The 10 Songs That Alex Turner Picks His Favorites

Alex Turner picks some of his favorite songs of all time. One of the most-known frontman and singers Alex Turner adds his unique voice and easy but catchy guitar chords to his music, riff, and solo parts for his music bands like Arctic Monkeys. In this article, we will detail Alex Turner’s favorite songs.
Alex Turner, born on January 6th, 1986 in Sheffield, England, and his friend Jamie Cook founded the Arctic Monkeys in 2002. When their debut album, “Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not,” was released in 2006, it immediately became a hit, getting mentions from critics and soon reaching all other debut albums in British music history in terms of sales.
He also stands out as a lyricist due to his skill with words. His witty and poetic images are expertly blended with themes of urban life, young culture, and love in his perceptive and frequently introspective lyrics. From catchy songs like “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” to dreamy lyrics like “505,” Alex Turner’s work continually connects with fans, engaging them intellectually and emotionally.
Turner’s progress in music over time has been apparent. The band’s early indie rock sound evolved into more varied aural environments, embracing glam, lounge music, and psychedelic rock elements. Also, Arctic Monkeys’ albums “Humbug” (2009), “AM” (2013), and “Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino” (2018), which highlight Turner’s versatility and eagerness to explore new sounds, are examples of this artistic experimentation.
Arctic Monkeys also released “The Car” album on October 21, 2022.
Turner has started several side projects in addition to his work with Arctic Monkeys, further demonstrating the breadth of his musical interests. The Last Shadow Puppets, his band with Miles Kane, has released two critically acclaimed albums that combine orchestral arrangements with Turner’s outstanding lyrical style.
Turner has received praise for his talent and accomplishment, yet he remains humble and mysterious, often avoiding the spotlight. Turner’s effect on rock and roll as the Arctic Monkeys continue to enthrall crowds with their electric live performances and his songwriting talent.
You can also check Arctic Monkeys 2023 worldwide tour dates here.
Alex Turner’s Favorite Songs of All Time
Arctic Monkeys frontman Alex Turner has also been known to share his respect for musicians that try to release better songs each time. Turner picks his favorite songs of all time. He also loves listening to many genres from hip-hop, blues, classical rock, jazz, pop-rock, and more.
What songs does Alex Turner listen to?
- I Can’t Go To Sleep – Wu-Tang Clan
- Is This What You Wanted – Leonard Cohen
- I Want You – Marvin Gaye
- The Hurt – Yusuf (aka Cat Stevens)
- L’hôtel Particular – Serge Gainsbourg
- Ain’t Had No Lovin – Connie Smith
- In My Room’ – Nancy Sinatra
- Main Title – John Carpenter
- This Is Your Life – Glaxo Babies
- Waiting for an Invitation – Benji Hughes
Arctic Monkeys frontman and singer Alex Turner shared the Top 10 Songs of All Time in an interview with various magazines. Here is the Alex Turner picks songs as follows below!
1. I Can’t Go To Sleep – Wu-Tang Clan

Wu-Tang Clan‘s “I Can’t Go To Sleep” is a powerful song that explores the depths of individual suffering and systemic injustices. The song, included in their 1997 album “Wu-Tang Forever,” demonstrates the group’s skill with lyrics and capacity to approach difficult issues with feeling.
The main focus of “I Can’t Go To Sleep” is an introspective analysis of the ghosts that stalk the Wu-Tang Clan members. In their verses, RZA, GZA, Inspectah Deck, and Method Man delve into their struggles with restless nights and the tremendous weight of their prior experiences. Their lyrics vividly describe restless minds troubled by internal conflicts, memories, and restlessness.
In addition to addressing the personal difficulties, “I Can’t Go To Sleep” song also touches on the more significant social problems that the Wu-Tang Clan members see in their neighborhoods. They discuss racial injustice, structural injustice, and the cycle of violence in urban backgrounds.
Alex Turner shared why he likes “I Can’t Go To Sleep” as one of his favorite songs of all time:
“Because he was talking about quite mundane things with a bit of a stoned slant. Also, at that age, I wanted to have my own thing that other people might not have heard about.”
2. Is This What You Wanted – Leonard Cohen

The wonderful song “Is This What You Wanted” by Leonard Cohen, from his 1974 album “New Skin for the Old Ceremony,” explores the complicated worlds of desire, yearning, and the dissonance between expectations and reality.
As a meditative study of the human condition, “Is This What You Wanted” song explores longing, regret, and the illusive pursuit of satisfaction. With a focus on relationships that fall short of expectations, Cohen’s lyrics raise issues about the decisions taken and the results of pursuing aspirations.
Cohen invites fans to consider the complexities of human desire and the frequently unanticipated results of pursuing it through his sophisticated storytelling. The lyrics capture a feeling of disillusionment, the bittersweet flavor of unmet expectations, and the understanding that what was desired may not ultimately be what was wished for.
The song “Is This What You Wanted” proves Leonard Cohen’s skills to delve into the depths of human emotion in his music.
Alex Turner speaks about why he likes “Is This What You Wanted” as one of his favorite songs of all time:
“I think saw Leonard Cohen talking about writing and that idea if you pull out one thing from one his songs, you’re gonna be like, ‘What is he on about?’ But in the context of everything, I feel like you know exactly where he’s coming from, especially with a writer like him. You’re right there with him as you listen to a song of his in its entirety or a record.
Hearing him talk about that idea of pulling one thing out. And it not making much sense is definitely something that spurred me on to approaching this record in that way and not be so concerned with making the thing be about whatever it’s about.”
3. I Want You – Marvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye‘s 1976 single “I Want You” is a soulful classic that perfectly captures the allure of his music. Gaye creates a captivating experience that combines elements of soul, funk, and R&B into an appealing aural tapestry with his velvety-smooth vocals and exquisite sense of groove.
In 1975 and 1976, Gaye created the album at his Los Angeles studio Marvin’s Room, and Motown’s Hitsville West facility in Detroit.
The sensual undertones in Ware and Gaye’s lyrics and the singer’s frequent use of the synthesizer have all drawn praise from critics of the album. The iconic picture The Sugar Shack (1971) by neo-mannerist artist Ernie Barnes serves as the inspiration for the album cover.
“I Want You” is a passionate song of hope and desire. Gaye’s deeply felt lyrics, which mirror the heady feelings that come when infatuation takes hold, express an ardent yearning for a meaningful relationship.
Beyond its great melodic appeal, “I Want You” demonstrates Gaye’s capacity to thoughtfully and sophisticatedly examine topics of love and sensuality.
He describes the excitement and fragility of seeking passionate romantic ties with ease as he expertly navigates the nuances of desire. Gaye paints a view of the complexities of human relationships through his words and vocal delivery that inspire various emotions, from seduction to vulnerability.
4. The Hurt – Yusuf (aka Cat Stevens)

Yusuf, originally Cat Stevens, has a deep and reflective song called “The Hurt” that explores the complexity of emotional anguish and human development. The song, included in his well-received album “Tea for the Tillerman2” and released in 2020, shows Yusuf’s talent for creating heartfelt melodies and lyrics.
The earnest examination of suffering as a universal experience and the ensuing transformative journey in “The Hurt” strikes a chord with listeners. The intimate setting Yusuf’s warm vocals and characteristic acoustic guitar create enables listeners to consider their issues.
The song “The Hurt” is proof of Yusuf’s skills to provoke a strong emotional response from his listeners. He has continually demonstrated his talent for writing songs that connect with listeners on a personal and universal level throughout a career spanning several decades.
“The Hurt” brings a new perspective to Yusuf’s body of work in the context of “Tea for the Tillerman2,” a reworking of his classic 1970 album. It shows his continuous development as an artist and his dedication to investigating classic subjects in fresh ways.
5. L’hôtel Particular – Serge Gainsbourg

Serge Gainsbourg‘s 1971 single “L’hôtel Particulier” is a rebellious and daring highlight of the legendary French musician’s catalog. The song perfectly captures Gainsbourg’s singular ability to defy expectations and push the limits of artistic expression with its seductive melodies, beautiful lyrics, and provocative subjects.
“L’hôtel Particulier” song studies desire, decadence, and sexual freedom. Gainsbourg’s deep voice, deft wordplay, and innuendos produce a sensual and playful atmosphere.
“L’hôtel Particulier” has a classic elegance to its music. Gainsbourg’s sensual narrative is set against a sophisticated background with rich orchestral arrangements, accentuated by delicate piano melodies and seductive strings. The song’s seductive attractiveness is further enhanced by its addictive beat and groove, which pull listeners further into its alluring universe.
The song “L’hôtel Particulier” perfectly exemplifies Serge Gainsbourg’s aptitude for composition and knowledge to produce strong feelings in listeners. His creativity and approach to pushing limits have made him a legendary figure in the history of French music.
6. Ain’t Had No Lovin – Connie Smith

Connie Smith‘s 1965 single “Ain’t Had No Lovin” is a country song that displays Smith’s exceptional vocal prowess and capacity to portray unbridled emotion. Smith captures the essence of loss and resiliency in her soulful delivery and passionate lyrics, leaving an enduring stamp on the landscape of country music.
At its core, “Ain’t Had No Lovin” is a moving story about lost love and subsequent loneliness. Smith’s moving vocals bring the song’s lyrics to life, which exhibit a delicate combination of vulnerability and strength.
Smith’s moving interpretation of the song nicely complements the musical arrangement. The steel and acoustic guitar’s delicate, melancholy melodies produce a cozy environment that draws the listener into the song’s emotional depth.
Smith’s “Ain’t Had No Lovin” lyrical storytelling is accessible and moving. She creates a realistic image of a soul that has been hurt and yearns for the love that has escaped her.
Connie Smith is a well-known country music artist, and her powerful performance of “Ain’t Had No Lovin” touches listeners’ souls deeply. Her capacity to simultaneously portray vulnerability and resiliency strengthens her reputation as a cherished country voice.
Years after its initial release, “Ain’t Had No Lovin” is still considered a timeless country music masterpiece. The song’s emotional resonance and Smith’s outstanding singing ability continue to attract new audiences, demonstrating the lasting strength of her artistic vision.
7. In My Room’ – Nancy Sinatra

Nancy Sinatra‘s 1966 single “In My Room” is a compelling tune that fans into the private haven of individual seclusion. Sinatra presents a deep investigation of self-reflection with her calming vocals and insightful words, producing a peaceful and thoughtful musical experience.
At its core, “In My Room” is a passive, reflective ballad that celebrates comfort in one’s place. Sinatra’s soft, comforting voice draws the listener into her world, producing peace and tranquility.
Sinatra expresses her desire for quiet introspection and relief with her sincere delivery. It is possible to escape from reality and enjoy one’s inner thoughts and feelings thanks to the lyrics’ sense of escapism. “In My Room” invites one to embrace reflection and find comfort in one’s ideas.
“In My Room” is still a classic in Nancy Sinatra‘s career decades after its release.
8. Main Title – John Carpenter

John Carpenter‘s “Main Title,” from his 1978 movie “Halloween,” is regarded as a classic work of cinematic music. Carpenter’s music has become a classic theme associated with the horror genre, enthralling audiences and impressing the world of cinema score with its unsettling simplicity and atmospheric composition.
At its core, “Main Title” establishes the mood for the suspenseful and tense trip in “Halloween.”
Carpenter’s talent as a composer and a director is demonstrated by “Main Title.” His intentional use of sound and music to create a scary environment has established him as a benchmark in the horror genre and influenced other musicians and filmmakers. The theme’s continuing appeal proves its long-lasting influence and capacity to increase fans’ emotional interest in the movie.
Years after its debut, “Main Title” is still regarded as a classic piece of movie music.
9. This Is Your Life – Glaxo Babies

Bristol-based post-punk band Glaxo Babies was founded in late 1977.
The band went through three stages: disbanding in 1980, reforming in 1985, and finally disbanding again in 1990. For the Un-Peeled 2015 event, the band reassembled in 2015 with Tony Wrafter’s son Oscar on vocals and Steve Street on bass.
Glaxo Babies‘ 1980 single “This Is Your Life” is recognized as a cutting-edge post-punk hymn that questions social norms and customs. The song exemplifies Glaxo Babies’ singular aesthetic vision and its capacity to combine punk tendencies with avant-garde elements through its unorthodox musicality, thought-provoking lyrics, and brave approach to experimentation.
The superficiality of contemporary culture and conformity are two other topics that “This Is Your Life” sharply criticizes.
Regarding societal standards, “This Is Your Life”‘s lyrics are sarcastic and aggressive. The song’s lyrics urge the listener to reject the imposed roles and norms and to oppose the uniformity that frequently rules daily life. The challenging and thought-provoking style of Glaxo Babies encourages introspection and a reevaluation of one’s existence.
“This Is Your Life” embodies the experimental mindset that gave rise to the post-punk genre. Glaxo Babies stand out as a significant force in the alternative music scene of the time due to their bold experimentation with unorthodox soundscapes and dedication to disrupting the status quo.
10. Waiting for an Invitation – Benji Hughes

Benji Hughes‘ 2008 single “Waiting for an Invitation” is a fascinating example of the indie pop artist’s singular synthesis of whimsy, contagious melodies, and sincere poetry. The song illustrates Hughes’ musical approach and ability to write songs that make an impression thanks to its memorable hooks and quirky charm.
The debut studio album by American musician Benji Hughes is titled A Love Extreme. Produced by Keefus Ciancia, David Susskind, and Gus Seyffert, it was made available on July 22, 2008.
The Green Room Studios in Los Feliz, California, and Sargent Studios in Echo Park, California, served as the recording locations for the album. The album was made available by New West Records on CD and 180-gram vinyl pressing.
What are your thoughts on Alex Turner‘s favorite songs of all time? Let us know in the comment section!