"Babies" is one of Pulp’s most iconic and beloved singles, written by Jarvis Cocker and released initially in 1992. The song later appeared on their breakthrough album His 'n' Hers (1994), propelling Pulp further into prominence during the rise of Britpop. Its catchy hooks and confessional, voyeuristic lyrics are emblematic of the band’s sly narrative style123.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Artist | Pulp |
| Songwriter | Jarvis Cocker |
| Release Date | October 5, 1992 (single), 1994 (album) |
| Album | His 'n' Hers |
| Genre | Britpop, Indie Pop |
| Length | ~4:05 |
Background & Composition
The origins of "Babies" lie in a playful band session, where drummer Nick Banks stumbled on a quirky guitar riff that caught Jarvis Cocker’s attention. The song moved Pulp into a poppier sound, marked by bright new-wavey guitar lines and candid, irreverent storytelling. Cocker described it as “a fairly poppy song with slightly iffy subject matter”—noting it marked the first time the band had written a true pop track1.
Story & Lyrical Themes
"Babies" is a coming-of-age drama full of youthful curiosity, awkward desire, and complicated affection. The lyrics narrate from the perspective of a teenage boy who becomes obsessed with listening to his friend’s older sister having relationships. Driven by curiosity, he hides in her wardrobe to watch her encounters and ultimately winds up in an encounter with her himself. The ensuing drama unfolds upon being discovered by the original object of his affection, leading to his infamous excuse: “I only went with her ‘cos she looks like you”124.
Key Themes:
- Teenage longing and voyeurism
- Confession, guilt, and mixed-up love
- The confusion and nostalgia of adolescence
- Taboo-breaking curiosity
Music & Performance
Musically, "Babies" stands out with its infectious indie-pop arrangement—featuring peppy guitars, toe-tapping drums, and Jarvis Cocker’s wry, narrative vocal delivery. Its energetic instrumentation captured a lighter, more accessible Pulp, which helped bring them mainstream success25. The song quickly became a staple of the band’s live performances and is widely considered a highlight of their catalog6.
Reception & Legacy
Although the original 1992 release didn’t chart, a 1994 remix included in The Sisters EP reached #19 on the UK Singles Chart. Critics and fans have consistently cited "Babies" as one of Pulp's best songs—praised for its honesty, humor, and catchiness123. The track also contributed to Pulp’s transition from cult favorites to Britpop stardom.
Selected Lyrics
"Well it happened years ago when you lived on Stanhope Road
We listened to your sister when she came home from school
'Cause she was two years older and she had boys in her room..."
Chorus:
"Oh I want to take you home
I want to give you children
You might be my girlfriend, yeah..."
Music Videos
Two music videos exist: the first—directed by Jarvis Cocker—features two real-life sisters and visually matches the song’s mix of innocence and mischief. Island Records later commissioned a second video, which was used to support the 1994 re-release and The Sisters EP1.
Notable Live Performances
- First performed in 1991 and became a concert mainstay, including at major festivals through 20256.
Cultural Impact
The song remains a celebrated example of Britpop’s blend of irony and honesty, reflecting the specific awkwardness and intensity of adolescence. Its invitation to recall youthful mistakes and secret longings resonates across generations124.
"Babies" endures as a witty, infectious song about the mess and mystery of growing up—defining both Pulp’s breakthrough and the spirit of a genre.
