Songs About Being 18

It’s a time of transition and exploration, a time of learning and growing, a time of change and uncertainty – it’s the age of 18! From the timeless anthems that have stayed with us through the years to the modern hits that reflect the experiences of young adults, these songs will make you feel 18 again. 

1. “18 years” by Daughtry

“18 Years” is a song by American rock band Daughtry. The song is about a man looking back on his life and realizing that he has wasted the past 18 years of his life.

In the song, he reflects on the mistakes he has made and expresses regret for not living life to the fullest. The song has a reflective and emotional tone, with powerful vocals from lead singer Chris Daughtry.

2. “18 Yellow Roses” by Marty Robbins

The song “18 Yellow Roses” by Marty Robbins is about a young man who is madly in love with a woman who is turning 18 years old.

He expresses his love for her and promises her 18 yellow roses for her birthday. The song celebrates the joy of being 18 and the beauty of young love.

3. “18” by One Direction

This song by One Direction is about a young couple who have recently fallen in love. The song highlights the joys and uncertainties of young love, as the couple looks forward to the future while cherishing the present.

The song is a gentle and romantic ballad, complete with a heartfelt message of hope and love.

4. “8TEEN” by Khalid

The lyrics in this song are honest and relatable, as Khalid sings about the confusion and pressures faced by many teens. The song is an anthem for teens to relate to, as it shows that they are not alone in their experiences.

“8Teen” creates an atmosphere of understanding and solidarity, as Khalid encourages listeners to accept themselves and love who they are.

5. “Ocean Avenue” by Yellowcard

The song “Ocean Avenue” by Yellowcard is an upbeat, melodic pop-punk song from the band’s 2003 album of the same name. The song tells the story of a young man living on Ocean Avenue in a small town, longing for a way out and hoping for a better future.

The lyrics are poetic and nostalgic, and the instrumentation is bright and full of energy. The song has become a classic of the pop-punk genre, and its popularity has only grown over the years.

6. “She’s Only 18” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

“She’s Only 18” by Red Hot Chili Peppers is a song about young love and the struggles of growing up. The song is about the narrator’s young love interest and his experience with her. The song speaks to the fragility of youth and the beauty of first love.

7. “18” by EXES

A song that is sure to tug at heartstrings, “18” by EXES is a sentimental and relatable ballad about the bittersweetness of growing up.

Reflecting on the past, it’s a reminder that life is short and to make the most of it. The track is a homage to the joy and excitement of youth and the freedom of growing up. 

8. “18 And Life” by Skid Row

Released in 1989, “18 And Life” is a classic rock song by Skid Row. The lyrics explore the themes of guilt, regret and redemption, as the protagonist looks back on his life and realizes the harsh consequences of his actions.

Despite its dark subject matter, the song is incredibly catchy and has become one of Skid Row’s most beloved singles. 

9. “18” by 5 Seconds of Summer

5 Seconds of Summer’s hit song “18” is a powerful and emotionally charged track about the struggles of growing up and coming of age. It speaks to feelings of insecurity, loneliness, and uncertainty that often accompany the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

If you’ve ever felt like you don’t have control over your life, the song is a beautiful anthem of hope. 

10. “Eighteen” by Pale Waves

“Eighteen” by Pale Waves is an upbeat and nostalgic track that looks back on the teenage years. The song speaks to the feeling of being young and carefree.

The band’s dreamy indie-pop sound creates a bright and airy atmosphere that perfectly encapsulates the freedom and joy of youth. Fans will be sure to find themselves singing along to the chorus and reminiscing on their own teenage years.

11. “I Wish I Was 18 Again” by Ray Price

“I Wish I Was 18 Again” is a song written by Bobby Braddock and recorded by American country music singer Ray Price.

The song is about a person who looks back on their youth and wishes they could return to the carefree days of being 18.

12. “18 Till I Die” by Bryan Adams

“18 Till I Die” by Bryan Adams is an upbeat rock anthem about living life to the fullest. The song promotes the idea of embracing life with enthusiasm and optimism.

Adams encourages listeners to “live it up” and take advantage of the opportunities that come their way, no matter what their age. 

13. “Birthday” by Katy Perry

The song “Birthday” by Katy Perry is about celebrating a person’s birthday and all the fun things that come with it.

While the song does not specifically mention the age of 18, it does speak to the idea of being excited and having a special day to celebrate.

14. “I’m Eighteen” by Alice Cooper

“I’m Eighteen” by Alice Cooper is an iconic rock anthem about the struggles of being a teenager. The song speaks to the confusion and insecurity that comes with the transition into adulthood and captures the feelings of being “caught in the middle” between childhood and adulthood.

With its driving guitar and distinct vocals, the song has remained an enduring classic and a staple of classic rock playlists. 

15. “When She Turns Eighteen” by Christian TV

The song “When She Turns Eighteen” by Christian TV is about the excitement and anticipation of a young girl turning 18 years old.

The song celebrates the prospect of growing up and experiencing the freedom that comes with adulthood. It also speaks to the idea of having new opportunities and responsibilities that come with reaching this age.

16. “Eighteen” by Bow Wow

The song “Eighteen” by Bow Wow is a heartfelt tribute to the struggles of growing up. The song reflects on the feeling of being overwhelmed by all the responsibilities that come with adulthood and the various hardships of life.

It will surely resonate with many listeners as it speaks to the universal experience of growing up and the struggles that come with it. 

17. “The One That Got Away” by Katy Perry

Summertime is often a time of reflection, and the song “The One That Got Away” by Katy Perry embodies that feeling.

The song is an upbeat, catchy pop song, but it also speaks to a deeper emotion of regret. The lyrics tell a story of a lost love, one she met in high school and got matching tattoos at 18.

18. “The A Team” by Ed Sheeran

The lyrics of “The A Team” by Ed Sheeran mentions a woman  of 18, who has been through tough times and is struggling with drug addiction. The song speaks about how her misery started at the age of 18.

It could also be interpreted as a message of hope, encouraging those who are struggling to reach out and get the help they need.

19. “Blooming 18” by Ace of Base

“Blooming 18” by Ace of Base is a song about finding yourself and growing up, despite the troubles and difficulties that come with it. The lyrics reflect a journey of self-discovery and understanding, as the narrator acknowledges the changes they are going through.

The song also speaks to the resilience of youth, and encourages listeners to find joy and strength in the midst of any hardship. 

20. “Eighteen With A Bullet” by Pete Wingfield

“Eighteen With A Bullet” by Pete Wingfield is a classic soulful ballad about a young man who is trying to make sense of the world around him.

He is presented with a number of challenges, including being in love with a girl who is still too young for him, and facing the reality of a world that often doesn’t offer the same opportunities for young people as it does for adults.

Final Thoughts

Being 18 is often a time of uncertainty and confusion, but it can also be a time for exploration and growth. These songs about being 18 reflect the experiences of young adults and capture the emotions and struggles of the teenage years.

Whether you’re looking for a classic anthem or a modern hit, these songs will make you feel 18 again.