What makes Cities by Talking Heads notable?

'Cities' not only garnered attention for its infectious energy but also played a role in establishing Talking Heads as pioneers of the new wave movement. The song's themes of urban dislocation resonated with listeners and critics alike, showcasing the band's unique ability to blend intellectual lyrics with dance music sensibilities. Additionally, it is often highlighted in retrospectives of influential songs from the era. Released in 1980, 'Cities' came after Talking Heads' groundbreaking album 'Fear of Music' and before their critically acclaimed 'Remain in Light'. This era marked the band's transition into more experimental sounds, as they began to embrace complex rhythms and a broader range of influences. The band was solidifying their place in the post-punk landscape, channeling art rock into danceable tracks.

Cities

Talking Heads · 1980

3 tracks · new wave

A vibrant exploration of urban life infused with funky grooves and eclectic rhythms that define the new wave sound.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cities — The title track captures the essence of urban life, merging driving beats with introspective lyrics about the complexities of city living.
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Cities (live) — This live version amplifies the energy of the studio recording, illustrating how Talking Heads transformed their sound in a concert setting, engaging the audience deeply.
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Artists Only (live) — This track showcases David Byrne's distinct vocal delivery and lyrical wit while highlighting the band's dynamic stage presence during performances.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The single presents strong composition but lacks cohesion due to its limited tracklist and live versions.

What we noticed

The studio version of 'Cities' features a prominent, syncopated rhythm section that drives the song forward with a steady pulse.
The live tracks showcase a more improvisational approach, with extended instrumental sections and variations in vocal delivery.
The studio version employs layered instrumentation, creating a dense soundscape that contrasts with the more stripped-down arrangements of the live versions.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Cities
2 Cities (live)
3 Artists Only (live)

What to play next

Listen next

The Name of This Band Is Talking Heads

1982

Go back to

Remain in Light

1980

Full Talking Heads discography Where to start with Talking Heads Artists like Talking Heads

new wave post-punk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata