The Singles Box cover

The Singles Box

Alanis Morissette · 1997

84 min · 20 tracks · alternative rock

A collection of raw, emotional performances that showcase a transformative voice in alternative rock and pop.

Top tracks — play these first

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    You Oughta Know (album version) Start here — This track remains one of Morissette's most iconic songs, encapsulating the angst and raw emotion that defined her breakout era. Its candid exploration of betrayal resonated deeply with listeners, establishing her as a voice of a generation.
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    Ironic (album version) — Known for its clever lyrics and memorable melody, this song illustrates Morissette's knack for juxtaposing irony with poignant storytelling. It became emblematic of her style and contributed significantly to her commercial success.
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    Hand in My Pocket (album version) — This track showcases Morissette's ability to blend introspection with an upbeat sound, reflecting the complexities of self-identity and emotional contradiction. Its infectious chorus made it a staple on radio playlists.
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    Perfect (studio acoustic version) — In its stripped-down form, this rendition emphasizes Morissette’s vocal prowess and emotional depth, offering insight into themes of perfectionism and personal struggle that resonate throughout her work.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • raw emotional vocal delivery
  • dynamic live performance energy
  • introspective acoustic moments
  • nostalgic sing-along anthems
  • wave-like pacing throughout

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • avoid live recordings entirely

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Compiles early hits post-Jagged Little Pill, solidifying her fame.
Themes
betrayal and angst· 90s cultural phenomenon· ironic storytelling
Career context
Released in early 1997, The Singles Box captures Alanis Morissette's explosive rise to fame following her breakthrough album Jagged Little Pill. By this time, she had solidified her status as a leading figure in the alternative rock scene, with multiple hit singles from her debut creating a cultural phenomenon around her music and lyrics.
Stylistic neighbors
Fiona Apple· Tori Amos· Garbage

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • You Oughta Know (album version)

    The shift from anger to vulnerability in the chorus starkly contrasts the verses’ bitterness. This dynamic range enhances the emotional intensity of the song.

    This structural choice amplifies the conflict within the narrator's feelings, showcasing Morissette's lyrical dexterity in navigating complex emotions.

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 You Oughta Know (album version) Start here 4:08
  • 2 You Oughta Know (clean album version) 4:08
  • 3 Perfect (studio acoustic version) 3:05
  • 4 You Oughta Know (live from the Grammy's) 3:47

Disc 2

  • 1 Ironic (album version) 3:48
  • 2 Forgiven (live from Tokyo) 6:09
  • 3 Not the Doctor (Modern Rock Live from L.A.) 6:05
  • 4 Wake Up (Modern Rock Live from L.A.) 5:05

Disc 3

  • 1 You Learn (album version) 3:59
  • 2 Your House (live from Tokyo) 3:05
  • 3 Wake Up (Modern Rock Live from L.A.) 5:07
  • 4 Hand in My Pocket (album version) 3:38

Disc 4

  • 1 Hand in My Pocket (clean version) 3:38
  • 2 Head Over Feet (live from Holland) 4:10
  • 3 Not the Doctor (live from Holland) 3:57

Disc 5

  • 1 Head Over Feet (album version) 4:23
  • 2 You Learn (live from Michigan) 4:14
  • 3 Right Through You (live from Michigan) 3:12
  • 4 Hand in My Pocket (live from Brisbane) 4:29
  • 5 Ironic (live from Sydney) 4:34

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata