20 Songs About Anticipation

Songs about anticipation touch on the universal feeling of waiting for something or someone, evoking emotions that range from hope to despair. These tracks, spanning various genres and decades, explore the complexity of expectancy and longing, resonating with listeners who have found themselves in similar states of suspense.

1. “The Waiting” by Tom Petty

“The Waiting” by Tom Petty masterfully encapsulates the essence of anticipation with its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, illustrating the universal truth that the waiting is the hardest part. Petty’s earnest vocal delivery, combined with the song’s evocative lyrics, taps into the listener’s own experiences with time and the agonizing feelings of waiting for something important.

2. “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper

“Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper delves deep into the theme of unconditional support, portraying the singer’s readiness to wait for and stand by her partner regardless of the circumstances. The song’s soothing melody and Lauper’s heartfelt delivery underscore a message of trust and waiting, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever promised to be there for someone through thick and thin.

3. “Waiting on the World to Change” by John Mayer

“Waiting on the World to Change” by John Mayer captures the collective anticipation for societal change, resonating with listeners who aspire for a brighter, more equitable future. Mayer’s smooth vocals and the laid-back groove of the song convey a sense of hopeful waiting, reflecting the desire for positive transformations in the world around us.

4. “I Will Wait” by Mumford and Sons

“I Will Wait” by Mumford and Sons is a powerful ode to patience and loyalty in love, with its rousing banjo-driven melody emphasizing the commitment to wait for a loved one, no matter the circumstance. The song’s passionate lyrics and energetic performance evoke a sense of steadfastness and the willingness to endure the trials of time for the sake of love.

5. “Wait” by Maroon 5

“Wait” by Maroon 5 intricately portrays a plea for more time, encapsulating the anticipation and anxiety of waiting for a response. Through its catchy pop rhythm and Adam Levine’s emotive vocal delivery, the song expresses a heartfelt request for a second chance, highlighting the tension and hope that comes with waiting to hear those crucial words.

6. “Waiting for Love” by Avicii

“Waiting for Love” by Avicii offers an uplifting message about the optimism and hope that comes with waiting for love, suggesting that despite the challenges, love is inevitable and worth the wait. The song’s dynamic blend of electronic beats and stirring lyrics inspire listeners to remain hopeful, reinforcing the idea that love will find a way in its own time.

7. “Come Home” by OneRepublic

“Come Home” by OneRepublic delves into the emotional anticipation and longing for a loved one’s return, articulating the heartache and hope involved in waiting for someone to come back. The song’s poignant lyrics and the hauntingly beautiful melody capture the essence of yearning for reunion, evoking deep feelings of love and the pain of separation.

8. “Anticipation” by Carly Simon

“Anticipation” by Carly Simon beautifully reflects on the feeling of awaiting life’s moments, both big and small, and how this sense of anticipation relates to the listener’s own experiences. Simon’s thoughtful lyrics and soothing melody encourage listeners to embrace the unknown future with hope and curiosity, highlighting the sweetness found in the anticipation of life’s unfolding events.

9. “Waiting For The End” by Linkin Park

“Waiting For The End” by Linkin Park explores the complex emotions involved in waiting for closure and the anticipation of new beginnings. Through its dynamic mix of electronic elements and powerful vocals, the song conveys a message of hope amidst despair, suggesting that even as one chapter ends, there is always the promise of something new on the horizon.

10. “Right Here Waiting” by Richard Marx

“Right Here Waiting” by Richard Marx delves into the profound depths of devotion and the pain of waiting, highlighting the emotional toll that physical distance can have on a relationship. Through its heartfelt lyrics and tender melody, the song encapsulates the unwavering commitment to wait for a loved one, no matter how long or how far apart.

11. “She’s Waiting” by Eric Clapton

“She’s Waiting” by Eric Clapton tells a compelling story of anticipated love and the intense yearning that accompanies it. Clapton’s expressive guitar work and poignant lyrics beautifully convey the feeling of expectation, capturing the essence of longing for a connection that has yet to unfold, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it.

12. “Sit Still, Look Pretty” by Daya

“Sit Still, Look Pretty” by Daya challenges the traditional narrative of waiting around for dreams to come true, instead advocating for taking control and pursuing one’s aspirations with confidence. The song’s upbeat melody and empowering lyrics emphasize the importance of recognizing one’s self-worth and not settling for less, inspiring listeners to actively chase their dreams instead of merely anticipating their realization.

13. “Waiting For Tonight” by Jennifer Lopez

“Waiting For Tonight” by Jennifer Lopez captures the electric anticipation of a climactic moment in life, embodying the feelings of celebration and yearning for an unforgettable night. With its infectious beat and vibrant lyrics, the song evokes a sense of excitement and desire for a pinnacle experience, highlighting the joy and exhilaration of looking forward to a significant event.

14. “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King

“Stand by Me” by Ben E. King reflects on the enduring message of support and the comfort found in waiting together, offering a sense of assurance during uncertain times. The timeless melody and sincere lyrics convey a powerful sentiment of solidarity and companionship, underscoring the importance of standing by each other through life’s challenges.

15. “A Hazy Shade of Winter” by Simon and Garfunkel

“A Hazy Shade of Winter” by Simon and Garfunkel poetically reflects on time and the anticipation of change, capturing the fleeting nature of the seasons and the longing for transformation. The song’s intricate lyrics and harmonious melodies evoke a sense of reflection and hope, reminding listeners of the constant evolution of life and the possibilities that come with each passing moment.

16. “Waiting on a Friend” by The Rolling Stones

“Waiting on a Friend” by The Rolling Stones takes a laid-back approach to the theme of waiting, focusing on the simple, yet profound value of friendship and the patience required to nurture it. The song’s mellow groove and reflective lyrics highlight the importance of companionship and the comfort found in the presence of a trusted friend, celebrating the enduring bond that develops over time.

17. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt

“I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt delves into the heart-wrenching anticipation of love that may never be reciprocated, capturing the raw emotion of unrequited love and the difficult journey towards acceptance. Raitt’s soulful voice and the song’s poignant piano accompaniment express the deep pain of longing for someone who doesn’t feel the same way, evoking a powerful sense of empathy and understanding in the listener.

18. “Waiting Room” by Fugazi

“Waiting Room” by Fugazi uses aggressive tones and fast-paced rhythms to capture the intense impatience and frustration felt while waiting for change. The song’s energetic delivery and confrontational lyrics perfectly convey the urgency and dissatisfaction of being stuck in a state of limbo, longing for a significant shift or resolution.

19. “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins

“In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins is renowned for its gradual build-up to the iconic drum solo, serving as a metaphor for the anticipation of a pivotal revelation or moment. The song’s atmospheric tension and Collins’ haunting vocals create a sense of foreboding and expectancy, drawing listeners into an emotional journey that culminates in a powerful release, symbolic of confronting or embracing a significant truth.

20. “Waiting for a Girl Like You” by Foreigner

“Waiting for a Girl Like You” by Foreigner explores the profound sense of yearning and anticipation for a transcendent romance, articulating a deep desire for a connection that elevates and transforms. The song’s lush instrumentation and emotive vocals convey the intensity of longing for a love that feels destined, capturing the heart’s capacity to hold out hope for something truly extraordinary.