Trees and forests have always been a source of inspiration for artists and musicians alike. They have been the subject of countless poems, paintings, and songs, depicting their beauty, mystery, and significance in our lives and the environment. Trees and forests evoke a range of emotions, from peace and tranquility to awe and wonder. They offer refuge, solace, and nourishment to countless species, including humans. It’s no wonder that so many songs have been written about these magnificent and vital elements of our world. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and enduring songs about the top 20 Songs about Trees and Forests, their themes, and the messages they convey. From classic folk ballads and contemporary pop anthems to spiritual hymns and protest songs, these pieces of music reflect the diversity and richness of the forested landscape and its cultural, ecological, and spiritual significance.
1. “Ombra Mai Fu” by Jackie Evancho
“Ombra Mai Fu” is a beautiful aria performed by the talented young soprano, Jackie Evancho. This piece was composed by George Frideric Handel and is taken from his famous opera “Serse.” The song, which translates to “Never was there a shade,” is a hymn to a plane tree and is widely regarded as one of Handel’s most beautiful arias. With its delicate melody and poignant lyrics, “Ombra Mai Fu” perfectly captures the majesty and peacefulness of nature. Jackie Evancho’s soaring vocals and emotional interpretation bring this timeless piece to life, making it a true gem in the classical music repertoire.
2. “The Trees” by Rush
“The Trees” is a progressive rock classic by Canadian band Rush. This song, from the 1978 album “Hemispheres,” tells the allegorical story of a war between the maples and the oaks in a forest over who should have control over their branches. The maples want to divide their branches evenly, but the oaks refuse to share. The song reflects on the absurdity of greed and the dangers of competition. With its complex rhythm and intricate instrumentation, “The Trees” showcases Rush’s mastery of progressive rock, while its thought-provoking lyrics offer a commentary on society and human nature. The song has become a staple of the band’s live shows and is widely regarded as one of their greatest compositions.
3. “A Forest” by The Cure
“A Forest” is a haunting and atmospheric song by British rock band The Cure. This track, released in 1980, is one of the band’s most well-known and enduring compositions. The song’s eerie melody and gloomy lyrics create a sense of foreboding and unease, painting a picture of a dark and mysterious forest. With its innovative use of synthesizers and reverb, “A Forest” helped to establish The Cure as pioneers of post-punk and gothic rock. The song’s legacy has endured, and it remains a staple of the band’s live performances. “A Forest” is a haunting and evocative piece of music that has left a lasting impression on generations of listeners.
4. “I Am A Tree” by Guided By Voices
“I Am A Tree” is a quirky and inventive indie rock song by Guided By Voices. This track, released in 1995, is a prime example of the band’s signature lo-fi sound, blending elements of punk, alternative, and power pop. The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat melody present a whimsical and lighthearted take on the idea of being a tree, showcasing the band’s quirky and off-beat sense of humor. With its catchy chorus and infectious energy, “I Am A Tree” has become a beloved fan favorite, and it continues to be a staple of Guided By Voices’ live shows. This song is a perfect example of the band’s eclectic and playful approach to songwriting, and it remains a standout track in their extensive discography.
5. “Diary” by Bread
“Diary” is a soft rock classic by the American band Bread. This song, released in 1970, is one of the band’s most well-known and beloved tracks. With its delicate acoustic guitar and hauntingly beautiful vocals, “Diary” tells the story of a man who pours his heart out to his diary, revealing his innermost thoughts and feelings. The song’s melancholic melody and poignant lyrics perfectly capture the emotions of heartache and longing, making it a timeless masterpiece of the soft rock genre. “Diary” has been covered by many artists over the years and continues to be a popular choice for musicians looking to pay homage to the classic sound of Bread. This song remains a highlight of the band’s extensive discography and a testament to their enduring influence on popular music.
6. “Birch Tree” by Foals
“Birch Tree” is a dynamic and captivating indie rock song by British band Foals. This track, released in 2015, is taken from their fourth studio album “What Went Down.” With its driving rhythm and explosive energy, “Birch Tree” is a standout track that showcases the band’s unique blend of post-punk, math rock, and alternative influences. The song’s powerful vocals and driving instrumentation build to a climactic finale, making it a true anthem of the Foals’ live performances. The song’s lyrics, which reference the iconic birch tree, serve as a metaphor for resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. “Birch Tree” is a testament to Foals’ musical prowess and a perfect example of their ability to create powerful and impactful rock music.
7. “Lemon Tree” by Fools Garden
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2UiY2wivTs
“Lemon Tree” is a charming and upbeat pop song by German band Fools Garden. This track, released in 1995, is one of the band’s biggest hits and is widely regarded as a classic of the alternative pop genre. With its catchy melody and cheerful lyrics, “Lemon Tree” paints a vivid picture of a sunny day spent lounging under the shade of a lemon tree. The song’s upbeat energy and upbeat vibe make it an instant crowd-pleaser, and it has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. “Lemon Tree” remains a popular choice for fans of pop music, and it continues to be a staple of Fools Garden’s live performances. This song is a perfect example of the band’s ability to create lighthearted and infectious pop music that is both memorable and endearing.
8. “A Walk In The Black Forest” by Horst Janikowski
“A Walk in the Black Forest” is a lively and upbeat instrumental piece by German composer Horst Jankowski. This track, released in 1965, is a classic example of easy listening music, blending elements of jazz, classical, and pop. With its catchy melody and upbeat tempo, “A Walk in the Black Forest” paints a picture of a leisurely stroll through a beautiful forest, evoking feelings of peace and serenity. The song’s upbeat energy and playful vibe make it an instant crowd-pleaser, and it has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. “A Walk in the Black Forest” remains a popular choice for fans of easy listening and instrumental music, and it continues to be a staple of Horst Jankowski’s discography. This song is a perfect example of the composer’s ability to create lighthearted and infectious music that is both memorable and endearing.
9. “Thorn Tree In The Garden” by Derek and the Dominos
“Thorn Tree in the Garden” is a soulful and introspective rock ballad by Derek and the Dominos. This track, released in 1970, is a standout song from their only studio album “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs.” With its delicate acoustic guitar and hauntingly beautiful vocals, “Thorn Tree in the Garden” tells the story of a man grappling with love and loss, set against a backdrop of a metaphorical thorn tree in a garden. The song’s mournful melody and poignant lyrics perfectly capture the emotions of heartache and longing, making it a timeless masterpiece of the classic rock genre. “Thorn Tree in the Garden” is a testament to Derek and the Dominos’ musical prowess and a highlight of their iconic album. This song remains a popular choice for fans of classic rock and a timeless example of the genre’s ability to evoke powerful emotions through music.
10. “Spirit Of The Forest” by Baka Beyond
“Spirit of the Forest” is a lush and atmospheric world music piece by British band Baka Beyond. This track, released in 1999, is a standout song from their album “Journey Between.” With its blend of traditional African and Celtic instruments and upbeat African rhythms, “Spirit of the Forest” creates a vivid and immersive musical experience that transports the listener to the heart of the forest. The song’s celebratory energy and upbeat vibe evoke feelings of joy and wonder, capturing the essence of the forest and the spirits that inhabit it. “Spirit of the Forest” is a testament to Baka Beyond’s musical prowess and their ability to create music that is both culturally rich and musically engaging. This song remains a popular choice for fans of world music and a celebration of the beauty and power of nature.
11. “Norwegian Wood” by The Beatles
“Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)” is a whimsical and nostalgic folk rock song by The Beatles. This track, released in 1965, is one of the standout songs from their classic album “Rubber Soul.” With its gentle acoustic guitar and charming melody, “Norwegian Wood” tells the story of a man reminiscing about a past love affair, set against a backdrop of the peaceful and serene Norwegian woods. The song’s lighthearted and playful vibe make it a standout among The Beatles’ more serious and introspective works. “Norwegian Wood” is a testament to the band’s musical versatility and their ability to create timeless and enduring music that transcends genres and generations. This song remains a popular choice for fans of classic rock and a timeless example of The Beatles’ ability to create music that is both charming and memorable.
12. “Redwood Tree” by Van Morrison
“Redwood Tree” is a poignant and reflective folk rock song by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison. This track, released in 1982, is a standout song from his album “Beautiful Vision.” With its haunting melody and Van Morrison’s soulful vocals, “Redwood Tree” evokes feelings of longing and introspection, painting a vivid musical picture of the awe-inspiring redwood forests. The song’s melancholy tone and introspective lyrics are a testament to Morrison’s musical talent and ability to create music that is both emotionally rich and musically captivating. “Redwood Tree” remains a popular choice for fans of Van Morrison and a timeless example of the singer’s ability to create music that is both introspective and powerful. This song continues to inspire listeners with its poignant depiction of the beauty and majesty of the natural world.
13. “Weeping Willow” by The Verve
“Weeping Willow” is a melancholic and atmospheric alternative rock song by English band The Verve. This track, released in 1997, is a standout song from their album “Urban Hymns.” With its haunting melody and moody lyrics, “Weeping Willow” paints a vivid musical picture of a man lost in his own thoughts and feelings, symbolized by the iconic tree. The song’s ethereal and introspective vibe, combined with lead singer Richard Ashcroft’s distinctive vocals, creates a powerful and emotional listening experience. “Weeping Willow” is a testament to The Verve’s musical prowess and ability to create music that is both introspective and powerful. This song continues to be a popular choice for fans of alternative rock and a timeless example of The Verve’s ability to create music that is both brooding and beautiful.
14. “Tree House” by Dream Koala
“Tree House” is a dreamy and atmospheric electronic music track by French artist Dream Koala. This song, released in 2013, is a standout piece from his debut album “Earth. Home. Destroyed.” With its ethereal synths and mellow beats, “Tree House” creates a surreal and introspective atmosphere, inviting the listener to escape into their own thoughts and feelings. The song’s melancholic and introspective vibe, combined with Dream Koala’s unique production style, creates a powerful and emotional listening experience. “Tree House” is a testament to Dream Koala’s musical talent and ability to create music that is both introspective and innovative. This song continues to be a popular choice for fans of atmospheric electronic music and a timeless example of Dream Koala’s ability to craft music that is both dreamy and thought-provoking.
15. “Heart of Oak” by Richard Hawley
“Heart of Oak” is a melancholic and introspective folk rock song by English singer-songwriter Richard Hawley. This song, released in 2013, is a standout track from his album “Standing at the Sky’s Edge.” With its delicate acoustic guitar and Hawley’s distinctive baritone voice, “Heart of Oak” creates a nostalgic and atmospheric musical experience. The song’s introspective lyrics and contemplative melody evoke feelings of loss, regret, and reflection, inviting the listener to reflect on their own experiences. “Heart of Oak” is a testament to Richard Hawley’s musical talent and ability to create music that is both introspective and powerful. This song continues to be a popular choice for fans of folk rock and a timeless example of Hawley’s ability to craft music that is both heartfelt and beautiful.
16. “Forest of Gold” by Mazde
“Forest of Gold” is a dreamy, atmospheric electronic dance track by the German producer Mazde. Released in 2018, this song showcases Mazde’s production skills and creative sound design. With its lush synths, smooth beats, and haunting vocals, “Forest of Gold” creates a mesmerizing and transporting soundscape that’s perfect for dancing or introspective listening. The song’s title and themes of nature and growth evoke a sense of tranquility and escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. “Forest of Gold” is a standout track from Mazde’s discography, demonstrating his ability to craft music that is both dreamy and danceable. For fans of electronic music and ambient pop, “Forest of Gold” is a must-listen.
17. “Christmas Tree” by Lady Gaga
“Christmas Tree” is a lively, upbeat holiday track by pop superstar Lady Gaga. Released as part of her “A Very Gaga Holiday” EP in 2008, this song is a festive and fun celebration of the holiday season. With its catchy chorus, jaunty piano melody, and Gaga’s powerful vocals, “Christmas Tree” is a high-energy, danceable anthem that’s sure to get listeners in the holiday spirit. The song’s playful lyrics, which reference decorating a Christmas tree and spreading holiday cheer, evoke a sense of childhood innocence and holiday magic. For fans of Lady Gaga, holiday music, or upbeat pop, “Christmas Tree” is a must-listen during the holiday season.
18. “Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles
“Strawberry Fields Forever” is a classic psychedelic rock song by The Beatles, released in 1967 on the “Magical Mystery Tour” album. With its mellotron flutes, complex harmonies, and unique structure, the song is considered one of the most innovative recordings of the psychedelic era. The lyrics, which are said to be inspired by a childhood memory of playing in an orphanage garden, are cryptic and atmospheric, weaving together themes of childhood innocence, loss, and fantasy. John Lennon’s haunting vocals, combined with the song’s unique soundscape, make “Strawberry Fields Forever” a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences to this day. For fans of The Beatles, classic rock, or psychedelic music, “Strawberry Fields Forever” is a must-listen.
19. “In The Forest” by Screaming Trees
“In The Forest” is a song by American rock band Screaming Trees. It was released as a single in 1991, taken from the album “Uncle Anesthesia”. The song has a dark and haunting tone, with driving guitar riffs and brooding vocals. Lyrically, it explores themes of loneliness and isolation, set against the backdrop of a dark and foreboding forest. The song’s instrumentation creates a sense of unease, with its repetitive guitar riff and ominous bass line. Despite its ominous tone, “In The Forest” is a well-crafted and memorable song that has become a standout track from Screaming Trees’ discography.
20. “The Memory of Trees” by Enya
“The Memory of Trees” by Enya is a mesmerizing and ethereal track from her album of the same name. The song features Enya’s signature haunting vocals over a lush background of soaring strings and atmospheric synths. The lyrics evoke a sense of timelessness and the power of nature, painting a picture of trees as symbols of strength, growth, and renewal. The song’s tranquil and calming sound creates a peaceful and meditative atmosphere, making it the perfect background music for introspection and reflection. With its haunting beauty, “The Memory of Trees” has become one of Enya’s most beloved and enduring tracks.
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.
