About this album
Where they were
Released on August 15, 1981, 'Give the People What They Want' was The Kinks' follow-up to their previous album 'Low Budget'. During this period, they were experiencing a resurgence in popularity in the U.S., characterized by a more commercially accessible sound. This album reflects a moment where Ray Davies continued to explore societal themes through catchy hooks after overcoming various lineup changes in the late '70s.
Why it matters
The album peaked at number 25 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a significant moment in The Kinks' commercial success during the early '80s. It received positive reviews for its sharp songwriting and production quality, further solidifying the band's influence in the power pop genre. Tracks from this album have been cited as inspirations for later artists in alternative rock.
Essential tracks
- "Give the People What They Want" — This title track encapsulates the album's themes of consumerism and societal expectation, making it an anthem for personal freedom.
- "Better Things" — 'Better Things' stands out with its optimistic outlook and catchy refrain, reflecting resilience in life's challenges.
- "Predictable" — This track showcases The Kinks' signature wit and commentary on modern relationships, demonstrating their knack for relatable storytelling.
Release Date
August 15, 1981
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Around the Dial 4:48
- 2 Give the People What They Want 3:43
- 3 Killers Eyes 4:36
- 4 Predictable 3:20
- 5 Add It Up 3:12
- 6 Destroyer 3:44
- 7 Yo‐Yo 4:09
- 8 Back to Front 3:18
- 9 Art Lover 3:31
- 10 A Little Bit of Abuse 3:45
- 11 Better Things 2:44