The 20 best by garbage songs

1. I Think I'm Paranoid (Songs For The Deaf)

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"I Think I'm Paranoid" from Garbage's 1998 album "Version 2.0" is a testament to the band's sonic prowess and lyrical depth. The song was a major hit, reaching the top 10 in the UK and enjoying significant airplay in the US. It also became a fan favorite, with listeners frequently praising its raw energy and Shirley Manson's fierce vocals.

The song expertly blends Garbage's signature sound – a potent fusion of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements. Driving guitar riffs intertwine with a pulsating electronic beat, creating an intensely atmospheric backdrop for Manson's powerful delivery. Her vocal performance is both vulnerable and commanding, capturing the feeling of paranoia with a raw and emotional intensity. "I Think I'm Paranoid" remains a defining track for Garbage, a testament to their ability to create both powerful and evocative music.

2. Stupid Girl (1995)

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Released in 1996, "Stupid Girl" by Garbage is a timeless anthem that showcases the band's powerful and innovative sound. It's no wonder this track is considered a standout in their discography, having been nominated for two Grammy Awards and even taking home the MTV Europe Music Award for Best Song. "Stupid Girl" perfectly captures the band's unique blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements, creating a driving and infectious energy that's impossible to resist.

"Stupid Girl" stands out with its hard-hitting lyrics and Shirley Manson's powerful vocals. The song's powerful message of female empowerment resonates with listeners to this day, making it a true classic. The track's energetic rhythms, memorable guitar riffs, and pulsating drum loop (inspired by The Clash's "Train in Vain") create a sonic experience that's both catchy and impactful. "Stupid Girl" is more than just a hit song; it's a statement about confidence and self-acceptance, cementing its place among Garbage's most iconic and enduring tracks.

3. Only Happy When It Rains (1995)

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'Only Happy When It Rains' by Garbage is a quintessential example of the band's unique sonic blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements. Released in 1995, this track became a breakthrough hit, particularly in the UK, where it received extensive airplay and solidified Garbage's rising popularity. This song embodies everything that made Garbage stand out in the mid-90s – Shirley Manson's powerful vocals, the driving guitar riffs, and a tongue-in-cheek attitude that embraced, and even parodied, the angst-ridden themes of the era.

'Only Happy When It Rains' also showcases Garbage's knack for crafting catchy hooks that are both instantly memorable and undeniably powerful. The chorus, with Manson's signature emotive delivery, practically screams, "Pour your misery down on me," capturing the song's essence of embracing melancholy. The song's success was further fueled by its playful lyrical approach, which, as Manson explained, reflected a touch of Scots self-deprecating humor, making it resonate with a generation yearning for something different. 'Only Happy When It Rains' cemented Garbage's place in the alternative rock landscape and remains a fan favorite, a testament to its enduring appeal and its ability to capture the raw energy of the 90s.

4. Cherry Lips (2001)

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In a music scene dominated by grunge and alternative rock, Garbage's "Cherry Lips (Go Baby Go!)" emerged as a vibrant burst of energy. Released in 2002 as part of their critically acclaimed album Beautiful Garbage, the song captured the band's signature blend of raw rock power and infectious electronic elements. Driven by Shirley Manson's powerful vocals and a relentless drumbeat, "Cherry Lips" is an adrenaline rush of a track, showcasing the band's ability to create both catchy hooks and an undeniable sense of urgency.

"Cherry Lips" holds a special place within Garbage's discography, representing a shift towards a more upbeat and celebratory sound. While still retaining the band's signature grunge influences, the song's playful energy and infectious rhythm set it apart. The track became a fan favorite, particularly for its empowering message and its ability to evoke a feeling of freedom and self-expression. While the band's earlier releases focused on darker themes, "Cherry Lips" marked a turn towards a more positive and joyful sound, solidifying Garbage's position as a band that could seamlessly blend heavy riffs with pop sensibilities.

5. The World Is Not Enough

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With its pulsating rhythms and Shirley Manson's captivating vocals, "The World Is Not Enough" by Garbage stands as a powerful anthem within the band's discography. It captures the band's unique blend of alternative rock, grunge, and electronic elements, seamlessly weaving in orchestral flourishes that give it a cinematic quality. This track, released in 1999 as the theme song for the James Bond film of the same name, became a defining moment for the band, showcasing their ability to craft anthems that are both commercially successful and critically acclaimed. "The World Is Not Enough" reached number 11 on the UK Singles Chart and also charted in several other countries, solidifying its place as a beloved track within the band's repertoire.

This song embodies the essence of Garbage's sound: raw, passionate, and emotionally charged. The lyrics, penned by Don Black, explore themes of ambition, desire, and the seductive nature of power, perfectly aligning with the world of James Bond. "The World Is Not Enough" is more than just a catchy tune; it's a testament to the band's enduring influence and a reminder of their ability to create music that transcends genre boundaries and resonates with audiences worldwide.

6. Push It - Version 2.0 (20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition / Remastered)

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While Garbage is known for their powerful and gritty rock anthems, "Push It" stands out as a unique blend of their signature sound with a touch of vulnerability. Released in 1998, "Push It" became a fan favorite, showcasing Garbage's ability to weave together grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements into a captivating sonic experience. The song's dreamy verses, featuring delicate instrumentation and Shirley Manson's hauntingly beautiful vocals, create a sense of intimacy and introspection. However, the chorus explodes with raw energy, driven by driving rhythms and powerful lyrics that delve into the complexities of navigating love and conflict. This contrast between vulnerability and defiance is what makes "Push It" such a captivating listen.

The song's lyrical content explores themes of reconciliation and the struggle to overcome emotional dissonance. The verses convey a sense of vulnerability and introspection, while the chorus explodes with raw energy, as if fueled by a desire to push through difficult emotions and confront the challenges of relationships. This duality is reflected in the song's musical structure, which seamlessly blends delicate instrumentation with driving rhythms and powerful vocals. "Push It" is a testament to Garbage's ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

7. When I Grow Up

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"When I Grow Up" stands as a testament to Garbage's enduring power, solidifying their place in the annals of 90s alternative rock. Released as a single from their critically acclaimed album, Version 2.0, the song propelled the band to new heights of popularity. Its infectious energy and anthemic chorus resonated with audiences worldwide, achieving chart success in various countries and becoming a cornerstone of their live performances.

The song embodies Garbage's signature sound, seamlessly blending elements of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic music. The distinctive intro, achieved through a unique distortion of a Nord synthesizer, sets the stage for Shirley Manson's powerful vocals, which soar through the song's dynamic arrangements. "When I Grow Up" embodies the band's signature style of contrasting dark lyrical themes with upbeat, catchy melodies, making it a perfect example of their signature sound. This track is a must-listen for any fan of Garbage, offering a glimpse into the band's creative prowess and enduring legacy.

8. Special - Version 2.0 (20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition / Remastered)

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"Special" a standout track from Garbage's self-titled debut album, exemplifies the band's potent fusion of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic influences. Released in 1995, the song quickly became a fan favorite, showcasing Shirley Manson's powerful vocals and the band's signature sonic blend. Its driving guitar riffs and infectious chorus make it a quintessential Garbage anthem, solidifying their place in the alternative rock scene.

"Special" represents a defining moment in Garbage's early career, showcasing their ability to create music that is both edgy and accessible. The song's impact on the band's trajectory is undeniable, helping to establish them as one of the most influential and respected alternative rock bands of the 1990s. Its enduring popularity and critical acclaim continue to solidify its place as a standout track in Garbage's discography.

9. Queer (1995)

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"Queer" a standout track from Garbage's self-titled debut album, is a sonic embodiment of the band's unique and powerful sound. Released in 1995, the song's provocative lyrics, delivered with Shirley Manson's signature raspy vocals, weave a story of alienation and rebellion. With its driving, distorted guitar riffs and haunting electronic textures, "Queer" exemplifies Garbage's masterful blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements.

"Queer" not only resonated with audiences but also garnered critical acclaim. The music video, with its bold and unapologetic imagery, earned a nomination for Breakthrough Video at the 1996 MTV Video Music Awards. It quickly became a mainstay on modern rock radio stations, reaching the top 20 on both the US Hot Modern Rock Tracks and the UK Singles Chart. The song's exploration of themes like identity and societal pressure solidified its place as a cornerstone in Garbage's discography, capturing the essence of their rebellious spirit and enduring appeal.

10. Androgyny (Garbage - 1970)

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Have you ever encountered a song that seamlessly blends grunge energy with infectious pop hooks? Garbage's "Androgyny" embodies this unique fusion, making it a standout track in their expansive discography. Released in 2001 as the lead single from their third studio album, "Beautiful Garbage," the song marked a significant stylistic shift for the band, incorporating elements of funk and electronica into their signature alternative rock sound. "Androgyny" is a testament to Garbage's ability to evolve and experiment while remaining true to their core identity.

While the song may not have achieved the same chart success as some of their earlier hits, it has garnered a loyal following over the years, becoming a fan favorite and a testament to Garbage's enduring musical influence. This song stands out for its forward-thinking approach to music and its exploration of themes that resonate deeply with listeners. "Androgyny" is a reminder that Garbage are more than just a rock band; they are musical pioneers who continue to push boundaries and explore new sonic territory.

11. You Look So Fine - Version 2.0 (20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition / Remastered)

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Dive into the captivating world of Garbage with "You Look So Fine" a song that effortlessly blends grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements. This final single from their iconic 1999 album, "Version 2.0," perfectly encapsulates the band's signature sound, showcasing Shirley Manson's powerful vocals and catchy hooks. While not a chart-topper, it's a fan favorite, resonating with listeners who appreciate the raw honesty and emotional depth of its lyrics.

"You Look So Fine" stands as a poignant reflection on the heartbreak of a dissolving relationship, as Manson delivers a powerful performance fueled by emotional turmoil. The song's mesmerizing melody and introspective lyrics make it a truly unforgettable experience. Though the track may not have been a commercial breakthrough, its place as the closing track on "Version 2.0" emphasizes its importance within Garbage's discography, serving as a powerful testament to the band's talent for crafting compelling and emotionally charged music.

12. Why Do You Love Me (2005)

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"Why Do You Love Me" the lead single from Garbage's 2005 album Bleed Like Me, stands as a testament to the band's enduring ability to craft powerful and catchy rock anthems. This song, with its signature blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements, became a chart-topper, reaching number 7 in the UK and number 8 on the US Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. "Why Do You Love Me" showcases Garbage's signature sound, with Shirley Manson's powerful vocals leading a driving rhythm section and memorable guitar riffs, and the song's theme of self-doubt and questioning relationships resonates deeply with listeners.

"Why Do You Love Me" is more than just a hit song; it's a defining moment for Garbage. It represents the band's return to the forefront of the music scene after a brief hiatus, and it reflects their willingness to experiment and evolve their sound. While it embraces the elements that made Garbage famous, it also adds a new layer of vulnerability and emotional depth to their music. This song remains a fan favorite, a testament to the band's enduring power and their ability to create music that is both timeless and relevant.

13. Run Baby Run - Bleed Like Me (Remastered)

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"Run Baby Run" a fierce and defiant anthem from Garbage's 2005 album "Bleed Like Me," is a prime example of the band's signature blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements. The song's driving rhythm, fueled by a pulsating drumbeat and insistent guitar riffs, creates a sense of urgent energy that perfectly complements Shirley Manson's powerful vocals. This combination results in a track that is both catchy and intensely captivating.

The song's lyrical content, a call to break free from societal expectations and forge your own path, further solidifies its position as a standout track within Garbage's discography. "Run Baby Run" stands as a testament to the band's ability to create anthems that resonate with listeners who seek empowerment and self-expression. The song's themes of rebellion and self-determination, coupled with its sonic intensity, continue to make "Run Baby Run" a favorite amongst Garbage fans and a compelling example of the band's unique sound.

14. Bleed Like Me (Garbage)

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• Alternative rock
• Grunge
• Punk Rock
• Garbage

"Bleed Like Me" is a powerful anthem that showcases Garbage's signature blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements. This song, which serves as the title track of their fourth studio album, stands out as a defining moment in the band's musical evolution. Released in 2005, "Bleed Like Me" reached number 27 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, demonstrating its critical acclaim and popularity.

The song's haunting melodies and driving rhythms are perfectly complemented by Shirley Manson's captivating vocals. "Bleed Like Me" addresses the complexities of mental health and self-harm with raw honesty and vulnerability, capturing the attention of listeners who connect with its themes of pain, isolation, and the struggle for recognition. Its powerful lyrics and the band's raw musical intensity create a truly unforgettable experience, solidifying "Bleed Like Me" as a standout track within Garbage's extensive and influential discography.

15. Tell Me Where It Hurts (Garbage)

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• Alternative rock
• Shoegaze
• Grunge
• Trip Hop
• Electronic rock

While not a chart-topper or award-winner, "Tell Me Where It Hurts" is a standout track in Garbage's discography, showcasing their signature sound and reflecting their songwriting prowess. Released as the lead single from their greatest hits album "Absolute Garbage," the song exemplifies the band's unique blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements. It features a compelling melody, punctuated by Shirley Manson's powerful vocals, and an undercurrent of melancholy that adds depth to the lyrics.

"Tell Me Where It Hurts" stands out for its complex instrumentation, which includes a haunting string arrangement that adds a touch of grandeur and drama. The song's themes of love, longing, and vulnerability resonate with fans, cementing its place as a fan favorite. Though not a defining track in terms of a particular era or theme, it embodies Garbage's ability to craft compelling and emotionally charged music that continues to captivate listeners.

16. Blood for Poppies (2012)

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• Alternative rock
• Indie Rock
• Post-Punk Revival
• Experimental rock
• Dark pop

"Blood for Poppies" released in 2012 as the lead single from Garbage's fifth album "Not Your Kind of People," showcases the band's enduring ability to craft powerful, evocative rock anthems. While the song didn't achieve the same chart success as some of their earlier hits, it garnered critical acclaim for its raw energy and introspective lyrics. This track exemplifies Garbage's signature sound, seamlessly blending grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements. The driving rhythm, punctuated by Manson's piercing vocals, creates an urgent and captivating atmosphere. "Blood for Poppies" is a testament to Garbage's ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their core identity. The song's abstract imagery and themes of isolation, loss, and searching for meaning resonate deeply with listeners, solidifying its place as a standout track in their discography.

17. Battle In Me (2012)

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• Grunge
• Rock Ballad
• Heavy Metal
• Garbage

"Battle In Me" by Garbage is a powerful anthem that showcases the band's unique blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements. The song's driving energy and raw emotion made it a standout single, immediately capturing the attention of fans and critics alike. It served as the lead single for their fifth studio album, "Not Your Kind of People," marking a triumphant return for the band after a brief hiatus.

"Battle In Me" is a testament to Garbage's songwriting prowess, showcasing their ability to seamlessly blend heavy guitar riffs with a driving electronic rhythm. The song is a quintessential example of the band's sound, immediately recognizable with its heavy guitars, Shirley Manson's powerful vocals, and the use of electronic elements that make it distinctly Garbage. This track captures the band's signature sonic palette, making it an instant classic and a favorite among long-time fans.

18. Automatic Systematic Habit (Garbage)

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• Garbage
• Dance Track
• Industrial pop
• Harsh vocals

In a world dominated by upbeat electronic tracks, 'Automatic Systematic Habit' by Garbage emerged as a defiant statement against the relentless, often superficial nature of modern life. This song, released as part of their 2012 album "Not Your Kind of People," is a testament to the band's enduring ability to weave raw emotion into their signature sound. It's a sonic journey through frustration and disillusionment, fueled by Shirley Manson's powerful vocals and the band's signature blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements.

'Automatic Systematic Habit' stands out not only for its raw emotion but also for its rhythmic complexity. While the song features a driving beat and sharp guitar riffs, it's the layered synths and Manson's potent delivery that truly capture the song's essence. This track encapsulates a key facet of Garbage's music, showcasing their talent for crafting anthems that resonate with listeners who crave something more substantial than empty pop hooks. 'Automatic Systematic Habit' remains a cornerstone of their discography, a defiant anthem that perfectly encapsulates the band's signature sound and their ability to craft music that remains relevant and relatable even years after its release.

19. Big Bright World - 1970

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• Alternative rock
• Indie Rock
• Post-Grunge
• Female Fronted
• Garbage

"Big Bright World" is a standout track from Garbage's fifth album, "Not Your Kind of People," and encapsulates the band's enduring power. This anthemic song showcases Garbage's signature blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements, crafting a sound that is both powerful and undeniably catchy. The song's driving rhythm and soaring vocals, coupled with Steve Marker's signature guitar riffs, create an exhilarating musical experience that has resonated with fans worldwide.

Released in 2012, "Big Bright World" marked a significant moment for Garbage, representing their return after a period of inactivity. The song's themes of hope, resilience, and the power of connection resonate deeply with listeners, making it a favorite among fans and critics alike. The song's enduring appeal is further evidenced by its enduring presence in Garbage's live sets, where it continues to ignite the passion of fans.

20. Magnetized (2016)

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• Shoegaze
• Indie Rock
• Post-Punk
• Garbage

"Magnetized" by Garbage pulsates with an undeniable energy, showcasing the band's signature blend of grunge, alternative rock, and electronic elements. Shirley Manson's powerful vocals soar over a driving rhythm section, creating a sonic landscape that is both familiar and fresh. The song's catchy hook, "I'm magnetized by you," is both alluring and unsettling, perfectly capturing the addictive nature of love and its accompanying complexities.

While "Magnetized" reached number 41 on the Billboard Mexico Ingles Airplay chart, its impact extends far beyond its commercial success. The song stands out as a defining moment in Garbage's career, showcasing their ability to evolve and experiment while maintaining their unique sound. With its electronic rock style and memorable guitar riffs, "Magnetized" is a testament to Garbage's enduring power and creative spirit.