Deserts are one of the harshest environments on earth, characterized by their arid landscapes, scorching temperatures and scarcity of water. Despite their inhospitable nature, they have inspired countless songs that capture the beauty and mystery of these vast, barren wastelands. From the rolling sand dunes of the Sahara to the barren rock formations of the Mojave, the desert has been a source of inspiration for musicians across the globe. In this list of the top 20 songs about deserts, we’ll explore the diverse ways that musicians have depicted the desert in their music. From the sweeping, epic soundscapes of Ennio Morricone to the psychedelic rock of The Doors, these songs cover a wide range of styles and genres. Whether you’re a fan of country, rock, classical or pop, you’re sure to find something here that speaks to the unique beauty of the desert. So join us on this musical journey as we explore the top 20 songs about deserts.
1. “Lost On The Desert” by Johnny Cash
“Lost On The Desert” by Johnny Cash is a melancholic, yet captivating song that reflects on the feelings of solitude and abandonment. The singer paints a picture of a person wandering aimlessly in the desert, searching for purpose and direction. The music is hauntingly beautiful and complements the lyrics perfectly, creating an atmosphere of sadness and emptiness. The song showcases Johnny Cash’s ability to evoke strong emotions through his music, and remains a timeless classic. With its powerful storytelling and haunting melodies, “Lost On The Desert” is sure to leave a lasting impact on listeners.
2. “Desert Island” by Magnetic Fields
“Lost On The Desert” by Johnny Cash is a melancholic, yet captivating song that reflects on the feelings of solitude and abandonment. The singer paints a picture of a person wandering aimlessly in the desert, searching for purpose and direction. The music is hauntingly beautiful and complements the lyrics perfectly, creating an atmosphere of sadness and emptiness. The song showcases Johnny Cash’s ability to evoke strong emotions through his music, and remains a timeless classic. With its powerful storytelling and haunting melodies, “Lost On The Desert” is sure to leave a lasting impact on listeners.
3. “Arabian Sand” by The Coral
“Arabian Sand” by The Coral is a song that transports listeners to the vast and mystical deserts of the Middle East. The song features a unique blend of electric and acoustic instruments, creating a soundscape that captures the essence of the desert. With a dreamy and ethereal melody, the lyrics paint a picture of a journey through the sands, with a sense of mystery and wonder that makes it feel as though you are exploring the desert for the first time. The upbeat rhythm and contagious chorus will have you tapping your foot and singing along, as you are taken on a musical journey through the heart of the Arabian desert.
4. “Desert Rose” by Sting
“Desert Rose” by Sting is a romantic ballad with a Middle Eastern influenced melody and instrumentation. The song features Sting’s signature smooth and soulful vocals accompanied by a seductive violin and intricate percussion. The lyrics describe a love affair with a desert rose, a metaphor for a captivating and exotic woman. The song was a hit for Sting and became one of his most recognizable songs, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles into his own unique sound.
5. “Desert Star” by Shakra
“Desert Star” by Shakra is an upbeat rock song that highlights the power and beauty of the desert. The lyrics describe the desert as a place of mystery and magic, where the night sky is bright with stars. The singer invites the listener to come with him to this magical place and experience its power and wonder. With its catchy melody and driving rhythm, “Desert Star” is a song that will get stuck in your head and have you tapping your foot along with the beat. The song showcases the talented musicianship of Shakra, who delivers an energetic and unforgettable performance.
6. “Desert Plains” by Judas Priest
“Desert Plains” by Judas Priest is a classic rock song that takes listeners on a journey through the barren and unforgiving landscape of the desert. With its powerful guitar riffs and driving rhythm, the song creates an intense and energetic atmosphere that perfectly captures the feeling of being lost and alone in the desert. The lyrics, sung by legendary metal frontman Rob Halford, describe the challenges and hardships faced by those who venture into the desert, but also the sense of freedom and discovery that can be found there. “Desert Plains” is a classic example of Judas Priest’s distinctive brand of metal, and a testament to their ability to create powerful and memorable rock anthems.
7. “Barefoot Desert” by King Gizzard
“Barefoot Desert” by King Gizzard is a lively, upbeat track that showcases the band’s eclectic and experimental style. The song features a mix of psychedelic rock, surf rock, and world music influences, with groovy basslines and catchy guitar riffs. The lyrics evoke a sense of freedom and adventure, painting a picture of wandering through the desert without a care in the world. With its infectious energy and eclectic blend of musical styles, “Barefoot Desert” is a standout track that showcases the creative prowess of King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard.
8. “Desert Prayer” by Haddaway
“Desert Prayer” is a song by Haddaway, released in 1993. It is an uplifting, emotional ballad that features the singer’s powerful, soulful voice and a piano-driven instrumental. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a person who is feeling lost and in need of guidance, asking for a “desert prayer” to lead them to a better place. The message of the song is one of hope and resilience, encouraging listeners to hold onto their faith even in difficult times. The melody is haunting and memorable, and the song has been widely recognized as one of Haddaway’s most iconic works. Overall, “Desert Prayer” is a beautiful and timeless track that is sure to touch the hearts of listeners everywhere.
9. “Desert Moon” by Dennis DeYoung
“Desert Moon” is a song by Dennis DeYoung, released in 1984. It’s a mid-tempo rock ballad with a powerful melody and passionate vocals. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a person who is feeling lost and in search of something more, longing for a guiding light. The song’s hauntingly beautiful chorus is accompanied by DeYoung’s soaring vocals and a piano-driven instrumental, making it a standout track on his album. The message of the song is one of hope and perseverance, encouraging listeners to hold onto their dreams and never give up.
10. “Unusual Occurrences In The Desert” by Grateful Dead
“Unusual Occurrences in the Desert” is a song by Grateful Dead, released in 1989. The track is a rootsy, folk-inspired tune with a upbeat rhythm and catchy melody. The lyrics tell a quirky and imaginative story about strange and mysterious things happening in the desert, including encounters with snakes and aliens. The song’s upbeat and lighthearted tone is contrasted with its somewhat dark and surreal lyrics, making for an intriguing listening experience. The instrumentation is dominated by acoustic guitars, harmonica, and a steady percussion beat, giving the track a folksy and down-to-earth feel.
11. “Painted Desert” by Pat Benatar
“Painted Desert” is a song by Pat Benatar, released in 1993. It’s a mid-tempo rock ballad with a powerful melody and passionate vocals. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a person who is feeling lost and searching for meaning, wandering through a barren and unforgiving desert landscape. The instrumentation is driven by electric guitars and a steady beat, with Benatar’s powerful vocals taking center stage. The message of the song is one of hope and perseverance, encouraging listeners to hold onto their dreams and never give up, even in the face of adversity. Overall, “Painted Desert” is a standout track that showcases Pat Benatar’s powerful vocal range and emotional songwriting abilities. The song’s memorable melody and uplifting message make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
12. “Desert Song” by Dead Can Dance
“Desert Song” is a song by Dead Can Dance, released in 1988. It’s a haunting and atmospheric track that draws inspiration from Middle Eastern and world music traditions. The song’s instrumentation is dominated by exotic percussion instruments, such as hand drums and tambourines, and features ethereal female vocals and soaring melodies. The lyrics are a blend of Arabic and English, and deal with themes of longing and searching for a sense of belonging. Overall, “Desert Song” is a powerful and mesmerizing track that showcases the unique and innovative musical style of Dead Can Dance. The song’s intricate instrumentation, haunting vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics make it a standout track on their album, and a must-listen for fans of world music and atmospheric soundscapes.
13. “Desert Man” by Bat for Lashes
“Desert Man” is a song by Bat for Lashes, released in 2012. It’s an atmospheric and dreamy track that showcases the ethereal vocal stylings of frontwoman Natasha Khan. The song’s instrumentation is dominated by synths and electronic beats, with a slow and deliberate rhythm that builds to a soaring chorus. The lyrics tell a story of a person wandering through a desert landscape, searching for a sense of connection and meaning. “Desert Man” is a standout track that showcases Bat for Lashes’ unique musical style and the haunting beauty of Khan’s voice. The song’s atmospheric soundscapes and emotive lyrics make it a must-listen for fans of experimental and alternative music.
14. “The Return Of Rocky Mountain Slim And Desert Rat Shorty” by Woody Gutherie
“The Return of Rocky Mountain Slim and Desert Rat Shorty” is a song by Woody Guthrie, released in the 1940s. It’s a upbeat and playful track that showcases Guthrie’s signature folk style and his ability to tell stories through his music. The song’s lyrics follow the adventures of two characters, Rocky Mountain Slim and Desert Rat Shorty, as they travel the American West in search of work and adventure. “The Return of Rocky Mountain Slim and Desert Rat Shorty” is a fun and lively track that captures the spirit of Woody Guthrie’s music. With its upbeat melodies, clever lyrics, and infectious energy, the song is a must-listen for fans of folk music and Americana. It is a classic example of Guthrie’s musical storytelling ability and his contribution to the American musical landscape.
15. “Beneath A Desert Moon” by Sting
“Beneath a Desert Moon” is a song by Sting, released in 1994. It is a haunting and atmospheric ballad that showcases Sting’s powerful vocals and his ability to create mood and emotion through his music. The song’s instrumentation is dominated by acoustic guitars, strings, and percussion, with a slow and deliberate rhythm that builds to a soaring chorus. The lyrics paint a picture of a traveler wandering beneath a desert moon, searching for meaning and purpose. “Beneath a Desert Moon” is a standout track that showcases Sting’s versatility and musical talent. With its haunting melodies, emotive lyrics, and evocative soundscapes, the song is a must-listen for fans of alternative and world music. It is a testament to Sting’s musical prowess and his ability to create meaningful and thought-provoking music.
16. “Asleep In The Desert” by ZZ Top
“Asleep in the Desert” is a song by the American rock band ZZ Top, released in the 1990s. It is a classic rock track with a driving beat, raw guitar riffs, and energetic vocals. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a restless traveler who falls asleep in the desert and has a vivid dream. The dream sequence is depicted in a bluesy and psychedelic style, with distorted guitar solos and trippy sound effects. “Asleep in the Desert” is a fast-paced and energetic track that showcases ZZ Top’s musical style and virtuosity. With its driving beat, powerful guitar riffs, and unforgettable chorus, the song is a must-listen for fans of classic rock and blues-influenced music. It is a classic example of ZZ Top’s musical prowess and their contribution to the American musical landscape.
17. “Low Desert” by R.E.M.
“Low Desert” is a song by the American alternative rock band R.E.M., released in the 1990s. It is a melancholic and atmospheric track that showcases the band’s signature sound and introspective lyrics. The song’s instrumentation is dominated by atmospheric guitar textures, shimmering synths, and a steady drum beat. The lyrics paint a picture of a traveler wandering through the low desert, searching for meaning and purpose.
Overall, “Low Desert” is a standout track that showcases R.E.M.’s musical talent and versatility. With its atmospheric soundscapes, emotive lyrics, and introspective vibe, the song is a must-listen for fans of alternative rock and introspective music. It is a testament to R.E.M.’s musical prowess and their ability to create meaningful and thought-provoking music.
18. “Cry For The Desert” by Twila Paris
“Cry for the Desert” is a song by Christian singer-songwriter Twila Paris. The song is a spiritual ballad that reflects on the harsh conditions of the desert and the struggles faced by those who live in it. The lyrics evoke a sense of empathy and compassion for those who suffer in the desert, and ask for divine intervention to bring comfort and relief. The music is simple yet powerful, featuring a soft piano melody and Twila Paris’ soulful vocals. The overall atmosphere of the song is one of hope and comfort, despite the hardships depicted in the lyrics. “Cry for the Desert” is a beautiful and touching song that showcases Twila Paris’ musical and lyrical prowess. It is a must-listen for fans of Christian music and uplifting ballads.
19. “Desert Me” by Tantric
“Desert Me” is a song by American alternative rock band Tantric. The song is a powerful rock ballad that showcases the band’s ability to create an emotional and dynamic sound. The lyrics express feelings of confusion and frustration, as the singer tries to navigate through a difficult and uncertain situation. The song opens with a haunting guitar riff and builds into a full-on rock anthem, complete with driving drums, soaring guitar solos, and powerful vocals. The overall mood of the song is one of desperation, but also of resilience and determination. “Desert Me” is a standout track that showcases Tantric’s musical prowess and ability to create a compelling and memorable rock song. It is sure to appeal to fans of alternative and hard rock music.
20. “Flow This Desert” by Visions of Atlantis
“Flow This Desert” is a song by Austrian symphonic metal band Visions of Atlantis. The song is a powerful and epic metal ballad that showcases the band’s ability to create a grandiose and dramatic sound. The lyrics are inspired by the idea of a journey through a vast, barren desert, and express feelings of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.
The song opens with a sweeping orchestral intro that leads into a massive metal riff. The vocals soar above the instrumentation, conveying a sense of urgency and determination. The overall mood of the song is one of adventure and triumph, as the singer moves through the desert and overcomes the challenges along the way. “Flow This Desert” is a standout track that showcases Visions of Atlantis’s musical prowess and ability to create a powerful and dramatic metal ballad. It is sure to appeal to fans of symphonic metal and epic metal music.
Jared Parker is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
