With the prospect of London’s tube network grinding to a halt for the umpteenth time in as many months, workers across the city will soon be seen fleeing their offices early in a bid to catch that last train home. A renewed sense of appreciation and frustration will sweep across the capital in equal measure, with many commuters switching a normally sedate post-work playlist for punk rock ‘get-me-the-hell-out-of-here’ tracks normally reserved for workouts and anger management sessions (or at least in my case anyway).
Suddenly the echoing angst of the 70s, 80s and 90s rings all too clear across the capital once again. Over the decades the city has become a melting pot of experiences, cultures and classes, many of which have inspired the music and lyrics to some of the greatest musical creations ever conceived. With the tube forming such a central part of the city’s identity – whether it’s your route to work, an opportunity to plug yourself in to 30 minutes of non-stop music before crashing through the office door, a link to friends and family, or even a time to socialise with others – London’s underground system is something we all take for granted on a daily basis. So today, in spite of the travel chaos going on in and around London, take a moment to listen to our Top 10 Tracks that will make you fall in love with the city – and it’s tube network – like never before.
10. PULP – MILE END
Featuring on the iconic Trainspotting soundtrack, Pulp‘s “Mile End” is a classic single that should take pride of place on anyone’s playlist. With an upbeat tempo that will see you bouncing to work at silly-o’clock in the morning, this song is sure to brighten up your morning.
9. BLUR – JUBILEE
The Brit-rockers had to take pride of place on our ultimate London playlist. Having recently stolen show at the BST event in Hyde Park where they played to over 65,000 people, the bands guitar led track is a great pick me up for those long summer afternoons.
8. DESERT HEARTS – CENTRAL LINE
The Belfast Rockers know how to make great music – and name it after the underground too. Featuring a driving melody with a clash-esque edge, this is a band you need to listen to.
7. ELIZA DOOLITTLE – EUSTON ROAD
Eliza Doolittle is a Londoner born and bred. Singer, songwriter and activist, the musician embodies everything we love about freedom of speech and difference of opinion. A somewhat calm and melodic track, this is a tune that’s perfect for summer and makes your ears take notice.
6. JAMIROQUAI- DEEPER UNDERGROUND
“Deeper Underground” has receieved over 5 million YouTube plays since it’s release as part of the Godzilla soundtrack back in 1998. Featuring dinosaurs, explosions and flooded cinemas, this is a music video of epic proportions.
5. LILLY ALLEN – LDN
From her punchy lyrics to her feisty attitude, the mouthy “Smile” singer never lets us forget her roots. LDN is a prime example of her comedic approach to video making, turning the streets of London into a treacherous minefield.
4. JACK PEÑATE – TORN ON THE PLATFORM
An undeniably catchy track from a suitably talented singer / songwriter, Jack Peñate‘s voice became the soundtrack to an indie generation that were coming-of-age. With a calm introduction that builds to an upbeat melody, this track takes pride of place on the One Stop Record Shop playlist.
3. MORISSEY – COME BACK TO CAMDEN
A crooning ode to London Town, Morrissey turns this track into a love letter about England’s capital. Featuring cups of tea, the River Thames and of course Camden, Morrissey captures the love we hold for our capital city.
2. DUFFY – WARWICK AVENUE
It’s time to get the tissues out, Duffy has entered the building. Her hit “Warwick Avenue” could be heard filling the airwaves for months after it’s initial chart success and has amounted nearly 8 million hits on YouTube alone. With it’s poignant lyrics and soulful melody, this a song for anyone who has experienced heartbreak, love and loss.
1. THE JAM – GOING UNDERGROUND
The song that single-handedly sums up London’s past and present could be our only real choice for number 1. You want to experience London? This is it! Oh, and we couldn’t help but give you the alternative parody of “Going Underground” as a means of fueling your anger about the strike that bit more. Enjoy.
