Art has been used for centuries as a form of expression and representation. One of the most fundamental skills in art is the ability to draw. Drawing is not only a fundamental skill in the arts, but it also has many practical applications, such as in design, engineering, and architecture. Music, as another form of art, has the power to evoke emotions and express ideas that cannot be communicated through words alone. It is no surprise that many musicians have written songs about the art of drawing. In this article, we will explore the top 20 songs about drawing. These songs range from encouraging the listener to pursue their artistic passions to using drawing as a metaphor for other aspects of life. From classic rock to modern pop, these songs showcase the diverse ways in which drawing can be celebrated through music. Whether you are an aspiring artist or simply appreciate the art of drawing, these songs will inspire and move you. So grab your sketchbook and pencils and let’s dive into the top 20 songs about drawing!
1. “Art For Art’s Sake” by 10cc
“Art For Art’s Sake” is a song by the British rock band 10cc, released in 1975. The song was written by band members Eric Stewart and Graham Gouldman and is a commentary on the commercialization of art. The track features intricate harmonies, a catchy guitar riff, and witty lyrics that poke fun at the idea that art must serve a commercial purpose. The song was a hit in the UK, reaching number five on the charts. “Art For Art’s Sake” has since become a beloved classic rock song and a staple on radio playlists. It is considered one of 10cc’s signature tracks and a testament to the band’s unique style and creativity.
2. “Pictures in the Sand” by The Kinks
“Pictures in the Sand” is a melancholic ballad by British rock band, The Kinks. The song, released in 1967, features a slow and gentle melody, accompanied by Ray Davies’ soulful vocals and poignant lyrics. The track speaks of the memories and fleeting moments of life that eventually fade away, leaving behind only pictures in the sand. The instrumentation is minimalistic, with a simple acoustic guitar and piano providing a soft and subtle accompaniment to the lyrics. “Pictures in the Sand” is a reflective and contemplative song, capturing the bittersweet essence of life and the transience of our experiences.
3. “Drawing Daisies” by Joe Castel
“Drawing Daisies” is a mellow, acoustic-driven indie-folk song by Joe Castel. The track, released in 2020, is marked by Castel’s soothing vocals and stripped-down instrumentation. The song’s arrangement is centered around a fingerpicked guitar pattern, with additional embellishments provided by subtle percussion and atmospheric synths. The lyrics of “Drawing Daisies” tell a story of nostalgia, of a person revisiting memories of their past and coming to terms with their present. Castel’s emotive delivery and sincere songwriting make “Drawing Daisies” a standout track, and a perfect accompaniment to moments of introspection and reflection.
4. “Every Picture Tells A Story” by Rod Stewart
“Every Picture Tells A Story” is a song by British singer-songwriter Rod Stewart, released in 1971. The song was the title track of Stewart’s third solo album and features his signature raspy voice, along with a memorable guitar riff and catchy chorus. The lyrics tell the story of a man reminiscing about his youth and the events that shaped him into the person he is today. The song was a critical and commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in the UK and the US. “Every Picture Tells A Story” is considered one of Rod Stewart’s greatest hits and a classic rock anthem that still resonates with audiences today.
5. “Pictures Of Matchstick Men” by Status Quo
“Pictures of Matchstick Men” is a psychedelic rock song by British band Status Quo. Released in 1968, the track features a catchy, guitar-driven riff that is instantly recognizable. The song’s lyrics describe a surreal world of matchstick men and women, with distorted vocals and swirling instrumentation adding to the trippy atmosphere. “Pictures of Matchstick Men” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries and helping to establish Status Quo as a prominent band of the late 1960s. The track’s innovative sound and infectious melody have since made it a classic of the psychedelic rock genre.
6. “Lite Brite” by Better Promises
“Lite Brite” is a song by American alternative rock band Better Promises, released in 2019. The song features a driving beat, energetic guitar riffs, and catchy vocals that blend elements of indie rock and pop-punk. The lyrics explore the challenges and frustrations of growing up and finding one’s place in the world, and the desire to break free from the constraints of societal norms and expectations. “Lite Brite” has been praised for its relatable lyrics and high-energy instrumentation, and has become a fan favorite at the band’s live shows. The song showcases Better Promises’ unique sound and dynamic songwriting, and highlights their potential as a rising talent in the alternative rock scene.
7. “Drawing Song” by LooLoo Kids
“Drawing Song” is a children’s song by LooLoo Kids, released in 2018. The song features simple and catchy lyrics, upbeat melodies, and a colorful and fun music video that encourages kids to use their imagination and creativity through drawing. The song helps children learn and develop their artistic skills while having fun and enjoying music. It has become a popular choice among parents and teachers looking for educational and entertaining content for young children. “Drawing Song” reflects LooLoo Kids’ dedication to creating high-quality and engaging music for children that is both educational and enjoyable.
8. “Modern Art” by Black Lips
“Modern Art” is a garage rock song by American band Black Lips. Released in 2011, the track is a fast-paced, high-energy anthem that showcases the band’s raw, DIY sound. The song features driving guitar riffs, pounding drums, and a catchy chorus that is both playful and rebellious. The lyrics of “Modern Art” satirize the art world and the pretentiousness that can sometimes come with it, with lines like “I don’t want to read your poetry, there’s no kind of art in that.” The track’s irreverent attitude and infectious energy make it a standout in Black Lips’ discography and a favorite among fans of garage rock.
9. “Drawing Crazy Patterns” by Texas
“Drawing Crazy Patterns” is a song by Scottish alternative rock band Texas, released in 1997 as part of their album “White on Blonde”. The song features a catchy chorus and a groovy instrumental section, with lead singer Sharleen Spiteri’s soulful voice leading the way. Lyrically, the song touches upon themes of lost love and emotional distress, with Spiteri’s lyrics describing her attempts to draw her feelings on paper. The song’s music video features the band performing in a surreal, dreamlike setting, further emphasizing the song’s themes of emotional turmoil and artistic expression. “Drawing Crazy Patterns” remains a fan favorite and a highlight of Texas’ extensive discography.
10. “Photograph” by Weezer
“Photograph” is a power-pop ballad by American band Weezer. Released in 2001, the song features a gentle, acoustic guitar-driven melody and emotive lyrics that tell the story of a lost love. The chorus, with its memorable refrain of “If you want to destroy my sweater, pull this thread as I walk away,” is an earworm that has become a staple of Weezer’s live shows. “Photograph” is a departure from the band’s signature geeky rock sound, but it showcases their songwriting versatility and emotional depth. The track was a commercial success and helped to cement Weezer’s place as one of the most influential bands of the 2000s.
11. “Skull Drawing Rose” by Dirty Sound Magnet
“Skull Drawing Rose” by Dirty Sound Magnet is a captivating and hauntingly beautiful rock song with a dark and mysterious undertone. The track blends together melodic guitar riffs, a strong bassline, and powerful vocals that convey a sense of melancholy and passion. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the dichotomy between beauty and death, with the rose representing life and the skull symbolizing death. The song’s dynamic sound, coupled with its hauntingly evocative lyrics, create an immersive and emotive listening experience that is both thought-provoking and engaging. Overall, “Skull Drawing Rose” is an impressive and captivating song that showcases Dirty Sound Magnet’s unique and talented musical style.
12. “Drawing Board” by Mydes
“Drawing Board” by Mydes is an upbeat song that features a catchy pop melody with lyrics that depict a creative struggle to bring an idea to fruition. The song’s lyrics talk about the artist’s process of creating something new, from the conceptualizing stage to the final product. The rhythmic beats and the energetic vocals of the singer add an uplifting and positive vibe to the song, making it perfect for those who want to feel motivated and inspired to overcome creative blocks. Overall, “Drawing Board” is an excellent addition to any playlist dedicated to artists and creatives who love to draw, paint or design.
13. “Drawing A Blank” by F.I.N
“Drawing a Blank” is a song by the American indie rock band, F.I.N. The song’s title is a play on words, using the expression “drawing a blank” to describe the state of having no ideas or inspiration, which is a common experience for artists. The track has a catchy, guitar-driven melody that is contrasted with introspective and melancholic lyrics about the creative process. The chorus’s repetition of the phrase “drawing a blank” adds to the song’s overall message, and it can resonate with anyone who has ever experienced a creative block. Overall, “Drawing A Blank” is a relatable and honest track that showcases F.I.N’s musical talents and songwriting skills.
14. “Drawing” by Barenaked Ladies
“Drawing” is a pop rock song by Canadian band Barenaked Ladies. Released in 2003, the track features a bouncy, upbeat melody and playful lyrics that celebrate the act of creating art. The song’s catchy chorus, with its refrain of “If I had a million dollars, I’d buy you some art,” is a nod to the band’s biggest hit and has become a fan favorite. “Drawing” showcases the band’s trademark wit and humor, with lines like “I don’t wanna look at your etchings, I don’t wanna talk about your wristwatch.” The track’s infectious energy and positive message make it a standout in Barenaked Ladies’ catalog.
15. “The Draw” by Bastille
The Draw” is an alternative pop song by British band Bastille. Released in 2014, the track features a pulsing, electronic beat and soaring vocals from frontman Dan Smith. The song’s lyrics are introspective, exploring themes of loneliness and the struggle to connect with others. The chorus, with its refrain of “I’ve been hoping somebody loves you, in the ways I couldn’t,” is a poignant reminder of the power of love and the pain of unrequited feelings. “The Draw” is a standout track on Bastille’s second album and showcases the band’s signature sound, blending electronic elements with raw emotion and honest songwriting.
16. “An Architect’s Dream” by Kate Bush
The song “An Architect’s Dream” by Kate Bush is a hauntingly beautiful track that showcases the singer’s unique and ethereal vocal style. The song tells a story of an architect who dreams of creating the perfect structure that will never be destroyed. The dream is so vivid that it seems to come to life in the form of a woman. The intricate lyrics and layered instrumentation create an otherworldly atmosphere that perfectly captures the mystical quality of the architect’s dream. With its haunting melody and dreamlike quality, “An Architect’s Dream” is a standout track in Kate Bush’s discography.
17. “Drawing Flies” by Soundgarden
“Drawing Flies” is a grunge rock song by American band Soundgarden. Released in 1992, the track features heavy guitar riffs and pounding drums that are hallmarks of the band’s sound. The song’s lyrics are surreal and cryptic, with frontman Chris Cornell singing lines like “She won’t recover from her losses, when the flies and spiders, feed.” “Drawing Flies” is a standout track on Soundgarden’s acclaimed album “Badmotorfinger,” which helped to establish the band as one of the most influential of the grunge era. The track’s raw energy and dark atmosphere make it a favorite among Soundgarden fans.
18. “Draw the Line” by Big D and the Kids Table
“Draw the Line” is a ska punk song by American band Big D and the Kids Table. Released in 2009, the track features a fast-paced, horn-driven melody and socially conscious lyrics that call for unity and action in the face of adversity. The song’s catchy chorus, with its refrain of “We gotta draw the line, we gotta stand and fight,” is a call to arms for listeners to come together and make a difference in the world. “Draw the Line” is a standout track on the band’s album “Fluent in Stroll,” which showcases their unique blend of ska, punk, and reggae influences.
19. “Drawing Board” by Mark Logan
“Drawing Board” by Mydes is an upbeat song that features a catchy pop melody with lyrics that depict a creative struggle to bring an idea to fruition. The song’s lyrics talk about the artist’s process of creating something new, from the conceptualizing stage to the final product. The rhythmic beats and the energetic vocals of the singer add an uplifting and positive vibe to the song, making it perfect for those who want to feel motivated and inspired to overcome creative blocks. Overall, “Drawing Board” is an excellent addition to any playlist dedicated to artists and creatives who love to draw, paint or design.
20. “Masterpiece” by Madonna
“Masterpiece” is a ballad by American singer Madonna, released in 2011. The song features a simple but emotive melody, built around acoustic guitar and piano, and showcases Madonna’s vocal range and expressive delivery. The lyrics, which celebrate the beauty and imperfection of love, are delivered with vulnerability and sincerity, making the track a standout in Madonna’s catalog. “Masterpiece” was featured in the film “W.E.,” which Madonna directed, and won a Golden Globe award for Best Original Song. The track showcases Madonna’s songwriting talents and ability to create emotionally resonant music that speaks to listeners on a deep level.
Darren Jamison 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.
