Me Me Me
Pressing Play
Hello you. Make a cup of tea, put a record on. Welcome to The A to Z of Britpop, your introduction to the bands, music, and characters that defined the most exciting genre of the 1990s. In this article, we introduce Me Me Me, a Britpop supergroup whose witty collaboration showcased the playful and experimental side of the era.
Britpop was built on personalities, fierce rivalries, soundbites, and, of course, the music that defined a decade. It captured the restless energy of the country and signaled a wave of optimism across the UK that had been missing for years.
Each entry in this series is a fact file, giving you the key details: who they were, where they came from, and what they made. It’s the perfect starting point for revisiting the era if you were there or figuring out why your mum or dad keeps going on about it.
Overview
Originated in: London, England
Active years: 1996
Associated genres: Britpop
Record labels: Indolent
Members: Alex James – vocals, bass / Stephen Duffy – vocals, guitar / Justin Welch – drums / Charlie Bloor – musician
Formation and Early Years
Formed in 1996 as a one-off project by Alex James (Blur), Stephen Duffy (The Lilac Time), and Justin Welch (Elastica), with contributions from Alex James' friend Charlie Bloor.
Created to compose the soundtrack for Damien Hirst’s short film Hanging Around, shown at London’s Hayward Gallery during the Spellbound Exhibition.
The collaboration reflected Britpop’s penchant for boundary-pushing experiments, blending humor and sharp lyricism.
Rise to Prominence
Released their only single, "Hanging Around," on August 5, 1996, reaching No. 19 on the UK Singles Chart.
The single was accompanied by B-sides "Hollywood Wives" and "Tabitha’s Island," showcasing the group’s wit and stylistic range.
Their polished production and satirical lyrics cemented the project as a Britpop gem.
Commercial Success and Albums
Me Me Me did not release a full album but left a lasting impression with their debut single, which continues to be celebrated by Britpop fans.
"Hanging Around" encapsulates the mid-90s cultural zeitgeist, blending indie rock with sharp social commentary.
Later Activities and Legacy
Following this collaboration, the members returned to their respective bands and careers: Alex James with Blur, Stephen Duffy with The Lilac Time, and Justin Welch with Elastica.
Me Me Me remains a one-of-a-kind project that captures the experimental ethos of Britpop’s peak.
Notable Facts
"Hanging Around" was created as part of the soundtrack for Damien Hirst’s short film of the same name, blending music with contemporary visual art.
The single reached No. 19 on the UK Singles Chart, securing its place as a cult favorite of the era.
The group featured prominent figures from three of Britpop’s most celebrated acts, making it a true supergroup.
Defining Lyric
"I like coffee you like tea" – Hanging Around
Discography
Hanging Around (1996)
Essential Listening
"Hanging Around" – The standout single showcasing Britpop’s sharp, satirical edge.
"Hollywood Wives" – A playful B-side that underscores their knack for cultural critique.
"Tabitha’s Island" – A more reflective track that rounds out their brief but brilliant catalog.
Why You Should Be Listening to Me Me Me Now
Me Me Me captured the playful and experimental spirit of Britpop in just one single. "Hanging Around" remains a sharp, witty time capsule of the 90s, reminding us how much could be said with one great song.
See you on down the road.
