David Brent's playlist: Bob Marley, Des’ree, Mike + the Mechanics and more

The reality TV star and Foregone Conclusion frontman shares some of the music that inspires him – plus some of his own compositions, to help inspire others

Streets of Philadelphia – Bruce Springsteen

Even though this is a song about a bloke slowly dying of Aids, Bruce keeps it upbeat and catchy. That’s why he’s the boss.

Slough – David Brent

Everything in this song is factually accurate, so you can learn as you listen. Clever.

Crazy Maze – Des’ree

“Money don’t make my world go round / I’m reaching out to a higher ground.” Me too, Des’ree. Me too.

Ooh La La – David Brent

This is a song about driving across America, picking up chicks on the way. They say you should write about what you know, and I know I would like to do that one day.

Every Breath You Take – The Police

Sting singing about keeping his eye on some girl. It’s a lovely tune, but someone should tell him the difference between wooing and stalking.

Lady Gypsy – David Brent

This is a song about when I first had intercourse with a gypsy. A lady gypsy, obviously.

Fast Car – Tracy Chapman

A lovely song about how Tracy wants a lift out of town to get away from her lazy drunk father.

Luka – Suzanne Vega

Vega had a mega hit with this song about a noisy, accident-prone kid who used to live in the flat above her. I bet she was able to move out when the royalties came flooding in.

No Woman No Cry – Bob Marley

Bob bloody loved women, but no one likes it when they cry.

Living Years – Mike + the Mechanics

A cracking tune from Mike about his dead dad.

David Brent

The GuardianTramp

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