Nebraska, located in the Midwestern region of the United States, is known for its vast stretches of prairies, rolling hills, and its strong agricultural roots. With its rich history and natural beauty, it’s no surprise that the state has inspired many musicians to create music about its people, culture, and landscapes. From classic rock songs to traditional folk ballads, Nebraska has influenced a wide range of genres in the world of music. In this collection of the best songs about Nebraska, we’ll explore some of the most iconic musical tributes to the state. From Bruce Springsteen’s introspective ode to the state to Lady Gaga’s romantic duet with Nebraska native, we’ll dive deep into the sounds and stories of Nebraska’s music scene. Whether you’re a Nebraska native or simply a lover of great music, these songs are sure to evoke the spirit of the state and transport you to its vast prairies and bustling cities. Join us as we explore the best songs about Nebraska and discover the beauty and inspiration that this state has brought to the world of music.
1. “Nebraska” By Bruce Springsteen
Nebraska” is a haunting and introspective folk song written and performed by American rock legend Bruce Springsteen. The song was released in 1982 as a part of his album of the same name. The song tells the story of a young man who commits murder and tries to outrun the law, only to be caught and sentenced to death. The song starts with a simple acoustic guitar strum and Springsteen’s raw and emotive vocals. The lyrics describe the bleak landscape of Nebraska and the loneliness and despair of the young man who commits the crime. Springsteen sings from the perspective of the murderer, describing his desperation and fear as he tries to escape his fate. Throughout the song, Springsteen’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery and haunting melodies, capturing the stark and harrowing nature of the story. He sings about the harsh reality of life and the struggle to find meaning and purpose in a world that can be cruel and unforgiving.
2. “Beautiful Nebraska” By Jim Fras and Guy G. Miller
Beautiful Nebraska” is a cheerful and patriotic state song written by Jim Fras and Guy G. Miller. The song was adopted as the official state song of Nebraska in 1967, and it celebrates the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and resilient spirit of the state. The song starts with a joyful melody and the opening lines “Beautiful Nebraska, peaceful prairie land / Laced with many rivers, and the hills of sand.” The lyrics describe the diverse landscapes and natural wonders of Nebraska, from the rolling prairies and sparkling rivers to the majestic Sandhills. Throughout the song, Fras and Miller’s lyrics celebrate the rich cultural heritage and strong work ethic of the people of Nebraska. They sing about the state’s agricultural roots, the importance of family and community, and t
3. “Omaha” By Counting Crows
Omaha” is a wistful and introspective alternative rock song written and performed by the American band Counting Crows. The song was released in 1994 as a part of their debut album “August and Everything After”. The song is named after the city of Omaha, Nebraska, but its lyrics are abstract and impressionistic, conveying a sense of longing and nostalgia. The song starts with a slow and melancholic guitar riff and lead singer Adam Duritz’s introspective vocals. The lyrics describe a dreamlike journey through the city of Omaha, with Duritz singing about “the corners of your mind”. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and poetic language, conveying a sense of longing and loss. Throughout the song, Duritz’s lyrics are full of complex emotions and personal reflections, with lines like “the sky tries on its cloudy suit of tears” and “the sun sets like a tired orange”. The song conveys a sense of melancholy and introspection, capturing the feeling of being lost and searching for something meaningful.
4. “Nebraska Sunrise” By Buddy Knox
Nebraska Sunrise” is a romantic and upbeat country song written and performed by Buddy Knox. The song was released in 1975 as a part of his album “Gypsy Man”. The song celebrates the beauty of the Nebraska landscape and the joy of being in love. The song starts with a lively guitar riff and Knox’s cheerful vocals. The lyrics describe the breathtaking beauty of a Nebraska sunrise, with Knox singing about “the sky in shades of pink and gold”. The lyrics then shift to describe the joy of being with the one you love, with Knox singing “I’m in love with you, and the morning too.” Throughout the song, Knox’s lyrics are full of romantic imagery and upbeat energy, capturing the feeling of being in love and appreciating the beauty of the world around you. The song has a catchy and upbeat melody, with Knox’s joyful vocals and energetic guitar riffs creating a sense of happiness and celebration.
5. “There Is No Place Like Nebraska” By Harry Pecha
There is No Place Like Nebraska” is a heartfelt and patriotic song written by Harry Pecha in 1924. The song is a beloved anthem of the University of Nebraska, where it is played at every home football game and sung by thousands of fans. The song starts with a simple melody and the opening lines “There is no place like Nebraska / Dear old Nebraska U”. The lyrics celebrate the rich history and enduring spirit of the university, with Pecha singing about the beauty of the campus and the loyalty of the students and alumni. Throughout the song, Pecha’s lyrics convey a deep sense of pride and patriotism, with lines like “Where the girls are the fairest / The boys are the squarest / Of any old school that I knew”. The song captures the unique charm and character of the state of Nebraska and its flagship university.
6. “You And I” By Lady Gaga
You and I” is a power ballad by Lady Gaga, released in 2011 as a part of her second studio album “Born This Way”. The song features Gaga’s powerhouse vocals and a driving rock beat, and it has been described as a tribute to the singer’s hometown of New York City, as well as her past romantic relationships. The song begins with a piano melody and Gaga’s soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the tumultuous nature of love and the power of attraction, with Gaga singing “You’re the one that I’ve been waiting for / Gotta quit this crying, nobody’s gonna heal me if I don’t open the door”. The chorus features a driving rock beat and an anthemic melody, with Gaga belting out the powerful refrain “You and I / We were born to die”.
7. “Omaha, Nebraska” By Groucho Marx
Omaha, Nebraska” is a humorous song performed by Groucho Marx, the legendary comedian, and actor. The song was originally written by Johnny Mercer and Harry Warren in 1943, but it is Groucho’s unique delivery that has made it a classic.The song features Groucho’s signature wit and wordplay, with the comedian singing about his experiences traveling through Nebraska. The lyrics describe Groucho’s impressions of the state, with lines like “Omaha, Nebraska, I’m a comin’ through / I’m a stranger to your city, I’m a stranger to your zoo”.
8. “Plains Of Nebrasky-O” By Eric Anderson
Plains of Nebrasky-O” is a folk song by Eric Andersen, released in 1971 as a part of his album “Blue River”. The song features Andersen’s distinctive vocals and a gentle acoustic guitar melody, and it has been described as a tribute to the natural beauty and open spaces of the state of Nebraska. The song’s lyrics describe the vast, open plains of Nebraska, with Andersen singing “There’s a place called Nebraska / Where the buffalo still roam / There’s a big sky over Nebraska / Where the sun sets in the dome”. The lyrics convey a sense of wonder and appreciation for the state’s rugged landscapes and wide-open spaces.
9. “North Platte, Nebras-katte” By Harry Partch And The Kronos Quartet
North Platte, Nebras-katte” is a unique and experimental composition by American composer Harry Partch, performed in collaboration with the Kronos Quartet. The piece was originally released on the album “U.S. Highball: A Musical Account of America” in 1958. The composition features a distinctive blend of spoken word, unconventional musical instruments, and experimental vocal techniques. The lyrics describe the experience of traveling through the city of North Platte, Nebraska, with lines like “North Platte, Nebras-katte / Next stop, Nebraska”. The music itself is equally unconventional, featuring a combination of percussion instruments, stringed instruments, and other experimental instruments designed by Partch himself. The Kronos Quartet’s string section provides a haunting and ethereal backdrop for Partch’s spoken word vocals.
10. “Little Nebraska Town” By Rachael Price
Little Nebraska Town” is a country-folk song by Rachael Price, released on her 2017 debut solo album “Myopia”. The song features Price’s powerful vocals and a simple yet evocative acoustic guitar melody. The lyrics of “Little Nebraska Town” describe a nostalgic longing for the simplicity and familiarity of small-town life in Nebraska. Price sings about “driving down Main Street in a pickup truck” and “sitting on the front porch watching the sun go down”, painting a vivid picture of a slower-paced and more peaceful way of life. Throughout the song, Price’s vocals are emotive and expressive, conveying a sense of longing and nostalgia for a simpler time. The acoustic guitar melody is equally evocative, with a gentle finger-picking style that perfectly complements Price’s vocals.
Jared Parker 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.
