The 10 Best Social Distortion Songs of All-Time
Social Distortion is an American punk rock band formed in 1978 in Fullerton, California. The band currently consists of founder Mike Ness (lead vocals, lead guitar), Jonny Wickersham (rhythm guitar, backing vocals), Brent Harding (bass, backing vocals), David Hidalgo Jr. (drums), and David Kalish (keyboards). Social Distortion’s signature brand of hard-edged roots rock and roll has made them one of the most influential and iconic bands of their generation, with a sound that has been likened to that of The Rolling Stones and The Clash. They have released seven studio albums, two compilations, a live album, and a couple of DVDs. In 2010, Social Distortion was ranked number 86 in VH1’s 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock. In April 2015, the band was inducted into the Orange County Music Hall of Fame. The influence this band has had on punk rock and music, in general, is immeasurable. They are one of the most important punk bands to have ever played, and their live shows are legendary. Do not miss your chance to see them when they come to a town near you. Today, Social Distortion is one of the most respected and well-known punk bands globally. They continue to tour extensively and show no signs of slowing down. If you’re a fan of punk rock or just good music in general, do yourself a favor and check out Social Distortion. You won’t be disappointed.
10. Mommy’s Little Monster (1983)
Social Distortion’s debut album, Mommy’s Little Monster, was released in 1983. The album is now considered a punk rock classic and is still revered by fans and critics alike. “Mommy’s Little Monster” is one of the album’s standout tracks and is an essential part of any Social Distortion fan’s collection.
9. I Want What I Want (1988)
When Social Distortion released their third album, Prison Bound, in 1988, they were starting to gain a large following. The album was a departure from their earlier punk rock sound and had more of a country vibe. “I Want What I Want” is one of the album’s most popular tracks and is a must-hear for any Social Distortion fan. And if you are a fan of country music, you’ll love this song too.
8. Far Behind (2007)
The next song on our list is Far Behind. Released in 2007, the song was written by Mike Ness and appeared on the album Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes. It’s a song about Ness’s struggles with addiction and his recovery process. The lyrics are introspective and honest, and the music is slow and melancholic. It’s a beautiful song about hope and redemption, and it’s one of our favorites by Social Distortion.
7. Drug Train (1990)
If there’s one Social Distortion song that perfectly encapsulates the band’s punk spirit, it’s “Drug Train.” The track is fast, aggressive, and full of energy, with Mike Ness spitting out lyrics about drugs and addiction. It’s one of the band’s most famous songs, and it’s easy to see why – it’s simply a great punk song. And if you’re ever looking for a good mosh pit anthem, look no further than “Drug Train.”
6. Bad Luck (1992)
When talking about the 10 best Social Distortion songs of all time, it’s hard not to start with their breakthrough hit “Bad Luck.” The song was released in 1992 as the lead single from their third studio album, “Mainliner: Wreckage From the Past.” It reached number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and helped to cement the band’s place as one of the most popular punk rock bands of the era. The song is powered by a fast-paced punk rock riff and Mike Ness’s distinctive gravelly voice.
5. I Was Wrong (1996)
“I Was Wrong” is a song from Social Distortion’s 1996 album “White Light, White Heat, White Trash.” The song was co-written by Mike Ness and Billy Duffy of The Cult and is one of the band’s most catchy and radio-friendly songs. It reached number 27 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart and helped to introduce the band to a wider audience. The song features a more polished sound than the band’s earlier work but still retains the raw energy that has made punk rock fans a favorite for over 30 years.
4. Ring of Fire (1990)
Released in 1990, “Ring of Fire” was the lead single from Social Distortion’s fourth studio album, “Social Distortion.” The song lyrics tell the story of a doomed love affair written by Mike Ness about his then-girlfriend, Jennie Vee. It reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and helped make Social Distortion one of the biggest punk rock bands globally. The song is built around a slow, country-style guitar riff and Ness’s powerful vocals.
3. Ball and Chain (1990)
Next up, we have “Ball and Chain,” a song about frontman Mike Ness’ battle with heroin addiction. The song was released as the lead single from Social Distortion’s self-titled album in 1990 and became one of the band’s most well-known songs. It’s a powerful track that perfectly captures the desperation and darkness of addiction.
2. Another State of Mind (1983)
“Another State of Mind” is about the punk rock lifestyle and rebellion against society. It has been called one of the most influential punk rock songs of all time. It’s a fast-paced and energetic song that perfectly captures the spirit of punk rock. Another thing that makes this song a blast among most Social Distortion fans is how it brings out the inner teenage angst.
1. Story of My Life (1990)
The number one spot on this list is the band’s signature song, “Story of My Life.” This song is a true masterpiece, and it showcases Mike Ness’s incredible songwriting skills. The lyrics are dark and depressing, but they also paint a vivid picture of the life of a troubled musician. Everything is put together to create a truly amazing song. From the lyrics to the music, you can’t help but be captivated by this tune.
Conclusion
Social Distortion is a band that has been around for over three decades, and they have released some truly amazing music in that time. This list features 10 of their best songs, but it’s just a small snapshot of the great music that this band has created. If you’re a fan of punk rock or rock music in general, then you owe it to yourself to check out Social Distortion.