Billy Bragg – Back To Basics

Billy Bragg – Back to Basics

Back To Basics is a stripped-back collection that highlights the raw songwriting power and political clarity of Billy Bragg’s early work. Drawing from his formative years in the 1980s, the compilation showcases his unique blend of folk-influenced storytelling, punk ethos, and sharply observed social commentary delivered with just voice, guitar, and conviction.

Across these recordings, Bragg’s ability to turn everyday life into politically charged, emotionally resonant songwriting is on full display. Tracks like A New England and The Milkman Of Human Kindness balance personal reflection with broader social themes, while songs such as To Have And To Have Not and It Says Here directly confront issues of class, media influence, and political inequality.

The collection also includes some of his most enduring protest songs, including Between The Wars and Which Side Are You On, which reinforce his reputation as one of the most important political songwriters of his generation. Despite the simplicity of the arrangements, the emotional weight and lyrical precision give the music a lasting impact.

Back To Basics serves as both an introduction to Billy Bragg’s early catalogue and a reminder of the power of minimal, message-driven songwriting.

Tracklist:

1. The Milkman Of Human Kindness – 2:47
2. To Have And To Have Not – 2:32
3. Richard – 2:49
4. Lovers Town Revisited – 1:17
5. A New England – 1:17
6. The Man In The Iron Mask – 2:13
7. The Busy Girl Buys Beauty – 1:57
8. It Says Here – 4:15
9. Love Gets Dangerous – 2:23
10. From A Vauxhall Velox – 2:30
11. The Myth Of Trust – 2:53
12. The Saturday Boy – 3:28
13. Island Of No Return – 3:34
14. This Guitar Says Sorry – 2:29
15. Like Soldiers Do – 2:38
16. St. Swithin's Day – 3:52
17. Strange Things Happen – 2:38
18. A Lover Sings – 3:51
19. Between The Wars – 2:27
20. The World Turned Upside Down – 2:34
21. Which Side Are You On – 2:33