20 Songs about Florida

Florida, known as the “Sunshine State,” has a rich and diverse musical history that has produced many popular songs over the years. From the classic soul and R&B of Miami to the southern rock of Gainesville, Florida has been the birthplace of many musical genres and styles. In this article, we will take a look at the top 20 songs about Florida, a musical journey that will take us through the different corners of the state, showcasing the unique sounds that make it one of the most musically diverse places in the world. Whether it’s the beaches of Miami or the alligators of the Everglades, these songs capture the spirit and soul of Florida, showcasing its vibrant culture, history, and beauty. So come along with us as we explore the best music about the Sunshine State.

1. “Florida Man” by Blue Oyster Cult

“Florida Man” by Blue Oyster Cult is a classic rock song that celebrates the adventures of a notorious character known as the “Florida Man”. With its upbeat and energetic tempo, the song paints a vivid picture of the wild and unpredictable nature of this legendary figure. The lyrics detail his wild escapades, including his ability to perform daring stunts and live life on the edge. The driving beat of the music, combined with the powerful vocals of Blue Oyster Cult, make “Florida Man” an energetic and captivating anthem to the spirit of adventure and the freedom of the open road. Whether you are a fan of classic rock or simply appreciate a good old-fashioned road trip song, “Florida Man” is sure to get your blood pumping and your feet tapping.

2. “Gainesville” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

“Gainesville” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is a nostalgic ballad that pays tribute to the singer’s hometown of Gainesville, Florida. The song paints a picture of a small southern town with a laid-back lifestyle and friendly community, with lyrics like “People move here ’cause they wanna live like they do down home.” The song’s folksy acoustic guitar and harmonica solos are reminiscent of classic country music and add to the song’s warm, homespun feel. The song is a love letter to the state of Florida and to the idyllic hometown that Tom Petty holds dear, making it a touching tribute to a place that holds a special place in his heart.

3. “Don’t Let Me Die in Florida” by Patty Griffin

“Don’t Let Me Die in Florida” is a haunting ballad by American singer-songwriter, Patty Griffin. The song speaks to the singer’s fear of growing old and dying alone in the state of Florida. The lyrics are deeply emotional and introspective, with Griffin’s powerful voice delivering a sense of desperation and longing. The song features a simple and atmospheric instrumentation, with a guitar and a mournful piano accompanying Griffin’s voice. This song is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment we have. It is a powerful and moving tribute to the fear of growing old and the desire for connection and comfort in our final moments.

4. “Miami, My Amy” by Keith Whitley

“Miami, My Amy” is a song by country music artist Keith Whitley, released in 1988. The ballad is a nostalgic tribute to a lost love, with the narrator longing for the carefree days he spent in Miami with his sweetheart, Amy. The song features soft acoustic guitar and tender, emotional vocals that capture the longing and sadness in the lyrics. As the narrator recounts his memories of Amy, he yearns to be reunited with her and to once again feel the warmth and love of their relationship. The song is a touching tribute to a lost love, and is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever experienced heartbreak or loss.

5. “The State of Florida”” by Less Than Jake

“The State of Florida” by Less Than Jake is a lively, punk rock track that captures the energetic spirit of the Sunshine State. The song showcases the band’s signature high-energy sound, with fast-paced guitar riffs and upbeat drumming, accompanied by catchy vocal harmonies. The lyrics paint a picture of the state, capturing its unique blend of sun, fun, and excitement, as well as the challenges and frustrations that come with life in Florida. Overall, this song is a celebration of the state and its vibrant culture, and is sure to get fans moving and singing along.

6. “Seminole Wind” by John Anderson

“Seminole Wind” by John Anderson is a hauntingly beautiful country ballad that paints a vivid picture of life in Florida. The song is written from the perspective of a Seminole Indian and tells the story of their people, their struggles, and their close connection to the land they call home. Anderson’s emotive vocals, backed by his acoustic guitar and a mournful fiddle, transport listeners to the rolling hills and humid plains of Florida, capturing the heart and soul of the Sunshine State. The lyrics touch on themes of love, loss, and the fading of the American frontier, making “Seminole Wind” a timeless tribute to one of America’s most unique and diverse regions.

7. “Celebration, Florida” by Chumbawamba

“Celebration, Florida” is a song by the British band Chumbawamba. It is an energetic, upbeat song that showcases the band’s signature political activism and social commentary. The song is a satirical take on the planned community of Celebration, Florida, and its attempts at creating a perfect, cookie-cutter neighborhood. The lyrics highlight the emptiness and artificiality of such a community, and question the notion of the American Dream. The upbeat, almost cheerful melody contrasts with the sharp lyrics, creating a unique and thought-provoking listening experience.

8. “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys

“Kokomo” is a lighthearted and upbeat song by The Beach Boys that celebrates the tropical island paradise of Kokomo, Florida. With its sunny, tropical vibe, the song takes listeners on a virtual vacation to a place of endless blue skies, clear waters, and perfect weather. The lyrics paint a picture of a carefree paradise where all worries are left behind, and all that matters is having a good time. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat rhythm make it a perfect anthem for anyone looking for a little escapism and a reminder of the beauty of Florida.

9. “The Florida Song” by Ricky Sylvia

“The Florida Song” by Ricky Sylvia is a lighthearted and upbeat tune that pays homage to the Sunshine State. With a catchy melody and cheerful lyrics, the song celebrates the unique culture, landmarks, and natural beauty of Florida. From the sugar sand beaches to the bustling cities, the song takes listeners on a musical journey through the diverse landscape of Florida. With its lively rhythm and catchy chorus, “The Florida Song” is sure to get stuck in your head and bring a smile to your face as you reminisce about your favorite memories from the state.

10. “Ocean Avenue” by Yellowcard

“Ocean Avenue” by Yellowcard is a nostalgic, upbeat pop-punk song that captures the essence of summer and coastal living in Florida. The lyrics depict the narrator’s memories of growing up in the state, with mentions of palm trees and the ocean. The song’s catchy melody and driving rhythm make it a feel-good anthem for anyone who has ever spent time on Florida’s shores. With its upbeat energy and upbeat lyrics, “Ocean Avenue” is the perfect song for cruising down the highway with the windows down, feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. It’s a celebration of the state’s warm, laid-back lifestyle and its unique blend of sunshine and surf.

11. “Floridays” by Jimmy Buffett

“Floridays” is a song by American singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett. This upbeat and tropical tune is a celebration of Florida, the state that has become synonymous with Buffett’s music and lifestyle. The song paints a picture of a sun-soaked paradise, with palm trees swaying in the breeze and the sound of steel drums in the air. Buffett’s signature relaxed, carefree vibe is on full display, as he sings about kicking back and enjoying the good life in the Sunshine State. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just looking for a little escape, “Floridays” is the perfect anthem for anyone who dreams of a life spent soaking up the sun in Florida.

12. “Florida” by Modest Mouse

“Florida” by Modest Mouse is an energetic and quirky indie rock track that takes the listener on a journey through the state of Florida. With fast-paced drumming and bouncing guitar riffs, the song creates a sense of excitement and adventure. The lyrics paint a picture of the state’s diverse landscapes and its strange and eclectic residents. The vocals are delivered with a distinctive and somewhat manic energy that perfectly captures the feeling of being on a road trip through Florida. Overall, this song is a fun and lively tribute to one of America’s most iconic states.

13. “Mainline Florida” by Eric Clapton

“Mainline Florida” is a song by legendary guitarist and singer Eric Clapton. The song showcases Clapton’s bluesy guitar work and soulful voice, which convey a sense of longing and melancholy. The lyrics, which are about traveling to Florida, evoke a sense of wanderlust and a search for a better life. The song’s blues-rock sound and Clapton’s emotive playing create a nostalgic and introspective atmosphere. Overall, “Mainline Florida” is a powerful example of Clapton’s musicianship and his ability to evoke strong emotions through his music.

14. “Florida” by Patty Griffin

“Florida” by Patty Griffin is a haunting and melancholic ballad that paints a picture of the Sunshine State as a place of longing and loss. With gentle strumming on the acoustic guitar and Griffin’s delicate, mournful vocals, the song transports listeners to the serene, sun-drenched beaches and sprawling countryside of Florida. Through powerful imagery and raw emotion, “Florida” tells a story of heartbreak, loneliness, and a deep yearning for a place that once held so much promise and happiness. This song is a moving tribute to the beauty of the state and a poignant reminder of the many memories that still linger there.

15. “Florida Time” by Bob Seger

“Florida Time” is a song by legendary rock and roll artist Bob Seger. The upbeat tune features Seger’s signature rough-edged vocals, backed by a powerful blend of guitar, drums, and keyboard. The song takes listeners on a nostalgic journey to the sunny state of Florida, where the days are long and the nights are hot. Seger sings about the good times he’s had in the state, from swimming in the ocean to cruising down the highways. The song’s upbeat rhythm and cheerful lyrics evoke a sense of carefree living and the joys of youth. The chorus is catchy and memorable, with Seger belting out the lyrics “Florida time, let’s have a good time!” The song is a perfect anthem for anyone who loves the sun and the sand, and is sure to get listeners up and dancing. With its upbeat tempo, powerful instrumentals, and catchy lyrics, “Florida Time” is a classic Bob Seger track that will surely be remembered for years to come.

16. “Key Largo” by Bertie Higgins

“Key Largo” is a classic ballad by singer-songwriter Bertie Higgins. The song paints a picture of a romantic getaway to the tropical paradise of Key Largo, Florida. The soft, lilting melody is backed by soothing guitar strums, creating a tranquil and dreamy atmosphere. Higgins’ smooth vocals are reminiscent of a warm breeze on a summer day, and he sings about his love for the tropical island and the memories he’s created there. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and nostalgia, and the chorus is both catchy and memorable. The song has a romantic, slow-dance feel to it, making it a perfect backdrop for a special moment with someone you love. With its lush instrumentals and tender lyrics, “Key Largo” is a timeless love song that will continue to be cherished for years to come.

17. “The Perfect Florida Song” by Don Grooms

“The Perfect Florida Song” is a lively and upbeat track by singer-songwriter Don Grooms. The song is a tribute to the sunny state of Florida, and its cheerful melody is filled with the sounds of steel drums, ukulele, and horns. The lyrics are full of fun-filled imagery, and Grooms sings about the joys of life in the Sunshine State, from the beaches to the swampy Everglades. The song is a celebration of the unique culture and beauty of Florida, and its catchy chorus will have listeners tapping their feet and singing along. With its upbeat tempo, lively instrumentals, and joyful lyrics, “The Perfect Florida Song” is the perfect anthem for anyone who loves the state and everything it has to offer. Whether you’re a native or just visiting, this song is sure to bring a smile to your face and get you in the mood to have some fun.

18. “Florida Kilos” by Lana Del Rey

“Florida Kilos” is a melancholic track by singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey. The song has a slow and dreamy melody, backed by a haunting blend of guitar and electronic beats. Del Rey’s signature smoky vocals are front and center, and she sings about a lost love and the memories they shared in the state of Florida. The lyrics are full of longing and regret, and the chorus is both melancholic and memorable. The song is a beautiful ode to a lost love, and the Florida setting adds an extra layer of nostalgia to the already poignant lyrics. With its haunting melody, delicate instrumentals, and emotional lyrics, “Florida Kilos” is a standout track that showcases Del Rey’s stunning voice and songwriting skills.

19. “Florida Rain” by Matt Bauer

“Florida Rain” is a folksy ballad by singer-songwriter Matt Bauer. The song has a gentle acoustic guitar melody, backed by soft drums and soothing harmonies. Bauer’s warm and emotive vocals are the centerpiece of the track, and he sings about the beauty of the rain in Florida and the memories it evokes. The lyrics are introspective and full of vivid imagery, and the chorus is both moving and memorable. The song has a soft and intimate feel, and its simple arrangement allows Bauer’s beautiful voice and heartfelt lyrics to shine. “Florida Rain” is a touching tribute to the state of Florida, and its gentle melody and poignant lyrics make it a standout track. Whether you’re a fan of folk music or just appreciate great songwriting, this song is sure to touch your heart.

20. “Deep Down in Florida” by Muddy Waters

“Deep Down in Florida” is a bluesy track by legendary blues artist Muddy Waters. The song features Waters’ gruff and powerful voice, backed by a driving electric guitar riff and a steady beat. The lyrics are full of swagger and attitude, and Waters sings about his love for the state of Florida and the good times he’s had there. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody are guaranteed to get listeners up and dancing, and the chorus is both memorable and full of energy. With its raw, bluesy sound and upbeat vibe, “Deep Down in Florida” is a classic Muddy Waters track that embodies the spirit of the blues. Whether you’re a fan of the blues or just appreciate great music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Erica Henderson

Erica Henderson 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.