The Flaming Lips, formed in Oklahoma City in 1983, are renowned for their eclectic and experimental approach to music. Fronted by Wayne Coyne, the band’s lineup includes Steven Drozd, Michael Ivins, and more recently, Derek Brown and Matt Kirksey. Known for their vibrant live performances and genre- blending sound, The Flaming Lips have carved out a unique niche in the alternative rock and neo-psychedelia scenes.
Singles
- “She Don’t Use Jelly”
- “Race for the Prize”
- “Do You Realize??”
- “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Pt. 1”
- “The W.A.N.D.”
- “The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song”
Discography
- “Hear It Is” (1986)
- “Oh My Gawd!!!” (1987)
- “Telepathic Surgery” (1989)
- “In a Priest Driven Ambulance” (1990)
- “Hit to Death in the Future Head” (1992)
- “Transmissions from the Satellite Heart” (1993)
- “Clouds Taste Metallic” (1995)
- “The Soft Bulletin” (1999)
- “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots” (2002)
- “At War with the Mystics” (2006)
- “Embryonic” (2009)
- “The Terror” (2013)
- “Oczy Mlody” (2017)
- “American Head” (2020)
Albums
- “The Soft Bulletin” – Often considered their magnum opus, featuring orchestral arrangements and introspective lyrics.
- “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots” – A concept album that brought them mainstream success with hits like “Do You Realize??”
- “Embryonic” – Known for its experimental sound and dark themes.
Significant Song Video Clips or Songs
- “She Don’t Use Jelly” – Their first major hit, accompanied by a quirky and memorable video.
- “Do You Realize??” – A song celebrated for its profound lyrics and visually stunning video.
- “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Pt. 1” – Known for its imaginative storytelling and engaging video.
Concerts
The Flaming Lips are famous for their elaborate and theatrical live performances, featuring confetti, balloons, elaborate light shows, and Coyne’s signature plastic bubble walk over the audience. They reached peak popularity in the early 2000s, performing at major festivals like Glastonbury, Coachella, and Lollapalooza. Their live shows attract large crowds, often drawing tens of thousands of fans, and are celebrated for their immersive and interactive nature.
Latest Project
The Flaming Lips’ latest album, “American Head” (2020), has been hailed as a return to their classic sound, blending heartfelt lyrics with lush, psychedelic instrumentation. The album explores themes of nostalgia and Americana, resonating deeply with both new listeners and long-time fans. Accompanying the album, the band has continued to innovate with live performances, including socially distanced concerts where both the band and the audience are encapsulated in plastic bubbles, ensuring safety while maintaining their signature immersive experience.