The moon has been a source of fascination and inspiration for artists throughout history. From its stunning beauty to its mystical allure, the moon has captivated our imaginations and sparked our creativity. One of the many ways the moon has inspired artists is through music, and there are countless songs that pay homage to the moon’s enduring appeal. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 20 songs about the moon, spanning a wide range of genres and eras. From jazz standards to classic rock hits, these songs showcase the moon’s enduring influence on the world of music. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, or country music, these songs offer a glimpse into the many ways the moon has inspired musicians and songwriters over the years. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of the moon as we take a musical journey through the top 20 songs about the moon.
1. ‘What a Little Moonlight Can Do’ by Billie Holiday
‘What a Little Moonlight Can Do’ is a classic jazz standard recorded by legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday in 1935. The song was written by Harry M. Woods and features a swing rhythm and sophisticated harmonic changes. The lyrics speak of the transformative power of moonlight and how it can inspire love and romance. The song is notable for its catchy melody, smooth vocals, and elegant piano accompaniment.
Holiday’s rendition of the song is a masterpiece of phrasing and dynamics, showcasing her unique vocal style and emotional depth. Her voice moves effortlessly between high and low notes, conveying a sense of longing and desire. The song also features a brilliant saxophone solo by Lester Young, one of the most influential jazz musicians of the time.
Overall, ‘What a Little Moonlight Can Do’ is a timeless classic that continues to inspire jazz musicians and music lovers alike. It’s a testament to the power of music to capture the essence of human emotions and experiences.
2. ‘The Killing Moon’ by Echo and the Bunnymen
‘The Killing Moon’ is a hauntingly beautiful song by the British post-punk band Echo and the Bunnymen, released in 1984. The song features a distinctive guitar riff, driving bassline, and powerful drumming, all wrapped in a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere. The lyrics are enigmatic and poetic, exploring themes of fate, death, and rebirth.
Lead singer Ian McCulloch’s vocals are the centerpiece of the song, conveying a sense of melancholy and yearning. The chorus is particularly memorable, with its catchy melody and soaring vocals. The song’s music video, directed by French director Jean-Pierre Jeunet, is equally mesmerizing, featuring surreal imagery and a mesmerizing performance by McCulloch.
‘The Killing Moon’ has become one of Echo and the Bunnymen’s signature songs and a classic of the post-punk era. Its unique blend of atmospheric soundscapes, poetic lyrics, and powerful vocals continues to captivate listeners to this day.
3. ‘Bad Moon Rising’ by Creedence Clearwater Revival
‘Bad Moon Rising’ is a classic rock song by the American band Creedence Clearwater Revival, released in 1969. The song features a simple yet catchy guitar riff and a driving rhythm section, all anchored by frontman John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics speak of a sense of impending doom, with references to hurricanes, lightning, and earthquakes.
The song’s upbeat tempo and singalong chorus belie its ominous lyrics, creating a sense of tension and excitement. The song has become a staple of classic rock radio and a popular choice for movie soundtracks and commercials.
‘Bad Moon Rising’ showcases Creedence Clearwater Revival’s unique blend of rock, blues, and folk influences, and solidified their place in the pantheon of rock music.
4. ‘Moon Is Up’ by The Rolling Stones
‘Moon Is Up’ is a lesser-known song by the iconic British rock band The Rolling Stones, released in 1994. The song features a funky guitar riff and a driving beat, with Mick Jagger’s vocals alternating between a low growl and a high-pitched wail. The lyrics speak of the transformative power of the moon and its ability to evoke a sense of mystery and wonder.
The song’s groove and rhythm are reminiscent of the Stones’ earlier funk-inspired songs, such as ‘Miss You’ and ‘Emotional Rescue’. The song’s bridge features a jazzy piano solo, adding to its eclectic mix of influences.
‘Moon Is Up’ is a testament to the Rolling Stones’ longevity and ability to evolve with the times, while still maintaining their distinctive sound and style.
5. ‘Moonshadow’ by Cat Stevens
‘Moonshadow’ is a whimsical folk-pop song by British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens, released in 1971. The song features a simple guitar riff and Stevens’ gentle vocals, all accompanied by a playful mix of percussion instruments, including bongos and tambourines. The lyrics speak of a sense of hope and optimism, with references to the healing power of nature and the magic of the moon.
The song’s joyful and upbeat melody has made it a favorite among Stevens’ fans and a staple of classic rock radio. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Rod Stewart and Pearl Jam.
‘Moonshadow’ is a reminder of the power of music to uplift and inspire, and a testament to Stevens’ unique talent as a songwriter and musician.
6. ‘Mr. Moonlight’ by The Beatles
‘Mr. Moonlight’ is a rock and roll song recorded by The Beatles in 1964, featuring John Lennon on lead vocals. The song features a driving rhythm section and a catchy chorus, all anchored by Lennon’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics speak of a romantic encounter under the moonlight, with references to the moon’s mystique and power.
‘Mr. Moonlight’ is notable for its upbeat tempo and infectious melody, and has become a favorite among Beatles fans, despite being one of their lesser-known songs. The song’s simplicity and energy are a testament to The Beatles’ early rock and roll roots.
7. ‘The Whole of the Moon’ by The Waterboys
‘The Whole of the Moon’ is a soaring rock anthem by the Scottish-Irish band The Waterboys, released in 1985. The song features a powerful piano intro, a driving beat, and frontman Mike Scott’s passionate vocals. The lyrics speak of a person who has achieved great success and is now able to see the world from a higher perspective, as if they can see ‘the whole of the moon’.
The song’s grandiose sound and lyrics have made it a classic of the 80s rock era, and a favorite among fans of anthemic, uplifting music. The song has been covered by numerous artists and is often used in movie soundtracks and commercials.
8. ‘Moon at the Window’ by Joni Mitchell
‘Moon at the Window’ is a hauntingly beautiful song by Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released in 1994. The song features Mitchell’s signature intricate guitar work and her gentle, soaring vocals. The lyrics speak of a person reflecting on their life and contemplating their mortality, with the moon serving as a metaphor for the passing of time.
The song’s melancholic melody and poetic lyrics are a testament to Mitchell’s unique talent as a songwriter and musician. The song is a favorite among fans of introspective, introspective music, and has been covered by numerous artists.
‘Moon at the Window’ is a reminder of the power of music to evoke complex emotions and provoke reflection, and a testament to Mitchell’s enduring influence on contemporary music.
9. ‘Walking on the Moon’ by The Police
‘Walking on the Moon’ is a reggae-influenced rock song by The Police, released in 1979. The song features a distinctive bassline by Sting and a steady, driving rhythm section. The lyrics speak of the experience of walking on the moon, with references to weightlessness and the vastness of space.
The song’s infectious groove and catchy melody have made it a classic of the new wave era, and a favorite among fans of The Police. The song’s interplay between the instruments and Sting’s vocals showcase the band’s unique sound and style.
10. ‘Pink Moon’ by Nick Drake
‘Pink Moon’ is a hauntingly beautiful folk song by British singer-songwriter Nick Drake, released in 1972. The song features Drake’s intricate guitar work and his gentle, melancholic vocals. The lyrics speak of the beauty of the natural world, with references to the phases of the moon.
The song’s sparse instrumentation and Drake’s introspective lyrics have made it a classic of the singer-songwriter genre, and a favorite among fans of atmospheric, introspective music. The song has been covered by numerous artists, and its influence can be heard in contemporary folk and indie music.
11. ‘Song about the Moon’ by Paul Simon
‘Song about the Moon’ is a reflective folk song by American singer-songwriter Paul Simon, released in 2000. The song features Simon’s intricate guitar work and his distinctive, soulful vocals. The lyrics speak of the moon as a symbol of continuity and connection, with references to the cycles of life and the passage of time.
The song’s poetic lyrics and Simon’s musical craftsmanship are a testament to his enduring influence on contemporary music. The song is a favorite among fans of introspective, reflective music, and a reminder of the power of music to evoke complex emotions and provoke reflection.
12. ‘Blue Moon’ by Billie Holiday
‘Blue Moon’ is a classic jazz standard, first recorded by Billie Holiday in 1935. The song features Holiday’s soulful vocals and a gentle, swinging melody. The lyrics speak of the rare occurrence of a blue moon, and the romantic possibilities it presents.
Holiday’s interpretation of the song has become a classic of the jazz canon, and a favorite among fans of the genre. Her soulful rendition and unique phrasing showcase her vocal prowess and her ability to connect emotionally with the listener.
13. ‘Sisters of the Moon’ by Fleetwood Mac
‘Sisters of the Moon’ is a mystical, atmospheric rock song by Fleetwood Mac, released in 1979. The song features Stevie Nicks’ ethereal vocals and a driving, pulsating rhythm section. The lyrics speak of the power of the moon and the magic of the night, with references to witchcraft and feminine power.
The song’s haunting melody and Nicks’ powerful vocals have made it a favorite among fans of the band, and a reminder of their unique blend of rock and folk influences. The song’s mystical themes and atmospheric soundscapes have influenced numerous artists in the rock and pop genres.
14. ‘Drunk On The Moon’ by Tom Waits
‘Drunk on the Moon’ is a bluesy, jazzy song by American singer-songwriter Tom Waits, released in 1976. The song features Waits’ distinctive, gravelly vocals and a swinging, syncopated rhythm section. The lyrics speak of the allure of the city at night, with references to moonlight, jazz clubs, and the romantic possibilities of the night.
The song’s gritty, atmospheric soundscapes and Waits’ distinctive vocal style have made it a classic of his early career, and a favorite among fans of his unique brand of blues and jazz-influenced rock music. The song’s themes of urban alienation and romantic longing have resonated with listeners around the world.
15. ‘How High The Moon’ by Les Paul And Mary Ford
‘How High The Moon’ is a classic jazz standard, originally written by Nancy Hamilton and Morgan Lewis in 1940. The song was made famous by the guitar virtuoso Les Paul and his wife, Mary Ford, who recorded a hit version in 1951. The song features Paul’s innovative use of multi-tracking and echo effects on the guitar, as well as Ford’s sweet, clear vocals.
The song’s upbeat tempo and playful lyrics have made it a favorite among jazz and swing fans, and a classic of the genre. Paul’s inventive guitar playing and Ford’s charming vocals showcase the duo’s unique musical chemistry.
16. ‘Moon River’ by Sarah Vaughan
‘Moon River’ is a classic pop standard, written by Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer for the 1961 film ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’. The song was famously performed by Audrey Hepburn in the film, but it was also recorded by numerous artists, including Sarah Vaughan.
Vaughan’s version features her distinctive, velvety vocals and a lush orchestral arrangement. Her interpretation of the song captures the wistful, romantic spirit of the original, while adding her own unique vocal flourishes.
The song’s timeless melody and evocative lyrics have made it a favorite among pop music fans, and a classic of the American songbook. Vaughan’s version remains a popular rendition of the song, and a testament to her vocal talent and musical artistry.
17. ‘Man On The Moon’ by R.E.M
‘Man on the Moon’ is a song by the American rock band R.E.M, released in 1992. The song features a driving, upbeat rhythm section and Michael Stipe’s distinctive, enigmatic vocals. The lyrics reference the conspiracy theories surrounding the moon landing, as well as the life and career of the comedian Andy Kaufman.
The song’s energetic sound and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows. The song’s themes of nostalgia, conspiracy, and celebrity have resonated with listeners, and its iconic chorus has become a cultural touchstone. The song remains one of R.E.M’s most popular and enduring hits.
18. ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ by Frank Sinatra
‘Fly Me to the Moon’ is a classic pop standard, originally titled ‘In Other Words’. The song was written by Bart Howard in 1954 and has been covered by numerous artists, but Frank Sinatra’s rendition is perhaps the most famous. Sinatra recorded the song in 1964, and it quickly became one of his signature tunes.
The song features Sinatra’s smooth, silky vocals and a lush orchestral arrangement. The song’s romantic lyrics and timeless melody have made it a favorite among pop music fans, and a classic of the American songbook.
19. ‘Moonage Daydream’ by David Bowie
‘Moonage Daydream’ is a song by the British rock icon David Bowie, released in 1971. The song features a driving, guitar-heavy sound and Bowie’s distinctively theatrical vocals. The song’s lyrics reference science fiction and space travel, and the song’s title is a play on words referencing the moon and a psychedelic state of mind.
The song’s energetic sound and provocative lyrics helped establish Bowie as a major figure in the rock music scene of the 1970s. The song has since become a fan favorite and a staple of Bowie’s live shows.
20. ‘Blue Moon Of Kentucky’ by Elvis Presley
‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’ is a classic bluegrass song, written and originally recorded by Bill Monroe in 1946. Elvis Presley recorded a rockabilly version of the song in 1954, which became a hit and helped establish Presley as a rising star in the music industry.
Presley’s version features his distinctive, energetic vocals and a lively, guitar-driven sound. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody have made it a favorite among fans of both rock and bluegrass music, and a classic of the genre. The song remains a testament to Presley’s vocal talent and musical artistry.
Samuel Moore 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.
