Greatest Hits cover

Released 39 years ago this October

Greatest Hits

Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel · 1987

64 min · 15 tracks · rock music

A blend of theatrical rock and poignant balladry, showcasing Harley's emotive vocals and eclectic songwriting.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me) — This song is arguably Harley's most famous track, characterized by its catchy chorus and clever lyrics that blend whimsy with longing. Its enduring popularity has made it a staple of classic rock playlists.
  • →
    Sebastian — With its lush orchestration and complex narrative structure, this track showcases Harley's lyrical prowess and ability to weave storytelling into his music. Its haunting melody remains one of the defining moments of his career.
  • →
    Judy Teen — This upbeat track captures the essence of 1970s glam rock while highlighting Harley's distinctive vocal style and playful lyricism, making it a fan favorite that epitomizes the band's early sound.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • theatrical storytelling with emotional depth
  • catchy sing-along moments
  • varied pacing for dynamic listening
  • nostalgic reflections on youth
  • moments of whimsical irreverence

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, no-frills music
  • want heavy production

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Greatest Hits' was released in 1987, Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel had already established themselves as mainstays of British rock since their formation in the early 1970s. This compilation album arrived after a series of successful albums, including 'The Best Years of Our Lives' in 1975, and served to remind listeners of Harley's unique artistry during a period when the band's commercial success was waning.
Stylistic neighbors
David Bowie· Roxy Music· T. Rex

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Mad, Mad Moonlight 5:36
  • 2 Mr. Soft 3:17
  • 3 Sebastian 5:42
  • 4 Judy Teen 3:41
  • 5 (Love) Compared with You 4:20
  • 6 Mr. Raffles (Man, It Was Mean) 4:29
  • 7 Riding the Waves (For Virginia Woolf) 4:32
  • 8 Here Comes the Sun 2:58
  • 9 Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me) 3:58
  • 10 Best Years of Our Lives 5:30
  • 11 Psychomodo 4:01
  • 12 Sling It! 2:39
  • 13 Freedom's Prisoner 3:49
  • 14 I Believe (Love's a Prima Donna) 4:08
  • 15 Tumbling Down 5:55

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata