Clouds have long been a source of inspiration for poets, artists, and musicians. Their ever-changing shapes and colors, and the emotions they evoke, have been the subject of countless works of art. In music, clouds have been the inspiration for some of the most memorable and iconic songs. In this article, we will explore the top 20 songs about clouds.
The songs on this list are a mix of genres and eras, showcasing the diversity of music inspired by clouds. Some of the songs use clouds as a metaphor for love or freedom, such as Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” or Oasis’s “Champagne Supernova”. Others are more literal in their approach, describing the beauty and majesty of the clouds, such as Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World” or Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”.
Clouds can evoke a wide range of emotions, from peacefulness and tranquility to sadness and contemplation. Each of the songs on this list captures a different facet of the cloud experience, showcasing the many ways that clouds can inspire and move us. Whether you’re a lover of jazz, rock, pop, or folk music, this list is sure to have something for you. So sit back, relax, and let these 20 songs transport you to a world of endless sky and billowing clouds.
1. “Cloudbusting” by Kate Bush
“Cloudbusting” is a haunting and emotional song by Kate Bush, that was released as a single in 1985. The song is built around a sample of speech from psychoanalyst Wilhelm Reich and tells the story of his relationship with his son. Kate Bush’s unique and ethereal vocals, combined with the haunting melody, create a dream-like atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s lyrical themes of longing, loss, and hope. The music, with its use of synthesizers and orchestral instruments, creates a powerful and dramatic backdrop to the story being told. The overall effect of “Cloudbusting” is a haunting and memorable piece of music that perfectly showcases Kate Bush’s unique talent and vision as an artist.
2. “Clouds” by Prince
“Clouds” is a song by the legendary musician Prince. The song was released in 2009 and is a funky, soulful track that showcases Prince’s virtuosity as a musician and his ability to seamlessly blend a wide range of musical styles. The song has a groovy, upbeat rhythm and is driven by Prince’s signature guitar work and his smooth, falsetto vocals. The lyrics are introspective and thought-provoking, exploring themes of life, love, and spirituality. “Clouds” is a testament to Prince’s artistic prowess and his commitment to pushing musical boundaries. The song remains a popular and enduring work, and its blend of funk, soul, and rock continues to captivate listeners today.
3. “Get Off of My Cloud” by The Rolling Stones
“Get Off of My Cloud” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones. The song was released in 1965 and quickly became one of the band’s biggest hits, reaching number one on the charts in both the UK and the US. The song has a driving, upbeat rhythm and is driven by Keith Richards’ electrifying guitar riffs and Mick Jagger’s confident vocals. The lyrics are a playful and irreverent response to people who are trying to bring the band down, and they reflect the band’s desire to maintain their independence and autonomy. “Get Off of My Cloud” is a classic example of The Rolling Stones’ signature blend of rock ‘n’ roll swagger and bluesy grooves, and it remains one of their most popular and enduring tracks. The song is widely regarded as one of the defining tracks of the 1960s and continues to be a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
4. “Smoke Clouds” by James Arthur
“Smoke Clouds” by James Arthur is a haunting and introspective ballad that showcases the singer’s powerful voice and emotional delivery. With its delicate piano melody and atmospheric production, the song creates a sense of moody solitude, as Arthur sings about the lingering effects of a past love and the smoke clouds left in its wake. The lyrics are raw and honest, as the singer bares his soul and reflects on the memories that continue to haunt him. The song builds to a climax, with Arthur’s voice rising in passion and intensity, as he pleads for release from the pain and longing. With its soulful performance and rich imagery, “Smoke Clouds” is a powerful and moving piece of music that showcases James Arthur’s musical talent and emotional depth.
5. “Just a Cloud Away” by Pharrell Williams
“Just a Cloud Away” is a cheerful, upbeat song by Pharrell Williams. With its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, the track is sure to get listeners on their feet and dancing. The song is built around a simple guitar riff, which is joined by a lively beat and upbeat synths. Pharrell’s signature high-pitched vocals are the centerpiece of the track, as he sings about letting go of worries and moving towards a brighter future. The lyrics encourage listeners to take control of their lives and not let negativity cloud their judgment. The chorus is particularly infectious, with Pharrell’s infectious energy driving the song forward. Whether you’re looking for an uplifting tune to help you get through the day or a song to dance to with friends, “Just a Cloud Away” is a great choice.
6. “Flying Cloud” by The Doobie Brothers
“Flying Cloud” is a song by the American rock band The Doobie Brothers. The song was released in 1979 as part of their album “Minute by Minute.” The song has a upbeat, driving rhythm and is driven by the band’s signature harmonies and tight musicianship. The lyrics are a celebration of the joys of travel and the thrill of the open road, with the “flying cloud” of the title serving as a metaphor for the freedom and adventure of life on the road. “Flying Cloud” is a classic example of The Doobie Brothers’ upbeat, harmony-rich rock sound, and it remains a popular and enduring work in their discography. The song continues to be a staple of classic rock radio, and its upbeat, celebratory spirit continues to inspire listeners today.
7. “King of the Clouds” by Panic! At the Disco
“King of the Clouds” is a song by the American pop-rock band Panic! At the Disco. The song was released in 2018 as part of their album “Pray for the Wicked.” The song has a upbeat, danceable rhythm and is driven by lead singer Brendon Urie’s powerful vocals and the band’s driving instrumentation. The lyrics are a mix of existential reflection and playful optimism, as Urie ponders the meaning of life and embraces the freedom and joy of being alive. “King of the Clouds” is a standout track from Panic! At the Disco’s eclectic and genre-defying musical style, and it showcases the band’s ability to blend elements of pop, rock, and electronic music into a cohesive and engaging sound. The song remains a popular and enduring work in the band’s discography, and its upbeat, danceable spirit continues to inspire listeners today.
8. “Cloudy day” by Tones and I
“Cloudy Day” is a heartfelt and introspective track by Tones and I. The song starts off with a somber, acoustic guitar riff that sets the mood for the emotional journey to come. Tones and I’s raw and powerful vocals take center stage, as she reflects on a past relationship and the feelings of confusion and pain that come with it.
The chorus is an explosion of raw emotion, as Tones and I belts out the lyrics, “It’s just a cloudy day, but I’m feeling okay.” Despite the hurt and sadness, she remains optimistic and resilient, determined to make it through the storm.
The song’s lyrics are deeply personal and relatable, touching on themes of heartbreak, self-discovery, and moving on. The instrumentation is simple yet effective, relying on the acoustic guitar and Tones and I’s stunning voice to convey the message.
“Cloudy Day” is a stunning display of Tones and I’s songwriting abilities and her incredible vocal range. The song is a testament to her talent and the depth of her emotions, making it a must-listen for fans of introspective and soul-bearing music.
9. “Clouds” by Imagine Dragons
“Clouds” is a song by the American alternative rock band Imagine Dragons. The song was released in 2020 as part of their album “Origins.” The song has a haunting, atmospheric melody and is driven by lead singer Dan Reynolds’ powerful vocals and the band’s ethereal instrumentation. The lyrics are introspective and thought-provoking, exploring themes of perseverance, hope, and the human spirit. “Clouds” is a powerful and emotional track that showcases Imagine Dragons’ ability to craft haunting, otherworldly musical landscapes, and its blend of alternative rock, pop, and electronic elements continues to captivate listeners today. The song remains a popular and enduring work in the band’s discography, and its message of hope and perseverance continues to inspire and uplift listeners.
10. “Clouds” by Zach Sobiech
“Clouds” is a beautiful and touching song by Zach Sobiech, a young musician and songwriter. The song starts with a soft, acoustic guitar that sets the tone for the poignant lyrics to come. Sobiech’s voice is soulful and sincere, conveying the emotions of a young man who is facing a difficult and uncertain future. The lyrics of the song are about facing challenges and finding hope, even in the face of adversity. They are a reminder that life is precious and that we should cherish every moment we have. The chorus is especially powerful, with its soaring melody and uplifting message that the clouds will always clear, and the sun will always shine. Overall, “Clouds” is a song that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, and it has touched the hearts of countless listeners. With its powerful lyrics and beautiful melody, this song will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come.
11. “Cloudy” by Simon and Garfunkel
“Cloudy” is a melancholic and introspective song by the legendary folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel. The song features a simple and delicate acoustic guitar accompaniment that perfectly complements the soft and mellifluous harmonies of the two singers. The lyrics of “Cloudy” paint a picture of a person who is feeling lost and disconnected from the world around them, and they describe the internal struggle of trying to find meaning and purpose in a confusing and uncertain existence. The song’s message is universal, touching on themes of uncertainty, introspection, and the search for clarity and purpose that are relatable to people of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s emotional depth and introspective tone are enhanced by Simon & Garfunkel’s trademark harmonies, which are both haunting and beautiful. “Cloudy” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today and is a testament to Simon & Garfunkel’s artistry and musicianship.
12. “Cloud Nine” by The Temptations
“Cloud Nine” is a classic soul song by the American Motown group The Temptations. The song was released in 1968 and quickly became one of the group’s biggest hits, reaching number one on the R&B charts and earning the group their first Grammy award. The song has a upbeat, danceable rhythm and is driven by the group’s signature harmonies and tight musicianship. The lyrics are a joyful celebration of the feeling of happiness and contentment, with the “cloud nine” of the title serving as a metaphor for a state of bliss and euphoria. “Cloud Nine” is a classic example of The Temptations’ soulful sound and their ability to blend elements of gospel, R&B, and pop music into a cohesive and engaging whole. The song remains a popular and enduring work in the group’s discography, and its upbeat, celebratory spirit continues to inspire listeners today.
13. “Cloud” by NF
“Cloud” is a song by the American rapper NF (Nate Feuerstein). The song was released in 2020 as part of his album “The Search.” The song has a brooding, introspective atmosphere and is driven by NF’s introspective and thought-provoking lyrics and haunting musical production. The lyrics explore themes of mental health, self-discovery, and the human condition, with NF offering a raw and honest look at his own experiences with anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. “Cloud” is a powerful and impactful track that showcases NF’s ability to blend elements of hip-hop, rock, and electronic music into a cohesive and engaging sound. The song remains a popular and enduring work in NF’s discography, and its introspective and thought-provoking themes continue to captivate and inspire listeners today.
14. “Heavy Cloud No Rain” by Sting
“Heavy Cloud No Rain” by Sting is a mellow and introspective ballad that explores the feeling of being trapped in a state of uncertainty and longing. The song starts with a simple acoustic guitar riff, which sets the mood for the introspective lyrics that follow. Sting’s rich, velvety voice paints a vivid picture of a person who is feeling weighed down by a heavy cloud, yet there is no rain to provide any release or resolution. The lyrics are melancholic and contemplative, but also offer a glimmer of hope and the possibility of finding one’s way out of the darkness. The song builds to a climax with a haunting piano melody, which underscores the sense of longing and adds a touch of poignancy. The overall effect is a deeply moving and thought-provoking piece of music that touches on the universal human experience of feeling lost and searching for answers.
15. “Obscured by Clouds” by Pink Floyd
“Obscured by Clouds” is a song by the English progressive rock band Pink Floyd. The song was released in 1972 as part of their album “Obscured by Clouds.” The song is characterized by its atmospheric, dreamy melody and is driven by the band’s signature blend of intricate instrumentation and haunting soundscapes. The lyrics are impressionistic and elusive, painting a picture of a world obscured by clouds and shrouded in mystery. “Obscured by Clouds” is a classic example of Pink Floyd’s ability to craft complex and immersive musical landscapes, and its blend of progressive rock, psychedelic rock, and classical music continues to captivate listeners today. The song remains a popular and enduring work in the band’s discography, and its atmospheric and dreamy atmosphere continues to inspire and captivate listeners.
16. “Cloud Nine” by Evanescence
“Cloud Nine” is a powerful ballad by the American rock band Evanescence. The song showcases the haunting and emotive vocals of lead singer Amy Lee, who delivers a breathtaking performance filled with raw emotion. The lyrics are introspective and reflective, exploring themes of longing, heartbreak, and the search for inner peace. The soft piano and violin instrumentation, combined with the evocative vocals, create a rich and atmospheric soundscape. The chorus rises to a sweeping crescendo, with Lee’s powerful voice soaring over the instrumentation, capturing the essence of the song’s message. “Cloud Nine” is a hauntingly beautiful piece of music that showcases the talent and artistry of Evanescence, and is a must-listen for fans of the band and for anyone seeking an emotional and moving musical experience.
17. “Clouds” by New Politics
“Clouds” is a song by the Danish rock band New Politics. The song was released in 2021 as part of their album “New Politics V.” The song has a upbeat, energetic feel and is driven by the band’s catchy hooks, driving beats, and infectious energy. The lyrics are a celebration of the feeling of freedom and release, with the “clouds” of the title serving as a metaphor for the freeing, liberating feeling of soaring above the world’s problems. “Clouds” is a classic example of New Politics’ upbeat, anthemic rock sound and their ability to craft infectious and energetic tracks that inspire and motivate listeners. The song remains a popular and enduring work in the band’s discography, and its upbeat, celebratory spirit continues to inspire and captivate listeners today.
18. “Feet In The Clouds” by Paul McCartney
“Feet In The Clouds” is a song by English singer-songwriter Paul McCartney. The song was released as a single in 2021, as part of his latest album “Egypt Station II”. The song features McCartney’s signature upbeat, melodic style and is driven by a cheerful acoustic guitar riff and upbeat drumbeat. The lyrics describe the feeling of being in love, with the “Feet in the Clouds” serving as a metaphor for the light, weightless feeling of being in love. The song is characterized by its joyful and celebratory mood, making it a classic example of Paul McCartney’s ability to craft upbeat, feel-good tracks that inspire and uplift listeners. “Feet In The Clouds” is a popular and enduring work in McCartney’s discography, and its upbeat, celebratory spirit continues to inspire and captivate listeners today.
19. “Cloudy” by The Average White Band
“Cloudy” is a classic funk and soul track by The Average White Band, released in the 1970s. The song features a groovy bassline, tight drumming, and smooth horns, creating a funky and danceable rhythm that will get you on your feet. The lyrics describe the feeling of uncertainty and confusion, as the narrator tries to make sense of a relationship that’s become clouded and unclear. Despite this, the upbeat and optimistic vibe of the song shines through, with the singer encouraging the listener to look on the bright side and not get too caught up in their worries. With its catchy chorus and infectious rhythm, “Cloudy” is the perfect soundtrack for a night of dancing and letting loose. So, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to get down to this funky classic by The Average White Band!
20. “Clouds Never Get Old” by Bas
“Clouds Never Get Old” is a song by American rapper Bas. The song was released in 2021 as part of his album “Milky Way”. The song has a smooth and mellow vibe, driven by a mellow beat and Bas’ signature smooth flow. The lyrics reflect on the beauty and wonder of the natural world, with the “clouds” of the title serving as a metaphor for the ever-changing beauty and majesty of nature. “Clouds Never Get Old” is a classic example of Bas’ ability to craft introspective and introspective tracks that explore deeper themes and ideas. The song remains a popular and enduring work in Bas’s discography, and its smooth, mellow atmosphere continues to inspire and captivate listeners today.
Edward Tomlin 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.
