The ocean has been a source of inspiration for artists for centuries. Its vastness, power, and mystery have captivated the imaginations of poets, writers, and musicians alike. From haunting ballads to upbeat pop anthems, the ocean has been the subject of countless songs, each capturing a unique aspect of its beauty and majesty.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 17 best songs about the ocean that will make you want to dive in. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just someone who loves to bask in the sun on a sandy beach, these songs will transport you to the depths of the sea and the vastness of the horizon.
From classics to more contemporary hits like “Ocean Eyes” by Billie Eilish, there’s something for every taste on this list. We’ll explore the stories behind these songs, the artists who created them, and the emotions they evoke, taking you on a journey across the waves and into the heart of the ocean. So put on your sunscreen, grab your towel, and get ready to dive into the top 17 best songs about the ocean.
1. ‘Only the Ocean’ – Jack Johnson
“Only the Ocean” by Jack Johnson is a calming and introspective acoustic ballad. The song evokes a sense of peace and serenity, with Johnson’s gentle voice and simple guitar chords painting a picture of the vast and tranquil ocean. The lyrics speak to the power and mystery of the sea, as well as the themes of love and loss. The song’s sparse instrumentation and minimalistic approach allow the listener to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the ocean and the emotions that it evokes.
2. ‘An Ocean Between the Waves’ – War on Drugs
“An Ocean Between the Waves” by War on Drugs is an epic and dreamy rock anthem. The song builds slowly and steadily, with layers of guitars and synths creating a lush and expansive sound. The lyrics speak to feelings of distance and separation, with the metaphor of an ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the emotional space between two people. The song’s soaring chorus and intricate instrumentation create a sense of grandeur and awe, capturing the beauty and power of the ocean and the emotions it represents.
3. ‘Grown Ocean’ – Fleet Foxes
“Grown Ocean” by Fleet Foxes is a wistful and reflective folk-rock tune. The song features intricate harmonies and a lush arrangement of guitars, percussion, and other instruments, creating a warm and inviting sonic landscape. The lyrics speak to the passage of time and the inevitability of change, with the metaphor of the ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the endless cycles of life and death. The song’s gentle melodies and introspective lyrics capture the bittersweet beauty of life’s journey and the powerful emotions that come with it.
4. ‘The Ocean’ – Led Zeppelin
“The Ocean” by Led Zeppelin is a classic rock song that features the band’s signature heavy riffs and powerful vocals. The song’s lyrics speak to the power and majesty of the ocean, with frontman Robert Plant’s soaring vocals capturing the awe-inspiring grandeur of the sea. The song’s upbeat tempo and driving rhythm create a sense of energy and excitement, with the band’s tight instrumentation and dynamic solos showcasing their impressive musical prowess. “The Ocean” is a powerful and unforgettable rock anthem that captures the raw power and emotional intensity that made Led Zeppelin one of the most influential bands of their era.
5. ‘I’m the Ocean’ – Neil Young
“I’m the Ocean” by Neil Young is a powerful and introspective rock song that features the artist’s signature combination of raw, emotional lyrics and driving guitar work. The song’s lyrics speak to the themes of individuality and self-discovery, with the metaphor of the ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the vast and unpredictable nature of the human experience. The song’s powerful vocals and driving rhythms create a sense of energy and intensity, with Young’s intricate guitar work adding a sense of complexity and depth to the song. “I’m the Ocean” is a powerful and thought-provoking rock anthem that captures the raw power and emotional intensity of Neil Young’s music.
6. ‘Oceans’ – Coldplay
“Oceans” by Coldplay is a dreamy and ethereal ballad that features frontman Chris Martin’s delicate vocals and haunting piano melodies. The song’s lyrics speak to the themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, with the metaphor of the ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the ebb and flow of human emotions. The song’s atmospheric instrumentation and haunting harmonies create a sense of mystery and wonder, capturing the beauty and power of the ocean and the emotions it represents.
7. ‘Ocean Rain’ – Echo and the Bunnymen
“Ocean Rain” by Echo and the Bunnymen is a moody and atmospheric rock song that features a driving beat and intricate guitar work. The song’s lyrics speak to feelings of isolation and loneliness, with the metaphor of an ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the emotional distance between two people. The song’s haunting vocals and intricate instrumentation create a sense of mystery and introspection, capturing the emotional intensity of the ocean and the feelings it evokes.
8. ‘Ocean Breathes Salty’ – Modest Mouse
“Ocean Breathes Salty” by Modest Mouse is an upbeat and catchy indie rock song that features driving rhythms and catchy guitar riffs. The song’s lyrics speak to the themes of mortality and the passage of time, with the metaphor of the ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the cyclical nature of life and death. The song’s energetic instrumentation and infectious melodies create a sense of optimism and hope, capturing the beauty and power of the ocean and the emotions it represents.
9. ‘Ocean’ – Lou Reed
“Ocean” by Lou Reed is a brooding and introspective rock song that features the artist’s distinctive vocals and moody guitar work. The song’s lyrics speak to feelings of disillusionment and existential despair, with the metaphor of the ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the vast and mysterious nature of the universe. The song’s sparse instrumentation and haunting melody create a sense of mystery and introspection, capturing the emotional intensity of the ocean and the feelings it evokes.
10. ‘Ocean of Noise’ – Arcade Fire
“Ocean of Noise” by Arcade Fire is a haunting and atmospheric indie rock song that features the band’s signature combination of intricate instrumentation and powerful vocals. The song’s lyrics speak to feelings of anxiety and uncertainty, with the metaphor of an ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the overwhelming nature of the modern world. The song’s haunting harmonies and lush instrumentation create a sense of mystery and wonder, capturing the emotional intensity of the ocean and the feelings it evokes.
11. Life’s an Ocean’ – Verve
“Life’s an Ocean” by Verve is a melancholic and introspective rock ballad that features frontman Richard Ashcroft’s soulful vocals and haunting piano melodies. The song’s lyrics speak to the themes of loss and longing, with the metaphor of the ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the vast and unknown nature of the future. The song’s lush arrangements and emotional melodies create a sense of melancholy and introspection, capturing the beauty and power of the ocean and the emotions it represents.
12. ‘Once Upon a Time Theas an Ocean’ – Paul Simon
“Once Upon a Time There Was an Ocean” is a reflective and nostalgic track by American singer-songwriter Paul Simon. The song, which appears on his 2006 album “Surprise,” is characterized by a slow, dreamy rhythm and a soothing melody. Simon’s warm, familiar voice sings about the passage of time and the memories that endure, evoking a sense of wistfulness and melancholy. The lyrics reference images of the ocean and the natural world, serving as a metaphor for the ebb and flow of life. The song’s gentle instrumentation and Simon’s introspective lyrics create a thoughtful and poignant meditation on the fleeting nature of existence.
13. ‘Oceania’ – Björk
“Oceania” by Björk is an experimental and haunting song that features the artist’s unique vocal style and intricate electronic instrumentation. The song’s lyrics speak to the themes of connection and unity, with the metaphor of the ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the interconnectedness of all things. The song’s lush soundscapes and intricate rhythms create a sense of wonder and mystery, with Björk’s soaring vocals adding a sense of emotional intensity to the song.
14. ‘Blue Ocean Floor’ – Justin Timberlake
“Blue Ocean Floor” by Justin Timberlake is a dreamy and atmospheric R&B ballad that features the artist’s smooth vocals and lush electronic instrumentation. The song’s lyrics speak to the themes of love and devotion, with the metaphor of the ocean serving as a powerful symbol for the depth and intensity of human emotions. The song’s intricate harmonies and rich soundscapes create a sense of intimacy and emotional depth, capturing the beauty and power of the ocean and the emotions it represents.
15. ‘How Deep is Ocean?’ – Diana Krall
“How Deep Is the Ocean?” is a jazzy and intimate ballad performed by Canadian singer-pianist Diana Krall. The song was originally written by Irving Berlin in 1932 and has been covered by many artists. Krall’s rendition features her sultry, smoky vocals and elegant piano playing, creating a sense of romantic longing and depth. The arrangement is spare and understated, allowing Krall’s voice and the song’s emotive lyrics to shine.
16. ‘Ocean Eyes’ Billie Eilish
“Ocean Eyes” is a haunting and atmospheric electro-pop track by American singer-songwriter Billie Eilish. The song’s sparse production, eerie synths, and breathy vocals create an intimate and dreamlike soundscape. Eilish’s lyrics are poetic and evocative, conjuring a sense of longing and yearning for a deeper connection with someone. The song’s hypnotic melody and ethereal production make for a captivating listening experience.
17. ‘Octopus’s Garden’ – Beatles
“Octopus’s Garden” is a playful and whimsical track by the Beatles, written and sung by drummer Ringo Starr. The song features catchy, sing-along lyrics about an underwater adventure in an octopus’s garden. The music is upbeat and cheerful, with a jaunty melody and bright harmonies. The song’s lighthearted and imaginative lyrics, combined with the Beatles’ signature sound, make for a charming and delightful listening experience.
Macey West 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.
