What makes Get the Knack by The Knack notable?

This album is significant for its commercial success, featuring the hit single 'My Sharona', which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining track of the power pop genre. Additionally, it sparked a cultural phenomenon in the late 70s and early 80s, influencing numerous artists and shaping the new wave scene. Get the Knack was The Knack's debut album, released in 1979 when they were on the cusp of mainstream success. Following their formation in Los Angeles, the band quickly gained traction with their fresh sound, leading to a rapid rise in popularity.

Who is Get the Knack for?

Get the Knack works well if you're into catchy hooks for sing-alongs, steady pacing for casual listening and short tracks for quick enjoyment.

How many songs are on Get the Knack?

Get the Knack has 12 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Get the Knack

The Knack · 1979

41 min · 12 tracks · new wave

Energetic power pop melodies collide with catchy hooks and playful lyrics, capturing the spirit of late 70s rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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My Sharona — As the standout hit from the album, this track's infectious riff and memorable chorus encapsulate the essence of The Knack's sound, making it an anthem of the era.
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Good Girls Don’t — This track showcases clever lyricism wrapped in a catchy melody, effectively portraying themes of youthful rebellion that resonate throughout the album.
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(She’s So) Selfish — With its driving beat and hooky chorus, this song exemplifies the band's knack for blending upbeat energy with sardonic commentary on relationships.
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Frustrated — This track combines tight musicianship with relatable lyrics about love and longing, highlighting the band's lyrical wit and emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album combines energetic melodies with playful lyrics, creating a memorable power pop experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a punchy track that sets a brisk tempo, maintaining high energy through the first half before introducing slower songs in the latter part.
The lyrics are playful and often tongue-in-cheek, reflecting a youthful exuberance that complements the upbeat instrumentation.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

catchy hooks for sing-alongs
steady pacing for casual listening
short tracks for quick enjoyment
consistent energy throughout the album

Where this album fits

Career context: Get the Knack was The Knack's debut album, released in 1979 when they were on the cusp of mainstream success. Following their formation in Los Angeles, the band quickly gained traction with their fresh sound, leading to a rapid rise in popularity.
Stylistic neighbors: The Cars· The Romantics· Billy Idol

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Tracklist

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

1 Let Me Out 2:21
2 Your Number or Your Name 2:57
3 Oh Tara 3:05
4 (She’s So) Selfish 4:31
5 Maybe Tonight 4:03
6 Good Girls Don’t 3:09
7 My Sharona 4:55
8 Heartbeat 2:12
9 Siamese Twins (The Monkey and Me) 3:25
10 Lucinda 4:01
11 That’s What the Little Girls Do 2:43
12 Frustrated 3:52

What to play next

Listen next

...But the Little Girls Understand

1980

Go back to

Good Girls Don't

1979

Full The Knack discography Where to start with The Knack Artists like The Knack

new wave power pop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata