10 Best Songs about Wisconsin

Wisconsin, a state located in the midwestern region of the United States, has been the subject of many songs over the years. Known for its natural beauty, vibrant cities, and unique cultural identity, Wisconsin has inspired songwriters from a variety of genres to write about their experiences in the state. From classic country tunes to anthemic indie rock tracks, the music of Wisconsin reflects the diversity of the state itself.

In this list of the 10 Best Songs about Wisconsin, we’ll explore a range of musical genres and styles, each offering a unique perspective on the Badger State. We’ll hear from legendary country artists like George Jones and Brad Paisley, as well as indie rock icons like Bon Iver and The Both. We’ll also discover lesser-known tracks from Ella Fitzgerald and Gordon Lightfoot, each showcasing the beauty and character of Wisconsin in their own way.

Whether you’re a proud Wisconsin native or simply a music lover looking for some new tunes to discover, this list has something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and let the music take you on a journey through the heart of America’s Dairyland.

1. “Wisconsin” by Bon Iver

“Wisconsin” by Bon Iver is a hauntingly beautiful song that evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing. The track, which is featured on the album “Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin” is a somber reflection on the state of Wisconsin and the memories that it holds for the singer.

The song opens with a melancholic acoustic guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track. Justin Vernon’s falsetto vocals float ethereally over the music, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that is both calming and unsettling at the same time. The lyrics of the song are poetic and introspective, with Vernon singing about the beauty of the Wisconsin countryside and the memories that he associates with it.

The chorus of the song features a soaring harmony that is both haunting and uplifting. It’s a testament to Bon Iver’s ability to create music that is both emotionally resonant and musically complex. The instrumentation on “Wisconsin” is sparse, with minimal percussion and a focus on acoustic guitar and vocals. This minimalistic approach allows the listener to fully immerse themselves in the song and to feel the emotions that it evokes.

Overall, “Wisconsin” is a beautiful and introspective track that showcases Bon Iver’s unique brand of indie folk. It’s a song that is sure to stay with the listener long after it’s over, and one that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt a deep connection to a particular place or time in their life.

2. “What’s Made Milwaukee Famous (Has Made a Fool Out of Me)” by Jerry Lee Lewis

“What’s Made Milwaukee Famous (Has Made a Fool Out of Me)” is a classic country song originally recorded by Jerry Lee Lewis in 1968. The track, which is a cover of a song written by Glenn Sutton, is a tale of heartbreak and regret set against a backdrop of hard-drinking and barroom blues.

The song opens with a driving piano riff that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. Jerry Lee Lewis’s distinctive voice cuts through the music, delivering the lyrics with a raw and emotional intensity. The instrumentation is upbeat and energetic, with a prominent piano line and a lively rhythm section that keeps the song moving forward.

The chorus of the song is catchy and memorable, with Lewis singing the memorable line “What’s made Milwaukee famous has made a loser out of me.” The lyrics tell the story of a man who has lost everything due to his excessive drinking and partying. He reflects on the choices he’s made and the mistakes he’s made, acknowledging that his own behavior is to blame for his troubles.

Overall, “What’s Made Milwaukee Famous (Has Made a Fool Out of Me)” is a classic country track that embodies the genre’s themes of heartbreak and hard living. It’s a song that showcases Jerry Lee Lewis’s talents as a pianist and vocalist, and one that has stood the test of time as a beloved classic of the country music canon.

3. “On, Wisconsin” by William T. Purdy

“On, Wisconsin” is a beloved college fight song that has become a staple of Wisconsin culture. The song was written by William T. Purdy in 1909 and has since become a symbol of pride for the state and its flagship university, the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

The song begins with a triumphant brass fanfare that sets the tone for the rest of the track. The melody is catchy and upbeat, with lyrics that celebrate the spirit of the state and its residents. The chorus of the song is particularly rousing, with the lyrics “On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin! Plunge right through that line! Run the ball clear down the field, A touchdown sure this time!”

The instrumentation of “On, Wisconsin” is characterized by its use of brass instruments and percussion, which create a bold and triumphant sound. The song is often played at sporting events and rallies, where it serves to galvanize fans and create a sense of camaraderie and team spirit.

Overall, “On, Wisconsin” is a classic example of the college fight song genre. It’s a song that embodies the pride and spirit of the state and its people, and one that has become an integral part of Wisconsin’s cultural identity.

4. “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” by Gordon Lightfoot

“The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” is a hauntingly beautiful song by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. Released in 1976, the track tells the tragic story of the sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, a freighter that went down in Lake Superior in November 1975.

The song opens with a mournful acoustic guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track. Lightfoot’s deep and emotive vocals tell the story of the doomed ship and its crew, with vivid imagery that paints a picture of the stormy waters of Lake Superior. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, with lines like “The wind in the wires made a tattle-tale sound / And a wave broke over the railing / And every man knew, as the captain did too / ‘Twas the witch of November come stealin'”

The instrumentation of the song is sparse, with Lightfoot’s acoustic guitar and vocals serving as the primary focus. The track builds in intensity as it progresses, with the addition of electric guitar, bass, and drums creating a sense of urgency and tension.

Overall, “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” is a poignant and evocative song that tells the story of a tragic event with a sense of respect and reverence. It’s a testament to Gordon Lightfoot’s talent as a songwriter and storyteller, and one that has stood the test of time as a classic of the folk music genre.

5. “Milwaukee, Here I Come” by George Jones and Brenda Carter

“Milwaukee, Here I Come” is a classic country duet performed by George Jones and Brenda Carter. Written by Lee Fikes, the song tells the story of a man who is leaving his hometown in search of a better life in Milwaukee.

The song opens with a twangy guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track. Jones and Carter’s vocals are emotive and expressive, with lyrics that paint a picture of a man who is torn between the familiarity of his hometown and the promise of a new beginning in the big city. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the lyrics “Milwaukee, here I come / From the mountains and the sun / To a place that I’ve never been / Where the people and the places are new.”

The instrumentation of the song is classic country, with a mix of guitar, fiddle, and pedal steel creating a twangy and upbeat sound. The track has a lively tempo that keeps the song moving forward, with Jones and Carter’s vocals complementing each other perfectly.

Overall, “Milwaukee, Here I Come” is a classic country duet that embodies the themes of wanderlust and the search for a better life. It’s a song that showcases the talents of George Jones and Brenda Carter, and one that has stood the test of time as a beloved classic of the country music canon.

6. “My Cousin in Milwaukee” by Ella Fitzgerald

“My Cousin in Milwaukee” is a playful and upbeat song performed by jazz legend Ella Fitzgerald. The song was written by Bob Hilliard and Carl Sigman and released in 1949.

The song opens with a lively and swinging instrumental introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the track. Fitzgerald’s vocals are smooth and effortless, with lyrics that tell the story of a woman who is eager to visit her cousin in Milwaukee. The lyrics are witty and clever, with lines like “I’m a cousin of her cousin’s / On her mother’s side you see / She don’t know me from Adam / But I’m as close as I can be.”

The instrumentation of the song is characterized by its use of a swinging jazz band, with horns and percussion creating a lively and upbeat sound. The track has a fun and playful energy that perfectly captures the lighthearted nature of the lyrics.

Overall, “My Cousin in Milwaukee” is a classic example of Ella Fitzgerald’s talent as a jazz vocalist. The song is playful and fun, with a swinging energy that perfectly captures the spirit of the era. It’s a testament to Fitzgerald’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest singers of the 20th century.

7. “Man From Milwaukee” by Hanson

“Man From Milwaukee” is a track by American pop rock band Hanson, from their 1997 album “Middle of Nowhere”. Written by the band’s lead singer, Taylor Hanson, the song is an upbeat and energetic pop rock anthem.

The song opens with a driving guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track. Hanson’s vocals are energetic and passionate, with lyrics that tell the story of a woman who falls in love with a man from Milwaukee. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the catchy hook “Oh oh oh, man from Milwaukee / Oh oh oh, and you’re talkin’ to me.”

The instrumentation of the song is characterized by its use of electric guitar, drums, and bass, creating a driving and upbeat sound. The track has a fun and carefree energy that perfectly captures the youthful spirit of the band.

Overall, “Man From Milwaukee” is a classic example of Hanson’s brand of catchy, upbeat pop rock. The song is infectious and fun, with a chorus that is sure to get stuck in your head. It’s a testament to the band’s talent as songwriters and performers, and one that has stood the test of time as a beloved track in their discography.

8. “Alcohol” by Brad Paisley

“Alcohol” is a humorous and satirical country song by Brad Paisley. Released in 2005 as the second single from his album “Time Well Wasted,” the song was written by Paisley himself and is known for its clever wordplay and catchy chorus.

The song opens with a twangy guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track. Paisley’s vocals are tongue-in-cheek, with lyrics that poke fun at the effects of alcohol on people’s behavior. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the humorous hook “Alcohol, alcohol / I got you in my veins, I got you in my blood / I got you reelin’ that reelin’ feelin’ like a million bucks / I love you, alcohol.”

The instrumentation of the song is classic country, with a mix of guitar, fiddle, and pedal steel creating a twangy and upbeat sound. The track has a lively tempo that keeps the song moving forward, with Paisley’s vocals perfectly capturing the humorous and satirical nature of the lyrics.

Overall, “Alcohol” is a classic example of Brad Paisley’s talent as a songwriter and performer. The song is fun, catchy, and relatable, with lyrics that poke fun at the sometimes absurd behavior that can result from drinking. It’s a testament to Paisley’s ability to blend humor with his love for traditional country music, and one that has stood the test of time as a beloved track in his discography.

9. “Milwaukee” by The Both

“Milwaukee” is an indie rock track by the band The Both, consisting of Aimee Mann and Ted Leo. Released in 2014 as the second single from their self-titled debut album, the song is a driving and energetic tribute to the city of Milwaukee.

The song opens with a propulsive drum beat that sets the pace for the rest of the track. Mann and Leo’s vocals are powerful and emotive, with lyrics that celebrate the city of Milwaukee and its unique character. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the anthemic hook “Milwaukee, Milwaukee, there’s no place like you / You’re the city I love, you’re the city I love to lose.”

The instrumentation of the song is characterized by its use of electric guitar and driving percussion, creating a dynamic and engaging sound. The track has a sense of urgency and energy that perfectly captures the spirit of the city it celebrates.

Overall, “Milwaukee” is a powerful and anthemic indie rock track that pays tribute to the unique character of the city. The song is a testament to the talent of The Both as songwriters and performers, and one that captures the energy and passion of the indie rock genre.

10. “Jump Around” by House of Pain

“Jump Around” is a hip-hop classic by the American group House of Pain. Released in 1992 as the lead single from their debut album, the song is known for its infectious beat and catchy chorus that has made it a party anthem for decades.

The song opens with a distinctive horn sample from Bob and Earl’s “Harlem Shuffle” and a driving beat that sets the tone for the rest of the track. House of Pain’s vocals are energetic and commanding, with lyrics that encourage listeners to jump and move to the rhythm of the song. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the simple yet effective hook “Jump around! Jump around! Jump up, jump up and get down!”

The instrumentation of the song is characterized by its use of samples, including the aforementioned horn sample, as well as a sample from Junior Walker and the All Stars’ “Shotgun.” The track has a lively tempo that keeps the song moving forward, with House of Pain’s vocals perfectly capturing the infectious energy of the song.

Overall, “Jump Around” is a classic example of a hip-hop party anthem that has stood the test of time. The song is infectious, fun, and impossible to resist dancing to. It’s a testament to House of Pain’s talent as songwriters and performers, and one that has cemented their place in hip-hop history.

Simon Robinson

Simon Robinson 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.