“Overkill” is a melancholic yet melodic rock song by Men at Work, released in March 1983 with “Till the Money Runs Out” on the B-side as the second single from their second album Cargo. The song became one of the band’s most introspective and emotionally resonant hits, showcasing a more serious and mature tone compared to their earlier, more playful tracks like Down Under and Who Can It Be Now?.
Overkill explores themes of anxiety, insomnia, and existential worry. The song conveys a sense of unease and uncertainty, making it widely relatable.
The song features an atmospheric arrangement, with rich synth textures, clean guitar arpeggios, and a steady, driving rhythm. Colin Hay’s evocative vocals carry a mix of melancholy and longing, reinforcing the song’s emotional weight. The saxophone solo adds a layer of wistfulness, making Overkill both introspective and cinematic.
The song was a commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and performing well in Australia and Canada. Though it wasn’t as instantly recognizable as Down Under, it has grown into one of Men at Work’s most respected and enduring songs.