In most songs, the wind can either be a friend or a foe depending on the theme of the piece. Tune into melodies inspired by this ethereal element, with tales that will swirl around you like a comforting breeze.
Wind is more than just a natural phenomenon. It is a timeless muse that has often found its way into the hearts of musicians, being immortalized in verses and melodies. From mellow ballads to upbeat pop, and from classic rock to country – the wind has been personified, romanced, feared, and celebrated in numerous tunes.
Contents
- 1. “Hickory Wind” by The Byrds
- 2. “Summer Breeze” by Seals and Kroft
- 3. “Song of the Wind” by Santana
- 4. “The Wind” by Zac Brown Band
- 5. “Seminole Wind” by John Anderson
- 6. “She’s Like The Wind” by Patrick Swayze ft. Wendy Fraser
- 7. “Dust In The Wind” by Kansas
- 8. “Ride The Wild Wind” by Queen
- 9. “Blowin’ In The Wind” by Peter, Paul, and Mary
- 10. “Candle In The Wind” by Elton John
- 11. “The Winds Of Winter” by Ramin Djawadi
- 12. “Four Strong Winds” by Neil Young
- 13. “Wind of Change” by Scorpions
- 14. “The Wind Cries Mary” by Jimi Hendrix
- 15. “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler
- 16. “The Wind Of Mayhem” by Bathory
- 17. “They Call The Wind Maria” by Sam Cooke
- 18. “Against the Wind” by Bob Seger
- 19. “Winter Winds” by Fotheringay
- 20. “Ride Like The Wind” by Christopher Cross
- Final Thoughts
1. “Hickory Wind” by The Byrds
“Hickory Wind” by The Byrds is a laid-back country gem that teleports you back to the innocent joys of childhood. Through their melodic storytelling, The Byrds evoke nostalgia for the “Hickory Wind” that comforted after tree-climbing adventures. These cherished memories motivate our hero’s longing to return home, creating a soothing auditory journey for listeners.
2. “Summer Breeze” by Seals and Kroft
Immerse yourself in the balmy echoes of “Summer Breeze” by Seals and Kroft. This track hooks you in with its enticing intro, then caresses your senses with its light, airy lyrics. The harmonious vibes make it the ideal companion for tranquil afternoons spent in self-reflection. It was a solid hit in the early 70s, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
3. “Song of the Wind” by Santana
Santana’s “Song of the Wind” is like a gust of genius that stirs your spirit. A signature guitar-led masterpiece, it mirrors the variable intensity of the wind itself. This rollercoaster ride of a song can take you from breezy whispers to howling gales while maintaining its refreshing vibe. Give it a spin and let it blow away your blues.
4. “The Wind” by Zac Brown Band
Crank up the energy with “The Wind” by Zac Brown Band. This rollicking country number invites you to kick up your heels and get down to the square dance beat. Sprinkled with fiddle parts that inject an irresistible charm, the song weaves a tale of steadfast promises between two hearts. It’s the perfect gust to lift your party spirits.
5. “Seminole Wind” by John Anderson
If you’re seeking a tune where the piano and violin dance in perfect harmony, look no further than John Anderson’s “Seminole Wind”. More than just a beautiful melody, it’s a call to arms for environmental preservation.
The song underlines how progress and population growth have overshadowed our care for Mother Earth. “Seminole Wind” gently nudges us to wake up and take notice. With its poignant message, it reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, proof of its powerful resonance.
6. “She’s Like The Wind” by Patrick Swayze ft. Wendy Fraser
Patrick Swayze was a man of many talents. Most people know him from his acting days but very few know that Swayze is a great singer as well. He showcases his singing talents in this love ballad “She’s Like The Wind”.
This melodic tale captures the anguish of longing for someone seemingly unreachable, likened to the elusive nature of the wind. As we groove to this number, we’re subtly reminded of the alluring, yet distant presence of desire itself.
7. “Dust In The Wind” by Kansas
“Dust In The Wind” by Kansas has the power to stir the deepest emotions with its stark reflection on the transient nature of life. Acknowledging our fragile existence, the song prompts us to cherish every moment, knowing that like dust, we’re here today and gone tomorrow. A potent choice for paying homage to departed loved ones, the song’s popularity soared as it hit No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1978.
8. “Ride The Wild Wind” by Queen
This iconic song gives a high level of energy. Drums, guitars, and vocals are arranged in a way that makes it a popular choice amongst fans of the band. This track evokes a sense of liberation and youth when it invites listeners to “Ride the Wild Wind” and be bold.
It might be interpreted as a metaphor for taking chances and trying new things. After all, you only have one chance to be young, so why not make the most of it?
9. “Blowin’ In The Wind” by Peter, Paul, and Mary
Step into a wave of nostalgia with the tranquil harmonies of “Blowin’ In The Wind” by Peter, Paul, and Mary. This mellow masterpiece, with its eloquent guitar and compelling vocals, spotlights pressing societal issues. The unresolved concerns are portrayed as answers ‘blowin’ in the wind’, a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility.
10. “Candle In The Wind” by Elton John
Join Sir Elton John in the poignant tribute, “Candle In The Wind”, dedicated to the radiant Marilyn Monroe, fondly referred to by her birth name, Norma Jean, in the track. The song spins a melancholic tale of the tragic fragility of fame, which, like a candle in the wind, can be extinguished all too suddenly.
The song’s immense popularity and poignant message led to it being adapted in memory of Princess Diana in 1997, becoming the second best-selling single of all time.
11. “The Winds Of Winter” by Ramin Djawadi
For all the Game of Thrones junkies out there, you’ll recognize this chilling tune. “The Winds of Winter” delivers a sense of impending grandeur that’s as captivating as the epic storyline it underscores. With impeccable vocals and an atmospheric composition, this track keeps you on the edge, just like every twist and turn in the show.
12. “Four Strong Winds” by Neil Young
Neil Young’s heartfelt folk anthem, “Four Strong Winds,” narrates the tale of a man seeking solace in Alberta’s landscapes after a failed relationship. The poignant lyrics capture his struggle to let go of lingering emotions and move on, despite repeated attempts to mend the relationship. It’s a bittersweet ode to love, loss, and the healing power of nature.
13. “Wind of Change” by Scorpions
Opening with an instantly recognizable whistle, Scorpions’ “Wind of Change” strikes a chord with its profound socio-political themes. The song urges listeners to envision a peaceful future, settling differences, and making our world a safer haven for future generations. Its powerful message resonated globally, becoming an unofficial anthem for the end of the Cold War.
14. “The Wind Cries Mary” by Jimi Hendrix
Get in the groove with Jimi Hendrix’s “The Wind Cries Mary,” a track boasting an irresistible guitar progression that’s pure joy for any music lover. Coupled with Hendrix’s silky vocals and evocative lyrics, it’s a relaxing auditory journey that’ll have you feeling the wind guiding your way, especially on those long, meandering drives.
15. “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler
Bette Midler’s heartwarming “Wind Beneath My Wings” pays homage to those quiet supporters who often remain behind the scenes – our very own unsung heroes. This song encapsulates the gratitude for those who lift us higher, becoming our guiding force or the ‘wind beneath our wings.’ It soared to No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1989 and even snagged the Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
16. “The Wind Of Mayhem” by Bathory
Here’s a riveting anthem that cranks the intensity up to eleven. Bathory’s “The Wind Of Mayhem” delivers everything you love about black heavy metal – wicked guitar solos, powerful vocals, and percussions that fuel the mayhem. Ready to headbang? Add this to your playlist and let the chaos ensue.
17. “They Call The Wind Maria” by Sam Cooke
Sam Cooke’s short and poignant tune, “They Call The Wind Maria,” takes us to a village where the elements take on human names. The wind, named Maria, wails in loneliness, mirroring the narrator’s heartbreak. As he longs for his lost love, he cries out to the wind, hoping to mend his shattered heart. It’s a beautifully melancholic piece that’ll tug at your heartstrings.
18. “Against the Wind” by Bob Seger
Ever reminisce about the simplicity of youth? Bob Seger’s country-blues-rock gem, “Against the Wind,” is a relatable coming-of-age narrative. It tells the tale of a man who, as he matures, feels he’s been running against the wind, facing challenges and making mistakes.
As he plans to turn a new leaf, he realizes he’ll forever be sprinting against life’s gusts. It’s an introspective piece about growth, regret, and the struggle to better oneself.
19. “Winter Winds” by Fotheringay
“Winter Winds” by Fotheringay uses winter as a symbol for sorrow, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. The melancholic theme, paired with the sublime vocals and soft instrumentals, evoke a sense of solitude. It’s a poignant track that leaves a lasting impression, stirring emotions deep within.
20. “Ride Like The Wind” by Christopher Cross
Christopher Cross’ “Ride Like The Wind” is an uplifting track with a breezy vibe that sweeps you off your feet. The catchy tune narrates a man’s readiness for a new journey, his determination to reach his destination as quickly as possible. The song beckons you to take a leap, embrace the carefree, and occasionally indulge in a dash of adventure.
Final Thoughts
Songs about wind seem to be full of metaphors. They refer to feelings, things, and personalities. It is an element that inspires creativity. A lot of hit songs were created using the wind as a muse so the next time you want to enjoy the breeze, tune in to some of these songs to add value to your experience.