11 Underrated Kinks Songs: Songs You Missed

Hey there, fellow music lovers and DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, back with another dose of musical treasures for you.

Today, I’m diving into the world of The Kinks, a band that’s always resonated with me both on and off the decks.

While they’ve got their fair share of hits, I’ve always believed that some of their best tracks are the underrated gems hidden in their discography. So, I’ve put together a list of 11 Kinks songs that I feel deserve more attention.

These are tracks that showcase their versatility, lyrical genius, and musical innovation. Whether you’re spinning at a club or just enjoying some tunes at home, these songs are sure to add a special flavour to your playlist. Let’s rediscover the brilliance of The Kinks together!

Here are the underrated Kinks songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Kinks Songs

Underrated Kinks songs in a list format:

1. “Shangri-La” (1969, from “Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)”)

“Shangri-La,” penned by Ray Davies and released under the Pye Records label, is a poignant and satirical portrayal of middle-class aspirations. Featured on the 1969 album “Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire),” this song mirrors the disillusionment of the post-war British dream. Ray Davies’ soulful voice, coupled with Dave Davies’ expressive guitar work, creates a soundscape that’s both reflective and critical. The song stands out for its narrative depth, exploring themes of materialism and discontent in a seemingly perfect suburbia. It’s a masterpiece of storytelling, encapsulating the era’s social climate.

2. “Waterloo Sunset” (1967, from “Something Else by The Kinks”)

“Waterloo Sunset,” from the 1967 album “Something Else by The Kinks,” is a song that captures the essence of London in a way few others do. Released under Pye Records, Ray Davies’ lyrical genius shines through in this melancholic yet beautiful tribute to the city. The song’s atmospheric arrangement, combined with the hauntingly melodic guitar riffs, evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing. It’s not just a song; it’s a painting of an era, a moment frozen in time. The reason this song is on the list is its ability to transport the listener to the banks of the Thames, witnessing the hustle and bustle of the city through a dreamy lens.

3. “A Well Respected Man” (1965, from “Kinkdom”)

“A Well Respected Man,” released in 1965 on the album “Kinkdom” and under the Reprise Records label, is a satirical take on the British class system. Ray Davies’ sharp lyrics, combined with the band’s upbeat rhythm, create a catchy yet thought-provoking track. The song reflects the societal norms and expectations of the 60s, poking fun at the life of a man who does everything right according to society’s standards but lacks depth and fulfillment. It’s a clever critique of social status and hypocrisy, showcasing The Kinks’ ability to blend humor with meaningful commentary.

4. “Sunny Afternoon” (1966, from “Face to Face”)

“Sunny Afternoon,” from the 1966 album “Face to Face” and released under Pye Records, is a quintessential summer anthem with a twist. Ray Davies’ distinctive voice, coupled with the band’s laid-back yet intricate instrumentation, creates a relaxed vibe. This song is an ironic portrayal of the taxation woes of the wealthy, set against a backdrop of leisure and luxury. Its inclusion on this list is due to its unique blend of social commentary and catchy, breezy melodies. It’s a classic that encapsulates The Kinks’ ability to craft songs that are both enjoyable and thought-provoking.

5. “Victoria” (1969, from “Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)”)

“Victoria,” a track from the 1969 album “Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)” and released under Pye Records, is a rocking tribute to the bygone Victorian era. Authored by Ray Davies, this song features energetic guitar riffs and a catchy chorus that’s hard to resist. It’s a clever blend of nostalgia and critique, reflecting on the empire’s past glories and the realities of its decline. The reason for its selection is its vibrant energy and the way it encapsulates a significant period in British history, all while maintaining The Kinks’ signature sound.

6. “Days” (1968, from “The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society”)

“Days,” from the 1968 album “The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society” and released under Pye Records, is a touching ode to gratitude and reflection. Written by Ray Davies, the song’s melodic harmonies and heartfelt lyrics create a sense of warmth and nostalgia. It’s a beautiful expression of thanks and remembrance for the days gone by and the people who’ve made a difference in our lives. This song makes the list for its emotional depth and the universal resonance of its message. It’s a timeless piece that speaks to the heart.

7. “Lola” (1970, from “Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One”)

“Lola,” a standout track from the 1970 album “Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One,” released under Reprise Records, is a bold exploration of gender norms and societal expectations. Written by Ray Davies, this song broke new ground with its subject matter, tackling themes that were controversial at the time. The catchy chorus and memorable guitar lines make it instantly recognizable. Its inclusion here is due to its groundbreaking nature and the way it showcases The Kinks’ willingness to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.

8. “Celluloid Heroes” (1972, from “Everybody’s in Show-Biz”)

“Celluloid Heroes,” from the 1972 album “Everybody’s in Show-Biz” and released under RCA Records, is a bittersweet tribute to the stars of the silver screen. Authored by Ray Davies, the song’s poignant lyrics and melodic arrangement create a nostalgic and reflective mood. It’s a touching homage to the dreams and disappointments of those who seek fame in Hollywood. This track is chosen for its lyrical depth and the emotive connection it establishes, highlighting The Kinks’ ability to craft songs that are both personal and universally relatable.

9. “Come Dancing” (1983, from “State of Confusion”)

“Come Dancing,” a hit from the 1983 album “State of Confusion” and released under Arista Records, is a lively and nostalgic look back at the dance halls of the past. Written by Ray Davies, this song combines a catchy rhythm with vivid storytelling, recounting the memories of his sister’s dancing days. It’s a joyful and affectionate tribute, filled with warmth and fond remembrances. The reason for its inclusion is its ability to capture a bygone era with affection and energy, making it a timeless classic that appeals to multiple generations.

10. “Muswell Hillbilly” (1971, from “Muswell Hillbillies”)

“Muswell Hillbilly,” the title track from the 1971 album “Muswell Hillbillies” and released under RCA Records, is a unique blend of country and rock with a distinctly British twist. Ray Davies’ storytelling shines in this song, which reflects on the displacement and cultural changes in London. The song’s fusion of genres and witty lyrics make it stand out, encapsulating the band’s versatility and Davies’ keen observational skills. It’s included for its distinctive sound and the way it captures the essence of a changing London.

11. “Autumn Almanac” (1967, from “Something Else by The Kinks”)

Lastly, “Autumn Almanac,” from the 1967 album “Something Else by The Kinks” and released under Pye Records, is a quintessentially British song that celebrates the simple joys of the changing seasons. Written by Ray Davies, this track is characterized by its whimsical lyrics and catchy melody. It’s a nostalgic and vivid portrayal of autumn in England, filled with vivid imagery and a sense of contentment. The reason for its selection is its charming portrayal of everyday life and the comfort found in the familiar, showcasing The Kinks’ ability to find beauty in the mundane.

Fun Facts: Underrated Kinks Songs

1. “Waterloo Sunset”

• Inspiration from a Hospital Stay: Ray Davies penned “Waterloo Sunset” while recovering in St. Thomas’ Hospital in London. From his hospital window, he could view the River Thames and the Waterloo station, inspiring the song’s lyrical backdrop.
• Original Title: The song was initially titled “Liverpool Sunset,” as Davies was a big fan of Liverpool and Merseybeat music. However, he later changed it to “Waterloo Sunset” to reflect his London roots.

2. “Sunny Afternoon”

• Tax Troubles: The song’s lyrics about the ‘taxman’s taken all my dough’ were directly influenced by the band’s own financial struggles with high tax rates in the UK during the 1960s.
• Chart Success: Despite its seemingly melancholic theme, “Sunny Afternoon” became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart in July 1966.

3. “Victoria”

• Era Blending: “Victoria” masterfully blends contemporary rock sound with a nostalgic look back at the 19th-century Victorian era, showcasing The Kinks’ unique ability to merge different historical periods in their music.
• Political Commentary: The song is known for its satirical take on British colonialism and the glorification of the Victorian era, a common theme in Ray Davies’ songwriting.

4. “Lola”

• Controversy and Censorship: “Lola” was controversial upon its release due to its subject matter involving a romantic encounter between a young man and a transgender woman. This led to the song being banned on certain radio stations.
• Coca-Cola to Cherry Cola: The original lyrics mentioned Coca-Cola, but due to BBC’s policy against product placement, it was changed to the generic “cherry cola” for UK radio play.

5. “Celluloid Heroes”

• Hollywood Homage: This song is an homage to Hollywood and its faded stars. It reflects on the fleeting nature of fame and the often tragic fates of movie stars, a theme that resonated with many listeners.

6. “Come Dancing”

• Personal Connection: The song was inspired by Ray Davies’ memories of his older sisters, particularly one named Rene who would often go dancing at the local Palais de Dance. Rene passed away at a young age, and the song is a nostalgic reflection on those happier times.
• Music Video: The music video for “Come Dancing” was innovative for its time, featuring a blend of performance and narrative storytelling, further enhancing the song’s nostalgic theme.

And that’s a wrap on our journey through The Kinks’ lesser-known but equally brilliant tracks. These songs not only showcase the band’s versatility but also their deep connection to the cultural and social landscape of their times. Dive into these tunes and experience the hidden gems of The Kinks!

Thanks for reading.

TBone