Water has long been a source of inspiration for musicians and songwriters, who have used its many facets as a metaphor for a wide range of emotions and experiences. From the calming, soothing sound of a gentle stream to the powerful, awe-inspiring majesty of a raging ocean, water has inspired countless songs throughout the decades. Whether it is used to describe the tumultuous ups and downs of life, the feeling of being lost and adrift, or the longing for home and stability, songs with water in the title have become a staple of popular music. This list of “Top 20 Songs with Water in the Title” showcases some of the best examples of these water-themed songs, ranging from classic rock tracks to contemporary pop and dance hits. From PJ Harvey’s haunting “Down by the Water” to Major Lazer’s upbeat “Cold Water”, this list offers a diverse and captivating selection of music that explores the many different ways that water has inspired musicians throughout the years. Whether you are a fan of atmospheric folk ballads or energetic pop anthems, this list has something for everyone, and is a testament to the enduring power of music inspired by the ever-changing and always-inspiring world of water.
1. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon and Garfunkel
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a classic folk-rock song by Simon and Garfunkel, released in 1970. It’s a ballad that offers comfort and hope in times of trouble and uncertainty. The song’s lyrics describe a person reaching out a hand to someone in need and offering to be a “bridge over troubled water” for them. It features a beautiful and haunting melody, accompanied by delicate acoustic guitar and piano, that creates a sense of comfort and peace. The song was a commercial success and is considered one of Simon and Garfunkel’s greatest works. Today, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” remains one of the most beloved and timeless tracks in the musical canon and continues to bring comfort and inspiration to millions of listeners around the world.
2. “Drink The Water” by Jack Johnson
“Drink the Water” by Jack Johnson is a soft and soothing song that speaks to the listener’s soul. With a folksy acoustic sound, Johnson sings about finding peace and calm in life’s storms and encourages the listener to drink the water, meaning to embrace and enjoy the simple things in life. The melody is catchy and memorable, and Johnson’s easy-going style creates a relaxed and carefree atmosphere that transports the listener to a peaceful state of mind. This song is a reminder to cherish life’s little moments and to take time to reflect and appreciate the world around us.
3. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple
“Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple is a classic rock song that has been widely recognized for its catchy riff and memorable lyrics. The song was released in 1972 and was written by the band’s guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore. The song tells the story of a fire that took place during a concert by the band The Mothers of Invention in Montreux, Switzerland, and the subsequent chaos that ensued. With its heavy, bluesy guitar riff and driving beat, “Smoke on the Water” has become one of the most iconic rock songs of all time. The song has been covered by numerous artists and remains a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
4. “The Water Song” by The Incredible String Band
“The Water Song” is a track from the Scottish psychedelic folk band, The Incredible String Band. The song is known for its mystical and spiritual lyrics and soothing melodies, painting a peaceful and serene landscape of the water element. The song has been praised for its intricate harmonies and use of acoustic instruments, creating a dreamy and immersive atmosphere. The song has been a fan favorite for many years, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and powerful, contemplative message. For fans of folk and psychedelic music, “The Water Song” is a must-listen.
5. “Water” by The Who
“Water” by The Who is a powerful track that showcases the band’s unique brand of rock music. The song features heavy guitar riffs, driving drums, and powerful vocals that help to create an anthem-like feel. Lyrically, the song is a commentary on the idea of escape and finding solace in the midst of chaos. Through its lyrics, “Water” encourages listeners to find peace in difficult times, encouraging them to let their worries wash away like the water of a river. The song’s powerful energy and uplifting message make it a standout track from The Who’s impressive discography.
6. “Water No Get Enemy” by Fela Kuti
“Water No Get Enemy” is a classic Afrobeat track by Nigerian musician and political activist Fela Kuti. The song’s title, translated from Yoruba, means “water does not have enemies.” The song is a tribute to the resilience and power of water, and speaks to the idea that even in the face of adversity, water endures and continues to flow. The rhythm and melody of the song reflect the ebb and flow of water, with the horns, percussion, and vocal harmonies combining to create a rich, layered soundscape. The lyrics, in typical Fela style, are politically charged and serve as a call to action, encouraging listeners to fight against corruption and oppression. The song is widely considered a classic of African music and continues to be an enduring anthem of resistance.
7. “Rock Me on the Water” by Jackson Browne
“Rock Me on the Water” by Jackson Browne is a classic folk rock ballad that showcases Browne’s storytelling and songwriting skills. The song’s lyrics are about a man who’s been burned by love and is now looking for something to anchor him. He’s asking for someone to “rock him on the water” and help him find peace. The song features Browne’s rich vocals, and the instrumentation is simple and folksy, consisting of acoustic guitar and light percussion. The song is considered a standout track on Browne’s self-titled debut album and has become a classic in his repertoire over the years.
8. “By the Waters of Babylon” by Will Butler
“By the Waters of Babylon” by Will Butler is a haunting and ethereal ballad that evokes themes of loss and longing. The song’s minimalist instrumentation and haunting melody create a dreamlike atmosphere that is both beautiful and melancholic. The lyrics, which allude to the ancient Babylonian empire, speak to the idea of a once great civilization that has been lost to time. With its ethereal soundscapes and melancholic themes, “By the Waters of Babylon” is a haunting meditation on loss and the passage of time.
9. “Water Under the Bridge” by Adele
“Water Under the Bridge” is a powerful and emotional pop ballad by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song showcases her incredible voice and songwriting abilities, with haunting melodies and soaring vocals. The lyrics depict a relationship that is falling apart, with the singer grappling with the idea of letting go and moving on. Despite the heartbreak, the song has a positive message about the importance of forgiving and moving forward. With its powerful chorus and soul-stirring lyrics, “Water Under the Bridge” is a testament to Adele’s musical prowess and a beloved classic for fans of contemporary pop music.
10. “Deeper Water” by Public Image Ltd.
“Deeper Water” by Public Image Ltd. is an enigmatic, haunting piece of music that takes listeners on a journey through the depths of their own emotions and experiences. The music itself is characterized by dark, brooding soundscapes, powerful lyrics, and a deep sense of introspection that is both melancholic and transformative. Whether one is seeking solace in troubled times or exploring the depths of their own soul, “Deeper Water” is a powerful and evocative song that captures the human experience in all its complexity and beauty. With its intricate rhythms, soaring vocals, and imaginative production, this is a must-listen for fans of experimental and alternative music.
11. “All Along the Water” by Duran Duran
“All Along the Water” by Duran Duran is a track from their second album “Rio.” The song features a mix of pop, rock, and new wave influences. With upbeat, lively instrumentation and catchy, upbeat vocals, “All Along the Water” showcases Duran Duran’s iconic style and sound. The song’s lyrics are a nod to the party-focused lifestyle that characterized the 80s, and they evoke a carefree, hedonistic spirit. With its upbeat tempo and memorable chorus, “All Along the Water” is a classic Duran Duran track that continues to be enjoyed by fans of the band today.
12. “Down By The Water” by PJ Harvey
“Down By The Water” by PJ Harvey is a haunting ballad with eerie musical elements that highlight the singer’s emotional and powerful vocals. The song tells the story of a woman who drowns her own child and is considered one of Harvey’s most haunting pieces. With its bluesy, atmospheric sound and the use of vivid imagery, the song paints a picture of desperation and despair, making it a standout track on Harvey’s critically acclaimed album “To Bring You My Love.” The song’s stripped-down instrumentation, featuring a simple guitar and piano line, only serves to accentuate the raw power of Harvey’s vocals, making “Down By The Water” a timeless piece of music.
13. “Black Water” by Doobie Brothers
“Black Water” by the Doobie Brothers is a classic folk-rock song that was released in 1974. With its upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riff, and smooth vocal harmonies, the song quickly became a hit and a staple of the Doobie Brothers’ live shows. The lyrics, which describe a journey down a river, give the song a sense of adventure and wanderlust, making it an anthem for the free-spirited lifestyle of the 1970s. The song’s use of harmonica and mandolin add to its rootsy feel, while its sing-along chorus has made it a crowd-pleaser for decades. Overall, “Black Water” is a timeless classic that remains a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
14. “My House by the Water” by Mac DeMarco
“My House by the Water” by Mac DeMarco is a dreamy and introspective indie-rock track that was released in 2020. The song is characterized by its mellow, shuffling beat and the singer’s hazy, slacker-esque vocals, which deliver the lyrics with a sense of detachment and irony. The lyrics describe the singer’s longing for a simple life by the water, and his desire to escape the chaos and noise of modern society. The song’s use of gentle guitar strums, synths, and electronic beats creates a hazy and atmospheric sound that perfectly captures the vibe of DeMarco’s music. Overall, “My House by the Water” is a perfect example of the singer’s unique style and a standout track on his critically acclaimed album “Here Comes the Cowboy.”
15. “Looking for Water” by David Bowie
“Looking for Water” by David Bowie is a complex and enigmatic song that was released in 2003 as part of his album “Reality.” The song features Bowie’s signature blend of art-rock and avant-garde pop, with a driving beat and strange, otherworldly sound effects. The lyrics describe the singer’s quest for spiritual fulfillment and his search for a source of sustenance in a dry and barren landscape. Bowie’s voice is at once powerful and fragile, perfectly capturing the sense of longing and desperation that the lyrics convey. The song’s mix of electronic beats, distorted guitar, and atmospheric synths creates a surreal and haunting soundscape that perfectly captures Bowie’s unique musical vision. Overall, “Looking for Water” is a standout track on “Reality” and a perfect example of Bowie’s ability to push the boundaries of popular music.
16. “What The Water Gave Me” by Florence and the Machine
“What the Water Gave Me” by Florence and the Machine is a soaring and emotional ballad that was released in 2011. With its sweeping strings, powerful drums, and Florence Welch’s incredible vocals, the song is a perfect example of the band’s grand and epic musical style. The lyrics describe a struggle with personal demons and the search for inner peace, with the water serving as a metaphor for both the singer’s turmoil and her eventual liberation. The song builds to a climax that is both cathartic and uplifting, with Welch’s voice reaching powerful heights that are truly breathtaking. The song’s use of orchestration and complex harmonies creates a rich and layered sound that perfectly captures the intensity of the lyrics. Overall, “What the Water Gave Me” is a standout track on Florence and the Machine’s album “Ceremonials” and a testament to the band’s ability to create epic and emotionally powerful music.
17. “Head Above Water” by Daryl Hall & John Oates
“Head Above Water” by Daryl Hall & John Oates is a classic pop-rock song that was released in 1982. With its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and smooth vocal harmonies, the song is a perfect example of the duo’s signature sound. The lyrics describe the singer’s struggle to keep his head above water in the face of personal challenges, with the water serving as a metaphor for the ups and downs of life. The song’s driving beat and upbeat melody make it a fun and energetic track, while Hall & Oates’ vocals add a sense of sophistication and soul to the proceedings. The song’s use of horns, keyboards, and guitar create a rich and layered sound that perfectly captures the duo’s style. Overall, “Head Above Water” is a standout track on Hall & Oates’ album “H2O” and a testament to their ability to craft catchy and upbeat pop-rock songs.
18. “Oats in The Water” by Ben Howard
“Oats in the Water” by Ben Howard is a haunting and introspective folk song that was released in 2013. With its gentle acoustic guitar, haunting harmonies, and ethereal soundscapes, the song is a perfect example of Howard’s atmospheric and introspective style. The lyrics describe a journey through a mythical and mystical landscape, with the oats in the water serving as a symbol for life’s ebbs and flows. The song’s use of sparse instrumentation and haunting vocals creates a dreamlike sound that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. The song builds to a powerful and cathartic climax, with Howard’s voice rising to powerful heights that are truly moving. Overall, “Oats in the Water” is a standout track on Howard’s album “I Forget Where We Were” and a perfect example of the singer’s ability to create music that is both introspective and emotionally powerful.
19. “Heavy Water” by Jethro Tull
“Heavy Water” by Jethro Tull is a lively and energetic rock song that was released in 1980. With its upbeat tempo, driving beat, and playful lyrics, the song is a perfect example of the band’s signature sound. The lyrics describe a fantastical journey through a world filled with heavy water, with the water serving as a symbol for life’s challenges. The song’s use of flute, guitar, and keyboards creates a rich and layered sound that perfectly captures the band’s unique style. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus make it a fun and energetic track, while Jethro Tull’s signature flute playing adds a touch of whimsy to the proceedings. Overall, “Heavy Water” is a standout track on Jethro Tull’s album “A” and a testament to the band’s ability to craft playful and upbeat rock songs.
20. “Cold Water” by Major Lazer
“Cold Water” by Major Lazer is an upbeat and energetic pop-dance song that was released in 2016. With its driving beat, catchy chorus, and charismatic vocal delivery, the song is a perfect example of the electronic music group’s high-energy sound. The lyrics describe the feeling of being in over one’s head, with the cold water serving as a metaphor for life’s challenges. The song features guest vocals from Justin Bieber and MØ, who add a pop sensibility to the proceedings. The song’s use of synths, drums, and bass create a high-energy sound that perfectly captures the upbeat mood of the lyrics. “Cold Water” was a huge commercial success, reaching the top 10 in charts around the world, and becoming one of Major Lazer’s biggest hits. Overall, “Cold Water” is a fun and energetic track that perfectly showcases Major Lazer’s ability to craft catchy and upbeat dance music.
Jared Parker 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.
