Every American, as we celebrate the nation’s birthday, should consider the one factor that separates his country from all others. The “Great Melting Pot” has the distinct quality of being comprised of all races, cultures, and ethnic groups.
As you make your playlist to accompany your fireworks display for Independence Day, be sure to honor our heterogeneous population by including a variety of “People” songs. Here are ten songs with two-titles, all ending in “People”
“Little People” by the Fleeting Ends: This catchy tune is one of a half-dozen nuggets to be found on Our Eyes Are Peeled, the indie rock band’s only album to date.
“Short People” by Randy Newman: The influential composer’s satiric style was misinterpreted on this smash single, causing him to be temporarily lambasted by media.
“Lonely People” by America: Dan Peek and pals had a huge hit with this title, but those who are more rock-oriented might prefer the song with the same title from Styx’s Paradise Theatre.
“Common People” by Pulp: This title track, except for possibly “Disco 2000,” is by far the biggest hit by Jarvis Cocker and his alt-rock band.
“Everyday People” by Sly and the Family Stone: The song, praising the commonalities shared by all, embodies the living message of the late 60s and early 70s.
“Angry People” by Barenaked Ladies: This Steven Page composition alone makes the Barenaked Ladies Are Men compilation worth adding to your CD collection.
“Happy People” by the Temptations: A title like this, combined with the rhythm and harmonies so characteristic of the group, defines the spirit of Motown.
“Heartache People” by Big Brother and the Holding Company: The same band who gave fans a “Piece of My Heart” offer some solace through company on this single.
“Some People” by Alicia Keys: The pop songstress spins this beautiful song, kind of the antithesis of Alice Cooper’s nightmarish “Some Folks” from two decades earlier.
“Cat People” by David Bowie: The Major Tom in this title track is more like a male feline than an astronaut.
“Desert People” by Seals and Crofts: This underrated tune spawned from Unborn Child, the album that placed the duo in some heat from abortion rights advocates.
“Beautiful People” by Modern English: The 80s New Wave band’s mostly forgettable comeback album called Pillow Talk would put you to sleep except for a few quality tunes like this one.
“Powerful People” by Gino Vannelli: The Italian singer-songwriter cooked up several delicious pop hits during the 70s and 80s, and this ditty is among his best.
“Most People” by Dawes: The indie rock-folk outfit has quickly drawn a huge audience because of tracks like this one from Stories Don’t End.
“Different People” by No Doubt: Gwen Stefani and company included this track on Tragic Kingdom, the platinum album which boasted “Don’t Speak” and six other singles.
