Breathing is an essential function of life, but it is often taken for granted. The act of inhaling and exhaling is so natural to us that we rarely give it much thought. However, for many songwriters and musicians, breathing is a source of inspiration. Songs about breathing can take on different meanings depending on the context in which they are written. Some songs about breathing are simply about the physical act of breathing, while others use it as a metaphor for emotions and experiences.
Breathing can represent life, love, and healing. It can symbolize perseverance, struggle, and the strength to overcome obstacles. The way we breathe can also reflect our emotional state, and top 20 songs about breathing can explore the connections between our bodies and our feelings. From pop to rock, hip-hop to indie, songs about breathing have been explored across a wide range of genres, each with their own unique interpretation of the theme.
In this article, we will dive into the world of songs about breathing, exploring the different ways in which artists have used this theme in their music. We will discuss the lyrics, melodies, and emotions that make these songs so impactful, and we will take a closer look at some of the most iconic examples of songs about breathing throughout the history of music. Whether you are a music lover, a mindfulness practitioner, or simply interested in exploring the connections between our bodies and our emotions, this article will provide a comprehensive overview of the power of songs about breathing.
1. “Breathe” by Prodigy
“Breathe” is an iconic electronic dance track by the British band Prodigy. Released in 1996, the song features heavy beats, distorted synths, and a distinctive vocal sample repeating the word “breathe”. The track was a commercial success and became one of the band’s signature songs. The music video, directed by Walter Stern, features a surrealistic depiction of the band members as cyberpunks, with distorted camera angles and rapid-fire editing. “Breathe” is a high-energy track that perfectly captures the intensity and excitement of the 90s dance scene, and it remains a classic example of Prodigy’s unique sound and style.
2. “Breathe In” by Frou Frou
“Breathe In” is a dreamy, atmospheric song by the electronic duo Frou Frou, composed of Imogen Heap and Guy Sigsworth. Released in 2002, the song features lush production, layered vocals, and a haunting melody that evokes a sense of longing and introspection. The lyrics speak to the power of connection and intimacy, with lines like “breathe in, leave your worries behind” and “if you’re lost, I’m right here to find you”. The music video, directed by Sophie Muller, features Imogen Heap in a surreal, dreamlike landscape. “Breathe In” is a beautiful and introspective track that showcases the unique creativity and artistry of Frou Frou.
3. “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin
“Take My Breath Away” is a romantic ballad by the American band Berlin, released in 1986 as part of the soundtrack for the movie “Top Gun”. The song features a slow, synth-driven melody, with singer Terri Nunn’s vocals conveying a sense of longing and desire. The lyrics speak to the intensity of romantic attraction, with lines like “watching every motion in my foolish lover’s game” and “love is like a never-ending melody”. The music video features scenes from the movie and showcases the band’s stylish 80s fashion. “Take My Breath Away” is a timeless classic that captures the emotion and drama of 80s pop ballads.
4. “Breathe Deeper” by Tame Impala
“Breathe Deeper” is a psychedelic pop track by the Australian band Tame Impala, released in 2020 as part of their album “The Slow Rush”. The song features a funky bassline, swirling synths, and a groovy beat, with Kevin Parker’s vocals gliding over the top. The lyrics speak to the power of mindfulness and self-awareness, with lines like “if you think I couldn’t hold my own, believe me, I can”. The music video, directed by Butt Studio, features a trippy, surrealistic depiction of a man navigating a strange and colorful landscape. “Breathe Deeper” is a catchy and uplifting track that showcases Tame Impala’s unique style and sound.
5. “Breath Away From Heaven” by George Harrison
“Breath Away From Heaven” is a melodic and introspective song by George Harrison, released in 1987 as part of his album “Cloud Nine”. The song features Harrison’s signature guitar work, with a catchy melody and ethereal production. The lyrics speak to the impermanence of life and the possibility of transcendence, with lines like “breath away from heaven, that’s where I want to be”. The music video features Harrison performing the song in a mystical, dreamlike setting. “Breath Away From Heaven” is a beautiful and contemplative track that showcases Harrison’s unique talent and perspective as a songwriter.
6. “Harder to Breathe” by Maroon 5
“Harder to Breathe” is an energetic and catchy rock song by the American band Maroon 5, released in 2002 as part of their album “Songs About Jane”. The song features a driving rhythm, distorted guitar riffs, and Adam Levine’s dynamic vocals. The lyrics speak to the frustration and confusion of a tumultuous relationship, with lines like “you’re pushing, you’re pushing, I’m pulling away, pulling away from you”. The music video, directed by Marc Webb, features the band performing the song in a dimly lit room, with rapid-fire editing and visual effects. “Harder to Breathe” is a memorable and anthemic track that helped establish Maroon 5 as a major force in modern pop rock.
7. “Breathe” by Pink Floyd
“Breathe” is a beautiful and introspective song by the British rock band Pink Floyd, released in 1973 as part of their album “The Dark Side of the Moon”. The song features a mellow and atmospheric sound, with a slow, pulsing beat and lush instrumentation. The lyrics speak to the importance of taking time to slow down and appreciate life, with lines like “run, rabbit, run, dig that hole, forget the sun, and when at last the work is done, don’t sit down, it’s time to dig another one”. The music video features a surrealistic, black and white depiction of a desert landscape. “Breathe” is a timeless classic that captures the introspective and contemplative spirit of Pink Floyd’s music.
8. “Breathe” by Taylor Swift feat. Colbie Caillat
“Breathe” is a soulful and emotive song by the American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, featuring Colbie Caillat. It was released in 2008 as part of her album “Fearless”. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, and layered harmonies, creating a warm and mellow sound. The lyrics speak to the difficulty of letting go of a past relationship, with lines like “I’m sorry, but I’m breathing, it’s just a habit that I have”. The music video features Swift and Caillat performing the song in a simple, sun-drenched setting. “Breathe” is a poignant and heartfelt track that showcases Swift’s songwriting skills and emotional depth.
9. “Lose My Breath” by Destiny’s Child
“Lose My Breath” is a high-energy dance track by the American girl group Destiny’s Child, released in 2004 as part of their album “Destiny Fulfilled”. The song features a fast-paced beat, horns, and vocal harmonies, with Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams singing in unison. The lyrics speak to the thrill of being swept up in a passionate relationship, with lines like “I put it right there, made it easy for you to get to, now you wanna act like you don’t know what to do”. The music video features the group performing intricate choreography in a variety of settings. “Lose My Breath” is a fun and infectious track that showcases Destiny’s Child’s charisma and talent as performers.
10. “How Do I Breathe” by Mario
“How Do I Breathe” is a soulful R&B ballad by the American singer Mario, released in 2007 as part of his album “Go”. The song features a slow, romantic tempo, with piano, strings, and Mario’s smooth vocals. The lyrics speak to the pain of a failed relationship, with lines like “it feels like my heart is stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, I’m under pressure ’cause I can’t have you the way that I want”. The music video features Mario singing in a variety of settings, including a rainy street and a dreamlike sequence. “How Do I Breathe” is a poignant and heartfelt track that showcases Mario’s vocal range and emotional depth.
11. “You Take My Breath Away” by Queen
“You Take My Breath Away” is a beautiful and romantic song by the British rock band Queen, released in 1976 as part of their album “A Day at the Races”. The song features a slow, waltz-like tempo, with piano, acoustic guitar, and Freddie Mercury’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics speak to the intense emotions of falling in love, with lines like “you take my breath away, love thinks it’s here to stay”. The music video features footage of the band performing the song, intercut with romantic imagery. “You Take My Breath Away” is a timeless classic that showcases Queen’s ability to create heartfelt and moving music.
12. “Breathin’” by Ariana Grande
“Breathin'” is an upbeat and empowering song by the American singer Ariana Grande, released in 2018 as part of her album “Sweetener”. The song features a catchy electronic beat, with synths and Grande’s soaring vocals. The lyrics speak to the struggle of managing anxiety and panic attacks, with lines like “just keep breathin’ and breathin’ and breathin’ and breathin'”. The music video features Grande navigating through a crowded train station, with scenes of her singing and dancing interspersed with close-ups of her breathing. “Breathin'” is a powerful and relatable track that showcases Grande’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with meaningful lyrics.
13. “Breathe” by Faith Hill
“Breathe” is a romantic country-pop ballad by the American singer Faith Hill, released in 1999 as part of her album of the same name. The song features a lush, orchestral arrangement, with piano, strings, and Hill’s emotive vocals. The lyrics speak to the all-consuming power of love, with lines like “I can feel you breathe, it’s washing over me”. The music video features Hill in a variety of scenic locations, including a desert and a beach. “Breathe” is a classic love song that showcases Hill’s vocal range and songwriting abilities, and has become one of her signature hits.
14. “Last Breath” by Plain White T’s
“Last Breath” is a heart-wrenching and poignant song by the American rock band Plain White T’s, released in 2020 as part of their album “Parallel Universe”. The song features a slow, melancholic melody, with acoustic guitar, piano, and lead singer Tom Higgenson’s emotive vocals. The lyrics speak to the pain of losing a loved one, with lines like “I’d give my last breath just to see you again”. The music video features footage of the band performing the song, intercut with scenes of people dealing with loss and grief. “Last Breath” is a moving and emotional track that showcases the band’s ability to create meaningful and introspective music.
15. “It Only Hurts When I’m Breathing” by Shania Twain
“It Only Hurts When I’m Breathing” is a poignant country ballad by Canadian singer Shania Twain, released in 2004 as part of her album “Up!”. The song features a slow and soulful melody, with Twain’s emotive vocals and a prominent acoustic guitar. The lyrics speak to the pain of heartbreak and loss, with lines like “I’m not afraid to cry every once in a while, even though going on with you gone still upsets me”. The music video features Twain performing the song in a serene outdoor setting. “It Only Hurts When I’m Breathing” is a powerful and emotional track that showcases Twain’s ability to convey complex emotions through her music.
16. “Take My Breath” by The Weeknd
“Take My Breath” is a high-energy, synth-pop track by Canadian singer The Weeknd, released in 2021 as a single. The song features an upbeat and pulsing melody, with electronic instrumentation, The Weeknd’s falsetto vocals, and a catchy chorus. The lyrics speak to the intense attraction and desire between two people, with lines like “You’re all that I want, you’re all that I need”. The music video features The Weeknd performing the song in a futuristic and surreal nightclub setting. “Take My Breath” is a dynamic and catchy track that showcases The Weeknd’s ability to create infectious and danceable music.
17. “Still Breathing” by Green Day
“Still Breathing” is a powerful and emotive rock track by American punk rock band Green Day, released in 2016 as part of their album “Revolution Radio”. The song features a driving rhythm, intense guitar riffs, and lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong’s signature gritty vocals. The lyrics speak to themes of resilience, perseverance, and overcoming personal struggles, with lines like “I’m still breathing on my own, my head’s above the rain and roses”. The music video features Armstrong walking through a desolate and stormy landscape, reflecting the song’s themes of strength and determination. “Still Breathing” is an anthemic and uplifting song that speaks to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience.
18. “Breathe In Breathe Out” by Kanye West featuring Ludacris
“Breathe In Breathe Out” is a rap song by American rapper Kanye West, featuring Ludacris. The track was released in 2004 as part of Kanye’s debut album, “The College Dropout”. The song features a funky, upbeat melody, with West and Ludacris trading verses over a jazzy instrumental. The lyrics are playful and humorous, with the rappers bragging about their wealth, success, and sexual prowess, with lines like “I’m trying to right my wrongs, but it’s funny, these same wrongs helped me write this song”. “Breathe In Breathe Out” is a fun and lighthearted track that showcases Kanye’s skill as a rapper and producer.
19. “I’ll Hold My Breath” by Ellie Goulding
“I’ll Hold My Breath” is a ballad by English singer-songwriter Ellie Goulding, taken from her second studio album, “Halcyon”. The song is a beautiful piano ballad that showcases Goulding’s ethereal and emotive vocals. The lyrics describe a struggle to keep a relationship together and the heartache that comes with trying to make it work. The chorus features Goulding declaring her commitment to the relationship, singing “I’ll hold my breath, I won’t lose you”. “I’ll Hold My Breath” is a poignant and heartfelt track that displays Goulding’s talent as a singer and songwriter.
20. “Breathless” by The Corrs
“Breathless” is a pop-rock song by Irish band The Corrs, released as the first single from their third studio album “In Blue”. The song features a catchy melody, upbeat guitar riffs, and lush vocal harmonies. The lyrics describe the feelings of infatuation and excitement that come with falling in love, with the chorus featuring lead vocalist Andrea Corr singing “I’m so breathless, caught up in you”. “Breathless” became a massive international hit and remains one of The Corrs’ signature songs. The track showcases the band’s musicianship and ability to craft infectious pop tunes with a Celtic twist.
Jason Smith 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.
