Arizona, the “Grand Canyon State,” is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant music scene. From the country music of Nashville to the rock ‘n’ roll of California, Arizona has been a source of inspiration for countless musicians across many genres. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best songs about Arizona that celebrate the state’s unique history, landscapes, and people.
These songs range from classic rock anthems to modern pop hits and showcase the diverse musical talent that has emerged from Arizona over the years. We will delve into the stories behind the songs, including the inspirations and influences that led to their creation. Whether you’re a lifelong Arizona resident or a music lover looking to explore the state’s cultural heritage, this list has something for everyone.
From the sun-drenched deserts of Phoenix to the rugged peaks of Flagstaff, Arizona has a wealth of natural and cultural treasures that have inspired some of the most iconic songs in American music history. So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a musical journey through the heart of Arizona.
1. “By The Time I Get To Phoenix” By Glen Campbell
“By The Time I Get To Phoenix” is a classic country-pop song written by Jimmy Webb and popularized by Glen Campbell. The song tells the story of a man who leaves his lover in Phoenix, Arizona, and drives to California. He hopes that by leaving her, she’ll finally realize how much he loves her and will wait for him to return. The song has a simple, yet catchy melody, and the lyrics are emotional and heartfelt. Campbell’s smooth vocals and the beautiful string arrangements give the song a melancholy feel. “By The Time I Get To Phoenix” won two Grammy Awards in 1968 and has been covered by many artists, including Johnny Rivers, Isaac Hayes, and the Temptations. It’s a timeless classic that perfectly captures the pain and longing of a lost love.
2. “Take It Easy” By Eagles
“Take It Easy” is a classic rock song by the Eagles that was released in 1972. While the song is not specifically about Arizona, it references a number of iconic locations in the state, including Winslow, Arizona and standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. This line has become a beloved cultural reference among fans of the band and travelers visiting the town. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy lyrics make it a favorite among fans of classic rock and country rock. It was written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey and was the band’s first single, which helped launch their career. The song features harmonies and guitar riffs that have become synonymous with the Eagles’ sound. It has been covered by a number of other artists, including Travis Tritt and the Zac Brown Band. “Take It Easy” continues to be an anthem for fans of the Eagles and a reminder of the band’s connection to the American Southwest.
3. “By The Time I Get To Arizona” By Public Enemy
“By The Time I Get To Arizona” by Public Enemy is a politically charged hip-hop song that addresses the controversy surrounding Arizona’s decision to not recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal holiday in the late 1980s. The song highlights the fight against institutionalized racism and systemic oppression faced by African Americans in Arizona and beyond. The lyrics paint a picture of frustration and anger towards the political leaders who refuse to acknowledge the importance of the holiday and the issues it represents. The powerful message in the song has made it a staple of protest music and a rallying cry for those who continue to fight for civil rights and social justice. The song’s chorus repeats the line “Arizona, take off your hoods” as a reference to the Ku Klux Klan and their history of racial violence. “By The Time I Get To Arizona” remains a powerful and relevant commentary on the ongoing struggle for racial equality and human rights in the United States.
4. “Ocean Front Property” By George Strait
“Ocean Front Property” is a country classic by George Strait that mentions Arizona in its lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is trying to win back his love interest by telling her that he’s purchased a piece of oceanfront property in Arizona. He uses this as a metaphor to convince her that he’s capable of anything, including making her happy again. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy lyrics have made it a fan favorite since its release in 1987, and it remains a staple of Strait’s live performances. While Arizona doesn’t actually have an oceanfront, the playful reference to the state in the song has made it a beloved tune among Arizonans and country music fans alike.
5. “Arizona” By Kings Of Leon
“Arizona” is a song by American rock band Kings of Leon. Released in 2011, the song is a tribute to the band’s home state of Arizona. It features a driving rhythm and energetic guitar riffs, evoking the desert landscape and the spirit of the American West. The lyrics reflect on the band’s memories and experiences of growing up in Arizona, with references to the state’s landmarks and culture, such as the Grand Canyon and Route 66. The chorus declares, “Arizona, take off your rainbow shades, we’ve been waiting for you since the morning came,” suggesting a longing for the familiar sights and sounds of home. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo make it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows. “Arizona” is a celebration of the band’s roots and a nod to the unique beauty and character of the Grand Canyon State.
6. “Big Iron” By Marty Robbins
“Big Iron” is a classic western ballad by Marty Robbins that tells the story of a lawman named Texas Red who terrorizes the town of Agua Fria. The song is known for its vivid descriptions of the Arizona desert and the showdown between the protagonist and antagonist. The lyrics paint a picture of a rugged and unforgiving landscape, with lines like “The desert’s quiet, Cleveland’s cold / And so the story ends, we’re told.” The upbeat tempo and catchy melody contrast with the violent subject matter of the song, making it a memorable and unique addition to the western genre. Robbins’ distinctive voice and storytelling ability have made “Big Iron” a beloved classic, and it remains a staple of country and western music to this day.
7. “There Is No Arizona” By Jamie O’Neal
“There Is No Arizona” by Jamie O’Neal is a country song that tells the story of a woman who is in love with a man who promised to take her to Arizona but never did. As the title suggests, there is no Arizona for her, as the man left her with broken promises and shattered dreams. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics make it a fan favorite among country music enthusiasts. The powerful vocals of Jamie O’Neal perfectly capture the emotions of heartbreak and disappointment, while the guitar and fiddle accompaniment give the song a classic country feel. “There Is No Arizona” was a commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and earning O’Neal a nomination for the Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 2002.
8. “Arizona Skies” By Los Lobos
“Arizona Skies” by Los Lobos is a beautiful and atmospheric song that captures the essence of the Arizona landscape. The song features soulful guitar melodies, haunting harmonies, and a steady beat that evokes the vast expanse of the desert. The lyrics speak of the beauty and mystique of the Arizona skies, with references to the stars, moon, and sun that shine down on the state. The song also touches on the struggles of life in the desert, with lines about drought, wildfires, and the challenges of living in a harsh environment. Despite these challenges, the song is ultimately a celebration of the resilience and beauty of the people and the land of Arizona. It’s a song that will transport you to the desert landscape and make you feel the heat of the sun and the coolness of the night air.
9. “The Ballad Of Boot Hill” By Johnny Cash
“The Ballad Of Boot Hill” is a classic western song by Johnny Cash that tells the story of a man who was shot dead and buried in Boot Hill, a cemetery in Tombstone, Arizona. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the Wild West, with references to gunfighters, cowboys, and outlaws. Cash’s deep, gravelly voice adds to the song’s dark and gritty tone, creating a haunting atmosphere. The song’s lyrics suggest that the man buried in Boot Hill was a ruthless killer who met a violent end. Cash’s storytelling ability shines through in this song, as he narrates the tale with great skill and emotion. The melody is slow and mournful, with a simple guitar accompaniment that allows the lyrics to take center stage. “The Ballad Of Boot Hill” is a quintessential Johnny Cash song, with its vivid storytelling, powerful vocals, and strong connection to the American West.
10. “Phoner To Arizona” By Gorillaz
“Phoner to Arizona” is a catchy and energetic song by the British virtual band Gorillaz. The song features a mix of electronic beats, distorted guitar riffs, and funky basslines, along with the signature vocals of lead singer Damon Albarn. The lyrics of the song are abstract and surreal, with references to the state of Arizona and the deserts of the American Southwest. The song was released as part of the band’s “iPad album” called “The Fall”, which was recorded entirely on an iPad during the band’s 2010 North American tour. Despite its unconventional recording process, the album and the song received critical acclaim and showcased the band’s ability to experiment with different styles and techniques. “Phoner to Arizona” stands out as one of the most creative and unconventional songs about Arizona, and its unique sound and style make it a must-listen for fans of alternative and electronic music.
Erica Henderson 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.
