These are 18 different songs with “Kelly” in their titles. Some of these songs reference a person named Kelly, while others use the name more as a metaphor or symbol. The style of the songs varies widely, from R&B and hip-hop to jazz and rock. Some of the songs, like “Kelly Rowland” by MadeinTYO, “Kelly Price” by Migos ft Travis Scott, and “Kelly’s 12 Play” by The-Dream, seem to be referencing the R&B singer Kelly Rowland, while others, like “Grace Kelly” by Mika, “Gene Kelly” by Mirandaclare, and “Jellyman Kelly” by James Taylor and the Sesame Street kids, reference other famous people with the name Kelly. Some of the songs, like “Accidentally Kelly Street” by Frente and “Kelly Watch the Stars” by Air, seem to be using the name Kelly as a way to evoke a certain mood or feeling. Overall, the songs show the versatility of the name Kelly and the different meanings and associations it can have in popular culture.
1. “Kelly’s 12 Play” by The-Dream
“Kelly’s 12 Play” by The-Dream is a sultry R&B slow jam that pays homage to the iconic R. Kelly album “12 Play”. The song features smooth vocals from The-Dream, who sings about wanting to take things slow and seduce his partner through an extended 12-play session. The instrumental is built around a simple, yet effective bassline and features delicate piano and synth touches. The song has a classic R&B feel to it, with a contemporary twist that makes it feel fresh and modern. The-Dream’s performance is filled with passion and sensuality, making the listener feel as if they are right there with him, experiencing the pleasure of the 12-play session. “Kelly’s 12 Play” is a perfect song to set the mood for a romantic evening or to simply unwind and relax. Its catchy melody, steamy lyrics, and smooth production make it a standout track in The-Dream’s discography and a must-listen for any R&B fan.
2. “Kelly Rowland” by MadeinTYO
“Kelly Rowland” by MadeinTYO is a hip-hop track that pays homage to the R&B singer Kelly Rowland. The song features MadeinTYO’s signature flow and a catchy chorus that references Kelly Rowland’s iconic hit “Dilemma”. The instrumental has a trap-inspired sound, with 808 drums, melodic synths, and a simple, yet effective piano riff. MadeinTYO’s verses are filled with references to Kelly Rowland’s music, her beauty, and her influence on the culture. He also talks about his own success and how he relates to the way Kelly Rowland rose to fame. The song has a fun, upbeat vibe to it, and its catchy chorus is sure to get stuck in your head. “Kelly Rowland” is a playful and lighthearted tribute to a beloved figure in the R&B world, and MadeinTYO’s clever wordplay and infectious energy make it a standout track in his catalog.
3. “Pete Kelly’s Blues” by June Christy
“Pete Kelly’s Blues” by June Christy is a jazz standard that tells the story of a fictional jazz musician named Pete Kelly. The song is an adaptation of the title track from the 1955 film “Pete Kelly’s Blues,” which starred Jack Webb as the titular character. The instrumental features a swinging rhythm section, a bluesy piano riff, and a horn section that provides the melody and the solos. June Christy’s vocals are smooth and expressive, as she narrates the story of Pete Kelly and his band’s struggles to make it in the cutthroat world of jazz music. The song has a melancholic and bittersweet feel to it, as it captures the ups and downs of the jazz lifestyle. “Pete Kelly’s Blues” is a classic example of the jazz storytelling tradition, where the lyrics and the music work together to create a vivid and immersive narrative. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing its place as a timeless jazz standard.
4. “Kelly” by Van She
“Kelly” by Van She is an electronic dance-pop track that is filled with vibrant synth sounds, catchy melodies, and a danceable beat. The song’s instrumental is built around a funky bassline and a driving drumbeat, with swirling synths and lush pads adding texture and depth to the mix. The vocals are delivered with a dreamy, ethereal quality, adding a sense of nostalgia and longing to the song’s upbeat energy. “Kelly” is a song about a person who is trying to move on from a failed relationship, but is still haunted by memories of their former lover. The lyrics are introspective and heartfelt, with lines like “Kelly, I’ve been trying to get you off my mind, but you keep coming back to me all the time.” The song’s infectious melody and upbeat production make it a perfect track for dancing or singing along to, while its relatable lyrics give it a deeper emotional resonance. “Kelly” is a standout track in Van She’s catalog, and a must-listen for fans of electronic and dance-pop music.
5. “Kelly’s Gone” by Danny Vaughn
“Kelly’s Gone” by Danny Vaughn is a heartfelt ballad that tells the story of a man who is struggling to come to terms with the loss of a loved one named Kelly. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, and strings, creating a gentle and melancholic atmosphere that perfectly complements the emotional weight of the lyrics. Danny Vaughn’s vocals are tender and soulful, conveying a deep sense of loss and sadness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the pain and grief that comes with losing someone, as the narrator mourns the absence of Kelly and wonders how he will ever be able to move on. The chorus, with its haunting refrain of “Kelly’s gone, Kelly’s gone, what’s left to do now that Kelly’s gone,” is both heartbreaking and cathartic. “Kelly’s Gone” is a powerful and emotionally resonant song that speaks to the universal experience of loss and grief.
6. “Grace Kelly” by Mika
“Grace Kelly” by Mika is a catchy and upbeat pop song that features a lively, energetic melody and a bold, confident vocal performance. The song’s lyrics are playful and irreverent, with Mika rejecting the constraints and expectations of the music industry and declaring that he will “be what I want to be” instead of conforming to others’ expectations. The chorus is infectious, with Mika singing “I could be brown, I could be blue, I could be violet sky, I could be hurtful, I could be purple, I could be anything you like,” and urging listeners to embrace their individuality and express themselves in their own unique way. The song’s instrumentation is a mix of retro and modern, with catchy piano riffs, lively brass sections, and propulsive drumbeats combining to create a joyful and celebratory atmosphere. “Grace Kelly” is a fun and catchy song that encourages listeners to embrace their own creativity and individuality.
7. “Accidently Kelly Street” by Frente
“Accidentally Kelly Street” by Frente! is a charming and whimsical pop song that combines jangly guitars, bouncy basslines, and airy vocals to create a light and playful atmosphere. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a group of friends who accidentally stumble upon Kelly Street and decide to explore the neighborhood, discovering all kinds of unexpected sights and sounds along the way. The chorus is catchy and joyful, with the band singing “La la la la la, la la la la la la, we had a dream that we could fly, only to find out we had wings,” expressing a sense of wonder and excitement at the endless possibilities of life. The song’s instrumentation is a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, with handclaps and percussion adding a touch of organic warmth to the mix. “Accidentally Kelly Street” is a whimsical and playful song that celebrates the joy of exploration and discovery.
8. “Run Kelly” by Roken is
“Run Kelly” by Roken is a hard-driving and energetic rock song that features propulsive drumbeats, searing guitar riffs, and aggressive vocals. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man named Kelly who is on the run, pursued by his enemies and fighting to survive. The chorus is intense and anthemic, with the band shouting “Run, Kelly, run, they’re gonna take you down!” as the music builds to a frenzied climax. The song’s instrumentation is heavy and driving, with distorted guitar tones and thundering basslines combining to create a sense of urgency and danger. “Run Kelly” is a powerful and intense song that captures the feeling of being chased and the desperate fight for survival.
9. “Kelly Price” by Migos ft Travis Scott
“Kelly Price” by Migos ft Travis Scott is a trap-infused hip-hop song that features sharp beats, hypnotic synths, and intense rap verses from the two artists. The song is named after the American R&B singer Kelly Price, and the lyrics reference her name in a variety of ways throughout the track. The chorus is catchy and repetitive, with the two rappers chanting “She’s the queen of the South, yeah, Kelly Price!” as the beat pulses and throbs beneath them. The song’s verses are intense and focused, with Migos and Travis Scott delivering tight and aggressive rhymes that showcase their lyrical prowess. The song’s production is heavily electronic, with sharp and distorted synths creating a futuristic and otherworldly vibe. “Kelly Price” is a high-energy and intense hip-hop song that showcases the talents of two of the genre’s most innovative and exciting artists.
10. “Song for Kelly Huckaby” by Death Cab for Dutie
“Song for Kelly Huckaby” by Death Cab for Cutie is an indie rock ballad that features introspective lyrics and a melancholy melody. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a young woman named Kelly Huckaby, who is struggling to find her way in life and who is searching for a sense of purpose and meaning. The song’s vocals are emotive and sincere, with lead singer Ben Gibbard delivering the lyrics in a plaintive and vulnerable tone. The instrumentation is understated and delicate, with acoustic guitars, piano, and strings combining to create a gentle and melancholic sound. The song’s chorus is simple and poignant, with the band singing “Kelly, it’s not your fault, you’re not alone” as the music swells and ebbs beneath them. “Song for Kelly Huckaby” is a heartfelt and poignant indie rock song that speaks to the struggles and uncertainties of youth, and the search for meaning and belonging.
11. “Jellyman Kelly” by James Taylor and the Sesame Street kids
“Jellyman Kelly” by James Taylor and the Sesame Street kids is a children’s song that features upbeat music, catchy lyrics, and an infectious sense of joy and playfulness. The song is sung by James Taylor and a group of children, and tells the story of a fictional character named Jellyman Kelly, who is always cheerful and full of life. The song’s melody is upbeat and bouncy, with acoustic guitars and percussion providing the rhythmic foundation for the vocals. The lyrics are simple and fun, with rhyming verses that describe the playful and imaginative antics of Jellyman Kelly. The chorus is catchy and memorable, with the group of children singing “Jellyman Kelly, with a fish tail on!” as the music swells and bounces beneath them. “Jellyman Kelly” is a joyful and playful children’s song that celebrates the wonder and imagination of childhood, and encourages listeners to embrace their own sense of creativity and playfulness.
12. “Kelly’s Song” by Uncle Russell
“Kelly’s Song” by Uncle Russell is a heartfelt country ballad that tells the story of a man named Kelly and his enduring love for his wife. The song features a simple and stripped-down arrangement, with acoustic guitars, mandolin, and fiddle providing the musical backing for the vocals. The lyrics are sentimental and sincere, with the singer expressing his love and devotion to his wife despite the challenges and hardships they may face in life. The chorus is simple and memorable, with the singer repeating the refrain “Kelly’s the only one for me” as the music swells and ebbs beneath him. The song’s emotional depth and sincerity are underscored by the earnest and heartfelt delivery of the vocals, which convey the depth of feeling and devotion that the singer has for his wife. “Kelly’s Song” is a tender and heartfelt tribute to enduring love and the power of commitment in the face of life’s challenges.
13. “Kelly Kapoor” by Miqui Brightside
“Kelly Kapoor” by Miqui Brightside is an upbeat and catchy electronic dance track that is named after a character from the TV show “The Office.” The song features a lively and infectious beat, with a driving bassline and pulsing synthesizers creating a sense of energy and momentum. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, with the singer chanting the name “Kelly Kapoor” over and over again as the music builds and swells around him. The song’s infectious groove and catchy melody are sure to get listeners up and dancing, with the driving rhythm and upbeat tone of the track creating a sense of excitement and joy. “Kelly Kapoor” is a fun and playful dance track that pays tribute to a beloved character from popular culture, while also creating a sense of movement and energy that is sure to get listeners moving.
14. “Kelly Watch the Stars” by Air
“Kelly Watch the Stars” by Air is a dreamy and ethereal electronic track that blends a variety of musical styles and textures to create a unique and evocative sound. The song features a hypnotic and otherworldly melody, with swirling synthesizers and shimmering percussion creating a sense of movement and momentum. The vocals are airy and atmospheric, with the singer’s voice floating effortlessly over the music like a gentle breeze. The song’s dreamlike quality is underscored by its evocative and poetic lyrics, which describe a world of wonder and mystery that is just out of reach. The song’s lush and layered production is a testament to Air’s talent for creating rich and immersive sonic landscapes, with each element of the track adding to the overall sense of atmosphere and emotion. “Kelly Watch the Stars” is a stunning and captivating piece of music that invites listeners to lose themselves in its dreamlike world of sound and sensation.
15. “Kelly’s Heroes” by Black Grape
“Kelly’s Heroes” by Black Grape is an upbeat and funky song with a catchy melody and a strong groove. The song is driven by a funky bass line and features a variety of colorful and eclectic instrumentation, including horns, keyboards, and percussion. The vocals are delivered with energy and charisma, with the singer’s playful and irreverent lyrics painting a vivid picture of a group of friends who are determined to have a good time no matter what. The song’s catchy chorus is sure to get listeners singing along, while its playful and irreverent tone is guaranteed to put a smile on their faces. “Kelly’s Heroes” is a feel-good song that celebrates the joy of friendship and the power of having a good time together. Its infectious groove and playful lyrics make it the perfect anthem for anyone looking to let loose and have some fun.
16. “Kate Kelly” by The Whitlams
“Kate Kelly” by The Whitlams is a haunting and melancholic song with a stirring melody and soulful vocals. The song tells the story of Kate Kelly, the younger sister of the infamous Australian outlaw Ned Kelly, who is often overshadowed by her brother’s notoriety. The lyrics describe the hardships that Kate endured throughout her life, including poverty, discrimination, and heartbreak, and celebrate her resilience and strength in the face of adversity. The song is carried by a simple yet powerful acoustic guitar riff and features a lush and atmospheric arrangement that evokes a sense of both sadness and hope. The singer’s emotive and passionate delivery adds to the song’s poignancy and power, making it a moving tribute to a woman whose story deserves to be told. “Kate Kelly” is a song that speaks to the struggles of the marginalized and the overlooked, and offers a message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
17. “Ned Kelly” by Johnny Cash
“Ned Kelly” by Johnny Cash is a country song that tells the story of the legendary Australian outlaw, Ned Kelly. The lyrics describe Kelly’s life of crime, including his daring escape from jail and his subsequent capture and execution. Cash’s deep, distinctive voice adds a layer of gravitas to the tale, imbuing it with a sense of authenticity and grit. The song is driven by a simple but catchy melody that captures the spirit of traditional country music, and features a lively and energetic rhythm section that keeps the song moving forward. The chorus, which features a sing-along refrain of “Ned Kelly, Ned Kelly, they’re taking you away,” adds to the song’s sense of urgency and immediacy. Overall, “Ned Kelly” is a classic example of Johnny Cash’s storytelling prowess, as he masterfully brings to life the story of one of Australia’s most infamous outlaws in a way that is both entertaining and informative.
18. “Gene Kelly” by Mirandaclare
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzhqLJ9_3XU
“Gene Kelly” by Mirandaclare is a dreamy indie-pop song that pays tribute to the legendary actor and dancer Gene Kelly. The song opens with a simple, stripped-down arrangement of acoustic guitar and hushed vocals, before gradually building in intensity with the addition of layered harmonies, shimmering synths, and a driving drumbeat. The lyrics are wistful and nostalgic, describing the feelings of awe and admiration that Kelly’s work inspired in the singer. The chorus is particularly catchy, with the repetition of the line “Gene Kelly, I see you in my dreams” driving home the song’s central theme. Throughout the track, Mirandaclare’s vocals are soft and ethereal, adding to the dreamlike quality of the music. Overall, “Gene Kelly” is a charming and heartfelt tribute to a Hollywood icon, showcasing Mirandaclare’s talent for crafting evocative and catchy indie-pop songs.
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.
