Photo: Sulinh LaFontaine, Attribution, via Wikimedia Commons
Our Top 10 Incubus songs list looks at a band that came together in 1991. Brandon Boyd, Mike Einziger, and Jose Pasillas met in high school in Calabasas, California. Alex Katunich and Gavin Koppell later united the band. But would be replaced by Chris Kilmore and Ben Kenney. Incubus fits into many music genres; alternative rock, hard rock, Nu metal, and more. Their first album, Fungus Amongus, was released in 1995. It included ten songs that were recorded from 1993 to 1995. Their first album was energetic, quirky, aggressive, and a little vulgar. Incubus has a large variety of styles, from ballads to almost a pop feel, to heavier stuff. There are many people who feel that they were a very underrated band.
We are going to look at ten of the top Incubus songs. Of course, people have their own opinions, so some of these songs may or may not be on other top ten lists.
# 10 – Anna Molly
It comes from the Light Grenades album that came out in 2006. In December of that year the song peaked at number sixty-six on the top one hundred billboard charts. The album, however, was at the number one spot on the Billboard top 200. Anna Molly is an upbeat song with killer guitar playing. As they sing this song, it sounds more like they are saying “anomaly” than Anna Molly. Brandon is singing about finding the perfect girl for him, one that is unlike any other or stands out. This is the basic definition of anomaly, so the interpretation is very popular.
# 9 – Megalomaniac
An extremely popular choice with Incubus fans across the globe. Megalomaniac was on their first greatest hits album, Monuments and Melodies. It was released in 2009, but the song was being played in 2004. The song won a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance and was also nominated for an MTV Music Award, and an iHeart Radio music award. It has a killer guitar solo at the beginning of the song, makes it sound like it may be on the ‘harder’ side. But once Brandon sings, it is on the mellow side and gets a little more intense with the chorus. As with all Incubus songs, everyone can relate to most of their lyrics throughout their life.
# 8 – Just a Phase
At number eight on our top 10 Incubus songs list is a song from one of their most popular albums entitled Morning View which was released in 2001. Another extremely fantastic guitar solo at the beginning of the song. Just a phase speaks to so many people in their life. An issue that is bugging you and you just wish you could get rid of it, or should have taken care of it sooner. Whether it be a poor relationship, issues with a family member, a friendship that has grown or fallen apart. It is a powerful song that can mean many things to the people who listen to it. Incubus has a way of singing about the different situations that we go through in life. They hit it right on the head with their powerful lyrics and stunning guitar solos.
# 7 – Promises, Promises
From the album If Not Now, When? released in 2011. It is yet another powerful song that hits home for many people. It has a great beat, lyrics that hit the nail on the head, and a video that ties it all together perfectly. The asking of the special person in your life, to not make you any promises. No one wants to get hurt when a promise is broken. So if you never make promises, and your significant other doesn’t make you promises, then maybe no one will get hurt. I enjoyed listening to this song for the first time. Relaxing, very truthful, and beautiful. Sitting here upset, for other reasons, and it calmed me down. Very well done and something I will definitely listen to many more times.
# 6 – Nice to Know You
Another song from the popular Morning View album. A little harder than some of the other songs on the list. There is a very large range of interpretation about this song. Many meanings to hundreds of Incubus fans. I liked the beat; it is catchy. I don’t feel it is overly “hard” and it is a very nice blend of all instruments. The chorus is a little more in depth (harder) than the rest of the song. But again, wonderful balance and great vocals. Incubus puts their whole heart and soul into all of their music. Recording songs that are going to hit home with so many people.
# 5 – Dig
This comes off of the album Light Grenades and in 2007 was number 94 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. This is an extremely powerful song that I can definitely relate to, many times in my 49 years. “We all have something that digs at us”. That is most definitely the truth. Whether it be one time in your life or 100 times, there is always something or someone that just digs away at us and tries to break us down. I feel they put the song together well, and hits home within the first few lines. I have listened to this song when I have been on a hard road; whether it be with a boyfriend, a family member, or just a friend. It is a song that gives you peace and clarity on all situations that you may be facing.
# 4 – Pardon Me
From the album Make Yourself, which was released in 1997. This is one of my all-time favorite Incubus songs. I love the beat, the guitar, and the lyrics have fit life situations on a couple of occasions. When I have just had enough of the day, enough of the bs that is going on in the moment; I can turn on this song and it takes all away. It another one of those songs that hits home on so many levels and so many occasions. You tire of people’s crap and you have risen above it and to your own things. If you have never heard this song, it is definitely worth a listen or twenty.
# 3 – Love Hurts
Another great hit off of their Light Grenades album. This song is absolutely beautiful, in so many ways. It is like he is reflecting on his own life as a boy. He puts so much feeling into his vocals and the lyrics that it really hits your heart strings. There is no elaborate meaning or interpretation to this song. It is simple, Love Hurts. It doesn’t matter what kind of love it is; it hurts but can also make you feel alive. I am very shocked that this one was so underrated and not thrown all over the radio. I consider it one of their best songs. Everything from the vocals, to the lyrics, to the guitar and other instruments was just outstanding.
# 2 – Drive
This song was number nine on the Billboards Top 100 songs in July 2001. The album Make Yourself, released in 1999 and peaked at number forty-seven in September 2000. “Whatever tomorrow brings, I’ll be there with open arms and open eyes”. Incredible song. The lyrics have always tugged at my heartstrings. The guitar solo is one fire and the lyrics are just unbelievable, sang with a ton of feeling and heart. Incubus got me hooked with this song. It gives you the confidence to face whatever tomorrow is going to bring you. Never give up on what is coming your way, never lose site of those things that life puts you through. Everything is hard, there are many decisions to make, but you will get through everything if you embrace it with open arms. Kicking song!
# 1 – Wish You Were Here
From the album Morning View, this song released in August 2001. I interpret the song as being peaceful and comfortable and hoping others could take part in that enjoyment. This is the 3rd song by Incubus that I fell in love with. Love the lyrics, the rhythm, Brandon’s voice is powerful and amazing. It is a song that you can listen to, no matter what is going on in your life. You always wish that someone was there with you. It isn’t necessarily a love song; it is a song about wishing that you were with friends, family, other loved ones. You just want everyone to enjoy the happiness that you are enjoying. What could be better than having everyone in your life as happy as you are at the same time? Nothing!
Incubus is an outstanding band that has been together since 1991, and they are still rocking it today! They have a huge style range with the lyrics and vocals drawing you in, no matter what song you are listening to. There is a deep message in most of their songs that everyone can relate to in their lives. If you have never listened to Incubus, do so, now! They are a rocking group of guys that knows how to make some ripping music and rock it.
Top 10 Incubus Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2021
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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](http://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
