Los Angeles, the City of Angels, has been a muse for countless artists, musicians, and writers for decades. It’s a place that inspires dreams and hope, but also harbors darker undertones. The city is one of the largest in the world and has been the backdrop for numerous movies, TV shows, and music videos. It’s also home to some of the most iconic music venues in the world, like the Whisky a Go Go, the Roxy, and the Troubadour. Over the years, countless songs have been written about Los Angeles, from love songs to protest anthems, capturing the essence of this vibrant city. In this article, we will take a look at the top 20 songs about Los Angeles that have left an indelible mark on the world of music. From Elliott Smith’s melancholic “LA” to the Beach Boys’ surf-rock classic “Surfin’ Safari,” we will explore how each song portrays the city and why they have become such an important part of the cultural legacy of Los Angeles.
1. “LA” by Elliott Smith
“LA” by Elliott Smith is a melancholic and introspective song, characterized by the artist’s delicate vocals and intricate guitar work. The lyrics convey a sense of detachment and disillusionment with the city of Los Angeles, as the artist reflects on the fleeting nature of fame, the transience of human relationships, and the emptiness of material possessions. The song’s sparse instrumentation and haunting melodies create a contemplative atmosphere, evoking a sense of longing and nostalgia for a past that is gone forever. Overall, “LA” is a poignant and affecting ode to the dark side of the American Dream, highlighting the complexities and contradictions of contemporary urban life.
2. “Back in LA” by BB King
“Back in LA” by BB King is a classic blues song, driven by the artist’s soulful vocals and intricate guitar playing. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s return to Los Angeles after a long absence, as he reflects on the ups and downs of his life and relationships. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody create a lively and joyful atmosphere, reflecting the artist’s sense of homecoming and belonging in the city. The use of call-and-response vocals and guitar solos add to the song’s dynamic and energetic feel, making it a quintessential example of the blues genre. Overall, “Back in LA” is a celebratory and optimistic song, capturing the spirit of the city and its vibrant musical culture.
3. “Straight Outta Compton” by N.W.A.
“Straight Outta Compton” by N.W.A. is a seminal rap song, famous for its raw and unflinching portrayal of life in the inner city. The lyrics describe the harsh realities of growing up in Compton, a neighborhood of Los Angeles known for its poverty, violence, and police brutality. The song’s aggressive and confrontational style, characterized by its heavy bassline and rhythmic cadence, captures the frustration and anger of its creators, who use their music as a means of political protest and social commentary. The controversial lyrics and explicit language of “Straight Outta Compton” sparked widespread controversy and debate when it was first released, but it has since become a classic and influential example of hip-hop music, inspiring a new generation of artists to speak out against injustice and inequality.
4. “Surfin’ Safari” by Beach Boys
“Surfin’ Safari” by Beach Boys is a cheerful and catchy song that captures the carefree spirit of California’s surf culture. The lyrics describe a group of friends who set out on a surfing adventure, cruising down the Pacific Coast and enjoying the sun, sand, and waves. The song’s upbeat melody and tight vocal harmonies create a fun and uplifting atmosphere, reflecting the joy and excitement of the surf scene. The use of surf guitars and lively percussion add to the song’s dynamic and playful feel, making it an iconic example of the early 1960s surf music genre. Overall, “Surfin’ Safari” is a nostalgic and feel-good song that captures the essence of a bygone era of American pop culture.
5. “Hollywood Freaks” by Beck
“Hollywood Freaks” by Beck is a satirical and eclectic song that pokes fun at the excesses and absurdities of Hollywood celebrity culture. The lyrics describe a cast of bizarre characters, including drug dealers, prostitutes, and washed-up actors, who inhabit the seedy underbelly of the city of Los Angeles. The song’s irreverent and playful tone, characterized by its funky groove and funky horn section, creates a fun and lighthearted atmosphere that offsets the darker themes of the lyrics. The use of electronic beats, sound effects, and spoken-word samples add to the song’s experimental and avant-garde feel, making it a unique and original example of alternative rock music. Overall, “Hollywood Freaks” is a quirky and subversive song that challenges mainstream notions of fame and success, while also celebrating the idiosyncrasies of L.A.’s counterculture.
6. “Going Back to Cali” by The Notorious B.I.G.
“Going Back to Cali” by The Notorious B.I.G. is a laid-back and smooth hip-hop song that pays homage to the city of Los Angeles. The lyrics describe the artist’s desire to return to the West Coast and embrace the laid-back lifestyle, with references to the city’s beaches, palm trees, and beautiful women. The song’s mellow and melodic beat, punctuated by samples from Zapp’s “More Bounce to the Ounce,” creates a relaxed and chilled-out vibe that reflects the song’s subject matter. The use of samples and electronic production add to the song’s distinctive and innovative sound, making it an influential example of 1990s hip-hop music. Overall, “Going Back to Cali” is a nostalgic and evocative song that captures the allure and charm of the sunny city of Los Angeles.
7. “Valley Girl” by Frank Zappa
“Valley Girl” by Frank Zappa is a satirical and comedic song that parodies the dialect and culture of teenage girls from the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles. The lyrics use exaggerated slang and Valley Girl phrases, with commentary on the materialism and superficiality of the Valley culture. The song’s upbeat and catchy melody, characterized by the use of synthesizers and drum machines, creates a fun and playful atmosphere that offsets the darker themes of the lyrics. The use of humorous sound effects and spoken-word samples add to the song’s witty and irreverent feel, making it a standout example of 1980s new wave music. Overall, “Valley Girl” is a clever and subversive song that challenges stereotypes and social norms while also providing a humorous take on the idiosyncrasies of LA’s culture.
8. “Los Angeles Blues” by Peggy Lee
“Los Angeles Blues” by Peggy Lee is a haunting and melancholic song that evokes the loneliness and despair of living in the city of Los Angeles. The lyrics describe the pain and heartache of a woman who has lost her lover and is left to wander the empty streets of LA alone. The slow and mournful melody, accompanied by a soulful horn section and Lee’s emotive vocals, creates a somber and reflective mood that captures the emotional weight of the song’s themes. The use of jazz and blues influences, as well as Lee’s distinctive vocal style, add to the song’s unique and memorable sound, making it a standout example of mid-20th century jazz music. Overall, “Los Angeles Blues” is a moving and poignant song that showcases the power of music to express complex emotions and universal human experiences.
9. “Wanna Be In LA” by Eagles Of Death Metal
“Wanna Be In LA” by Eagles of Death Metal is an energetic and upbeat song that celebrates the carefree and wild spirit of Los Angeles. The lyrics describe the excitement and fun of living in the city, with references to the Hollywood lifestyle, parties, and rock and roll culture. The song’s catchy guitar riffs and driving beat, combined with lead singer Jesse Hughes’ distinctive vocals, create a high-energy and infectious sound that is both fun and rebellious. The use of rock and punk influences, as well as humorous and irreverent lyrics, add to the song’s playful and irreverent feel, making it a standout example of alternative rock music. Overall, “Wanna Be In LA” is a fun and exciting song that captures the wild and free-spirited atmosphere of the city of Los Angeles.
10. “California Dreamin’” by The Mamas & the Papas
“California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & The Papas is a classic folk-rock song that embodies the hopeful spirit of the 1960s counterculture movement. The lyrics describe a longing for the sunshine and warmth of California, while also referencing the dream of personal and social freedom. The song’s gentle melody, harmonizing vocals, and use of acoustic guitar and percussion, create a mellow and soothing sound that is both nostalgic and uplifting. The use of folk and rock influences, as well as poetic and evocative lyrics, add to the song’s timeless and universal appeal, making it a beloved classic of popular music. Overall, “California Dreamin'” is a timeless and optimistic song that captures the essence of the free-spirited and hopeful atmosphere of the 1960s.
11. “City of Angels” by The Distillers
“City of Angels” by The Distillers is a powerful and emotional punk rock song that explores the darker side of Los Angeles. The lyrics describe the gritty and dangerous reality of living in the city, with references to violence, poverty, and addiction. The song’s raw and edgy sound, driven by fast-paced guitar riffs and pounding drums, creates a sense of urgency and intensity that matches the song’s subject matter. The use of punk and alternative rock influences, as well as visceral and confessional lyrics, add to the song’s raw and unvarnished feel, making it a standout example of punk rock music. Overall, “City of Angels” is a bold and unflinching song that confronts the harsh and uncompromising reality of life in Los Angeles.
12. “I Love L.A.” by Randy Newman
“I Love L.A.” is an upbeat and cheerful song by Randy Newman that celebrates the vibrant and eclectic spirit of Los Angeles. The lyrics focus on the many exciting and diverse aspects of the city, from the beaches and freeways to the movie stars and celebrities. The song’s melody is infectious and uplifting, featuring a catchy piano riff, a driving rhythm section, and bright horn arrangements. The music captures the energy and optimism of Los Angeles, making it a perfect anthem for the city. Overall, “I Love L.A.” is a joyful and exuberant song that captures the essence of one of the world’s most exciting and dynamic cities.
13. “Escape From L.A.” by The Weeknd
“Escape from L.A.” is a moody and atmospheric song by The Weeknd that explores the darker side of Los Angeles. The lyrics tell the story of a troubled protagonist who is searching for a way out of the city, where fame and fortune have left him feeling lost and alone. The song’s music is haunting and brooding, featuring a sparse, dreamlike soundscape of electronic beats, atmospheric synths, and distorted guitar riffs. The production captures the sense of detachment and alienation that the lyrics convey, creating an eerie and unsettling mood. Overall, “Escape from L.A.” is a haunting and introspective song that offers a glimpse into the shadowy side of one of the world’s most iconic cities.
14. “Los Angeles Is Burning” by Bad Religion
“Los Angeles is Burning” by Bad Religion is a politically charged punk rock anthem that critiques the state of contemporary American society. The song was released in 2004, during the George W. Bush administration, and the lyrics criticize the government’s handling of issues such as war, climate change, and social inequality. Musically, the song features fast-paced, energetic guitar riffs and driving drum beats that create a sense of urgency and intensity. The lyrics are poetic and thought-provoking, offering a scathing critique of the status quo while also expressing a sense of hope for the future. “Los Angeles is Burning” is a powerful and evocative song that reflects the anger and disillusionment of its era.
15. “Los Angeles” by blink182
“Los Angeles” by blink-182 is a catchy and upbeat pop punk song that pays homage to the iconic city of Los Angeles. The song’s lyrics describe the city’s vibrant atmosphere, celebrity culture, and laid-back lifestyle, painting a picture of a place that is both exciting and idyllic. Musically, the song is driven by a lively guitar riff and punchy drumbeat, with catchy melodies and harmonies that make it instantly memorable. “Los Angeles” is a fun and lighthearted song that captures the spirit of the city it celebrates, and it’s sure to get listeners tapping their toes and singing along.
16. “Los Angeles, I’m Yours” by The Decemberists
“Los Angeles, I’m Yours” by The Decemberists is a dreamy and poetic folk-pop song that captures the essence of Los Angeles in its lyrics. The song describes the city’s vastness and contradictions, with references to its sunshine and smog, wealth and poverty, and dreams and disillusionment. Musically, the song is characterized by lush orchestration, with beautiful melodies and harmonies that evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia. The lead singer’s emotive vocals and the song’s intricate arrangement create a sense of bittersweet beauty that matches the complexity of the city it depicts. “Los Angeles, I’m Yours” is a stunning piece of music that captures both the allure and the challenges of the City of Angels.
17. “Move to L.A.” by Tyga
“Move to L.A.” by Tyga is a hip-hop song that celebrates the glamour and excesses of Los Angeles. The song’s lyrics describe the artist’s lavish lifestyle, with references to luxury cars, private jets, and expensive jewelry. Musically, the song is characterized by a catchy beat and a lively melody that creates a sense of energy and excitement. The chorus is particularly memorable, with a repetitive refrain that is easy to sing along with. “Move to L.A.” is a party anthem that embodies the “work hard, play hard” ethos of Los Angeles, a city that is both a land of opportunity and a place of hedonistic pleasures.
18. “L.A. Freeway” by Jerry Jeff Walker
“L.A. Freeway” by Jerry Jeff Walker is a country song that tells the story of a restless musician who dreams of leaving his small town and making it big in Los Angeles. The song’s lyrics are rich in vivid imagery, painting a portrait of life on the road, the beauty of the American Southwest, and the lure of the bright lights of the big city. Musically, the song is driven by a catchy melody and a twangy guitar riff that evokes the spirit of classic country music. “L.A. Freeway” is a timeless ode to the dreams of young artists and the endless possibilities of the open road.
19. “Come Out To LA” by Don Broco
“Come Out To LA” by Don Broco is a pop-rock anthem that takes aim at the bright lights and promises of Los Angeles. With driving guitars and a catchy chorus, the song tells the story of someone who wants to leave their mundane life and chase their dreams in Hollywood. The lyrics express the hope and excitement that comes with pursuing a new life, but also acknowledge the risks and uncertainties that come with such a move. Overall, “Come Out To LA” is an upbeat and energetic track that captures the thrill of taking a chance on a new adventure.
20. “All I Wanna Do” by Sheryl Crow
“All I Wanna Do” by Sheryl Crow is a catchy pop-rock song released in 1994 that went on to become a major hit. The song features upbeat acoustic guitar riffs and an infectious chorus that has made it a favorite of many listeners. The lyrics describe the desire to escape the mundane aspects of life and just have fun, with the chorus expressing the sentiment “All I wanna do is have some fun, I got a feeling I’m not the only one.” The song’s upbeat tempo and playful attitude have made it a popular choice for parties and karaoke nights.
April Johnson 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.
