Top 10 Songs From The Divinyls

Divinyls Songs

People often think of Divinyls as a one-hit wonder due to the immense success of their song “I Touch Myself,” which became a hit in the US. However, this perspective overlooks that Divinyls has produced outstanding music for over a decade and is widely regarded as one of the best rock bands to emerge from Australia. Since forming in 1980, Divinyls, led by the electrifying Chrissy Amphlett and Mark McEntee, have been a constant presence in the Australian music scene. Initially seen as a hard rock band, Amphlett’s dynamic stage presence earned her comparisons to AC/DC’s Angus Young. However, the band evolved after the release of their second studio album, What a Life!, when they began to explore more pop-oriented sounds.

Divinyls released six studio albums throughout their career, each reflecting a different stage in their musical evolution. Their debut, Music from Monkey Grip (1982), showcased the raw energy and unpolished brilliance that defined their early work. This was followed by Desperate (1983), which further solidified their status in the Australian rock scene. What a Life! (1985) marked their shift towards a more pop-driven sound, with songs like “Pleasure and Pain” finding chart success. Their next album, Temperamental (1988), featured hits such as “Back to the Wall” and kept the band relevant during the late 1980s. However, it was their self-titled album Divinyls (1991), featuring the smash hit “I Touch Myself,” that earned them international recognition. Their final studio effort, Underworld (1996), didn’t achieve the same commercial success but remains a testament to their creativity and staying power.

Below, we look at ten standout songs from Divinyls that exemplify their career and musical versatility.

# 10 –  Science Fiction

Opening up our Divinyls songs article is a great track “Science Fiction.”  Released in December 1982 as the lead single from the band’s debut album, Desperate, the song quickly cemented the Divinyls’ place in the music scene with its raw energy and Chrissy Amphlett’s fierce, commanding vocal delivery. Written by lead guitarist Mark McEntee and Amphlett, “Science Fiction” blends the surreal with the emotional, drawing listeners in with a narrative that contrasts romantic yearning with cosmic fantasy. The song peaked at number 13 on the Australian Kent Music Report Singles Chart, showcasing the band’s early success.

The track was recorded during the sessions for Desperate, with production handled by Australian music producer Mark Opitz, who had worked with other major Australian acts such as INXS and Cold Chisel. Opitz’s production on “Science Fiction” captures the rawness of the band’s live sound while introducing a polished layer of atmospheric guitar riffs and rhythm. The band lineup for the recording featured Chrissy Amphlett on vocals, Mark McEntee on guitar, Jeremy Paul on bass, Richard Harvey on drums, and Bjarne Ohlin on keyboards. Amphlett’s evocative lyrics and delivery are perfectly complemented by McEntee’s driving guitar work, making the song both intense and infectious.

Lyrically, “Science Fiction” explores themes of disillusionment and hope. Amphlett sings about her youthful naivety and disbelief in love, comparing romantic feelings to the surreal concept of science fiction. Lines like “I thought that love was science fiction, until I saw you today” and “Now that love is my addiction, I’ve thrown all my books away” depict a transformation from skepticism to obsession. The chorus, punctuated by the powerful repetition of “I didn’t believe,” underscores this emotional shift. The song’s unique fusion of cosmic metaphor with personal vulnerability helps it stand out as a complex exploration of love and self-discovery.

In 2001, “Science Fiction” was recognized by the Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA) as one of the Top 30 Australian songs of all time, a testament to its lasting influence. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its dynamic combination of Amphlett’s inimitable voice, the band’s energetic instrumentation, and its universal themes of love, skepticism, and desire. As the opening track on this list, “Science Fiction” sets the tone for the Divinyls’ legacy, highlighting their ability to mix raw rock with a uniquely introspective lyrical approach.

# 9 –  Hey Little Boy

“Hey Little Boy” by the Divinyls is a reimagining of the Syndicate of Sound’s 1966 hit “Little Girl,” but instead of a story about a girl gone bad, Chrissy Amphlett turns the tables, making the narrative about a boy who strays, only to face the consequences of his actions. The track is a raw, bold confrontation, carried by Amphlett’s signature gritty vocals and a muscular guitar riff, typical of the Divinyls’ aggressive yet melodic rock sound. The song was one of the standout singles from their 1988 album Temperamental, which showcased the band’s ability to blend emotional intensity with unabashed rock ‘n’ roll swagger.

Recorded during a tumultuous period for the band, Temperamental was their third studio album and saw the group grappling with both internal personnel changes and a rocky relationship with their label, Chrysalis Records. Despite the challenges, the album produced some of the Divinyls’ most iconic tracks, including “Hey Little Boy,” “Back to the Wall,” and “Punxsie.” The production, led by Mike Chapman, who had worked with Blondie and The Knack, helped sharpen the band’s sound, giving it a polished yet raw edge that allowed Amphlett’s fierce vocal delivery to stand front and center.

Lyrically, “Hey Little Boy” is a direct and unapologetic takedown of a deceitful lover. Amphlett’s biting delivery of lines like, “You went out on me, so other boys did it too” and “You didn’t think of nothing new” gives the song a sense of both empowerment and finality. The track is a feminist anthem of sorts, flipping the script on typical rock tropes and asserting the female perspective with force. Amphlett’s vocals, always emotionally charged, add a layer of authenticity to the narrative, making it clear that the song is personal. The combination of raw emotion and the band’s tight instrumentation gives “Hey Little Boy” its lasting power and cements it as one of the most memorable tracks from Temperamental.

# 8 –  Siren (Never Let You Go)

“Siren (Never Let You Go)” was the second single from Divinyls’ debut album Desperate, released in April 1983. Written by guitarist Bjarne Ohlin, this track encapsulates the raw energy and unique sound that the band brought to Australia’s rock and new wave scenes. While it peaked modestly at number 45 on the Australian Kent Music Report Singles Chart, the song has remained an important part of the band’s early catalog for its catchy, infectious energy and strong delivery.

Recorded in 1982 and produced by Mark Opitz, “Siren” demonstrates the Divinyls’ ability to combine new wave and pub rock influences, packing a punch within a brief runtime of just 2:28. Ohlin’s guitar work and backing vocals complement Chrissy Amphlett’s powerful and distinct lead vocals. Amphlett’s unique voice adds an emotional edge to the track, delivering the lyrical themes of attraction and fixation with an intense yet haunting quality. The B-side to the single was “Elsie,” another notable track from Desperate, running significantly longer and offering a contrast in pacing to the fast, punchy nature of “Siren.”

Lyrically, the song explores themes of irresistible attraction, obsession, and longing. Amphlett sings, “I knew when I met you, I would not forget you,” and repeatedly reinforces the emotional tension with the line, “Never let you go.” The playful lyric “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRST you” adds a quirky charm to the song, while the recurring “Can’t forget you” emphasizes the depth of the emotional pull the narrator experiences. The combination of memorable lyrics, engaging hooks, and Amphlett’s gripping delivery makes “Siren” a standout track on the album.

Although “Siren” achieved moderate success in terms of chart position, its impact within the Divinyls’ early work is undeniable. The song is a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s ability to blend raw emotional intensity with their unique style, further establishing their foothold in the Australian music scene during the early 1980s.

# 7 –  I’m Jealous

“I’m Jealous,” released in 1995, was a standout track from Divinyls’ fifth studio album, Underworld, and marked their last significant hit in the Australian charts. Written by lead vocalist Chrissy Amphlett in collaboration with Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly—the same songwriting duo behind the massive hit “I Touch Myself”—the song delves into raw emotions of envy, heartbreak, and unrequited love. The track was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, in July 1994 and produced by Peter Collins, adding a polished yet emotionally charged sound to the Divinyls’ catalog.

Musically, “I’m Jealous” maintains the signature style that the Divinyls were known for, blending rock and pop sensibilities with Amphlett’s distinct vocal delivery. Her voice, dripping with vulnerability and angst, brings the lyrics to life. The song centers around jealousy and unreciprocated affection, with Amphlett delivering lines like, “You got a new girlfriend but I still love you,” and “I’m jealous, I’m jealous out of my mind,” in a way that encapsulates the sting of seeing someone you love with another. The track also incorporates a raw, visceral energy, amplified by its biting lyrics and the recurring theme of jealousy becoming an uncontrollable obsession.

Despite its success on the charts, peaking at number fourteen and spending nineteen weeks in the top fifty in Australia, the song’s parent album Underworld did not achieve the same level of commercial success. Underworld struggled with production delays and was released over a year after the single, which affected its performance, reaching only the top fifty on the ARIA Albums Chart. Still, “I’m Jealous” earned a gold certification and became the Divinyls’ last top fifty hit, solidifying its place as one of their most poignant and memorable tracks.

Lyrically, “I’m Jealous” is a visceral exploration of emotional turmoil. Amphlett’s vocals express the anger and frustration of seeing a former lover with someone else, as she sings, “I can’t stand the thought of her having a piece of you.” The song captures the intensity of jealousy with lines like, “I’m liable to do anything, I might kick her face in,” offering a brutally honest portrayal of how overwhelming emotions can become. Its vulnerability, coupled with its fierce delivery, makes “I’m Jealous” a deeply affecting track that resonates with anyone who has felt the sting of lost love.

# 6 –  Love School

“Love School,” released in March 1991, was one of the singles from Divinyls, the fourth studio album by the Australian rock duo Divinyls. Despite the massive success of the album’s lead single “I Touch Myself,” which reached number one in Australia, “Love School” found only moderate success, peaking at number forty-three on the ARIA Top 50 Singles Chart. Written by Christina Amphlett and Mark McEntee, the song captures the dynamic intensity and fierce energy that defined the Divinyls’ sound, with a blend of rock and pop rock elements that was characteristic of their style.

Recorded at Groove Masters Studio in Santa Monica in 1990 and produced by Amphlett, McEntee, and David Tickle, “Love School” explores themes of desire, passion, and emotional complexity. Amphlett’s vocals deliver a blend of sensuality and vulnerability as she expresses frustration with detachment and craves a deeper emotional and physical connection. The lyrics, “I need fire, I got sensual desire,” and “Don’t you be so cold, I need some body and soul,” are bold declarations of longing, emphasizing the need for emotional depth in relationships.

Musically, “Love School” maintains a hard-hitting rock sound with pop undertones, while its rhythmic groove and catchy chorus make it an engaging track. Amphlett’s powerful vocal performance, coupled with McEntee’s guitar work, creates a dynamic and layered song that fits seamlessly within the larger framework of Divinyls, an album known for its emotional range and sonic variety. However, unlike the massive commercial appeal of “I Touch Myself,” “Love School” didn’t reach similar heights but remains an important part of the album’s narrative, showcasing the band’s ability to craft songs that deal with complex emotions while maintaining their distinctive edge.

The lyrics of “Love School” capture the essence of Amphlett’s persona: confident, unfiltered, and deeply honest. Lines like, “You need to go to the love school” and “I don’t need some joker making fun at me, I need a lover, I want some sensitivity,” reveal an urgent demand for emotional authenticity and vulnerability in a relationship. The track’s energy and raw emotion reflect Amphlett’s unique vocal style, which has always been a key factor in the Divinyls’ success.

# 5 –  Make It Out Alright

“Make Out Alright” was released in 1991 as the third single from Divinyls’ self-titled fourth studio album, Divinyls. Written by Christina Amphlett, Mark McEntee, and Martyn Watson, the track showcases the band’s distinct mix of rock and pop elements, with Amphlett’s powerful vocals and McEntee’s guitar work driving the sound. Although the song didn’t achieve significant commercial success, peaking at No. 105 on the Australian charts, it remains a key track that underscores the emotional intensity and raw energy Divinyls were known for.

Recorded in 1990 at Groove Masters Studio in Santa Monica, Make Out Alright was produced by Amphlett, McEntee, and David Tickle. The production features a polished yet gritty rock sound, and the track’s reflective lyrics explore themes of uncertainty, emotional vulnerability, and determination. Lines like “Do you know where you’re going? Do you know where you go? There’s no way of knowing if you let him go” emphasize the emotional push and pull of relationships, mirroring the tension in the song’s instrumentation. Amphlett’s passionate delivery brings depth to the message of finding one’s way in complicated situations.

While the track didn’t garner the same attention as bigger hits like “I Touch Myself,” it serves as an important part of Divinyls, representing the band’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with catchy rock melodies. The accompanying B-side, “Need a Lover,” complements the single by offering another look into the band’s energetic, bold style. With its infectious hooks and emotive lyrics, “Make Out Alright” remains a favorite among devoted Divinyls fans, standing as a testament to the band’s versatility and dynamic songwriting during the early 1990s.

# 4 –  Back To The Wall

“Back to the Wall,” released in February 1988 as the lead single from Divinyls’ third studio album Temperamental, is a brooding, defiant anthem that captures the tension and desperation of being cornered with no way out. This rock-driven track, penned by Christina Amphlett, Mark McEntee, and Richard Feldman, climbed to number thirty-three on the Australian singles chart and marked a significant point in Divinyls’ career as they navigated the pressures of producing a make-or-break album.

Recorded in 1988 and produced by renowned producer Mike Chapman, the track opens with a pulsating rhythm and Amphlett’s unmistakable vocals, which balance vulnerability with defiance. The lyrical content is raw and direct, with lines like “We are living in desperate times” and “When my back’s to the wall, I might do anything at all” showcasing a deep emotional struggle that resonates with themes of survival and resistance. The song’s production perfectly complements these themes, with Chapman’s polished approach adding tension to every note, and McEntee’s guitar work creating a menacing edge.

“Back to the Wall” was not only a critical piece of Divinyls’ musical evolution but also achieved broader cultural relevance by being featured in the 1988 horror film A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master, amplifying the song’s dark, cinematic quality. The track’s legacy was further cemented when Australian band Tropical Fuck Storm covered it in 2018, reintroducing the song to a new generation and earning critical praise for capturing the fierce, urgent spirit of Amphlett’s original vocal delivery. This cover reflected the timeless nature of the song’s message, with its powerful lyrics resonating as much today as they did in the late 1980s.

In “Back to the Wall,” Divinyls balance themes of vulnerability and defiance with palpable tension. It stands out as a pivotal track in their discography and remains one of the defining songs of their Temperamental album, embodying their unique fusion of rock, raw emotion, and theatricality. The song’s evocative lyrics, performed with Amphlett’s signature intensity, continue to hold listeners captive, proving that Divinyls were always at their best when their backs were against the wall.

# 3 –  Boys In Town

“Boys in Town,” released in 1981, is the debut single by the Australian rock band Divinyls, and it marked the beginning of their bold and unapologetic presence in the music scene. Written in 1979, the track was initially part of the soundtrack for the 1982 Australian film Monkey Grip, for which Divinyls provided several songs, including the b-side “Only You.” “Boys in Town” was later featured on the international version of their debut studio album, Desperate, released in 1983. The song became an instant success in Australia, climbing the charts and peaking at number eight on the Australian Kent Music Report.

The formation of Divinyls and their early success are closely tied to this track. Lead singer Christina Amphlett, whose commanding stage presence and raw vocal power were integral to the band’s identity, co-wrote “Boys in Town” with guitarist Mark McEntee. Amphlett’s raw, visceral delivery perfectly captures the rebellious, frustrated energy of the song, which expresses dissatisfaction with immature boys and the yearning for something more substantial. The track’s punk-infused energy, coupled with Amphlett’s fierce vocals, made it an anthem for women wanting to break free from societal expectations and move beyond shallow relationships.

Lyrically, “Boys in Town” is a defiant expression of frustration with the aimlessness of the young men around the protagonist. The repeated lines “I must have been desperate / I must have been pretty low” convey the regret of settling for less, while the hook “Get me out of here” underscores the desire for escape and change. Musically, the song is a driving mix of rock and new wave, powered by McEntee’s guitar riffs and the tight rhythm section. It set the tone for Divinyls’ career, showcasing their ability to blend edgy rock with melodic hooks. The success of “Boys in Town” solidified Divinyls as one of the most significant Australian rock bands of the 1980s and paved the way for later hits like “Pleasure and Pain” and “I Touch Myself.”

# 2- I Touch Myself

“I Touch Myself” is undoubtedly the most iconic song in Divinyls’ discography, released in 1990 as the lead single from their fourth and most commercially successful album, Divinyls. Written by Christina Amphlett and Mark McEntee, along with the songwriting duo Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, the song skyrocketed to international fame, reaching number one in Australia, number four in the United States, and number ten in the United Kingdom. The song’s success was not only due to its catchy melody but also because of its provocative lyrics, which tackled the topic of female sexual desire with a boldness that was rare in mainstream music at the time.

Produced by Christina Amphlett, Mark McEntee, and David Tickle, “I Touch Myself” was recorded at Groove Masters Studio in Santa Monica in 1990. The track features a sleek combination of pop rock and sensuality, creating a polished yet edgy sound that matched the candidness of the lyrics. Amphlett’s vocal delivery on the song is sultry, unapologetic, and commanding, bringing an element of confidence to the expression of female sexuality, a theme that was groundbreaking at the time of the song’s release. The production, driven by a smooth blend of guitar riffs and bass lines, supports Amphlett’s voice as the focal point, giving the song an unmistakable allure.

Lyrically, “I Touch Myself” celebrates self-love and desire in a refreshingly honest and open way, with Amphlett singing: “I love myself, I want you to love me. When I feel down, I want you above me.” The chorus, “When I think about you, I touch myself,” became an instantly recognizable hook and turned the song into a cultural phenomenon. The candidness of the lyrics sparked both praise and controversy, particularly in conservative circles, but ultimately, the song was hailed as an empowering anthem of sexual liberation.

Critically, I Touch Myself was praised for breaking boundaries and confronting taboos head-on. Its chart success helped the Divinyls gain a broader global audience, and the song is often cited as one of the most memorable tracks of the early ’90s. Despite its overt subject matter, Amphlett always emphasized that the song was about much more than just physical desire—it was about self-awareness and confidence. This deeper message resonated with audiences, cementing “I Touch Myself” as both a pop hit and a statement on the importance of self-expression.

The legacy of “I Touch Myself” endures today, with the song continuing to receive recognition for its bold approach to themes of desire, and it remains a touchstone for the Divinyls’ career. Its impact can be seen not only in its chart success but in its lasting influence on music and culture, making it one of the defining songs of the 1990s.

# 1 – Pleasure and Pain

“Pleasure and Pain,” released in 1985, is one of Divinyls’ standout tracks from their second studio album What a Life! The song was written by legendary songwriting duo Mike Chapman and Holly Knight, with Chapman also taking on production duties. Chapman, known for his work with Blondie, The Sweet, and Suzi Quatro, was instrumental in crafting Divinyls’ shift towards a more radio-friendly rock sound while maintaining their edgy new wave style. “Pleasure and Pain” was released as the third single from the album and became one of Divinyls’ most enduring and commercially successful songs, peaking at number 11 on the Australian Kent Music Report, number 8 in New Zealand, and number 76 in the United States.

The recording of What a Life! took place at Groove Masters Studio in Santa Monica, California, in 1985. Christina Amphlett’s raw, emotive vocals are front and center in “Pleasure and Pain,” accompanied by Mark McEntee’s powerful guitar riffs, which drive the song’s energy. The track’s production enhances its emotional core, blending rock and new wave elements that capture the band’s signature sound. Amphlett’s vocal delivery, which oscillates between vulnerability and defiance, perfectly complements the song’s themes of emotional conflict and the fine line between love and hurt.

Lyrically, “Pleasure and Pain” explores the complexities of relationships, particularly the push and pull between desire and hurt. The refrain, “It’s a fine line between pleasure and pain,” encapsulates the emotional turmoil of romantic entanglements. Amphlett’s performance adds a visceral edge to the lyrics, as her voice moves from soft crooning to explosive declarations, capturing the tension within the narrative. The song speaks to the universal experience of feeling torn between emotional highs and lows, making it a relatable anthem for many listeners. Musically, the track is a blend of punchy rock rhythms with a new wave twist, making it a memorable track from the mid-’80s.

Critically, “Pleasure and Pain” was praised for its dynamic arrangement and Amphlett’s commanding vocal presence. It solidified Divinyls’ place in the Australian rock scene and gained them a growing international following. The song’s themes of emotional volatility and the complexities of relationships are also explored in other Divinyls tracks like “Back to the Wall” and “Boys in Town,” showcasing their ability to deliver raw, emotionally charged music. While What a Life! produced several singles, “Pleasure and Pain” remains one of the band’s most enduring and iconic songs, continuing to resonate with audiences decades after its release.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpDkb0xUcYQ

Top 10 Songs From The Divinyls article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024

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