Bats are fascinating creatures that have long been a source of inspiration for artists, musicians, and writers. Their mysterious and nocturnal nature, unique physical characteristics, and important ecological role have made them a popular subject in popular culture. From rock anthems to children’s songs, there are many great songs that celebrate these winged mammals. In this article, we will be exploring the top 20 songs about bats. From classic folk tunes to modern pop hits, these songs cover a wide range of genres and styles, and showcase the many different ways that bats have inspired musicians over the years. Whether you’re a fan of spooky Halloween songs or upbeat dance tracks, there’s sure to be something on this list that will appeal to you. So without further ado, let’s take a closer look at some of the best songs about bats that have ever been written.
1. “Bat Out of Hell” by Meat Loaf
“Bat Out of Hell” is a rock song by Meat Loaf released in 1977, written by Jim Steinman, and produced by Todd Rundgren. The song features grandiose instrumentation, including a full orchestra, and lyrics that describe a wild, reckless ride on a motorcycle. It starts with a slow, piano-led introduction before building up to an epic, explosive climax. The song is a signature piece of Meat Loaf’s career, known for his powerful and emotive vocals. It has become a classic rock staple and remains one of the most recognizable and beloved songs in rock music history, known for its theatricality and energy.
2. “Bats” by Kensington
“Bats” is an alternative rock song by the Dutch band Kensington, released in 2014. The song has a catchy, upbeat melody and an anthemic chorus that invites listeners to sing along. The lyrics are inspired by the metaphorical image of bats, portraying them as misunderstood creatures that can be perceived as ominous, but actually just need to find their way in the dark. The song features a dynamic and polished production, with prominent guitar riffs and driving drums. It became a popular hit in the Netherlands and helped establish Kensington as one of the leading rock bands in the country.
3. “Bat Country” by Avenged Sevenfold
“Bat Country” is a heavy metal song by the American band Avenged Sevenfold, released in 2005. The song starts with an intricate, fast-paced guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track. The lyrics, written by lead singer M. Shadows, are inspired by the novel “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” by Hunter S. Thompson and reflect on the dangers and excesses of the rock and roll lifestyle. The chorus features a soaring vocal melody and a memorable hook that has become a fan-favorite. The song has a complex structure and features several different sections, showcasing the band’s technical and musical abilities. “Bat Country” remains one of Avenged Sevenfold’s most popular and well-known songs.
4. “Blind as a Bat” by Meat Loaf
“Blind as a Bat” is a rock song by Meat Loaf, released in 1981. The song was written by Steve Popovich and Tom Dowd and features a driving, up-tempo rhythm and an infectious guitar riff. The lyrics are centered on the theme of love and describe a situation in which the protagonist is hopelessly infatuated with someone who doesn’t return their feelings. The song showcases Meat Loaf’s powerful and emotive vocals, which are full of passion and intensity. The chorus is catchy and features a memorable hook that is easy to sing along to. “Blind as a Bat” is one of Meat Loaf’s more underrated songs but remains a fan-favorite among his devoted followers.
5. “Bat You’ll Fly” by Animal Collective
“Bat You’ll Fly” is an experimental pop song by the American band Animal Collective, released in 2007. The song features a quirky, off-kilter melody and an unconventional structure, with constantly shifting time signatures and instrumental textures. The lyrics are abstract and impressionistic, describing a dream-like scenario in which the protagonist transforms into a bat and flies away. The production is heavily layered and features a wide range of electronic and acoustic sounds, creating a rich and immersive sonic environment. The song showcases Animal Collective’s innovative and idiosyncratic approach to songwriting and sound design and remains a highlight of their extensive discography.
6. “Irmo Bats” by Band of Horses
“Irmo Bats” is a folk-inspired rock song by the American band Band of Horses, released in 2006. The song features a delicate acoustic guitar melody and a plaintive vocal performance by lead singer Ben Bridwell. The lyrics describe a scene in which the protagonist observes a group of bats flying over the town of Irmo, South Carolina. The song has a melancholic and nostalgic atmosphere, evoking a sense of longing for a bygone era. The production is minimalistic and focuses on the organic interplay between the guitar and the vocals, highlighting the beauty of the song’s simple yet affecting melody. “Irmo Bats” is a testament to Band of Horses’ ability to create intimate and emotionally resonant music.
7. “The Bat” by Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, Dave Holland, Jack DeJohnette
“The Bat” is an instrumental jazz-fusion composition performed by a supergroup consisting of Herbie Hancock on keyboards, Pat Metheny on guitar, Dave Holland on bass, and Jack DeJohnette on drums. The song was released in 1985 as part of the album “Quartet”. “The Bat” showcases the four musicians’ virtuosity and chemistry, with each instrument contributing to the song’s intricate and dynamic interplay. The piece features a complex harmonic structure and a series of improvisational solos, allowing each musician to showcase their technical prowess and artistic sensibility. “The Bat” is a testament to the enduring legacy of jazz-fusion as a genre that combines technical sophistication with creative freedom.
8. “Bats” by Tori Amos
“Bats” is a haunting and introspective piano ballad by American singer-songwriter Tori Amos, released in 1999 as part of the album “To Venus and Back”. The song features a sparse arrangement centered around Amos’s evocative vocals and piano playing. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s nocturnal wanderings, evoking a sense of alienation and loneliness. The song’s atmosphere is dreamy and introspective, with a sense of longing and mystery pervading the lyrics and the melody. Amos’s performance is restrained yet emotionally charged, emphasizing the vulnerability and humanity of the song’s protagonist. “Bats” is a poignant and evocative song that showcases Amos’s songwriting and performance skills.
9. “Eyes Bat Lash” by Jude the Obscure
“Eyes Bat Lash” is a dreamy and ethereal song by the American indie rock band Jude the Obscure, released in 2018 as part of their self-titled album. The song features a hazy and evocative arrangement, with reverberating guitars and atmospheric keyboards creating a sense of mystery and introspection. The lyrics describe a nocturnal encounter between two strangers, with the protagonist’s eyes being drawn to the other’s fluttering lashes. The song’s atmosphere is otherworldly and dreamlike, with a sense of romantic tension pervading the lyrics and the melody. The band’s performance is understated yet emotionally resonant, emphasizing the subtlety and nuance of the song’s themes. “Eyes Bat Lash” is a beautiful and evocative song that showcases the band’s songwriting and sonic aesthetic.
10. “Bats Bats Bats” by Rosie Emery
“Bats Bats Bats” is an upbeat and playful song by the American singer-songwriter Rosie Emery, released in 2020 as part of her album “The Song Project”. The song features a catchy melody and a lively acoustic arrangement, with Emery’s vocals delivering a fun and energetic performance. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s fascination with bats, depicting them as mysterious and enchanting creatures that evoke a sense of wonder and excitement. The song’s atmosphere is joyous and whimsical, with a celebratory tone that reflects the song’s playful subject matter. “Bats Bats Bats” is a delightful and charming song that captures the essence of Emery’s musical style and creative spirit.
11. “The Bat Song” by The Whizpops!
“The Bat Song” is a children’s song by the American musical duo The Whizpops!, released in 2014 as part of their album “Ranger Rick’s Trail Mix, Vol. 1”. The song features a fun and bouncy melody, with the duo’s vocals delivering a catchy and playful performance. The lyrics describe the characteristics and habits of bats, with an educational and entertaining tone that aims to teach children about these fascinating creatures. The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat tempo make it an engaging and memorable learning experience for kids, while also showcasing the duo’s musical creativity and fun-loving spirit. “The Bat Song” is a delightful and educational song that highlights The Whizpops!’s talent for crafting catchy and kid-friendly tunes.
12. “Bats” by The Joy Formidable
” Bats” by The Joy Formidable is a hauntingly beautiful rock song that combines ethereal vocals, powerful guitar riffs, and driving drums to create a captivating musical experience. The song is characterized by its dreamy atmosphere and sense of urgency, with lead singer Ritzy Bryan’s voice soaring over the instrumentals to convey a mix of longing and intensity. The lyrics themselves are somewhat abstract, but they touch on themes of darkness and transformation, with references to creatures of the night like bats and wolves. Overall, “Bats” is a mesmerizing track that showcases The Joy Formidable’s unique blend of alternative and shoegaze influences, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who listens to it.
13. “Stop The Bats” by The Living Tombstone
“Stop the Bats” by The Living Tombstone is an electro-house track with a frenetic energy that perfectly captures the frantic mood of the animated series “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic” from which it originated. The song features a driving beat, catchy synth melodies, and heavily processed vocal samples, creating a playful and almost cartoonish sound that’s impossible not to move to. Lyrically, “Stop the Bats” is a rallying cry against a swarm of vampiric bats that threaten to destroy a peaceful community, and the lyrics encourage listeners to join in the fight to stop the menace. Overall, “Stop the Bats” is a fun, upbeat song that’s sure to get your blood pumping and your feet moving.
14. “Release the Bats” by The Birthday Party
“Release the Bats” by The Birthday Party is a classic post-punk track with a raw, urgent energy that captures the essence of the genre. The song features pounding drums, jagged guitar riffs, and Nick Cave’s distinctive vocals, which range from a menacing growl to an unhinged scream. The lyrics themselves are provocative and cryptic, but they seem to be concerned with themes of primal desire, rebellion, and the breaking of societal norms. “Release the Bats” has become an iconic song in the post-punk canon, thanks in part to its intense live performances and its influence on countless other artists who followed in its wake. It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of alternative music.
15. “De Bat (Fly in Me Face)” by Carly Simon
“De Bat (Fly in Me Face)” by Carly Simon is a lighthearted, Caribbean-influenced tune with playful instrumentation and witty lyrics. The song features a bouncy rhythm section, steel drum accents, and a catchy melody that is sure to get stuck in your head. Carly Simon’s vocals are sweet and whimsical as she recounts a humorous encounter with a bat that flew into her face while she was on vacation. The lyrics are full of clever wordplay and puns, and they paint a vivid picture of the encounter in question. “De Bat (Fly in Me Face)” is a fun, infectious song that showcases Carly Simon’s playful side and her ability to create music that is both catchy and clever.
16. “The Thing About Bats” by David Gibb
“The Thing About Bats” by David Gibb is a charming and educational song that teaches listeners about the fascinating world of bats. The song features acoustic guitar, cheerful vocals, and catchy melodies that make learning about these nocturnal creatures a fun and enjoyable experience. Lyrically, the song covers a variety of topics related to bats, including their diet, habitat, and unique physical characteristics. It also emphasizes the importance of bats in maintaining healthy ecosystems and dispels common myths and misconceptions about them. “The Thing About Bats” is a great song for kids and adults alike who are interested in learning more about the natural world and the many amazing creatures that inhabit it.
17. “Leather-Winged Bat / Cotton-Eyed Joe” by Burl Ives
“Leather-Winged Bat / Cotton-Eyed Joe” by Burl Ives is a classic folk song that combines two traditional American tunes into a medley that’s perfect for square dancing. The song features Ives’ warm and inviting vocals, accompanied by lively fiddle and guitar instrumentation. The first half of the medley, “Leather-Winged Bat,” is a traditional song that describes the beauty and mystery of bats and their nighttime flights. The second half, “Cotton-Eyed Joe,” is a well-known square dance tune that encourages listeners to get up and move their feet. Together, the two halves of the medley create a lively and joyous musical experience that’s perfect for a night of dancing and socializing. “Leather-Winged Bat / Cotton-Eyed Joe” is a timeless classic that’s sure to bring a smile to the face of anyone who hears it.
18. “Five Little Bats” by The Kiboomers
“Five Little Bats” by The Kiboomers is a delightful children’s song that’s perfect for Halloween. The song features simple, sing-along melodies, catchy rhythms, and playful lyrics that tell the story of five little bats as they fly through the night sky. Each verse introduces a new bat and describes their unique physical characteristics and personality traits. The song is accompanied by cheerful piano and percussion instrumentation that adds to its lighthearted and whimsical feel. “Five Little Bats” is a great song for parents, teachers, or anyone who works with children and wants to get them in the Halloween spirit. Its fun and educational lyrics make it an excellent teaching tool for young children who are learning about animals and the natural world.
19. “Bats, Cats, & Rats” by Vlad’s Skeletal Circus
“Bats, Cats, & Rats” by Vlad’s Skeletal Circus is a quirky and macabre song that features haunting melodies, eerie sound effects, and dark lyrics. The song paints a picture of a spooky circus that’s populated by a cast of creepy characters, including bats, cats, and rats. Vlad’s vocals are deep and ominous, and the instrumentation is sparse and atmospheric, creating an unsettling and foreboding mood. The lyrics are filled with references to death, decay, and the supernatural, and they tell a story of a strange and otherworldly place where anything can happen. “Bats, Cats, & Rats” is a perfect song for fans of horror, gothic literature, and dark cabaret music, as well as anyone who enjoys the macabre and the strange.
20. “Bats in the Belfry” by Qveen Herby
“Bats in the Belfry” by Qveen Herby is an upbeat and funky song that’s perfect for dancing. The song features a lively beat, groovy basslines, and catchy vocal melodies that are sure to get listeners moving. Qveen Herby’s vocals are confident and sassy, and the lyrics are all about living life to the fullest and embracing one’s quirks and eccentricities. The song’s title, “Bats in the Belfry,” is a metaphor for feeling a little bit crazy and unpredictable, and the upbeat and positive tone of the song encourages listeners to embrace their wild side and let loose. “Bats in the Belfry” is a perfect song for anyone who wants to have a little fun and dance the night away.
April Johnson 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.
