Songs have always been a way to express our deepest desires and emotions, and one night stands are no exception. There are plenty of songs that tell the story of a fleeting encounter between two people, capturing the excitement, desire, and sometimes regret that come with such an experience. From classic rock to modern pop, the theme of one night stands has been explored in various genres and styles. In this article, we will take a look at the top 18 songs about one night stands. Some of these songs are celebratory and fun, while others are melancholic and reflective. What they all have in common is that they offer a glimpse into the complex and often conflicting emotions that can arise from a one night stand. Whether you’ve had one yourself or simply enjoy the storytelling aspect of music, these songs are sure to offer something to everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of one night stands and the music that accompanies them.
1. Save Tonight – Eagle-Eye Cherry
“Save Tonight” by Eagle-Eye Cherry is a popular song about seizing the moment with a one night stand. The song features an upbeat melody and catchy lyrics that encourage the listener to live life to the fullest and enjoy the fleeting moments of romance. The song’s narrator implores a lover to “save tonight and fight the break of dawn” rather than letting the moment slip away. With its infectious chorus and memorable guitar riff, “Save Tonight” is a classic ode to the thrill of living in the moment and making the most of a fleeting romance.
2. Say Goodbye – Dave Matthews Band
“Say Goodbye” by Dave Matthews Band is a soulful song about a one night stand that leaves both parties with bittersweet memories. The song features melancholic guitar riffs and Matthews’ signature vocals that convey the raw emotion of a fleeting romance. With lyrics like “love is all we need, so won’t you take a chance with me,” the song captures the yearning and emotional complexity of a brief encounter that lingers long after the night is over. “Say Goodbye” is a powerful reminder of the intense emotions that can arise from a one night stand and the profound impact that a fleeting romance can have on the human heart.
3. All I Wanna Do is Make Love to You – Heart
“All I Wanna Do is Make Love to You” is a power ballad by the American rock band Heart, released in 1990. The song tells the story of a woman who picks up a hitchhiker, takes him to a hotel, and has a one-night stand with him to conceive a child, as she is unable to conceive with her husband. The song’s lyrics are controversial, with some critics interpreting them as empowering, while others see them as promoting infidelity. The melody and the powerful vocals of lead singer Ann Wilson make this song an iconic and enduring hit. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It remains a popular karaoke choice and a staple of classic rock radio stations.
4. I’m Just Talkin’ About Tonight – Toby Keith
“I’m Just Talkin’ About Tonight” by Toby Keith is a country song that talks about living in the moment and not worrying about the future. The song is about a man and a woman who meet at a bar, and instead of talking about their long-term plans, they decide to just focus on the present and have fun together. The lyrics encourage the listener to forget about their worries and enjoy the moment with someone they find attractive. With a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, this song is perfect for a night out with friends or a carefree date. The lyrics capture the excitement of a one night stand and the idea of living life to the fullest, even if it’s just for one night.
5. Chelsea Hotel #2 – Leonard Cohen
“Chelsea Hotel #2” by Leonard Cohen is a melancholic song that narrates a fleeting encounter in the titular New York City hotel. The lyrics detail the singer’s encounter with a lover who he met at the hotel, and the intimacy they shared during their brief time together. The song is characterized by Cohen’s signature poetic style and his raw, gravelly voice. The melody is simple yet evocative, conveying the bittersweet emotions of the encounter. Despite the brevity of their relationship, the singer is deeply affected by his time with this person, and the song captures the complexity of emotion that can come with a one night stand. With its haunting lyrics and haunting melody, “Chelsea Hotel #2” is a poignant reminder that even brief moments of connection can leave a lasting impact.
6. One Night Stand – Janis Joplin
“One Night Stand” by Janis Joplin is a gritty, bluesy rock song that celebrates the liberating experience of a one night stand. Joplin’s raw, powerful vocals add a sense of urgency and desire to the lyrics, which describe the thrill of a passionate encounter with a stranger. The bluesy guitar riffs and driving drumbeat give the song a sensual, hypnotic quality that draws the listener in and keeps them hooked. Joplin’s signature growl and soulful inflections add depth and emotion to the lyrics, which are at once celebratory and poignant. Overall, “One Night Stand” captures the raw energy and excitement of a brief encounter, and stands as a testament to Joplin’s legendary talent as a singer and songwriter.
7. Little Red Corvette – Prince
“Little Red Corvette” is a classic song by the late musician Prince. The lyrics are about a one-night stand that leaves the protagonist longing for more. The title itself is a metaphor for the woman he meets, with the fast car representing the thrill of the encounter. The song features Prince’s signature blend of funk, rock, and pop, with a catchy guitar riff and infectious beat that make it an instant hit. The lyrics are delivered with Prince’s trademark falsetto, conveying a sense of urgency and passion. The song’s iconic chorus, “Little red Corvette, baby, you’re much too fast,” has become a staple of popular culture, and the song is widely considered one of Prince’s greatest hits. With its themes of passion, desire, and fleeting romance, “Little Red Corvette” is a quintessential one-night stand anthem that has stood the test of time.
8. Perfect Strangers – Jonas Blue (ft. JP Cooper)
“Perfect Strangers” is an upbeat dance-pop song by British DJ and record producer Jonas Blue, featuring the soulful vocals of JP Cooper. The track was released in 2016 and quickly became a global hit, reaching the top ten in numerous countries, including the UK and Australia. The song’s lyrics are about two strangers who meet by chance and share a passionate one-night stand. The chorus, with its catchy melody and sing-along lyrics, is a celebration of living in the moment and seizing the night without any inhibitions. The production features a driving beat, pulsing synths, and a tropical house-inspired drop that will get your feet moving. “Perfect Strangers” is a modern pop anthem that captures the thrill of a spontaneous and fleeting encounter, where two people can come together and create a special connection in the moment.
9. We’ve Got Tonight – Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band
“We’ve Got Tonight” is a classic song by Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band that speaks of the beauty of living in the moment with someone special. The song is about the night, where two lovers are together, unsure of what the future holds but deeply in love with each other, as they share the night, dancing, and enjoying each other’s company. Bob Seger’s voice takes center stage in this song, accompanied by a gentle piano and guitar melody that sets the perfect mood for a night of romance. The song’s chorus, “We’ve got tonight, who needs tomorrow?” perfectly captures the essence of a one-night stand, where two people in the moment don’t need to think about anything else, but the love they share and the passion they feel. Overall, “We’ve Got Tonight” is a timeless classic that celebrates the magic of one-night stands and the beauty of love in its most raw and pure form.
10. Memory Motel – The Rolling Stones
“Memory Motel” is a slow ballad by The Rolling Stones, featuring the vocals of both Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. The song tells a story of a one-night stand that turns into something more, as Jagger sings about returning to the “Memory Motel” to spend more time with his lover. The hauntingly beautiful melody and poignant lyrics create a sense of longing and nostalgia, as Jagger reminisces about the past and wonders if he will ever see his lover again. The song’s soft guitar solos and introspective lyrics make it a standout on the Stones’ 1976 album “Black and Blue.” With its bittersweet tone and Jagger’s emotional vocals, “Memory Motel” captures the fleeting nature of a one-night stand and the wistful memories that can linger long after the night is over.
11. Dare – The Wedding Present
The Wedding Present’s 1992 song “Dare” is a fast-paced indie rock track that tells the story of a one night stand. The song’s narrator is feeling adventurous and willing to take risks, as he meets a woman and impulsively decides to follow her to her home. He knows that this encounter is fleeting and he may never see the woman again, but he’s willing to take the chance for a night of passion. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a steamy and reckless encounter, with lines like “I’m caught up in the heat of it all / There’s no time to think about the morning after”. The guitar-driven melody and frenetic drums perfectly capture the excitement and intensity of a one night stand. Overall, “Dare” is a raw and honest exploration of the allure and danger of temporary flings.
12. Hotel Key – Old Dominion
“Hotel Key” by Old Dominion is a catchy country song that tells the story of a one-night stand that turns into something more. The song’s protagonist meets a woman in a hotel bar and ends up spending the night with her. The next morning, he accidentally takes her hotel key with him, and he uses it as an excuse to meet her again. They go on to have more adventures together, and the song hints at the possibility of a long-term relationship. The song has a fun, upbeat tempo and features memorable lyrics that tell a relatable story of a spontaneous encounter turning into something unexpected. The chorus is especially catchy, with its repeated refrain of “I’m gonna keep this room key / I’m gonna hold on to it for evermore.” Overall, “Hotel Key” is a lighthearted and entertaining song that captures the thrill of a one-night stand and the possibility of something more.
13. One Night Stand – Keri Hilson ft. Chris Brown
“One Night Stand” is a song by Keri Hilson featuring Chris Brown. It was released in 2009 as part of Hilson’s debut studio album, “In a Perfect World.” The song is an upbeat and catchy R&B track that talks about a spontaneous one-night stand and the pleasures that come with it. The lyrics are suggestive, with the singers describing how they “can’t fight this feeling” and how they “want more” from their brief encounter. The chorus is particularly catchy, with the repetition of the phrase “It was just a one night stand, one night stand” adding to the song’s fun and playful nature. Chris Brown’s smooth vocals provide a nice contrast to Hilson’s more soulful voice. The song was a commercial success, peaking at number twenty on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It has since become a popular song to play at parties or clubs, with its danceable beat and memorable chorus.
14. Blame – Calvin Harris ft. John Newman
“Blame” is a 2014 electro-house track by Scottish DJ and producer Calvin Harris, featuring English singer John Newman. The song’s lyrics explore the aftermath of a one-night stand, with the narrator blaming his actions on alcohol and the “rush” of the moment. The song features a driving, infectious beat and a catchy chorus that incorporates Newman’s soulful vocals. “Blame” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the UK Singles Chart and charting in multiple other countries. The song’s music video features Harris and Newman performing in a futuristic, neon-lit club, with scenes of dancers and a dramatic car chase interspersed throughout. “Blame” showcases Harris’s signature production style and demonstrates his ability to create club-ready hits that also have mass appeal.
15. Last Friday Night – Katy Perry
“Last Friday Night” is a high-energy dance-pop song by American singer-songwriter Katy Perry, released in 2011 as the fifth single from her third studio album, “Teenage Dream”. The song is about a wild night of partying, which leads the narrator to wake up with no memory of what happened the night before. The lyrics are playful and fun, with Perry singing about dancing on tabletops, streaking in the park, and getting kicked out of the bar. The song features catchy hooks, a pulsing beat, and Perry’s signature powerful vocals. The track was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in multiple countries and peaking at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The music video features a comedic storyline and a star-studded cast, including Rebecca Black, Darren Criss, and Kevin McHale. “Last Friday Night” has become a staple of Perry’s discography and a beloved party anthem for fans around the world.
16. Tonight (I’m Lovin’ You) – Enrique Iglesias ft. Ludacris and DJ Frank E
“Tonight (I’m Lovin’ You)” is a club banger by Spanish singer Enrique Iglesias featuring American rapper Ludacris and producer DJ Frank E. The song is a catchy blend of dance-pop and electro house with a thumping bassline and pulsating beats, sure to get listeners grooving on the dance floor. The lyrics are bold and sexually charged, expressing the desire for a one-night stand and uninhibited pleasure. Iglesias’ silky smooth vocals contrast nicely with Ludacris’ rap interludes and the song’s driving energy. The music video showcases the glamorous nightlife, featuring scenes of the trio partying at a swanky club, surrounded by beautiful women. “Tonight (I’m Lovin’ You)” became a massive hit worldwide, peaking at number one in several countries and earning Iglesias a top 10 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.
17. Last Name – Carrie Underwood
“Last Name” is a catchy country-pop song performed by American singer Carrie Underwood. It was released in 2008 as the second single from her second studio album, “Carnival Ride.” The song tells the story of a woman who meets a charming man at a party and wakes up the next morning with only a hazy memory of what happened. She can’t remember his name, but she knows she must have married him because she’s wearing a wedding ring. As she tries to piece together the events of the previous night, she realizes that she might have made a mistake by marrying a man she barely knows.
With its upbeat tempo and sassy lyrics, “Last Name” has become a fan favorite and a staple in Underwood’s live performances. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on both the US Billboard Hot Country Songs and the Canadian Country charts. It was also certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), indicating sales of over one million copies in the US.
18. One Evening – Feist
“One Evening” by Feist is a soulful and contemplative song about a one night stand. The Canadian singer-songwriter’s unique vocals are accompanied by a gentle guitar and mellow drums. The lyrics express a mix of excitement and regret as the protagonist reflects on a night of passion with a stranger. The song has a nostalgic feel to it, with the narrator recounting the events of the evening and wondering if things could have been different. The chorus is haunting and memorable, with Feist singing, “one evening, one swollen moment, you walked into the room and now my heart’s been stolen.” The song is a beautiful and understated reflection on the complex emotions that come with a one night stand.
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.
