Swimming is a beloved pastime that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for generations. Whether it’s splashing around in a pool, taking a dip in the ocean, or simply floating in a lake, there’s something undeniably magical about being in the water. And music has always been an integral part of this experience, capturing the thrill and freedom of swimming in all its glory. From upbeat tracks that will get you pumped up for a swim, to introspective ballads that reflect on the peacefulness of being in the water, the top 20 songs about swimming have something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just love the idea of being in the water, these songs are sure to resonate with you. So, dive into this playlist, hit play, and let the music take you on a journey through the waves and currents of the water.
1. “Swimming Pools (Drank)” by Kendrick Lamar
“Swimming Pools (Drank)” by Kendrick Lamar is a song that addresses the dangers of excessive drinking and its impact on one’s life. The song is set against a dark and eerie beat, with Kendrick rapping about his own experiences with alcohol and the temptation to keep drinking. He portrays the reality of alcohol abuse and how it can lead to a destructive path. Throughout the song, he repeatedly asks the listener to consider their own relationship with alcohol and the impact it has on their lives. “Swimming Pools (Drank)” is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that encourages listeners to take control of their lives and make responsible choices.
2. “Into the Ocean” by Blue October
“Into the Ocean” by Blue October is a melancholic and introspective ballad that explores themes of loss, isolation, and finding peace. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist struggling with their inner demons, feeling overwhelmed and wanting to escape from their problems. The ocean serves as a metaphor for the unknown and the depth of the protagonist’s emotions. The vocals are raw and emotional, with a haunting melody that perfectly captures the mood of the song. “Into the Ocean” is a touching and relatable piece that resonates with listeners who have faced their own struggles with mental health. The song offers a message of hope and the possibility of finding peace and release in the face of adversity.
3. “Swimming in Your Ocean” by Crash Test Dummies
“Swimming in Your Ocean” by Crash Test Dummies is a love song that compares the feeling of being in love to swimming in the ocean. The song’s lush instrumentation, including acoustic guitar and keyboard, creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. The lyrics express the singer’s deep love and affection for their partner, with phrases like “I love swimming in your ocean” conveying a sense of peacefulness and security. The vocals are rich and soulful, with a tender delivery that perfectly captures the song’s emotional intensity. “Swimming in Your Ocean” is a beautiful and romantic ballad that will touch the hearts of anyone who has ever been in love. The song celebrates the power of love to provide comfort and security in an ever-changing world.
4. “My Friend Has a Swimming Pool” by Mausi
“My Friend Has a Swimming Pool” by Mausi is an upbeat, indie-pop song that encapsulates the carefree feeling of summer. The song features a bouncy, danceable beat and catchy hooks that are sure to get stuck in your head. The lyrics describe the singer’s excitement at the prospect of spending time at their friend’s pool, soaking up the sun and enjoying the warm weather. The playful, lighthearted tone of the song creates a joyful and uplifting atmosphere, perfect for any summer day. “My Friend Has a Swimming Pool” is a celebration of the simple pleasures of life, and a reminder to take time to enjoy the good things that come our way. This fun, upbeat song is the perfect anthem for anyone looking to make the most of their summer days.
5. “Swimming Horses” by Siouxsie and the Banshees
“Swimming Horses” by Siouxsie and the Banshees is a haunting and atmospheric post-punk track that showcases the band’s experimental and ethereal sound. The song features Siouxsie’s distinctive vocals, layered over a driving beat, creating a sense of urgency and tension. The lyrics are cryptic and evocative, with imagery of swimming horses and a ghostly apparition, giving the song a surreal and dreamlike quality. “Swimming Horses” is a prime example of Siouxsie and the Banshees’ unique brand of atmospheric and experimental rock. The song’s haunting melody and ethereal atmosphere have made it a standout track in the band’s discography, and a favorite among fans. With its haunting beauty, “Swimming Horses” remains one of Siouxsie and the Banshees’ most enduring tracks, showcasing the band’s musical innovation and creative vision.
6. “Swim Until You Can’t See Land” by Frightened Rabbit
“Swim Until You Can’t See Land” by Frightened Rabbit is a sweeping and emotional indie-rock track that showcases the band’s poignant lyrics and sweeping instrumentation. The song features a driving beat, shimmering guitar work, and a powerful chorus that builds to an epic climax. The lyrics tell the story of a person who is trying to escape their problems and find freedom by swimming away from shore until they can no longer see land. The song’s powerful imagery and cathartic chorus are both hopeful and melancholic, capturing the feeling of trying to escape from one’s problems and find a better life. “Swim Until You Can’t See Land” is a powerful and emotive piece of music that will resonate with listeners looking to escape their own struggles and find hope in the face of adversity.
7. “Nightswimming” by R.E.M.
“Nightswimming” by R.E.M. is a poignant and introspective ballad that showcases the band’s signature sound and introspective lyrics. The song features a delicate piano melody, lush strings, and Michael Stipe’s haunting vocals. The lyrics describe the feeling of taking a night swim, with the darkness and serenity of the night providing a sense of escape and reflection. The song’s nostalgic and contemplative tone creates a dreamy atmosphere, capturing the feeling of looking back on youthful experiences with a mixture of fondness and longing. “Nightswimming” is considered one of R.E.M.’s finest moments, a testament to the band’s ability to create deeply emotional and introspective music that speaks to the human experience. With its powerful melodies and poignant lyrics, “Nightswimming” remains a timeless classic of alternative rock.
8. “Swim” by Jack’s Mannequin
“Swim” by Jack’s Mannequin is an upbeat and energetic pop-rock track that showcases the band’s catchy hooks and uplifting lyrics. The song features a driving beat, soaring guitar work, and a memorable chorus that will stick with you long after the song is over. The lyrics describe the feeling of overcoming obstacles and finding the courage to move forward, with the metaphor of swimming representing the journey towards a better future. The song’s positive and optimistic tone creates an atmosphere of hope and determination, making it the perfect anthem for anyone looking to face their fears and strive for something better. With its catchy hooks and upbeat energy, “Swim” is a standout track in Jack’s Mannequin’s discography, and a favorite among fans of the band.
9. “Swimming in the Flood” by Passion Pit
“Swimming in the Flood” by Passion Pit is a high-energy and danceable electronic-pop track that showcases the band’s catchy beats and upbeat sound. The song features a pulsing synth melody, soaring chorus, and Michael Angelakos’ distinctive falsetto vocals. The lyrics describe the feeling of being overwhelmed by emotions and navigating a relationship that is on the brink of falling apart, with the metaphor of swimming in a flood representing the struggle to keep afloat in the face of adversity. The song’s upbeat and danceable energy, combined with its introspective lyrics, creates a powerful and emotional experience that will resonate with listeners. With its infectious beats and catchy chorus, “Swimming in the Flood” is a standout track in Passion Pit’s discography and a favorite among fans of the band.
10. “Swim Good” by Frank Ocean
“Swim Good” by Frank Ocean is a haunting and introspective R&B track that showcases the artist’s introspective lyrics and soulful vocals. The song features a minimalist instrumental backdrop, consisting of a haunting guitar melody, sparse percussion, and atmospheric synths. The lyrics tell the story of a person who is trying to escape their problems and start a new life, with the metaphor of swimming as a symbol of their journey towards a better future. The song’s melancholic and introspective tone creates a powerful emotional experience, capturing the feeling of longing for something better and the fear of the unknown. With its haunting melody, introspective lyrics, and soulful vocals, “Swim Good” is a standout track in Frank Ocean’s discography and a favorite among fans of the artist.
11. “Swimming” by Breathe Owl Breathe
“Swimming” by Breathe Owl Breathe is a whimsical and enchanting indie-folk track that showcases the band’s unique sound and storytelling style. The song features intricate acoustic guitar work, whimsical lyrics, and a mesmerizing vocal melody that invites the listener to get lost in the story being told. The lyrics describe a magical journey through the underwater world, full of wondrous creatures and new adventures. The song’s playful and imaginative tone creates an atmosphere of magic and mystery, and the intricate instrumentation and storytelling style set it apart from other folk tracks. With its whimsical and enchanting sound, “Swimming” is a standout track in Breathe Owl Breathe’s discography and a favorite among fans of the band.
12. “Swimming Pool Summer” by Capital Cities
“Swimming Pool Summer” by Capital Cities is a bright and upbeat indie-pop track that captures the essence of summertime fun. The song features a funky bass line, cheerful synths, and infectious vocals that are sure to get stuck in your head. The lyrics describe a carefree summer day spent by the pool, soaking up the sun and enjoying the good life. The song’s upbeat and energetic tone creates a lighthearted and playful atmosphere that is perfect for the summer season. With its catchy melody, cheerful lyrics, and infectious energy, “Swimming Pool Summer” is a standout track in Capital Cities’ discography and a favorite among fans of the band. The song is sure to put a smile on your face and get you in the mood for summer.
13. “Channel Swimmer” by Corbin Murdoch and the Nautical Miles
“Channel Swimmer” by Corbin Murdoch and the Nautical Miles is a folksy, upbeat track that brings the listener on a musical journey across the sea. The song features finger-picked acoustic guitar, playful lyrics, and lively vocals that are reminiscent of traditional sea shanties. The lyrics tell the story of a sailor who is making a treacherous journey across the channel, braving the elements and the unknown. The song’s upbeat and energetic tone creates a feeling of adventure and excitement, and the folksy instrumentation and storytelling style are sure to captivate the listener. With its lively melody, playful lyrics, and folksy sound, “Channel Swimmer” is a standout track in Corbin Murdoch and the Nautical Miles’ discography and a favorite among fans of the band.
14. “Swimming Pool” by Emmy the Great
“Swimming Pool” by Emmy the Great is a dreamy, introspective track that showcases the singer’s melancholic and introspective side. The song features delicate acoustic guitar, airy vocals, and gentle electronic elements that create a warm and intimate atmosphere. The lyrics describe a person’s longing for escape from the mundane, their desire to dive into the unknown and break free from their routine. The song’s delicate and introspective tone creates a feeling of introspection and melancholy, reflecting the singer’s own feelings of uncertainty and restlessness. With its beautiful melody, introspective lyrics, and intimate sound, “Swimming Pool” is a standout track in Emmy the Great’s discography and a favorite among fans of the singer-songwriter.
15. “Let’s Go Swimming Wild” by Sweet Baboo
“Let’s Go Swimming Wild” by Sweet Baboo is a whimsical, upbeat track that invites listeners to join the singer on a musical adventure. The song features cheerful acoustic guitar, lively drums, and cheerful vocals that are filled with energy and enthusiasm. The lyrics describe the singer’s desire to break free from the mundane and explore the world, encouraging the listener to join in the adventure. The song’s upbeat and energetic tone creates a feeling of freedom and excitement, and the cheerful instrumentation and lively vocals are sure to put a smile on the listener’s face. With its cheerful melody, upbeat lyrics, and joyful sound, “Let’s Go Swimming Wild” is a standout track in Sweet Baboo’s discography and a favorite among fans of the singer-songwriter.
16. “Night Swimmers” by Foals
“Night Swimmers” by Foals is an energetic, alternative rock track that showcases the band’s musical prowess. The song features driving drums, thumping bass, and blazing guitar riffs, all held together by the powerful vocals of lead singer Yannis Philippakis. The lyrics tell the story of a group of friends who venture out into the night, determined to experience all that life has to offer. The chorus, with its repetitive refrain of “let’s go swimming in the dark,” creates a sense of excitement and anticipation, while the pounding rhythm section and soaring guitar solos keep the energy level high throughout the song. With its anthemic sound and dynamic arrangement, “Night Swimmers” is a standout track from Foals and a true showcase of their unique and powerful musical style.
17. “Me Swimming” by Mary Epworth
“Me Swimming” by Mary Epworth is a dreamy, psychedelic pop track that showcases the singer-songwriter’s ethereal vocals and imaginative lyrics. The song features a slow, atmospheric rhythm that sets a contemplative tone, while the hazy synths and echoey production create a sense of underwater detachment. Epworth’s lyrics tell a surreal story of personal growth and liberation, as she sings about breaking free from the constraints of reality and letting herself “swim” in the ocean of her imagination. The chorus, with its repetitive refrain of “me swimming,” creates a sense of renewal and liberation, while the mesmerizing instrumentals keep the listener captivated throughout the song. With its floating melodies and abstract imagery, “Me Swimming” is a mesmerizing piece of music from Mary Epworth, and a true showcase of her artistry and creativity.
18. “Swim” by Chase Atlantic
“Swim” by Chase Atlantic is a haunting and introspective alt-rock track that showcases the band’s genre-blurring sound and emotive lyrics. The song features a steady, propulsive beat, combined with distorted guitar riffs, atmospheric synths and sparse, atmospheric production. The lyrics, sung in a delicate falsetto, explore the themes of loneliness, self-discovery, and existential introspection, as the singer grapples with the complexities of life and relationships. The chorus, with its catchy refrain of “I’ll swim in circles, circles, circles” creates a sense of cyclical repetition, reinforcing the theme of existential uncertainty. “Swim” is a powerful and evocative song that showcases the musical and lyrical prowess of Chase Atlantic, and proves that they are a force to be reckoned with in the alternative music scene.
19. “The Swimming Song” by Loudon Wainwright III
“The Swimming Song” by Loudon Wainwright III is a whimsical folk song that reflects on the joys of swimming. The lyrics describe the feeling of being weightless in the water and how it is a source of freedom and escape from the stresses of daily life. The song features acoustic guitar and Wainwright’s distinctive vocals that convey a sense of childlike wonder. With its upbeat tempo and lighthearted lyrics, “The Swimming Song” is a nostalgic ode to summertime and the simple pleasures of life.
20. “Wild Swimming” by Martha Tilston
“Wild Swimming” by Martha Tilston is a folk-inspired song about the joys of taking a dip in natural bodies of water. The upbeat melody and cheerful lyrics evoke images of jumping into a river or lake on a warm summer day. Tilston’s whimsical voice is accompanied by acoustic guitar, creating a light and airy atmosphere. The song expresses a longing for the simple pleasures of nature, reminding listeners of the beauty and freedom that can be found in the great outdoors. “Wild Swimming” is a celebration of life and the importance of taking time to enjoy the simple things in life.
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.
