20 Songs About Moonlight

Discover the enchanting vibes of moonlit nights through the melodies of 20 iconic songs, spanning genres and eras, that celebrate, caution, and croon about the moon’s mystical allure. From the timeless elegance of “Moon River” to the rock rhythms of “Bad Moon Rising,” these tracks will guide you on a musical journey under the silvery glow of the moon.

1. “Fly Me To The Moon” by Frank Sinatra

“Fly Me To The Moon” by Frank Sinatra, a jazz standard, captivates listeners with its romantic appeal, painting vivid images of a love so bold it reaches the lunar surface. Astronaut Buzz Aldrin even brought this charming tune to the actual moon during the Apollo mission, symbolizing humanity’s boundless aspirations and the timeless allure of exploring the unknown.

2. “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival

“Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival stood out in the rock scene for its foreboding message, resonating powerfully against the backdrop of the turbulent late 60s. Its lyrics, set to an upbeat rhythm, captured the era’s cultural context, echoing societal anxieties and change, making it both a reflection and an anthem of its time.

3. “Moon River” by Audrey Hepburn

“Moon River” by Audrey Hepburn is not just a song but a cinematic treasure, forever linked to the romantic allure of Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Its timeless appeal seduces listeners across generations, encapsulating the dreams and wanderlust of those yearning for something more, just as Hepburn’s character did onscreen.

4. “Walking on the Moon” by The Police

“Walking on the Moon” by The Police showcases an innovative reggae-rock blend, setting it apart with its smooth, floating rhythm that echoes the sensation of weightlessness. The space metaphors in the lyrics ingeniously compare the exhilarating, disorienting feeling of being in love to the act of walking on the moon, capturing the heart’s boundless leap into the unknown.

5. “Man On The Moon” by R.E.M.

“Man On The Moon” by R.E.M. serves as a stirring homage to comedian Andy Kaufman, blending alternative rock with thought-provoking lyrics that delve into the mysteries and complexities of Kaufman’s life and career. This tribute captures the enigmatic spirit of its subject, inviting listeners to ponder the line between reality and performance.

6. “Moonshadow” by Cat Stevens

“Moonshadow” by Cat Stevens, a folk masterpiece, masterfully uses the metaphor of a moonshadow to explore themes of hope and the relentless pursuit of light in darkness. Stevens’ lyrics, imbued with optimism, encourage listeners to find solace and strength in the mere presence of their own moonshadow, suggesting that even in the darkest times, there is light to be found.

7. “Moonlight Sonata” by Ludwig van Beethoven

“Moonlight Sonata” by Ludwig van Beethoven stands as a classical genre’s emblem, prized for its profound emotional depth and the piano’s soul-stirring capabilities. This piano masterpiece, with its hauntingly beautiful melodies, continues to resonate as one of Beethoven’s most beloved works, captivating audiences with its intricate expressions of passion and melancholy.

8. “Pink Moon” by Nick Drake

“Pink Moon” by Nick Drake, the title track of his album, is celebrated for its haunting beauty and minimalistic folk charm. This song plays a pivotal role in cementing Drake’s legacy, contributing to the album’s cult status and showcasing his profound talent in crafting deeply reflective and emotive music with just his voice and a guitar.

9. “Blue Moon” by Billie Holiday

“Blue Moon” by Billie Holiday exemplifies the evolution of a song into a jazz standard, highlighted by Holiday’s unparalleled ability to infuse it with deep emotion and a unique interpretive power. Her rendition elevates the track beyond its melody, embodying the soulful and transformative nature of jazz.

10. “Dancing In The Moonlight” by Toploader

“Dancing In The Moonlight” by Toploader, with its undeniably feel-good vibe, captured the essence of carefree joy and has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks to its placement in various media. This rock hit from the 2000s invites listeners to bask in the moonlight, offering a musical escape that resonates across generations.

11. “Neon Moon” by Brooks & Dunn

“Neon Moon” by Brooks & Dunn explores the heartache of loneliness with the backdrop of a barroom’s neon glow, offering a country music narrative that resonates deeply with themes of heartbreak and solace. Through its poignant lyrics, the song paints a vivid picture of finding comfort in the loneliness, surrounded by the dim light of neon.

12. “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young

“Harvest Moon” by Neil Young is a gentle ode to enduring love, wrapped in a warm, comforting melody that stands out in the folk rock genre. This love ballad, with its soothing rhythms and heartfelt lyrics, captures the essence of love that lasts through the years, making it a timeless piece for listeners.

13. “Moonage Daydream” by David Bowie

“Moonage Daydream” by David Bowie signifies the creation of his iconic alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, blending glam rock with a narrative of a space-bound rock star. This track is a cornerstone in the concept album, illustrating Bowie’s genius in crafting songs that not only tell a story but also create a universe around his character.

14. “Moonlight Drive” by The Doors

“Moonlight Drive” by The Doors played a pivotal role in the band’s formation, capturing themes of escapism and romance within its psychedelic rock sound. Featured on their debut album, this track epitomizes the allure of breaking free from the mundane, inviting listeners on a metaphorical journey under the cloak of moonlight.

15. “Kiko and the Lavender Moon” by Los Lobos

“Kiko and the Lavender Moon” by Los Lobos mesmerizes listeners by blending Tex-Mex sounds with magical realism, illustrating a story filled with childlike wonder. This unique fusion showcases the band’s ability to intertwine Mexican musical traditions with narrative storytelling, creating an enchanting soundscape that transports audiences to a world of imagination.

16. “Talking to the Moon” by Bruno Mars

“Talking to the Moon” by Bruno Mars showcases the artist’s emotive vocal performance, capturing the essence of loneliness and longing with its poignant lyrics. This pop ballad resonates deeply with listeners, as Mars’ yearning voice expresses the universal desire to connect with someone who is out of reach, making it a powerful anthem of heartache.

17. “Sisters of the Moon” by Fleetwood Mac

“Sisters of the Moon” by Fleetwood Mac, infused with Stevie Nicks’ witchy persona, captivates listeners with its mystical imagery and rock vitality. Nicks’ enchanting lyrics and presence weave a spell of intrigue and mystery, embodying the song’s ethereal themes and solidifying her status as a musical sorceress.

18. “Brain Damage/Eclipse” by Pink Floyd

“Brain Damage/Eclipse” by Pink Floyd artfully concludes one of the most iconic albums in rock history, Dark Side of the Moon, by weaving together themes of madness and cosmic insignificance. These tracks exemplify progressive rock at its most profound, offering listeners a reflective journey through the dark and light aspects of human experience, set against the vast backdrop of the universe.

19. “Moonlight Serenade” by Glenn Miller

“Moonlight Serenade” by Glenn Miller captivates with its nostalgic allure, firmly holding its place as a swing era classic with its soothing big band melody. This timeless piece continues to enthrall audiences with its graceful arrangement, embodying the romance and elegance of an unforgettable era in music history.

20. “That Moon Song” by Gregory Alan Isakov

“That Moon Song” by Gregory Alan Isakov showcases the artist’s poetic songwriting and the intimate, contemplative nature of this moon-inspired track. Merging folk and indie genres, Isakov creates a serene soundscape that invites listeners into a moment of reflection, under the gentle gaze of the moon.