Hollywood has been the epicenter of the American entertainment industry for over a century. It’s a place of glamour, fame, and fortune, and has been the subject of countless songs over the years. These songs have celebrated the glitz and glitter of Tinseltown, as well as its dark and seedy underbelly. From upbeat numbers about the bright lights of Hollywood Boulevard to ballads about the loneliness and heartbreak of stardom, the songs about Hollywood offer a fascinating glimpse into this iconic American city. Whether you’re a fan of classic Hollywood or the modern-day industry, these songs capture the essence of what makes Hollywood so special. From the golden era of Hollywood musicals to the modern-day pop charts, the city has inspired a wealth of musical talent and creativity. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best songs about Hollywood and what they have to say about the city and the people who live and work there.
1. “Celebrity Skin” by Hole
“Celebrity Skin” is a rock song by the American alternative rock band Hole, released in 1998. It was the title track of the band’s third studio album and became one of their biggest hits, reaching the top 40 in several countries. The song features catchy guitar riffs and upbeat drums, with lyrics that mock the superficiality and artificiality of fame and celebrity culture. Lead singer Courtney Love sings about wanting to be a “celebrity skin” and the obsession with beauty and glamour in Hollywood. The song reflects a larger theme in Hole’s music of critiquing societal norms and the dark side of fame. With its driving beat and sarcastic lyrics, “Celebrity Skin” is a quintessential anthem for anyone who’s ever felt disillusioned with the Hollywood lifestyle.
2. “Say Goodbye To Hollywood” by Billy Joel
“Say Goodbye To Hollywood” is a song by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel, released in 1976 on his album “Turnstiles”. The song is a nostalgic ballad that reflects on the fading glamour of Hollywood, as seen through the eyes of a young man trying to make it in the entertainment industry. The lyrics paint a picture of a once-glorious place that has lost its luster and become a place of broken dreams and discarded hopes. Despite the melancholic tone of the song, it is driven by a lively and upbeat melody, featuring a pulsing piano riff and lively horns. “Say Goodbye To Hollywood” is a classic Billy Joel song that captures the essence of the Hollywood dream and the bittersweet reality of life in the entertainment industry. With its memorable chorus and catchy melody, it remains a popular and enduring tribute to Hollywood’s golden era.
3. “Glamorous” by Fergie
“Glamorous” is a pop song by American singer-songwriter Fergie, released in 2006. The song features a guest verse from rapper Ludacris and was a commercial success, reaching the top five on charts in several countries. “Glamorous” is an upbeat and catchy celebration of Hollywood life and the pursuit of fame and fortune. Fergie sings about the thrill of living a glamorous lifestyle, surrounded by beautiful people, luxury cars, and designer clothes. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and infectious beat make it a fun and energetic anthem for anyone who wants to live life to the fullest. Despite its lighthearted tone, “Glamorous” also touches on some of the darker aspects of fame, such as the pressure to maintain a perfect image and the toll it can take on one’s personal life. Nevertheless, the song remains a popular and iconic celebration of Hollywood’s glamour and glitz.
4. “Hollywood” by Guy Clark
“Hollywood” is a country song by American singer-songwriter Guy Clark, released in 1995 on his album “Dublin Blues”. The song is a reflective ballad that takes a poignant look at the darker side of Hollywood and the price of fame. Clark sings about a washed-up actor who finds himself stranded in Hollywood after years of living the high life. He reflects on the emptiness of the Hollywood dream and the toll it takes on those who chase it. Despite its melancholic tone, “Hollywood” is a beautiful and introspective song that captures the bittersweet reality of life in the entertainment industry. With its simple and straightforward melody, it highlights Clark’s skill as a storyteller and his ability to convey complex emotions through his music. “Hollywood” is a classic Guy Clark song that provides a poignant commentary on the Hollywood dream and its impact on those who chase it.
5. “Hollywood” by Michael Bublé
“Hollywood” is a pop song by Canadian singer Michael Bublé, released in 2009 on his album “Crazy Love”. The song is a romantic ballad that takes a nostalgic look at the glamour and glitz of Hollywood and the timeless appeal of the American dream. Bublé sings about the magic of Hollywood and the promise of love and happiness that it holds. He croons about being swept away by the romance of the city and its allure, comparing it to a fairy tale come to life. With its lush orchestration and Bublé’s velvety vocals, “Hollywood” is a sweeping love letter to one of the world’s most iconic cities. The song is a classic example of Bublé’s style, which blends classic pop, jazz, and swing influences to create a unique and timeless sound. “Hollywood” is a charming and nostalgic tribute to one of the most iconic cities in the world.
6. “Hollywood” by Erykah Badu
“Hollywood” is a soulful R&B song by American singer Erykah Badu, released in 2000 on her album “Mama’s Gun”. The song is a slow and bluesy meditation on the allure and illusions of Hollywood and the pursuit of fame. Badu sings about the emptiness of the Hollywood dream and the sacrifices one must make to achieve it. She reflects on the price of success and the toll it can take on one’s spirit and soul. Despite its somber tone, “Hollywood” is a powerful and insightful song that captures the bittersweet reality of life in the entertainment industry. With its moody and atmospheric production, Badu’s soulful vocals, and introspective lyrics, “Hollywood” is a standout track from her critically acclaimed album “Mama’s Gun”. The song is a classic example of Badu’s unique style, which blends elements of soul, R&B, jazz, and hip-hop to create a sound that is both timeless and contemporary.
7. “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses
“Welcome to the Jungle” is a hard rock song by American rock band Guns N’ Roses, released in 1987 on their debut album “Appetite for Destruction”. The song is a fierce and explosive anthem that takes on the rough-and-tumble world of Hollywood and its dark underbelly. Singer Axl Rose sneers about the danger and violence lurking in the shadows of the city, warning listeners that they better be prepared for what they’ll find there. With its crunching riffs, driving beat, and Rose’s aggressive vocals, “Welcome to the Jungle” is a quintessential example of Guns N’ Roses’ trademark sound, which blends elements of heavy metal, punk, and classic rock to create a powerful and abrasive style. The song became a massive hit for the band and has since become one of their most iconic and recognizable tracks. “Welcome to the Jungle” is a classic Guns N’ Roses song that provides a searing commentary on the dark side of the Hollywood dream.
8. “Hollywood” by Codeine Velvet Club
“Hollywood” is a dark and brooding song by Scottish band Codeine Velvet Club, released in 2010 on their self-titled album. The song is a haunting and atmospheric take on the seductive power of Hollywood and the dangerous illusions it creates. Singer Lou Hickey delivers a moody and dramatic vocal performance, singing about the dark and decadent side of Hollywood and the price of fame. With its atmospheric production, pulsing beats, and Hickey’s passionate vocals, “Hollywood” is a standout track from the Codeine Velvet Club’s debut album. The song is a classic example of the band’s unique style, which blends elements of dark pop, trip-hop, and goth rock to create a sound that is both brooding and hypnotic. “Hollywood” is a mesmerizing and haunting song that provides a powerful commentary on the dangerous allure of the entertainment industry.
9. “Hollywood” by Madonna
“Hollywood” is a dance-pop song by American singer Madonna, released in 2003 on her ninth studio album “American Life”. The song is a playful and tongue-in-cheek take on the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, with Madonna singing about the contradictions and illusions of the entertainment industry. The production is upbeat and bouncy, with a thumping beat, shimmering synths, and Madonna’s infectious vocals. The song is a classic example of Madonna’s enduring musical style, which blends elements of dance, pop, and electronic music to create a sound that is both energetic and stylish. “Hollywood” is a fun and upbeat song that provides a lighthearted commentary on the dazzling world of Hollywood and the entertainment industry. The song was a top 40 hit in many countries and remains a beloved and iconic track in Madonna’s extensive discography.
10. “Hollywood’s Bleeding” by Post Malone
“Hollywood’s Bleeding” is a hip-hop and trap-influenced song by American rapper and singer Post Malone, released in 2019 on his third studio album of the same name. The song is a moody and introspective take on the shallow and transient nature of Hollywood, with Post Malone rapping about the struggles and temptations of fame and success. The production is dark and atmospheric, with a haunting beat, brooding synths, and Post Malone’s distinctive vocals. The song is a classic example of Post Malone’s unique style, which blends elements of hip-hop, pop, and rock to create a sound that is both energetic and introspective. “Hollywood’s Bleeding” is a powerful and thought-provoking song that provides a commentary on the dark side of the entertainment industry and the pressures of success. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 of the charts in many countries and solidifying Post Malone’s status as one of the biggest names in contemporary hip-hop.
11. “Paparazzi” by Lady Gaga
“Paparazzi” is a dance-pop and electronic rock song by American singer Lady Gaga, released in 2009 on her debut studio album “The Fame”. The song is a commentary on the price of fame and the intrusion of the media, with Lady Gaga singing about the dangerous obsession with celebrity and the desire for attention. The production is upbeat and energetic, with a pulsing beat, shimmering synths, and Lady Gaga’s powerful vocals. The song is a classic example of Lady Gaga’s musical style, which blends elements of pop, dance, and electronic music to create a sound that is both stylish and edgy. “Paparazzi” is a fun and provocative song that provides a commentary on the dark side of fame and the obsession with celebrity. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 of the charts in many countries and establishing Lady Gaga as a major force in pop music. The song remains a beloved and iconic track in Lady Gaga’s extensive discography.
12. “Hollywood Wh***” by Machine Gun Kelly
“Hollywood Whore” is a rap rock song by American rapper and singer Machine Gun Kelly, released in 2019 on his fifth studio album “Hotel Diablo”. The song is a commentary on the superficial and materialistic nature of Hollywood, with Machine Gun Kelly rapping about the corruption and exploitation of the entertainment industry. The production is energetic and abrasive, with a pounding beat, distorted guitars, and Machine Gun Kelly’s aggressive vocals. The song is a classic example of Machine Gun Kelly’s musical style, which blends elements of rap, rock, and punk to create a sound that is both rebellious and cathartic. “Hollywood Whore” is a powerful and unapologetic song that provides a commentary on the dark side of fame and the excesses of Hollywood. The song was well received by fans and critics, and helped to further establish Machine Gun Kelly as a leading figure in the rap rock genre.
13. “Hollywood Nights” by Bob Seger
“Hollywood Nights” is a rock and roll song by American singer-songwriter Bob Seger, released in 1978 on his album “Stranger in Town”. The song is a nostalgic reflection on a wild night in Hollywood, with Bob Seger singing about the excitement, romance, and danger of the city’s legendary music scene. The production is classic rock, with driving guitars, pounding drums, and Bob Seger’s smooth vocals. The song is a classic example of Bob Seger’s musical style, which blends elements of rock, blues, and soul to create a sound that is both gritty and soulful. “Hollywood Nights” is a timeless and upbeat song that captures the energy and excitement of Hollywood’s golden age. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 of the charts and helping to establish Bob Seger as a major figure in rock music. The song remains a beloved and iconic track in Bob Seger’s extensive discography.
14. “Hollywood” by Lewis Capaldi
“Hollywood” is a pop ballad by Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi, released in 2019 on his debut album “Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent”. The song is a heartbroken lament about a failed relationship, with Lewis Capaldi singing about the pain of losing someone he loves to the allure of fame and success. The production is lush and emotional, with sweeping strings, piano, and Lewis Capaldi’s soulful vocals. The song is a classic example of Lewis Capaldi’s musical style, which combines elements of pop, soul, and folk to create a sound that is both intimate and universal. “Hollywood” is a touching and relatable song that explores the themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of happiness. The song was a critical and commercial success, reaching the top 10 of the charts and helping to establish Lewis Capaldi as one of the most talented and appealing new artists of his generation. The song remains a standout track in Lewis Capaldi’s growing discography.
15. “Lost in Hollywood” by System of a Down
“Lost in Hollywood” is a heavy metal song by the Armenian-American band System of a Down, released on their 2005 album “Hypnotize”. The song is a fast-paced, energetic track that combines elements of metal, punk, and alternative rock to create a unique and powerful sound. The lyrics are a commentary on the decadence and excess of Hollywood culture, with the band singing about the dangers of losing oneself in the pursuit of fame and fortune. The song features fast and intricate guitar work, driving drums, and powerful vocals from lead singer Serj Tankian. The song is a standout track on the album, showcasing System of a Down’s musical prowess and their ability to write powerful and insightful music that transcends genres and borders. “Lost in Hollywood” remains a popular and enduring track in the band’s extensive discography and is a must-listen for fans of heavy metal, punk, and alternative rock.
16. “Hollywood” by America
“Hollywood” is a classic rock song by the American folk-rock band America, released on their 1971 album “America”. The song is a mellow, acoustic-driven track that showcases the band’s signature harmonies and melodic songwriting. The lyrics describe the allure of Hollywood and the promise of fame and fortune that draws people to the city. The song has a nostalgic and bittersweet tone, as the narrator reflects on the illusions and disillusionment that can come with chasing one’s dreams in Hollywood. The song features lush harmonies, intricate acoustic guitar work, and a simple, yet effective, keyboard melody that creates a warm and inviting soundscape. “Hollywood” is considered one of America’s signature songs and remains a staple of their live performances to this day. The song’s timeless appeal and enduring popularity make it a must-listen for fans of classic rock, folk, and Americana.
17. “Hollywood Swinging” by Kool & The Gang
“Hollywood Swinging” is a funky, upbeat song by the legendary R&B and funk band Kool & The Gang. The song was released in 1973 and became one of the band’s biggest hits, reaching #6 on the R&B charts. The song features a groovy, bass-driven beat, jazzy horns, and playful keyboards that create a joyful and danceable sound. The lyrics of “Hollywood Swinging” celebrate the vibrant, free-spirited lifestyle of the Hollywood scene, encouraging listeners to let loose and have a good time. The song’s catchy hook, infectious energy, and tight musicianship have made it a classic of the funk genre and a staple of Kool & The Gang’s live shows. “Hollywood Swinging” is a fun, lighthearted tribute to the vibrant and carefree spirit of Hollywood, and it remains a popular party anthem to this day.
18. “Hollywood Tonight” by Michael Jackson
“Hollywood Tonight” is a pop-dance song by the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The song was released posthumously in 2011 as part of his second posthumous album, “Michael.” The song was written and produced by Teddy Riley and Michael Jackson, and it features Jackson’s signature powerful vocals and energetic dance beats. The lyrics of “Hollywood Tonight” tell the story of a young dancer trying to make it in Hollywood and chasing their dreams, with lines like “She’s a fighter, been through the ropes, now she’s ready to shine.” The song is a testament to Jackson’s own experiences as a young performer in Hollywood and his lifelong passion for dance and music. “Hollywood Tonight” is a high-energy, upbeat song that showcases Jackson’s legendary vocal talent and his incredible ability to craft memorable pop tunes.
19. “Little Hollywood Girl” by The Everly Brothers
“Little Hollywood Girl” is a song by The Everly Brothers, a famous American rock and roll duo. The song is a classic ballad that tells the story of a young girl who moves to Hollywood to pursue her dreams of fame and fortune. With its beautiful harmonies and emotional lyrics, the song captures the excitement and disappointment that often come with chasing one’s dreams in the entertainment industry. The Everly Brothers were known for their blend of country, rock, and pop music, and their smooth harmonies have made them one of the most influential duos in music history. “Little Hollywood Girl” remains a beloved classic that captures the essence of the Hollywood dream.
20. “Hollywood” by Alabama
“Hollywood” by Alabama is a nostalgic country ballad that reflects on the dreams and ambitions of a young man as he sets out for Hollywood to pursue his dreams of fame and fortune. With its soft acoustic guitar, pedal steel, and harmonica, the song captures the romanticized idea of Hollywood as a place where anything is possible. The protagonist describes his hopes and fears as he sets out on his journey, with lines like “I’ll find my way to the top, I’ll make it big, I’ll be a star” underscored by Alabama’s signature harmonies. The song is a touching tribute to the enduring allure of Hollywood and the dreams that still captivate people’s imaginations.
Jason Smith 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.
