

In the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, 'Moon Rocks' by Talking Heads stands out as a timeless masterpiece. The song's hypnotic rhythms and ethereal soundscapes transport listeners to a realm of introspection and wonder. With its haunting lyrics and evocative melodies, 'Moon Rocks' captures the essence of longing and the search for meaning amidst the vastness of the universe.

As one listener remarked, "'Moon Rocks' is like a sonic meditation, drawing you into its ethereal embrace. The interplay of synthesizers and percussion creates a cosmic atmosphere that's both soothing and unsettling, perfectly encapsulating the song's themes of isolation and longing." Another listener praised the song's "ability to evoke a sense of both awe and melancholy, leaving you with a lasting impression long after the final notes fade away."

14. Crosseyed and Painless

Crosseyed and Painless - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease05-08-2011
Time05:38View590K+
Likes 4K+SuitableMusic Aficionados
AlbumRemain in Light (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Talking Heads
  • Avant-garde
  • Experimental

If you haven't yet listened to 'Crosseyed and Painless' by Talking Heads, now is the perfect time to immerse yourself in its captivating melody. This energetic and infectious track features a driving beat, intricate guitar work, and Byrne's signature rhythmic vocals, creating an irresistible dance-floor anthem.

Listeners have lauded the song's timeless appeal, with one fan recalling its profound impact on them decades after its release. Its ability to evoke nostalgia and inspire movement is a testament to its enduring power and the lasting legacy of Talking Heads as pioneers of innovative and influential music.

15. Uh (Talking Heads)

Uh - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease25-12-2014
Time02:50View585K+
Likes 6K+SuitableAlternative Music Enthusiasts
AlbumTalking Heads '77 (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Post-Punk
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads

"Uh" by Talking Heads is a song that has captivated listeners with its profound lyrics and evocative melody. Many listeners have commented on its unique ability to resonate with their emotions, conjuring feelings of nostalgia, longing, and a sense of bittersweet remembrance. The song's poignant lyrics explore themes of missed opportunities and the complexities of human relationships, striking a chord with those who have experienced similar emotions.

Musically, "Uh" is a mesmerizing blend of intricate guitar work and driving rhythms. The song's sparse arrangement creates a haunting and atmospheric soundscape, perfectly complementing the introspective nature of the lyrics. Overall, "Uh" is a testament to Talking Heads' ability to craft songs that are both emotionally resonant and musically captivating, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.

16. Sugar on My Tongue

Sugar on My Tongue - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease08-11-2014
Time02:37View548K+
Likes 7K+SuitableIndie Rock Fans
AlbumTalking Heads '77 (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Art rock
  • Talking Heads
  • Dance-Punk

'Sugar on My Tongue' by Talking Heads, captures the essence of longing and desire, with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics. The song's arrangement, with its intricate guitar work, builds a sense of anticipation, mirroring the emotional journey of the protagonist.

Listeners have described the song as both "emotionally resonant" and "musically captivating." Commentators have praised its ability to evoke a bittersweet nostalgia, with its lyrics exploring themes of unrequited love and the bittersweet memories that linger after. The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to resonate with listeners, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences of longing and desire.

17. Love → Building on Fire

Love → Building on Fire - Talking Heads

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Song information

ArtistTalking HeadsRelease25-12-2014
Time02:58View418K+
Likes 4K+SuitableIndie Fans
AlbumTalking Heads '77 (Deluxe Version)Listen on Spotify
  • New Wave
  • Post-Punk
  • Talking Heads
  • Experimental

From the very first notes of 'Love → Building on Fire' by Talking Heads, I was drawn in by its urgent, driving beat and David Byrne's distinctive, passionate vocals. The song perfectly captures the feeling of falling head over heels in love, with Byrne's lyrics painting a vivid picture of the all-consuming passion and excitement of new love.

The song's musical arrangement is equally impressive, with the guitars, bass, and drums working together to create a propulsive, dance-able sound. The song's bridge, with its soaring chorus and Byrne's impassioned vocals, is a particular highlight, perfectly capturing the feeling of being swept away by love.