Afrobeat polyrhythms meet art-rock and Eno's production on a dense, ecstatic landmark led by 'Once in a Lifetime'. Layered and danceable, it expanded what a rock band could be. A high point of the era. Released in 1980, it's a key entry in Talking Heads's run.
On vinyl: Vintage copies and modern reissues both circulate — worth comparing condition and remaster notes before you buy.
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- Once in a Lifetime on Best Songs of the 1980s
We don't reproduce full tracklists — only the songs from this record we've featured in our best-of lists.
More from Talking Heads — where to go next
If you have Remain in Light, these are the Talking Heads records worth reaching for next.
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1
More Songs About Buildings and Food1978 · Punk & New WaveStart here
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2
Fear of Music1979 · Punk & New WaveEssential
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3
Talking Heads: 771977 · Punk & New WaveClassic
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4
Remain in Light1980 · you're viewing this oneClassic
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5
Speaking in Tongues1983 · RockClassic