15 Songs about Alaska, The Last Frontier

Alaska, also known as The Last Frontier, is a state located in the northwest extremity of the United States. Its unique natural landscapes, from towering mountains and glaciers to dense forests and vast tundras, have inspired artists and musicians for generations.

In this article, we will explore the top 15 songs about Alaska that celebrate its rugged beauty, its rich cultural heritage, and the adventurous spirit of its people.

From classic ballads to modern hits, these songs offer a window into the diverse musical traditions of Alaska, ranging from traditional Native American music to contemporary indie folk and rock. Some of these songs, such as “North to Alaska” and “Alaska and Me,” have become iconic anthems of the state, capturing the pioneering spirit of those who have made their home in this rugged wilderness. Others, like “Nome, Alaska” and “Winter in Alaska,” offer a more intimate and personal perspective on life in The Last Frontier, revealing the joys and challenges of living in one of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on earth.

Whether you’re an Alaskan native or simply curious about this unique state, these songs are sure to transport you to the heart of The Last Frontier.

1. Alaska – Little Hurt

“Alaska” by Little Hurt is a dynamic and energetic alt-pop track with an infectious hook that will leave you singing along. With catchy guitar riffs, driving drums, and the emotive vocals of lead singer Colin Dieden, the song captures the feeling of being lost and looking for a fresh start. The lyrics paint a picture of escaping to a new and distant land to start over, and the upbeat melody provides a sense of hope and excitement for what’s to come. Overall, “Alaska” is a perfect blend of infectious pop hooks and heartfelt emotion that will leave you wanting more from this rising star.

2. The Alaska Song – Lacy J. Dalton

“The Alaska Song” is a country ballad by singer Lacy J. Dalton, released in 1982 as part of her album “Takin’ It Easy”. The song tells the story of a woman who falls in love with a man from Alaska and decides to follow him to his home in the rugged and beautiful north. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the Alaskan wilderness, with its snow-capped mountains, icy rivers, and vast expanses of tundra. Dalton’s soulful vocals and the song’s gentle instrumentation create a sense of longing and yearning, evoking the bittersweet emotions of leaving behind the familiar and embarking on a new adventure. “The Alaska Song” is a classic country tune and a testament to Dalton’s storytelling skills and musical talent.

3. North To Alaska – Johnny Horton

“North to Alaska” is a classic country hit by Johnny Horton, released in 1960. The song tells the story of a group of gold miners who journey to Alaska in search of riches during the gold rush of the late 1800s. The catchy chorus and upbeat melody make it a crowd-pleaser, while the lyrics evoke the ruggedness and adventure of the Alaskan wilderness. Horton’s strong, clear vocals and the twang of the guitar transport listeners to a different time and place. “North to Alaska” has endured as a beloved classic, showcasing the enduring appeal of traditional country music.

4. Alaska – Pinegrove

“Alaska” by Pinegrove is a indie rock track with a unique and eclectic sound that blends elements of folk, emo, and Americana. The song features singer-songwriter Evan Stephens Hall’s distinctive vocals, which range from soft and contemplative to raw and emotive. The lyrics are introspective and poetic, exploring themes of self-discovery and the search for meaning in life. The instrumentation is layered and intricate, with a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, drums, and strings creating a rich and textured sound. Overall, “Alaska” is a complex and compelling track that showcases Pinegrove’s signature sound and songwriting talent.

5. To the Wild Country – John Denver

“To the Wild Country” is a classic country-folk song by John Denver, released in 1985. The song features Denver’s signature vocals and acoustic guitar, with gentle harmonies and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics celebrate the beauty and majesty of nature, urging listeners to leave the city and venture out to the wild country. The song’s uplifting melody and optimistic message capture the spirit of exploration and adventure, encouraging listeners to embrace their sense of wanderlust and discover the beauty of the natural world. “To the Wild Country” is a timeless classic that has inspired generations of outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

6. Alaska and Me – John Denver

“Alaska and Me” is a reflective and introspective folk song by John Denver, released in 1976. The song features Denver’s warm and emotive vocals, accompanied by acoustic guitar and strings. The lyrics recount Denver’s personal journey to Alaska, where he finds solace and inspiration in the natural beauty of the wilderness. The song explores themes of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and the healing power of nature. Denver’s heartfelt performance and poetic lyrics make “Alaska and Me” a standout track in his discography and a beloved classic among fans of folk music.

7. Stephanie Says – The Velvet Underground

“Stephanie Says” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by The Velvet Underground, released in 1968. The song features the delicate vocals of Lou Reed and gentle instrumentation, with acoustic guitar, piano, and strings. The lyrics tell the story of a woman named Stephanie and her struggles with addiction and mental health, exploring themes of loneliness and isolation. The song’s melancholic melody and poetic lyrics create a sense of longing and introspection, evoking the bittersweet nature of human existence. “Stephanie Says” is a standout track in The Velvet Underground’s discography and a testament to their unique sound and songwriting talent.

8. Alaska – Maggie Rogers

“Alaska” by Maggie Rogers is a dynamic and genre-bending indie-pop track, released in 2016. The song features Rogers’ powerful vocals and an eclectic mix of acoustic and electronic instrumentation, with a driving beat and atmospheric synths. The lyrics tell the story of a transformative experience Rogers had while on a hiking trip in Alaska, where she found clarity and inspiration in the natural world. The song’s infectious chorus and dynamic production create a sense of energy and excitement, while the introspective lyrics provide a deeper emotional resonance. “Alaska” is a standout track in Rogers’ career and a shining example of her unique style and creative vision.

9. Where Legends Are Born – Hobo Jim

“Where Legends Are Born” is a spirited and uplifting folk song by Hobo Jim, released in 2002. The song features Jim’s signature vocals and acoustic guitar, with a driving rhythm section and lively fiddle accompaniment. The lyrics celebrate the spirit of the Alaskan wilderness and the rugged individualism of those who call it home. The song’s catchy melody and optimistic message create a sense of adventure and excitement, urging listeners to embrace their sense of wanderlust and explore the great outdoors. “Where Legends Are Born” is a beloved classic among fans of Alaskan folk music and a testament to Hobo Jim’s talent as a songwriter and performer.

10. When It’s Springtime in Alaska (It’s Forty Below) – Johnny Cash

“When It’s Springtime in Alaska (It’s Forty Below)” is a classic country song by Johnny Cash, released in 1959. The song features Cash’s distinctive vocals and a lively honky-tonk beat, with steel guitar and fiddle accompaniment. The lyrics tell the story of a man who leaves his love in Alaska to seek his fortune in California, but soon realizes that he can’t escape the cold and loneliness of his past. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat instrumentation create a sense of energy and optimism, while the bittersweet lyrics provide a deeper emotional resonance. “When It’s Springtime in Alaska” is a beloved classic in the country music canon and a testament to Cash’s enduring legacy as a storyteller and performer.

11. Alaska – Sophia Kruithof

“Alaska” by Sophia Kruithof is a dreamy and atmospheric indie-pop track, released in 2021. The song features Kruithof’s ethereal vocals and a lush arrangement of synths, guitar, and percussion. The lyrics explore themes of escapism and the desire to start anew, drawing inspiration from the vast wilderness and rugged landscape of Alaska. The song’s hazy production and introspective lyrics create a sense of introspection and emotional depth, while the soaring chorus and dynamic instrumentation provide a sense of energy and catharsis. “Alaska” is a standout track in Kruithof’s discography and a testament to her unique style and songwriting talent.

12. Fairbanks, Alaska – The Front Bottoms

“Fairbanks, Alaska” by The Front Bottoms is a melancholic and introspective indie-rock track, released in 2011. The song features lead singer Brian Sella’s raw vocals and a sparse arrangement of guitar and drums. The lyrics tell the story of a relationship that has fallen apart and the sense of isolation and loneliness that comes with it. The song’s introspective lyrics and subdued instrumentation create a sense of emotional intimacy and vulnerability, while the haunting melody and evocative imagery transport the listener to the icy landscapes of Fairbanks, Alaska. “Fairbanks, Alaska” is a standout track in The Front Bottoms’ early discography and a testament to their unique style and songwriting talent.

13. Road to Alaska – Bee Gees

“Road to Alaska” by the Bee Gees is an upbeat and playful country-rock track, released in 1965. The song features the band’s signature harmonies and a lively arrangement of guitar, bass, and drums. The lyrics tell the story of a man on a journey to Alaska, with all its perils and challenges, in pursuit of fortune and adventure. The song’s catchy melody and infectious energy create a sense of optimism and excitement, while the humorous lyrics and tongue-in-cheek delivery add a touch of wit and irreverence. “Road to Alaska” is a standout track in the Bee Gees’ early discography and a testament to their versatility and songwriting talent.

14. Far Alaska – Jethro Tull

“Far Alaska” is an instrumental track by progressive rock band Jethro Tull, released in 1972 as part of their album “Thick as a Brick”. The song features intricate instrumentation, with Ian Anderson’s flute playing taking center stage, accompanied by guitar, bass, and drums. The music conjures up images of the rugged and remote landscapes of Alaska, with its haunting melodies and atmospheric soundscapes. The lack of lyrics adds to the song’s enigmatic and mysterious quality, inviting the listener to fill in the blanks with their own imagination. “Far Alaska” is a standout track in Jethro Tull’s discography and a testament to their musical creativity and innovation.

15. Alaska – Hailey Gardiner

“Alaska” is a heartfelt acoustic ballad by singer-songwriter Hailey Gardiner. Released in 2020, the song features Gardiner’s emotive vocals accompanied by delicate acoustic guitar strumming. The lyrics tell the story of a journey to Alaska, a place where the protagonist can find solace and escape from the pressures of the world. The song’s intimate and personal nature creates a sense of vulnerability and authenticity, inviting the listener to share in the songwriter’s experiences and emotions. “Alaska” is a standout track in Gardiner’s discography and a testament to her songwriting talent and emotional depth.