Space has always been a subject of human fascination and wonder. From the earliest civilizations that gazed at the stars and dreamed of what lay beyond, to the modern era of space exploration, the idea of space has inspired countless works of art, literature, and music. In music, the concept of space has been a source of inspiration for artists across genres, from rock and pop to classical and electronic. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most iconic and enduring songs about space, exploring how musicians have used the theme of space to express their thoughts and feelings about the universe, humanity, and our place in the cosmos. Whether it’s the soaring vocals and epic guitar solos of classic rock, the futuristic sounds of electronic music, or the introspective lyrics of singer-songwriters, these songs all share a common goal: to capture the majesty and mystery of space, and to help us explore our own thoughts and emotions as we look up at the stars. So let’s blast off and discover the top 20 songs about space!
1. “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra
“Fly Me to the Moon” is a classic song written by Bart Howard in the mid-1950s. It was popularized by Frank Sinatra in the 1960s, who performed the song in his signature smooth and sophisticated style. The song is a romantic ballad about the desire to take a trip to the moon with the one you love. With its catchy melody and Sinatra’s smooth vocal delivery, the song has become a timeless classic and a staple of the Great American Songbook. “Fly Me to the Moon” has been covered by many artists over the years, but Sinatra’s version remains one of the most well-known and beloved renditions of the song. It continues to be a popular choice for romantic moments, and its timeless appeal has made it a staple of classic crooner playlists.
2. “Satellite Flight” by Kid Cudi
“Satellite Flight” by Kid Cudi is a futuristic and introspective hip-hop song that explores the emotions and experiences of a space traveler. The song features Kid Cudi’s signature introspective lyrics, which delve into themes of loneliness, isolation, and the search for meaning in life. The haunting production, which features atmospheric synths and dreamy soundscapes, sets the mood for the song, creating a feeling of floating through the cosmos. “Satellite Flight” was released as an EP in 2014 and was well-received by fans and critics alike, who praised the song for its ambitious production and introspective lyrics. It remains a standout track in Kid Cudi’s discography and is widely regarded as one of his best works.
3. “Space Girl” by The Imagined Village
“Space Girl” by The Imagined Village is a folksy and whimsical song that tells the story of a young girl who sets off on a journey to explore the cosmos. The song features The Imagined Village’s signature blend of traditional folk instruments, such as the accordion and the bouzouki, with modern electronic production techniques, creating a unique and enchanting sound. The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat melody are complemented by the intricate instrumentation, creating a rich tapestry of sound that invites the listener on a journey through space. “Space Girl” is a standout track from The Imagined Village’s eclectic discography and has been well-received by fans and critics for its imaginative storytelling and whimsical musical style. It remains a beloved track among the band’s fans and is a testament to their creative prowess.
4. “Space Oddity” by David Bowie
“Space Oddity” by David Bowie is a classic rock song that tells the story of Major Tom, an astronaut who becomes lost in space. The song features Bowie’s signature baritone vocals and poetic lyrics, which paint a vivid picture of Major Tom’s journey through the cosmos. The haunting production, which features ethereal sound effects and acoustic guitar, creates a feeling of weightlessness and isolation, capturing the essence of space travel. “Space Oddity” was released in 1969 and became one of Bowie’s biggest hits, establishing him as one of the most innovative and influential musicians of his generation. It remains one of Bowie’s most enduring songs and continues to be a popular choice for fans of classic rock.
5. “There’s A Star for Everyone” by Aretha Franklin
“There’s a Star for Everyone” by Aretha Franklin is a soulful ballad that celebrates the idea of hope and the beauty of the cosmos. The song features Aretha’s powerful vocals, which convey a sense of uplift and optimism, as she sings about the endless possibilities of the universe and the idea that everyone has a star that shines just for them. The song’s lush production, which features a gospel-inspired choir and a soulful backing band, creates a warm and uplifting atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for those looking for inspiration and hope. “There’s a Star for Everyone” is a lesser-known track from Aretha’s extensive discography, but it remains a favorite among fans of her soulful ballads and gospel-inspired music. It continues to be a source of comfort and inspiration for listeners, who are drawn to its message of hope and its celebration of the beauty of the cosmos.
6. “Space is the Place” by Sun Ra
“Space is the Place” by Sun Ra is a jazz instrumental that embodies the spirit of the avant-garde jazz movement of the 20th century. The song features Sun Ra’s signature experimental and unconventional approach to jazz, which combines elements of funk, blues, and space-age electronics to create a unique and captivating sound. The song’s improvisational structure and unpredictable instrumentation create a feeling of exploration and adventure, as if the listener is being transported to another world. “Space is the Place” has become a staple of Sun Ra’s extensive discography and is widely regarded as one of his most iconic works. It continues to be a popular choice for fans of experimental jazz and avant-garde music, and its influence can be heard in the music of many contemporary artists.
7. “Outer Space” by John Grant
“Outer Space” by John Grant is a haunting and introspective indie-rock song that explores themes of loss and longing. The song features Grant’s distinctive baritone vocals, which convey a sense of melancholy and sadness, as he sings about the beauty and isolation of outer space. The song’s atmospheric production, which features a blend of electronic and acoustic instruments, creates a dreamy and ethereal soundscape that complements the lyrics and vocals perfectly. “Outer Space” is a standout track from John Grant’s critically acclaimed album “Pale Green Ghosts” and has been well-received by fans and critics for its poignant storytelling and atmospheric production. It remains a popular choice for fans of John Grant’s introspective and melancholic brand of indie-rock, and its influence can be heard in the music of many contemporary artists.
8. “Spaceman” by Babylon Zoo
“Spaceman” by Babylon Zoo is an alternative rock song that blends elements of electronic music and classic rock to create a unique and energetic sound. The song features the distinctive vocals of frontman Jas Mann, who sings about the idea of being a spaceman and traveling through the universe. The song’s fast-paced beat and driving guitar riffs create a feeling of excitement and adventure, making it a perfect choice for fans of high-energy rock music. “Spaceman” was a massive hit for Babylon Zoo, reaching number one in several countries and establishing the band as one of the most popular alternative rock acts of the 1990s. It remains a popular choice for fans of alternative rock and continues to be a staple of 90s nostalgia playlists.
9. “Space Travel is Boring” by Modest Mouse
“Space Travel is Boring” by Modest Mouse is an indie rock song that showcases the band’s signature blend of quirkiness and introspection. The song features the distinctive vocals of frontman Isaac Brock, who sings about the idea of space travel and the monotony that can come with it. The song’s jangly guitar riffs and driving drumbeat create a feeling of restlessness and unease, perfectly capturing the lyrical themes of boredom and disillusionment. “Space Travel is Boring” is a standout track from Modest Mouse’s album “The Lonesome Crowded West” and has been well-received by fans and critics for its unique blend of humor and introspection. It remains a popular choice for fans of the band’s quirky brand of indie rock and continues to be a staple of their live shows.
10. “Life on the Moon” by David Cook
“Life on the Moon” by David Cook is a pop-rock ballad that explores themes of love and loss. The song features Cook’s powerful vocals, which convey a sense of longing and sadness as he sings about the idea of life on the moon as a metaphor for his feelings of isolation and heartbreak. The song’s melodic and upbeat production, which features a blend of acoustic and electric instruments, creates a feeling of hope and optimism, even as the lyrics delve into darker themes. “Life on the Moon” is a standout track from David Cook’s album “This Loud Morning” and has been well-received by fans and critics for its heartfelt storytelling and memorable melody. It remains a popular choice for fans of David Cook’s emotive brand of pop-rock and continues to be a staple of his live performances.
11. “Space Cowboy” by Steve Miller Band
“Space Cowboy” by Steve Miller Band is a classic rock song that showcases the band’s signature blend of blues, folk, and psychedelic rock. The song features Steve Miller’s distinctive guitar playing and upbeat vocals, which sing about the idea of a space cowboy traveling through the universe. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody have made it a fan favorite, and its lyrics about travel and adventure have made it an enduring classic. “Space Cowboy” was a hit for the Steve Miller Band, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and establishing the band as one of the most popular classic rock acts of the 1970s. It remains a popular choice for fans of classic rock and continues to be a staple of rock radio playlists.
12. “Under the Milky Way” by The Church
“Under the Milky Way” by The Church is a dreamy, atmospheric rock song that showcases the band’s blend of post-punk, new wave, and alternative rock. The song features the ethereal vocals of frontman Steve Kilbey, who sings about a sense of longing and mystery as he looks up at the night sky. The song’s atmospheric guitar and keyboard work, combined with its introspective lyrics, create a feeling of mystery and wonder, perfectly capturing the themes of the song. “Under the Milky Way” was a hit for The Church, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the band’s most well-known songs. It remains a popular choice for fans of alternative rock and continues to be a staple of The Church’s live performances.
13. “Girl From Mars” by Ash
“Girl From Mars” by Ash is a fast-paced, alternative rock song that showcases the band’s signature blend of punk, pop, and power pop. The song features Tim Wheeler’s energetic vocals, which sing about a girl who has come down to earth from Mars. The song’s driving beat, catchy melody, and upbeat production have made it a fan favorite, and its quirky lyrics have helped it to become one of Ash’s most well-known songs. “Girl From Mars” was a hit for the band, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and establishing Ash as one of the leading lights of the Britpop movement of the 1990s. It remains a popular choice for fans of alternative rock and continues to be a staple of Ash’s live performances.
14. “E.T.’ (Extraterrestrial)” by OutKast
“E.T.” by OutKast is a funky, experimental hip-hop song that showcases the group’s genre-defying style. The song features Andre 3000’s inventive rap lyrics, which describe a fictional encounter with an extraterrestrial being. The song’s eclectic production, which blends hip-hop, funk, and electronic music, creates a unique soundscape that perfectly matches the otherworldly theme of the song. “E.T.” was a hit for OutKast, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and establishing the group as one of the most innovative and exciting acts in hip-hop. The song’s imaginative lyrics and genre-defying production have made it a fan favorite and it remains a staple of OutKast’s live performances.
15. “Starlight” by Muse
“Starlight” by Muse is an epic, alternative rock song that showcases the band’s powerful sound and emotional intensity. The song features Matthew Bellamy’s soaring vocals and intricate guitar playing, which are set against a backdrop of complex arrangements and driving beats. The song’s lyrics, which describe a longing for escape from the mundane world and a quest for something greater, are matched by its epic production and powerful sense of urgency. “Starlight” was a hit for Muse, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and establishing the band as one of the leading lights of the alternative rock scene. Its intense, driving sound and soaring melodies have made it a fan favorite, and it remains a staple of Muse’s live performances.
16. “Satellite of Love” by Lou Reed
“Satellite of Love” by Lou Reed is a classic song that epitomizes the singer-songwriter’s signature style. The song features Reed’s deadpan vocals and minimalist guitar playing, which are set against a sparse arrangement that emphasizes the lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe a longing for connection and love, and they are full of wit and irony. “Satellite of Love” was a hit for Reed, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and establishing the singer-songwriter as one of the most influential artists of his generation. Its simple, elegant sound and wry, ironic lyrics have made it a fan favorite, and it remains a staple of Reed’s live performances.
17. “Out of Space” by The Prodigy
“Out of Space” by The Prodigy is a high-energy electronic dance music track that showcases the group’s innovative style. The song features a fast-paced beat and a driving bassline that propels the music forward, while the psychedelic synthesizer sounds create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. The lyrics, which contain sampled speech and chant-like vocal hooks, add to the song’s energetic vibe and contribute to its sense of frenzied excitement. “Out of Space” was a huge hit for The Prodigy, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and establishing the group as one of the leading acts in the electronic dance music genre. Its relentless energy and innovative sound have made it a classic of the genre and a fan favorite to this day.
18. “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden
“Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden is a heavy metal track with a distinctive space-themed lyric and melody. The song features the powerful vocals of Chris Cornell, who sings about a mysterious, destructive force in the universe represented by a black hole sun. The track’s instrumentation includes a distorted guitar riff, driving drums, and haunting keyboards that create a dark and intense atmosphere. The music video for “Black Hole Sun” features surreal imagery that further emphasizes the song’s space-themed imagery, including a strange, black, sun-like object and floating, otherworldly landscapes. The track was a huge commercial success for Soundgarden, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of the defining songs of the 1990s alternative rock movement.
19. “Space Junk” by Devo
“Space Junk” is a classic track by the iconic New Wave band Devo. Released in 1978, it is a driving, energetic song that features the band’s signature quirky and humorous approach to music. The lyrics touch on the theme of space exploration, imagining the debris left by human space missions as a form of “space junk” floating aimlessly in the void. The song’s upbeat melody, accompanied by a funky bassline, creates an upbeat, danceable feel. The song has become a staple of Devo’s live performances and continues to be a fan favorite to this day. “Space Junk” is a prime example of Devo’s innovative approach to music and their ability to tackle serious themes with a lighthearted touch.
20. “Space Monkey” by Patti Smith
“Space Monkey” is a haunting, atmospheric song by the legendary Patti Smith. Released in 1988, it is a powerful ballad that showcases Smith’s signature blend of poetry and rock ‘n’ roll. The lyrics tell the story of a space monkey, sent into the void on a dangerous mission, reflecting on the isolation and sacrifice of being a pioneer in the name of science. The song’s ethereal melody, backed by a delicate acoustic guitar and atmospheric keyboards, creates a sense of otherworldly wonder. The song has become a classic of Smith’s catalog and continues to be a favorite among fans of her music. “Space Monkey” is a poignant reminder of the sacrifice and bravery required in the pursuit of scientific discovery and a testament to Smith’s unparalleled songwriting ability.
Jason Smith 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.
