The ocean is just one of nature’s many wonders that is a popular theme in music. It is common for musicians to use imagery to describe their emotions. The ocean is a great example of this imagery, as it can be used to portray so many different emotions.
So without further ado, here is my list of the best songs about the ocean of all time!
1. Ocean Eyes by Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish burst onto the music scene with the release of “Ocean Eyes” in 2016. The song featured on her debut EP, Don’t Smile at Me and quickly climbed to the very top of the music charts.
The song “Ocean Eyes” sees Eilish comparing the love she has for a guy to the ocean, with the color and depth of the ocean used as a metaphor to describe how this love makes her feel.
Eilish was only 14 years old when she released this brilliant track. Add “Ocean Eyes” to your playlist today and experience the majestic sound of Billie Eilish.
2. I’m The Ocean by Neil Young
Neil Young has been hailed as one of the best songwriters of all time and was inducted into the songwriter’s hall of fame in 2017. It is clear to see why he was awarded this illustrious title when you listen to songs like “I’m The Ocean.” Released in 1995, “I’m The Ocean” featured on the album Mirrorball and is a song about accepting that life goes on.
Just as the tides ebb and flow, so do the days of our lives, which is one of the main messages that Young conveys in “I’m The Ocean.” Life is not easy and will always have its ups and downs, but whether you sink or swim is up to you.
3. Oceans by JAY-Z (Feat. Frank Ocean)
Rapper JAY-Z teams up with Frank Ocean in this rap song about fame and success. “Oceans” describes the life the rapper has now, on yachts with bottles of champagne chilling on ice.
It was released in 2013 on JAY-Z’s album Magna Carta Holy Grail. Add some hip-hop to your playlist when you listen to “Oceans” from my ocean songs playlist.
4. Soak up the Sun by Sheryl Crow
Summer brings hot, sunny days that are meant to be spent on the beach having fun with a friend or simply catching a tan. “Soak up the Sun” by Sheryl Crow is a reminder of all the things we love about Summer.
Released in 2002 on the album C’Mon C’Mon, “Soak up the Sun” is a feel-good song that makes for easy listening. Give “Soak up the Sun” a listen when you add it to your playlist of the best songs about the ocean.
5. Once Upon a Time There Was an Ocean by Paul Simon
Paul Simon wows with this 2006 release of “Once Upon a Time There Was an Ocean.” Featured on the album Surprise, the song has a melodic, upbeat tune that fans have come to expect from this legendary singer.
“Once Upon a Time There Was an Ocean,” tells the tale of how life changes. All we can do is accept these changes and live our lives as happy and as best we can. Gather your thoughts as you listen to this musical masterpiece by none other than Paul Simon.
6. Come Sail Away by Styx
70s band Styx were known for their melancholy, heartfelt songs about life and love. “Come Sail Away” is a song released in 1977 that encourages listeners to follow their wildest dreams, no matter how big they may seem.
Having the courage to pursue your dreams is much like diving into the deep blue ocean, but with “Come Sail Away” as your song of hope and courage, you can do just about anything. Add this 70s classic to your list of the best songs about the ocean and experience Styx at its best.
7. Beyond the Sea by Bobby Darin
I am sure you have heard “Beyond the Sea” at least once in your lifetime. Whether you have listened to the cover by Robbie Williams or the original by singer Bobby Darin, “Beyond the Sea” is a timeless classic that belongs on any list of the best songs about the ocean.
“Beyond the Sea” was released in 1959 on Darin’s album That’s All. It is the perfect song for those rainy days when you are missing your lover and has an upbeat tune that is sure to lighten even the darkest mood. Give it a listen today, and let “Beyond the Sea” warm the cockles of your heart.
8. Life’s an Ocean by The Verve
Life, and all its chaos can often leave you feeling like you are drowning in a sea of emotion. This is how The Verve describes life in their song “Life’s an Ocean.” Released in 1995 on the album A Northern Soul, “Life’s an Ocean” has a trance-like sound to it that will relax your mind and let your thoughts run wild.
Let The Verve help you navigate your way through life with one of their greatest songs about life and the chaos that often consumes you.
9. Under The Boardwalk by The Drifters
The 60s were a great time for music and saw hits like “Under The Boardwalk” played on radio stations around the world. A perfect song for your summer playlist, “Under The Boardwalk” was released in 1964 by the doo-wop band The Drifters.
The song has a light-hearted feel as it tells of the long, lazy days of Summer spent with your lover. Grab your blanket and umbrella and head to the beach with “Under The Boardwalk,” playing as you frolic in the sun with that special someone.
10. The Ocean by Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin’s hit song “The Ocean” sadly brings us to the end of our list of best songs about the ocean. Released in 1973, the song featured on the soundtrack to the movie The Song Remains The Same.
Led Zeppelin compares their fans to the ocean by describing the swaying of the heads in the crowd that mimics a large wave on the ocean. “The Ocean” has a classic rock sound that we have come to expect from Led Zeppelin and is one of their best songs ever recorded.
Add “The Ocean” to your playlist today, and remember to turn up the volume as you sing along to this classic.
Alexandra loves playing the piano and guitar. She has always been a music lover, but it wasn’t until she was in high school that she realized how much she loved to play. It allowed her to express herself without having to be verbally expressive, which is something she found very empowering.