Nature’s majesty has always been a wellspring of artistic inspiration, and in the realm of music, trees stand tall as powerful symbols of growth, strength, and transformation. In our handpicked selection of the ’20 Best Songs About Trees,’ we journey through songs that pay homage to these silent giants, using them as metaphors for life’s profound experiences. Each song on our list tells a unique story, reflecting the enduring bond between humans and the natural world, making them an essential part of any music lover’s playlist.
“Woodstock” – Joni Mitchell
“Woodstock” by Joni Mitchell is a classic folk song that paints a vivid picture of a music festival amid the backdrop of trees and nature. Mitchell’s evocative lyrics describe the feeling of being in the midst of a counterculture movement and finding solace under the trees. The song’s gentle melody and Mitchell’s emotive voice capture the essence of a generation finding unity in nature.
“Big Yellow Taxi” – Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi” is another iconic song that mentions the importance of trees. In this song, Mitchell laments the paving over of paradise and the removal of trees, emphasizing the value of nature. The song’s catchy melody and memorable chorus make it an enduring anthem for environmental awareness.
“The Trees” – Rush
“The Trees” by Rush is a progressive rock track that presents a thought-provoking allegory about different types of trees in a forest. The song’s lyrics reflect on societal tensions and imbalances, using the trees as symbols of various classes and struggles. With its intricate instrumentation and powerful vocals, Rush creates a complex and engaging musical landscape.
“Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” – KT Tunstall
KT Tunstall’s “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” is a contemporary folk-pop hit that uses tree imagery to convey a sense of yearning and longing. The lyrics describe the desire to escape and find a place where one can truly belong, using the image of a cherry tree as a symbol of that ideal place. The song’s catchy rhythm and Tunstall’s soulful vocals make it an uplifting and resonant tune.
“Knocking on Heaven’s Door” – Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan’s “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” is a legendary rock ballad that references a tree in its poignant lyrics. The song conveys a sense of impending mortality and the idea of being close to the end of life’s journey. Dylan’s emotional delivery and the song’s simplicity create a powerful and contemplative atmosphere.
“The Oak Tree” – Morris Day
Morris Day’s “The Oak Tree” is an R&B song that uses tree imagery as a metaphor for steadfast love and commitment. The lyrics compare a love that endures to the strength and stability of an oak tree. With its smooth groove and Day’s charismatic vocals, the song celebrates the enduring nature of love.
“Under the Shade of the Trees” – Amos Lee
Amos Lee’s “Under the Shade of the Trees” is a folk-infused track that evokes the tranquility and shelter provided by trees. The song’s lyrics describe finding solace and peace beneath the trees, away from the chaos of the world. Amos Lee’s soothing vocals and the song’s acoustic arrangement create a calming and reflective atmosphere.
“Family Tree” – Kings of Leon
“Family Tree” by Kings of Leon is an indie rock track that explores the theme of familial connections and roots. The song’s lyrics speak of the ties that bind us to our family tree, acknowledging the influence of our ancestors. With its raw and soulful sound, Kings of Leon capture the essence of heritage and lineage.
“Barefoot in the Park” – James Blake ft. Rosalía
James Blake’s “Barefoot in the Park” featuring Rosalía is an R&B-infused song that references a tree in its lyrics. The song conveys a sense of vulnerability and openness, using the image of walking barefoot in the park, under the trees, to represent a profound connection. James Blake’s emotive vocals and Rosalía’s distinctive voice create an intimate and atmospheric duet.
“Tall Trees” – Crowded House
Crowded House’s “Tall Trees” is a soft rock track that uses the image of tall trees to evoke a sense of strength and stability. The song’s lyrics convey the idea of finding refuge and sanctuary in the presence of these towering natural structures. With its melodic sound and Neil Finn’s heartfelt vocals, the song creates a soothing and comforting mood.
“The Tree” – Laura Marling
Laura Marling’s “The Tree” is a folk song that centers around the concept of a tree as a metaphor for personal growth and change. The lyrics reflect on the passage of time and the wisdom that comes with it, using the tree’s annual renewal as a symbol of resilience. Marling’s poetic songwriting and graceful vocals make this a thought-provoking and introspective piece.
“Lemon Tree” – Fool’s Garden
Fool’s Garden’s “Lemon Tree” is a catchy pop-rock song that metaphorically explores the fleeting nature of happiness. The song’s lyrics describe the ups and downs of life, comparing them to the changing seasons of a lemon tree. With its infectious melody and upbeat rhythm, the song offers a playful perspective on the twists and turns of life.
“Apple Tree” – Erykah Badu
Erykah Badu’s “Apple Tree” is an R&B track that celebrates individuality and the freedom to express oneself. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their unique qualities and be true to their own roots, just as an apple tree thrives in its own way. Badu’s soulful vocals and the song’s laid-back groove create a relaxed and empowering vibe.
“In the Pines” – Lead Belly
“In the Pines” by Lead Belly is a traditional folk song that delves into the mysterious and dark aspects of life. The lyrics tell a story of tragedy, using the image of pines to convey a sense of sorrow and loss. Lead Belly’s haunting vocals and the song’s somber melody make it a timeless exploration of life’s complexities.
“Peach Trees” – Rufus Wainwright
Rufus Wainwright’s “Peach Trees” is an indie-pop song that references trees to convey a sense of longing and distance in a relationship. The lyrics describe the desire to be close to someone but feeling separated like two peach trees. Wainwright’s unique voice and the song’s dreamy sound create an atmosphere of bittersweet yearning.
“Beneath the Tree” – Sam Smith
Sam Smith’s “Beneath the Tree” is a soulful track that explores the idea of finding solace and peace beneath the branches of a tree. The song’s lyrics describe a serene moment in nature where one can escape from life’s chaos. Sam Smith’s emotive vocals and the song’s gentle arrangement create a calming and reflective ambiance.
“Cool Change” – Little River Band
“Cool Change” by Little River Band is a soft rock song that uses the imagery of trees to convey the idea of personal transformation and the need for a fresh start. The lyrics speak of the desire to escape to a place where the cool change of the wind and the shade of the trees can offer renewal. With its melodic sound and harmonious vocals, the song captures the yearning for change and growth.
“The Sycamore Tree” – Paul Brandt
Paul Brandt’s “The Sycamore Tree” is a country ballad that tells a poignant story about the passage of time and the memories tied to a sycamore tree. The song’s lyrics explore themes of nostalgia, loss, and the enduring connection to a special place. Brandt’s heartfelt vocals and the song’s emotional depth create a touching and reflective mood.
“Climbing Trees” – Highasakite
Highasakite’s “Climbing Trees” is an indie pop song that embraces the theme of escape and adventure, akin to climbing trees. The lyrics encourage listeners to explore life’s possibilities and take chances. With its ethereal sound and Ingrid Helene Håvik’s enchanting vocals, the song captures the sense of wonder and discovery.
“In the Woods Somewhere” – Hozier
Hozier’s “In the Woods Somewhere” is an alternative folk song that takes listeners on a journey into the woods, where nature’s mysteries abound. The lyrics convey a sense of both beauty and danger within the forest. Hozier’s haunting voice and the song’s atmospheric sound create an otherworldly and immersive experience.
These 20 songs represent the diverse ways in which trees and nature are used as symbols and metaphors in music, from themes of love and relationships to personal growth and transformation. Each song offers a unique perspective on the connection between humanity and the natural world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are trees a common theme in music?
Songs about trees often serve as metaphors for various aspects of life, from growth and change to resilience and nature’s beauty. Musicians frequently draw inspiration from trees to evoke emotions and convey powerful messages in their lyrics.
Do these songs focus on specific types of trees or use tree symbolism more broadly?
The songs on this list vary in their approach. Some mention specific types of trees, while others use trees as a symbol to represent broader themes such as strength, connection, or the passage of time.
What genres of music are represented in this list of songs about trees?
The list includes songs from a wide range of musical genres, from folk and rock to pop and R&B. This diversity showcases the universal appeal of the tree motif in music.
Are these songs primarily about the physical characteristics of trees, or do they explore deeper meanings?
While some songs may focus on the physical aspects of trees, many go beyond and explore deeper meanings, such as personal growth, resilience, and the relationship between humans and nature.
What impact have these songs had on listeners and the music industry?
Many of these songs have left a lasting impact on listeners and have become classics in their own right. They continue to resonate with people, often serving as sources of inspiration or reflection.
Are these songs mainly about the positive aspects of trees, or do they also touch on challenges and environmental themes?
The songs on this list encompass a wide range of themes related to trees. While some celebrate the beauty and positivity of trees, others may delve into environmental concerns and challenges.
Can you recommend a song from the list that offers a particularly unique perspective on trees?
Certainly! “Lemon Tree” by Fool’s Garden takes a playful approach by using the image of a lemon tree to explore the ups and downs of life. It offers a unique perspective on the metaphorical use of trees in music.