Earlier this month, the music world mourned the loss of Steve Harwell, the iconic frontman of Smash Mouth, who passed away over Labor Day weekend alongside Jimmy Buffett. Following our tribute to Buffett’s tropical anthems, it’s time to celebrate Harwell’s legacy and delve into the best songs from Smash Mouth.
While Smash Mouth continues to perform, their golden era reigned from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. Formed in San Jose, California, the original lineup featured Harwell, Kevin Coleman on drums, Greg Camp on guitar, and Paul De Lisle on bass. Today, De Lisle remains the sole original member, carrying the band’s torch.
Smash Mouth garnered a massive following for their infectious, feel-good rock anthems and upbeat covers of timeless classics. However, beneath the surface of catchy melodies and singalong choruses lies a collection of songs with surprising depth and a significant impact on the musical landscape of the Y2K era.
Ready to crank up the volume and explore the essential Smash Mouth tracks? Let’s dive into our top 10 picks that showcase the band’s true musical prowess.
10. “Your Man”
“Smash Mouth frontman Steve Harwell performs live on stage with the band, highlighting his vocal delivery and stage presence during a concert.”
“Your Man” stands out in Smash Mouth’s discography as a departure from their typical high-energy sound. This mellow ballad, featured on their 2001 self-titled album “Smash Mouth,” reveals a more introspective side of the band. With its gentle palm-muted power chords, the song narrates the story of a man grappling with insecurity in love, surprised and humbled by his partner’s affection.
Harwell’s vocals convey a sincere vulnerability, expressing the endearing bewilderment of being loved by someone he feels he doesn’t deserve. It’s a relatable and tender track, a softer offering within their rock-infused repertoire. Ironically, the music video takes a darker turn, contrasting the song’s gentle sentiment with a melancholic and ambiguous conclusion.
9. “Pacific Coast Party”
“Pacific Coast Party” encapsulates the quintessential sound of early 2000s West Coast party anthems. While it may not be a groundbreaking party song, its charm lies in its simplicity and infectious rhythm, perfect for casual listening and head-bobbing. The song’s lighthearted vibe made it a fitting addition to soundtracks of teen movies like Not Another Teen Movie and even video games like Disney’s Extreme Skate Adventure.
Characterized by Smash Mouth’s signature groove, “Pacific Coast Party” kicks off with a funky beat, complemented by clean guitar chords and an unexpected classical string arrangement that surprisingly enhances the overall production. This track, the third on their “Smash Mouth” album, holds the distinction of being co-written by bassist Paul DeLisle. And for those who find the line “If you got to work today, get yourself a new voca-tion” cheesy, we’re ready to defend its playful spirit. The music video perfectly complements the song’s vibe, featuring the band enjoying a lively performance on a floating stage in the Pacific Ocean, an invitation to join their carefree world.
8. “Waste”
Smash Mouth delves into emo territory with “Waste,” a surprising and welcome shift in their sonic palette. Astro Lounge from 1999 is often considered their magnum opus, and “Waste” is a prime example of the album’s versatility. Released as the fourth single, this acoustic-driven track offered a contrast to their usual upbeat singles, showcasing their emotional depth.
“Waste” is a poignant reflection on the pain and regret that accompany a relationship’s end. The lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced heartbreak, capturing the narrator’s struggle with loss and remorse. Penned by guitarist Greg Camp during marital difficulties while on tour, “Waste” is a hidden gem for those primarily familiar with Smash Mouth’s radio hits. It’s a sensitive and raw piece that demonstrates the band’s impressive range. The music video enhances the song’s mood, notably featuring a clever homage to The Shining with a shot mirroring Jack Nicholson’s iconic freezer scene, adding a layer of visual intrigue to the song’s emotional weight.
7. “Come On, Come On”
Transitioning back to Smash Mouth’s signature energetic sound, “Come On, Come On” lands at number 7, another standout track from Astro Lounge. Fueled by a driving drumbeat and vibrant guitar riffs, the song is instantly catchy, amplified by dynamic keyboard flourishes.
Despite its undeniable appeal and memorable appearances in popular culture – featured in films like Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo, Dude, Where’s My Car? and even the animated series Kim Possible – “Come On, Come On” was surprisingly never released as a single. Beneath the song’s sunny musicality, the lyrics explore a more anxious theme. “Come On, Come On” portrays a narrator grappling with a sense of displacement, yearning for something more but struggling with inertia and an inability to relax. The abrupt “STOP!” at the song’s conclusion acts as a sonic wake-up call, suggesting the cure to his anxiety is simply to be present in the moment.
6. “Then the Morning Comes”
“Then the Morning Comes,” another gem from Astro Lounge, showcases Smash Mouth’s knack for crafting cool and catchy tunes that resonate with a wide audience, reaching the Billboard Hot 100 charts. Guitarist Greg Camp drew inspiration from the movie Groundhog Day and the repetitive nature of touring life when writing this song, resulting in lyrics that depict the cyclical routine of performing and partying. He cleverly weaves in references to Shakespeare and the US Marines, adding layers of lyrical depth.
The song’s verses employ intriguing minor chords, creating a sense of mystery that beautifully resolves into the optimistic and uplifting chorus. And the bridge? It’s a masterclass in musical timing and surprise, keeping listeners engaged and delighted. The music video, while featuring a model in Steve Harwell’s bed at the end, is arguably less captivating than the song’s expertly crafted musical twists and turns.
5. “Why Can’t We Be Friends?”
Smash Mouth has a proven talent for delivering exceptional cover songs, and “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” is a prime example. Featured on Fush Mu Yang, this track is a vibrant reimagining of War’s funk classic. Smash Mouth injects their signature energy, speeding up the tempo and adding a layer of guitar distortion around the two-minute mark, giving it a fresh, rock-infused edge.
However, their rendition remains respectful to the original, retaining the horn section, reggae-infused beat, and core message of unity and equality. This ska-punk infused version of “Why Can’t We Be Friends” is a celebration of overcoming discord, and Smash Mouth successfully transforms the classic tune into something distinctly their own, showcasing their ability to honor and innovate simultaneously.
4. “I’m a Believer”
For Shrek fans, “I’m a Believer” needs no introduction. This fantastic cover is another Smash Mouth triumph, a Y2K-era update of The Monkees’ 1966 hit (originally penned by Neil Diamond). The band infuses their signature sound – electric keyboards, surf-rock guitar riffs, and Harwell’s distinctive vocals – creating a hit that feels both nostalgic and contemporary, like a soundtrack straight out of a fairytale.
Thanks to its prominent placement in the closing scenes of Shrek, “I’m a Believer” achieved international chart success in countries like New Zealand, Spain, and Australia. Its popularity has only grown over time, solidifying its place as a beloved song for generations. This upbeat anthem of instant love became a massive commercial success for Smash Mouth and remains one of their most recognizable and enduring tracks.
3. “Can’t Get Enough of You Baby”
“Can’t Get Enough of You Baby” holds a special place in Smash Mouth’s history as the lead single from Astro Lounge in the late 90s. Its popularity is so enduring that many are unaware it’s yet another cover in their impressive catalog. Originally written by Denny Randell and Sandy Linzer and first performed by The Four Seasons, it was later reimagined by garage rock band ? & the Mysterians in 1967.
Smash Mouth’s version retains the swanky keys and swinging guitar elements that make the song timeless. “Can’t Get Enough of You Baby” experienced a resurgence in popularity after being featured in the popular teen movie Can’t Hardly Wait, further cementing its status as a feel-good classic. While a strong contender for Smash Mouth’s best song, it’s just edged out by the two monumental hits that follow.
2. “All Star”
You knew “All Star” was coming, but perhaps not at number 2. (The top spot is reserved for a very deserving song, as you’ll see.)
“All Star,” with its shimmering, optimistic sound, is instantly recognizable, whether from radio airwaves or the iconic opening of Shrek. Regardless of personal taste, “All Star” undeniably became a pop culture phenomenon upon its release on Astro Lounge in 1999. The music video, a nod to the 1999 film Mystery Men, perfectly captures the song’s spirit. “All Star” centers on a narrator who, despite acknowledging life’s challenges, chooses optimism and embraces a positive outlook. The song’s message is clear: being an “all star” is not about external achievements but an internal state of mind.
“All Star” is undeniably Smash Mouth’s biggest commercial success, an anthem that transcended genres and generations. Steve Harwell, in a 2014 interview with Vice, addressed the song’s enduring appeal: “It’s weird, people ask me, ‘Do you get bored of playing these songs?’ I’m like, ‘Why would I get bored of playing them? This is what puts bread and butter on my table.’ You know, there’s always somebody in the crowd who hasn’t heard it. Or hasn’t seen it live. When I go out onstage, I look at it that way. Once that classic song starts, people just go bananas. Has ‘Free Bird’ ever got old?'”
1. “Walkin’ on the Sun”
While “All Star” may be their most commercially successful hit, “Walkin’ on the Sun” claims the top spot as Smash Mouth’s most musically sophisticated and enduring masterpiece. With its jazzy instrumentation, Steve Harwell’s smooth vocals, and the unforgettable keyboard solo after the second chorus, “Walkin’ on the Sun” is a song that only improves with each listen. Unlike “All Star,” which some may tire of, “Walkin’ on the Sun” retains its freshness and appeal.
Even more impressively, “Walkin’ on the Sun” was Smash Mouth’s debut single, immediately propelling them into the mainstream, reaching #1 on both the US Billboard Adult Contemporary and Alternative AirPlay charts. This original song laid the foundation for their future success, paving the way for “All Star” to become the global phenomenon it is. “Walkin’ on the Sun” walked so “All Star” could run.
Beyond its musical brilliance, “Walkin’ on the Sun” is lyrically rich, filled with clever rhymes and insightful observations. The lines “So don’t delay, act now, supplies are running out / Allow, if you’re still alive, six to eight years to arrive!” are a prime example of its lyrical wit. Many are unaware that this 1997 Fush Mu Yang single was inspired by the Rodney King riots and Greg Camp’s reflections on the social climate of the late 90s. It ironically captures the era’s zeitgeist.
The phrase “Walkin’ on the Sun” carries a double meaning: on the surface, it evokes the carefree, commercialized atmosphere of the 90s, but simultaneously, it hints at the underlying social tensions and unfulfilled promises of progress in America. Smash Mouth, with “Walkin’ on the Sun,” proved they were capable of more than just catchy tunes; they could deliver music with depth and social commentary.
Rest in peace, Steve Harwell. We hope you’re eternally “Walkin’ on the Sun.”
Explore a wide range of free stations streaming Smash Mouth music at Live365.com.
Discover thousands of free stations spanning every genre of music and talk at live365.com/listen. Stay up-to-date with the latest news by following us on Facebook (Live365 (Official) and Live365 Broadcasting) and Twitter (@Live365 and @Broadcaster365)!
