20 Songs Like Mr. Brightside by The Killers

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If you're a fan of The Killers' breakout hit "Mr. Brightside," then you're probably always on the lookout for similar songs to add to your playlist.

Luckily, we've done the work for you and compiled a list of tracks that are sure to scratch that same musical itch. Some of the songs we'll be looking at include "Plug in Baby" by Muse, "Take Her Back" by The Pigeon Detectives, "Unbelievers" by Vampire Weekend, "From The Ritz To The Rubble" by Arctic Monkeys, "Come On Eileen" by Dexys Midnight Runners, and "Wasted Little DJ's - Single Version" by The View.

Join us as we explore the similarities between each of these tracks and "Mr. Brightside," and discover your new favorite tune along the way.

1. Muse - Plug in Baby

"Plug in Baby" is a song by the rock band Muse from their album "Origin of Symmetry" released in 2001. It starts off with an energetic guitar riff and has a fast-paced tune which is pretty catchy.

The vocals are strong and high-pitched, giving the song an intense and emotional feeling. The lyrics are quite abstract but seem to be about an electrifying connection with someone which the singer wants to maintain.

Overall, it's a great rock song with a futuristic vibe and lots of energy.

2. The Pigeon Detectives - Take Her Back

"Take Her Back" by The Pigeon Detectives is a really upbeat and catchy song. It's got this energetic rock sound with lots of guitar riffs and a solid drumbeat.

The vocals are powerful and have a real edge to them that draws you in. The lyrics are all about trying to win back a lost love, with a sense of urgency and desperation.

Overall, it's just a really fun and lively song that you can dance along to.

3. Vampire Weekend - Unbelievers

"Unbelievers" by Vampire Weekend is a catchy indie pop song that's sure to get stuck in your head. It starts off with a peppy guitar riff and features frontman Ezra Koenig's distinct vocals.

The song has a fun, upbeat energy that's perfect for dancing or singing along to in the car. The lyrics touch on themes of religion and faith, but they're presented in a light-hearted way that won't weigh you down.

Overall, it's a great tune from the band's album "Modern Vampires of the City" released in 2013.

4. Arctic Monkeys - From The Ritz To The Rubble

"From The Ritz To The Rubble" by Arctic Monkeys is a fast-paced, energetic song that really gets your blood pumping. The lead singer's voice has a raw, rock quality to it and the guitar riffs are intense.

The drum beats are also really driving, which adds to the overall energy of the song. The lyrics tell a story of a wild night out in the city, which makes you feel like you're right there with them.

It's definitely a great tune to listen to when you need a bit of a pick-me-up.

5. Dexys Midnight Runners - Come On Eileen

"Come On Eileen" is a 1982 song by Dexys Midnight Runners. The song starts off with an upbeat fiddle tune that gets you moving immediately.

The lead singer has a unique voice that compliments the catchy melody. There's a good mix of instruments in the background that add to the overall sound.

The chorus is really high energy and you can't help but sing along. It's a fun song to dance to and will bring back feelings of nostalgia if you've heard it before.

6. The View - Wasted Little DJ's - Single Version

"Wasted Little DJ's - Single Version" by The View is a fun indie rock song with upbeat guitar riffs and catchy lyrics. The lead singer has a raspy, confident voice that adds to the energy of the song.

The drums keep a steady beat throughout the song but also add some fills and changes to keep things interesting. It's a great song that will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time.

7. The Fray - Over My Head (Cable Car)

"Over My Head (Cable Car)" is a song by The Fray. It has a pretty mid-tempo and soft sound with a catchy melody.

The lead singer has a nice, clean voice that complements the music. The lyrics are about feeling overwhelmed and not knowing how to handle a situation, which is a relatable feeling for a lot of people.

Overall, it's a well-written and well-performed song that's easy to listen to. It was released as a single in 2005 and was a pretty big hit.

8. The Wombats - Greek Tragedy

"Greek Tragedy" by The Wombats is an indie-pop track from their 2015 album titled Glitterbug. The song has a vibrant beat with catchy guitar riffs and upbeat vocals that talk about the struggles of dating and relationships.

The lyrics are clever and tongue-in-cheek, often using Greek mythology as a metaphor for modern-day love. Fans of indie-pop and alternative rock will definitely enjoy this fun and danceable track.

9. Green Day - Wake Me up When September Ends

"Wake Me Up When September Ends" is a popular song by the American punk rock band Green Day. The song has a slow, contemplative beat with guitar strums and drumming.

The lyrics are poignant and touch on themes of grief and loss. The lead singer's voice is emotional and raw, while the music creates a somber and introspective mood.

Overall, the song is powerful and moving, and has resonated with many listeners since its release in 2005.

10. Paramore - Misery Business

"Misery Business" by Paramore is a high-energy pop-punk song that gives off a feeling of pure teenage angst. The lead vocalist, Hayley Williams, sings with rawness and emotion over driving guitar riffs and pounding drums.

The lyrics are full of attitude and confidence, it's a catchy and memorable anthem that captures the spirit of youthful rebellion.

11. The Fratellis - For The Girl

"For The Girl" by The Fratellis is a rock song that's very upbeat and has a catchy chorus. The lead singer's voice is really distinct and he wails through the verses before going into the really hooky chorus.

The song is energetic and has a really catchy melody that you'll find yourself humming along to. It's the kind of song that makes you want to dance and sing along.

It's a really fun and catchy tune that's perfect for a night out with friends or a road trip.

12. Kaiser Chiefs - Heat Dies Down

"Heat Dies Down" by Kaiser Chiefs is an upbeat rock tune with a catchy chorus that will have you tapping your foot along to the rhythm. The opening guitar riff is memorable and sets the tone for the whole song.

Lead vocalist Ricky Wilson's voice is strong and compliments the driving bass and drums. Overall, it's a fun and energetic tune that's great for singing along to in the car or dancing around your living room.

It was released as a single in 2007 and was included on their album "Yours Truly, Angry Mob".

13. Razorlight - Stumble And Fall

"Stumble And Fall" is a song by the band Razorlight from their album, "Up All Night". It's an upbeat rock tune with catchy guitar riffs and energetic drums.

The lead singer's vocals are filled with emotion and draw you into the song. It has a great melody and rhythm that makes you want to move along to the music.

It's a fun and exciting song that will keep you pumped up for the rest of the day.

14. The Goo Goo Dolls - Slide

"Slide" by The Goo Goo Dolls is a popular alternative rock song that has a really upbeat and catchy vibe. The lead singer's voice is pretty unique and the guitar riffs are really fun to headbang to.

The song has a positive message about holding on to love and not giving up on it. It's easy to sing along to and has a really memorable chorus that sticks in your head.

Overall, it's a great song to play at a party or to just jam out to on your own.

15. Kid Rock - All Summer Long

"All Summer Long" is a song by Kid Rock from his album "Rock n Roll Jesus" released in 2008. The song has a classic rock feel with a mix of Southern rock and country elements.

The song features an acoustic guitar riff that's easy to hum along to, with the lyrics reminiscing about a summer romance that took place in Northern Michigan. Kid Rock's vocals are smooth and soulful, conveying a sense of nostalgia and longing for that summer love.

The song has a catchy chorus with sing-along "woo-hoo" backing vocals that'll stick in your head for hours.

16. Paramore - Ain't It Fun

"Ain't It Fun" is a popular song by Paramore. Released in the year 2014, it has a vibrant sound with a catchy beat.

The song features a fusion of pop, rock, and funk music genres, making it an all-around energetic pick-me-up anthem. The dynamic instrumentals and Hayley Williams' unique vocals bring an upbeat atmosphere to the track.

The song captures the feeling of finally growing up and facing life's responsibilities but still having fun along the way. It's an excellent addition to any party playlist if you're in the mood for something lively and fun.

17. Owl City - Fireflies

"Fireflies" is a song by American electronica project Owl City, released in 2009. The song has a soft, dreamy sound and is known for its catchy melody and lyrics.

The music is characterized by electronic beats and synths with a hint of acoustic guitar, which creates a warm and fuzzy feeling. The verse has a slow, steady build-up to the chorus which features a memorable hook.

The vocals are clear and light, with an energetic and optimistic tone. The lyrics of the song convey a sense of nostalgia and wonder, taking the listener on a journey through the magical world of fireflies.

18. The Gaslight Anthem - "45"

"45" by The Gaslight Anthem is a rock song with a driving beat and catchy guitar riffs. The vocals are gritty and powerful, conveying a sense of urgency and passion.

The lyrics tell a story of lost love and regret, and are delivered with raw emotion. Overall, the song has a classic rock feel with modern sensibilities, and is sure to get your head nodding and foot tapping.

It was released on the album "Handwritten" in 2012.

19. The Killers - Tyson vs Douglas

"Tyson vs Douglas" is a song by The Killers, released on their album "Wonderful Wonderful" in 2017. The song has a fast-paced beat with powerful guitar riffs and energizing drums.

Lead singer Brandon Flowers' vocals are intense, conveying the energy and excitement of a boxing match. The lyrics tell the story of the legendary boxing match between Mike Tyson and Buster Douglas, infusing sports and history into the music.

The song is a perfect blend of rock and pop, creating an infectious and uplifting atmosphere.

20. The Fray - You Found Me

"You Found Me" by The Fray is a heartfelt ballad with a melancholic air. The song features a piano that sets the tone for the entire track, with the lead vocalist pouring out their emotions throughout.

The lyrics are meaningful, drawing on themes of despair and the search for meaning, with the chorus hook "Where were you when everything was falling apart?" being particularly poignant. Released on their self-titled album in 2008, it's a song that showcases The Fray's musical prowess and emotional depth.

Matt Taylor

Matt Taylor

I'm Matt Taylor, a guitarist with a genuine love for music. I've had the pleasure of playing in a few bands and collaborating with some amazing artists along the way. As a music journalist, my goal is to share my passion and learnings with you while keeping my finger on the pulse of emerging trends and talents.

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