Over the last decade films and TV shows about comic book heroes have become more and more popular. This trend shows no sign of slowing down and with the brilliant Daredevil TV show and the supremely entertaining Ant-Man movie 2015 is looking like a pretty good year.
Here at Neon Filler we’re big fans of comics, and it is hard to argue with Superheroes as being the predominant and most iconic images of the medium. Here, in celebration of our favourite spandex clad characters, we present the Top 10 songs about Superheroes.
10. The Wedding Present – Flame On
The Wedding Present are one of the only bands to have their own comic book, so this Watusi era b-side, with a Human Torch theme, is no surprise from Mr.Gedge.
9. XTC – That’s Really Super Supergirl
XTC (sort of) appear twice in this chart and this charming tune from Skylarking is their first appearance.
8. Guided By Voices – Matter Eater Lad
With thousands of Guided By Voices songs recorded it is inevitable that comic books get a mention, the choice of one of the more obscure DC characters fits the band to perfection.
7. The Clique – (I am) Superman
This 1969 track is better known as sung by REM nearly 20 years later and is the first appearance in our chart by the first superhero.
6. Wings – Magneto and Titanium Man
Who knew that Macca was a comic’s enthusiast that invited Jack Kirby to a Wings show? Not many people, and even less have heard this Venus and Mars era b-side about some iconic Marvel villains. Also a song that has a surprising (if passing) similarity to Belle and Sebastian’s ‘The Boy With The Arab Strap’.
5. Robert Pollard – Faulty Superheroes
The title track from Pollard’s latest solo album is not character-specific but still one of the best super-themed songs on record.
4. Darren Hayman – Spiderman beats Iron Man
One of the best songs from the excellent Essex Arms, and manages to reference a number of top-flight heroes as well as Top Trumps, which can only be a good thing.
3. The Dukes of the Stratosphere – Braniac’s Daughter
XTC’s psychedelic alter-egos make little sense with this tune about the super-villain’s progeny, but lots of great lines and references hide within.
2. The Flaming Lips – Waiting For Superman
It is no surprise that Superman gets more references in song than other heroes (see also Laurie Anderson) and this track from Wayne and co. has to be the best.
1. The Trait – Nobody Loves The Hulk
Researching a post like this is fun in itself and also also helps discover some previously unheard tracks, from unheard-of artists. This 1969 garage track is brilliant from start to finish. “We don’t allow no green skinned people in here!” indeed.
Compiled by Dorian Rogers
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Matter Eater Lad is a great song, but Guided By Voices kinda spoil it even they wrote it. There is a cover by “Marc With A C” that is a lot better.
Will check out that version, not heard it before.