Gardening has been a popular pastime for many people throughout history, and it has been a source of inspiration for musicians from a wide range of genres. From folk to rock, many artists have written songs that celebrate the joys of planting, cultivating, and harvesting. In this article, we explore the top 20 songs about gardening, from classics to modern hits.
Kicking off the list is “Green, Green Grass of Home” by Tom Jones, a classic song that tells the story of a man who returns to his hometown to find solace in the familiar sights and sounds of nature. The song’s nostalgic lyrics and lush orchestration make it a timeless classic. Next up is “Garden Song” by David Mallett, a folk song that celebrates the simple pleasures of gardening and the joys of watching a seed grow into a plant. With its upbeat melody and memorable chorus, the song has become a beloved anthem for gardeners everywhere. Whether you’re an experienced green thumb or just getting started, these songs are sure to inspire and uplift you on your gardening journey.
1. “Heart of Oak” by Richard Hawley
“Heart of Oak” is a song by English musician Richard Hawley, released in 2019. The track is a soaring, guitar-driven anthem that showcases Hawley’s distinctive baritone voice and his skills as a songwriter. The lyrics pay homage to the resilience and perseverance of working-class people, with references to hard times and the strength that can be found in adversity. The song’s uplifting chorus, “We’re all living under the heart of oak, with a strength that no-one can break,” reinforces this message of hope and determination. “Heart of Oak” is a powerful and stirring tribute to the human spirit.
2. “Just Another Sucker on the Vine” by Tom Waits
“Just Another Sucker on the Vine” is a bluesy rock song by Tom Waits, released in 1983 as part of his album “Swordfishtrombones.” The track features Waits’ distinctive gravelly voice and is accompanied by a combination of percussion, horns, and guitar. The lyrics describe the struggles of a man caught up in the rat race, trying to make a living and stay afloat in a world that seems to be constantly pushing him down. The song’s raw energy and honest portrayal of the human condition make it a standout track in Waits’ repertoire and a fan favorite.
3. “Garden (Say It Like Dat)” by SZA
“Garden (Say It Like Dat)” by SZA is a song about love and growth, using the metaphor of a garden. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, with SZA singing about finding love in unexpected places, and nurturing it with care and attention. The song is a smooth R&B track with a dreamy atmosphere, featuring soft guitar and percussion, as well as SZA’s signature ethereal vocals. Overall, “Garden (Say It Like Dat)” is a beautiful and contemplative love song that captures the delicate and transformative nature of relationships.
4.“Roses” by Shawn Mendes
“Roses” is a romantic ballad performed by Canadian singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes. The song was released in 2021 as part of his fourth studio album “Wonder.” “Roses” is a love letter that Mendes wrote for his girlfriend Camila Cabello. The slow and dreamy melody is accompanied by acoustic guitar, piano, and a subtle beat, creating a warm and soothing atmosphere. Mendes’ vocals are tender and emotive as he sings about his devotion to his loved one. The lyrics describe the beauty of a relationship that has bloomed like a rose and how he feels blessed to have found his true love.
5. “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” by Poison
“Every Rose Has Its Thorn” is a power ballad by American rock band Poison, which was released in 1988. It became one of their biggest hits, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and is still considered a classic of the glam metal genre. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a failed relationship, with the “thorn” referring to the pain and heartbreak that inevitably come with love.
6. “Strawberry Swing” by Coldplay
“Strawberry Swing” by Coldplay is a dreamy, ethereal song with a cheerful and uplifting vibe. The song’s title refers to a street artist in London who creates chalk art on the streets. The song opens with a dreamy melody, accompanied by a xylophone, that builds into an upbeat rhythm with Chris Martin’s smooth, soaring vocals. The lyrics are poetic and abstract, describing a journey through a surreal landscape where the narrator experiences magical and enchanting moments. The song’s unique sound, with its fusion of pop, rock, and electronic influences, makes it one of Coldplay’s most iconic and memorable songs.
7. “In the Garden” by Michael Hurley
Michael Hurley’s “In the Garden” is a mellow and reflective folk song that evokes a sense of peace and contemplation. The track features Hurley’s soulful vocals, a simple guitar arrangement, and subtle harmonica and banjo accents. The lyrics describe the beauty and serenity of nature, with vivid images of flowers, trees, and the sun. As the song progresses, it takes on a more introspective tone, with Hurley contemplating the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life. “In the Garden” is a beautiful and understated meditation on the human experience, with an emphasis on the healing power of nature.
8. “Lemon Tree” by Fool’s Garden
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“Lemon Tree” is a light-hearted pop song by German band Fool’s Garden. Released in 1995, it quickly became a hit across Europe and later, worldwide. The song features a catchy melody, upbeat rhythm and cheerful lyrics about the joys and pains of life. It is often associated with summer and has a feel-good quality to it, making it a popular choice for various occasions such as road trips, parties, and weddings. With its universal appeal and sing-along chorus, “Lemon Tree” remains a classic pop hit that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
9. “Bloom” by Troye Sivan
Troye Sivan’s “Bloom” is an upbeat and empowering pop song about exploring one’s sexuality and expressing one’s identity. The lyrics use garden and flower metaphors to represent self-discovery and embracing individuality. Sivan’s smooth and dynamic vocals are supported by a catchy, danceable beat and pulsing synthesizers. “Empty Garden” by Elton John, on the other hand, is a tribute to John Lennon, who was tragically murdered in 1980. The song mourns Lennon’s death while also celebrating his life and legacy as a musician and a peace activist. John’s heartfelt performance is backed by emotional piano and guitar arrangements.
10. “Let it Grow” by Eric Clapton
“Let it Grow” is a classic rock song by Eric Clapton, released in 1974. The song features Clapton’s signature guitar riffs, which are supported by a groovy bassline and dynamic percussion. The lyrics encourage the listener to let love grow and not hold onto it too tightly. The song’s uplifting melody and catchy chorus make it a fan favorite and a staple in Clapton’s live performances. The song has been covered by several artists over the years, further cementing its place in rock and roll history.
11. “Sunflower” by Harry Styles
“Sunflower” is a soothing pop-rock track from Harry Styles’ sophomore album, “Fine Line”. The song features a groovy, guitar-driven melody with simple yet effective drum patterns, and a funky bassline. Styles’ vocals are dreamy and effortless as he sings about being infatuated with a person like a sunflower, waiting for their attention to bloom. The lyrics are vivid, painting a picture of a colorful garden and creating a feeling of lightness and warmth. The track’s instrumentation and vocal harmonies create a sense of escapism, making it a perfect summer jam to listen to while relaxing in the sun.
12. “When the Fields Are White With Daisies” by Norman Blake
“When the Fields Are White With Daisies” is a melancholic folk ballad by Norman Blake, featured on his 1972 album “Back Home in Sulphur Springs.” The song tells the story of a man mourning the loss of his lover, who has passed away and now resides in the fields of white daisies. The gentle guitar picking and Blake’s somber vocals create a haunting atmosphere that perfectly captures the song’s bittersweet tone. The imagery of the fields of white daisies, combined with the mournful melody and poignant lyrics, makes “When the Fields Are White With Daisies” a standout track in Blake’s discography.
13. “Desert Rose” by Sting
“Lullaby for Wyatt” is a touching song by Sheryl Crow dedicated to a baby named Wyatt, whom she adopted in 2007. The gentle, soothing melody features Crow’s signature raspy vocals and simple guitar chords that complement the song’s intimate, lullaby-like quality. Crow’s lyrics speak to the profound love and protection she feels for her new child, with lines like “May you grow up to be righteous, may you grow up to be true” and “May you always know the truth and see the lights surrounding you”. It’s a heartfelt expression of parental love that resonates with anyone who has ever held a sleeping child.
14. “Tend My Garden” by James Gang
“Tend My Garden” is a classic rock song by James Gang, released in 1970. The track is a guitar-driven rock anthem with an infectious riff and catchy lyrics. The song features Joe Walsh’s signature guitar work, which is both technically impressive and melodically memorable. The lyrics reflect on the importance of personal growth and self-improvement, as the narrator sings about tending to his own “garden” and cultivating his own path in life. The song’s powerful energy and message have made it a favorite among classic rock fans and guitar enthusiasts, cementing its place in rock history.
15. “Will it Grow” by Jakob Dylan
“Will it Grow” is a soulful acoustic track by American musician Jakob Dylan, best known as the lead singer of The Wallflowers. The song is part of Dylan’s debut solo album, “Seeing Things.” The introspective lyrics speak of a man’s struggle to reconcile the fleeting nature of life with the hope of a better future. The gentle strumming of the acoustic guitar, Dylan’s rich voice, and the simple yet evocative melody give the song a haunting quality that lingers long after the last note has faded away. The track showcases Dylan’s remarkable talent as a songwriter and musician.
16.“Willow Garden” by Roscoe Holcomb
“Willow Garden,” also known as “Rose Connelly,” is a traditional Appalachian folk song that has been performed by many artists over the years, including Roscoe Holcomb. The song tells a tragic story of a man who kills his lover and then buries her in the willow garden. The haunting melody and Holcomb’s unique singing style give the song a haunting, mournful quality that perfectly captures the sadness and violence of the lyrics. The song has been covered by many artists in a variety of genres and continues to be a powerful example of the enduring power of traditional folk music.
17. “In the Garden” by Van Morrison
“In the Garden” by Van Morrison is a beautiful song that speaks to the spiritual aspects of life. With its gospel-inspired sound and poetic lyrics, the song invites listeners to contemplate the mysteries of existence and the possibility of redemption. The instrumentation is simple but effective, with acoustic guitar and piano providing a soothing backdrop for Morrison’s soulful vocals. The chorus is particularly powerful, as Morrison repeats the refrain “we shall walk and talk in the garden again” like a mantra, reminding us that life is a journey towards a higher state of being. Overall, “In the Garden” is a moving and uplifting piece of music.
18. “Empty Garden” by Elton John
“Empty Garden” is a poignant tribute to John Lennon, written and performed by Elton John in 1982. The song was released as a single from his album “Jump Up!” and features a distinctive, catchy melody and emotional lyrics. The song was inspired by the personal friendship between Elton John and John Lennon, and the sense of loss and sadness that followed Lennon’s tragic death in 1980. The lyrics describe the emptiness and longing that remains in the world without Lennon’s presence, and serve as a moving reminder of the power of music and the enduring influence of one of the greatest artists of all time.
19. “Bring Me Edelweiss” by Edelweiss
“Bring Me Edelweiss” is a popular song by Austrian band Edelweiss, released in 1988. The song combines elements of pop and rap with a humorous, tongue-in-cheek tone, and its catchy chorus and danceable beat made it a hit in Europe, the US, and Australia. The song’s lyrics revolve around the idea of traveling to the Swiss Alps to pick Edelweiss flowers and experience a romantic adventure. The song’s infectious melody and playful lyrics have made it a beloved classic of the 1980s pop music era, and it remains a popular choice for dance parties and nostalgic playlists.
20. “Bed of Roses” by Bon Jovi
“Bed of Roses” is a power ballad by American rock band Bon Jovi, released in 1993 as a single from their album “Keep the Faith.” The song’s lyrics describe the narrator’s loneliness and longing for love, with a metaphorical comparison to sleeping on a bed of thorns. The chorus features Jon Bon Jovi’s soaring vocals over a lush orchestral arrangement. The song became a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows, and remains one of their most popular ballads. It has been covered by several artists and has been featured in numerous films and television shows.
Darren Jamison 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.
