Music has the power to evoke emotions, transport us to different places and times, and bring people together. And with a plethora of songs out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect tune for the moment. But fear not, for we have curated a list of the 20 best songs that start with the letter S. From classic hits to contemporary gems, this list spans multiple genres and decades, making it a great playlist for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for some soulful ballads, upbeat pop songs, or hard-hitting rock anthems, we’ve got you covered.
Some of the iconic songs on this list include “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana, and “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses. These songs have stood the test of time and are still beloved by fans around the world. But we didn’t just include the classics. We also have some modern hits like “Shallow” by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper and “Someone Like You” by Adele. These songs showcase the diversity and evolution of music over time. So sit back, relax, and let the music take you on a journey. It’s time to discover or rediscover the 20 best songs that start with the letter S.
1. Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin
Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin is a rock classic that has stood the test of time. Released in 1971, the song features a soft, acoustic guitar intro that builds into an epic, guitar-driven anthem. The lyrics are cryptic and poetic, weaving mystical themes with references to real-life experiences. The song’s climax features a powerful guitar solo that is considered one of the greatest in rock history. “Stairway to Heaven” has been covered by numerous artists and remains a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
2. Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana
Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana is a grunge anthem that defined a generation. Released in 1991, the song features a simple, yet unforgettable guitar riff that is instantly recognizable. The lyrics are angst-ridden and sarcastic, reflecting the disillusionment of youth culture at the time. The chorus is a raucous call to arms, with frontman Kurt Cobain’s iconic wail urging listeners to “come as you are.” “Smells Like Teen Spirit” became a massive hit and helped propel Nirvana to superstardom. The song’s impact on popular culture cannot be overstated, and it remains a defining moment in the history of rock music.
3. Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses is a quintessential rock ballad that showcases the band’s raw talent and musical prowess. Released in 1987, the song features a distinctive opening guitar riff that has become iconic. The lyrics are a heartfelt tribute to a lover, with frontman Axl Rose’s soaring vocals adding to the emotional impact. The song’s dynamic shifts between hard-hitting rock and melodic verses, culminating in a blistering guitar solo that remains one of the most recognizable in rock history.
4. Shallow – Lady Gaga
Shallow by Lady Gaga is a powerful ballad that features the singer’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth. Released in 2018, the song was written for the film “A Star is Born,” which Gaga starred in alongside Bradley Cooper. The lyrics are a poignant reflection on the ups and downs of love, with a soaring chorus that captures the intensity of the emotion. The song’s stripped-down instrumentation, featuring only a piano and acoustic guitar, allows Gaga’s vocals to take center stage. “Shallow” became a massive hit and earned numerous awards, cementing Lady Gaga’s status as a musical powerhouse.
5. Someone Like You – Adele
Someone Like You by Adele is a soulful ballad that showcases the singer’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth. Released in 2011, the song features a simple, yet haunting piano melody that sets the stage for Adele’s powerful vocals. The lyrics are a heartbreaking reflection on lost love, with Adele’s raw and honest delivery adding to the emotional impact. The chorus is a soaring moment of catharsis, with Adele proclaiming that she’s “moved on” but will always remember the love she once had. “Someone Like You” became a massive hit and remains one of Adele’s most beloved songs.
6. Same Love- MacKlemore & Ryan Lewis
Same Love by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis is a powerful hip-hop anthem that champions LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Released in 2012, the song features a catchy chorus and a thought-provoking verse that tackles issues of homophobia and discrimination. The lyrics are a call to action, urging listeners to stand up against hate and support love in all its forms. The song’s impact was felt across the music industry, and it became a rallying cry for the LGBTQ+ community. “Same Love” remains a testament to the power of music to inspire social change and promote acceptance.
7. See You Again – Miley Cyrus
See You Again by Miley Cyrus is an uplifting pop ballad that celebrates the power of love and connection. Released in 2007, the song features a catchy chorus and a driving beat that makes it impossible not to sing along. The lyrics are a testament to the enduring nature of relationships, with Cyrus singing about the joy of reuniting with a loved one after a period of separation. The song’s message of hope and optimism struck a chord with audiences, and it became one of Cyrus’s most beloved hits.
8. Sell Yourself – Cage the Elephant
Sell Yourself by Cage the Elephant is a raw and gritty rock song that tackles issues of self-doubt and identity. Released in 2015, the song features a pounding drumbeat and distorted guitars that create a sense of urgency and intensity. The lyrics are a scathing critique of the music industry and its tendency to commodify and exploit artists. The chorus is a defiant call to arms, urging listeners to resist the pressure to conform and stay true to themselves. “Sell Yourself” is a powerful anthem for anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world.
9. Backstreet Boys – Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely
Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely by Backstreet Boys is a poignant pop ballad that explores the pain of loneliness and loss. Released in 1999, the song features a soaring chorus and lush harmonies that highlight the band’s vocal talents. The lyrics are a reflection on the emptiness that can accompany a life without love, with the narrator searching for meaning and connection in a world that can feel cold and unforgiving. The song’s emotional resonance has made it a fan favorite and a staple of the Backstreet Boys’ live performances.
10. Shy Boy – Secret
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uylkcLxn7oI
Shy Boy by Secret is an upbeat K-pop track that showcases the group’s infectious energy and charisma. Released in 2011, the song features a driving beat and catchy melody that make it impossible not to dance along. The lyrics are a playful ode to a shy love interest, with the members of Secret vying for his attention and affection. The song’s fun and lighthearted vibe has made it a fan favorite and a testament to the power of K-pop to create infectious pop hits.
11. Sit Still, Look Pretty – Daya
Sit Still, Look Pretty by Daya is an empowering pop anthem that challenges gender stereotypes and encourages women to be confident and independent. Released in 2016, the song features a catchy chorus and a driving beat that make it a perfect dance floor filler. The lyrics are a call to action, urging young women to reject societal expectations and pursue their dreams on their own terms. The song’s positive message and infectious energy have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Daya’s live performances.
12. Janet Jackson – So Excited (Ft Khia)
So Excited by Janet Jackson featuring Khia is a high-energy R&B track that showcases Jackson’s iconic vocals and Khia’s signature rap style. Released in 2006, the song features a pulsing beat and catchy hooks that make it impossible not to move to. The lyrics are a celebration of female empowerment and sexual liberation, with Jackson and Khia reveling in their own confidence and sensuality. The song’s fun and playful vibe has made it a fan favorite and a testament to Jackson’s enduring influence on pop and R&B music.
13. Somebody Told Me – The Killers
Somebody Told Me by The Killers is a high-energy rock track that features driving guitars and pounding drums. Released in 2004, the song is instantly recognizable thanks to its infectious hooks and catchy chorus. The lyrics are a cryptic exploration of paranoia and deception, with the narrator trying to make sense of conflicting messages and hidden agendas. The song’s propulsive energy and memorable riffs have made it a fan favorite and a staple of The Killers’ live shows.
14. Stand Up – Ludacris
Stand Up by Ludacris is an upbeat hip-hop track that showcases the rapper’s signature flow and clever wordplay. Released in 2003, the song features a catchy hook and a sample from the classic disco hit “Love Train” by The O’Jays. The lyrics are a celebration of self-confidence and resilience, with Ludacris urging listeners to stand up for themselves and pursue their dreams. The song’s positive message and infectious beat have made it a fan favorite and a testament to Ludacris’s enduring popularity in the hip-hop world.
15. Stop – Spice Girls
“Stop” is a fun and upbeat pop song by the Spice Girls, released in 1998. It features the group’s signature catchy lyrics and danceable beats. The song encourages listeners to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures, rather than constantly striving for more. With its message of positivity and empowerment, “Stop” quickly became a fan favorite and remains a beloved classic to this day. The music video, featuring the Spice Girls performing in a 1960s-inspired dance party, perfectly captures the song’s lighthearted spirit.
16. Stop and Stare – Onerepublic
“Stop and Stare” is a hauntingly beautiful rock ballad by OneRepublic, released in 2007. The song features the band’s signature emotive lyrics and powerful vocals, drawing listeners in with its raw emotional intensity. “Stop and Stare” speaks to the struggle of feeling stuck in a rut and the need to take a step back and reevaluate one’s life. The music video, set against the backdrop of a desolate urban landscape, adds to the song’s sense of introspection and melancholy. With its powerful message and haunting melody, “Stop and Stare” is a standout track in OneRepublic’s discography.
17. Store – Carly Rae Jepsen
“Store” is an upbeat pop song by Carly Rae Jepsen, released in 2016. The song features Jepsen’s signature catchy hooks and bubbly vocals, inviting listeners to join her on a carefree shopping spree. With its catchy chorus and infectious beat, “Store” quickly became a fan favorite and remains a fun and playful addition to Jepsen’s discography. The music video, featuring Jepsen dancing through the aisles of a supermarket, perfectly captures the song’s whimsical spirit.
18. Stressed Out – Twenty One Pilots
“Stressed Out” is a poignant and introspective rap-rock song by Twenty One Pilots, released in 2015. The song reflects on the pressures of growing up and the longing for simpler times. The lyrics, delivered in the band’s signature style, are both poignant and relatable, tapping into the anxieties of a generation. With its catchy chorus and memorable hook, “Stressed Out” became an instant hit and remains one of the band’s most beloved tracks. The music video, featuring the band members as children, adds to the song’s nostalgic feel and emotional resonance.
19. Sick and Tired – Iann Dior
Sick and Tired by Iann Dior is a melancholic trap track that explores the emotional struggles of a toxic relationship. The lyrics express frustration and disappointment in a partner who continuously mistreats and takes advantage of the singer’s love. The somber melody and introspective rap verses reflect the weight of the singer’s emotional turmoil and the exhaustion of trying to make the relationship work. The chorus, sung by a soulful female voice, adds a haunting layer to the track, emphasizing the singer’s feelings of sadness and desperation.
20. Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond
Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond is an upbeat classic that has become a beloved staple at weddings and sporting events. The infectious chorus and catchy melody make it a feel-good song that brings people together. The lyrics are a tribute to Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of President John F. Kennedy, but have taken on a broader meaning as a celebration of love, community, and shared experiences. The song’s simple, sing-along structure invites everyone to join in, creating a joyful and uplifting atmosphere. Sweet Caroline is a timeless anthem that has stood the test of time and remains a beloved favorite today.
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.
