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The 1968 song that provided Dave Davies’ greatest vocal performance: “It suits me”
Dave Davies regarded ‘Strangers’, a song he wrote for The Kinks’ 1970 album *Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One*, as his greatest vocal performance, saying its tone suited him naturally. The song matters because it highlights Davies’ often-overlooked contribution as a singer and songwriter alongside his better-known role as the band’s lead guitarist.
Although the article’s title refers to 1968, the discussion centres on ‘Strangers’, released in 1970 and written during a period of tension and creative change within The Kinks. Davies said the song’s restrained, reflective character matched his voice, while its lyrics about uncertainty and human connection helped make it one of the band’s more enduring deep cuts.
In short
- Dave Davies considered ‘Strangers’ his finest vocal performance.
- The Kinks released the song on a 1970 album.
- Its reflective style suited Davies’ voice.
Explained simply
The Kinks are a legendary British rock band formed in the 1960s, best known for their principal songwriter and guitarist Ray Davies. Dave Davies, Ray's brother, served as the band's lead guitarist and also contributed as a songwriter and vocalist, though these roles often received less attention than Ray's more prominent position in the band.
'Strangers' appeared on the 1970 album Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One, recorded during a period when The Kinks were experiencing creative tensions and changes. The song features introspective lyrics about uncertainty and human connection, with a restrained arrangement that sets it apart from the band's more energetic rock material.
The song is significant because it demonstrates Dave Davies as more than merely a guitarist, showcasing his abilities as both a vocalist and songwriter. This fuller picture of his artistry has often been overlooked in discussions of The Kinks, making such tracks important to understanding the complete scope of his musical contributions.