Music has long been a powerful tool for expressing emotions, ideas, and experiences. From love and heartbreak to societal issues and personal growth, there is a song out there for every situation. One topic that has been explored time and time again in music is change. Whether it’s personal growth, social change, or changes in relationships, musicians have been writing about it for decades.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 15 songs about change. These songs cover a wide range of genres and time periods, but all share a common theme of transformation. So whether you’re going through a tough time or simply looking for some inspiration, these songs are sure to speak to you on a deep level. From classic hits to modern masterpieces, here are some of the best songs about change.
1. “The Times They Are-a-Changin” by Bob Dylan
“The Times They Are-a-Changin” by Bob Dylan is a classic protest song that was released in 1964 during a time of great social and political upheaval in the United States. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace change and to recognize that the world is evolving rapidly. The song has become an anthem for social justice movements and has been covered by many other artists over the years. Dylan’s powerful lyrics and haunting melody continue to inspire listeners to this day.
2. “Changes” by David Bowie
“Changes” by David Bowie was released in 1971 and became an instant classic. The song features Bowie’s signature sound, blending rock, pop, and glam elements. The lyrics are introspective and reflective, exploring themes of personal transformation and the passage of time. Bowie’s emotive vocals and the song’s driving rhythm make it a memorable and impactful piece of music. “Changes” has since become one of Bowie’s most iconic songs and is widely considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
3. “Imagine” by John Lennon
“Imagine” by John Lennon is a timeless classic that was released in 1971. The song features simple yet powerful lyrics that encourage listeners to imagine a world without divisions or barriers. Lennon’s dream of a peaceful world where people can live in harmony has resonated with audiences around the globe for decades. The song’s haunting melody and Lennon’s emotive vocals make it a truly memorable piece of music that continues to inspire listeners to work towards a better future.
4. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
“Redemption Song” by Bob Marley is a beautiful and moving song that was released in 1980. The song’s powerful lyrics focus on the theme of freedom and redemption, urging listeners to free themselves from mental slavery and embrace their own inner strength. Marley’s soulful vocals and the song’s acoustic guitar and drum rhythms create a powerful and emotive sound that continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world. “Redemption Song” is considered one of Marley’s greatest works and a true testament to his legacy as a musician and activist.
5. “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson
“Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson is a powerful and uplifting song that was released in 1988. The lyrics encourage listeners to take a hard look at themselves and make positive changes in their lives. Jackson’s emotive vocals and the song’s infectious rhythm make it a true masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift audiences today. The song’s message of personal responsibility and positive change has made it a favorite among fans and a testament to Jackson’s legacy as a musician and humanitarian.
6. “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye
“What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye is a socially conscious masterpiece that was released in 1971. The song’s poignant lyrics focus on issues of war, poverty, and social injustice, urging listeners to take action and make a difference. Gaye’s soulful vocals and the song’s melodic and emotive sound make it a timeless classic that continues to inspire listeners around the world. “What’s Going On” is widely regarded as one of the greatest protest songs of all time and a testament to Gaye’s legacy as a musician and activist.
7. “All Things Must Pass” by George Harrison
“All Things Must Pass” by George Harrison is a beautiful and introspective song that was released in 1970. The song’s lyrics explore the theme of impermanence and the idea that all things must come to an end. Harrison’s emotive vocals and the song’s gentle, acoustic sound create a poignant and contemplative atmosphere that resonates with listeners. “All Things Must Pass” is widely considered one of Harrison’s greatest works and a testament to his legacy as a musician and songwriter.
8. “Change the World” by Eric Clapton
“Change the World” by Eric Clapton is a soulful and uplifting song that was released in 1996. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to take action and make a difference in the world. Clapton’s emotive vocals and the song’s bluesy sound create a powerful and inspiring atmosphere that resonates with audiences. “Change the World” has become a favorite among fans and a testament to Clapton’s legacy as a musician and philanthropist. The song’s message of hope and positive change continues to inspire listeners around the world.
9. “Waiting On The World To Change” by John Mayer
“Waiting On The World To Change” by John Mayer is a mellow and contemplative song that was released in 2006. The song’s lyrics reflect on the challenges facing society and the feeling of powerlessness many people experience in the face of these challenges. Mayer’s emotive vocals and the song’s melodic sound create a poignant and reflective atmosphere that resonates with listeners. “Waiting On The World To Change” is widely regarded as one of Mayer’s greatest works and a testament to his ability to create music that is both emotionally and intellectually engaging.
10. “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac / Dixie Chicks
“Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac / Dixie Chicks is a hauntingly beautiful song that was originally released by Fleetwood Mac in 1975 and covered by the Dixie Chicks in 2002. The song’s lyrics explore the theme of change and the inevitability of growing older. The song’s emotive vocals and gentle, acoustic sound create a poignant and contemplative atmosphere that resonates with listeners. “Landslide” is widely considered one of the greatest songs of all time and a testament to the enduring legacy of Fleetwood Mac and the Dixie Chicks as some of the greatest musical acts of all time.
11. “A Change (Would Do You Good)” by Sheryl Crow
“A Change (Would Do You Good)” by Sheryl Crow is a catchy and upbeat song that was released in 1996. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to embrace change and take risks in order to grow and evolve. Crow’s infectious vocals and the song’s rock-infused sound create a fun and empowering atmosphere that resonates with audiences. “A Change (Would Do You Good)” has become a fan favorite and a testament to Crow’s ability to create music that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
12. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke
“A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke is a powerful and emotive song that was released in 1964. The song’s lyrics reflect on the struggles of the civil rights movement and the need for change in society. Cooke’s soulful vocals and the song’s bluesy sound create a poignant and inspiring atmosphere that resonates with listeners. “A Change Is Gonna Come” is widely regarded as one of the greatest songs of all time and a testament to Cooke’s legacy as a musician and activist. The song’s message of hope and perseverance continues to inspire listeners around the world.
13. “Everybody’s Changing” by Keane
“Everybody’s Changing” by Keane is a powerful and emotive song that was released in 2004. The song’s lyrics reflect on the theme of personal growth and the challenges that come with change. The song’s powerful piano melody and lead singer Tom Chaplin’s distinctive vocals create a moving and melancholic atmosphere that resonates with listeners. “Everybody’s Changing” has become a fan favorite and a testament to Keane’s ability to create music that is both introspective and relatable.
14. “Everything Has Changed” by Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran
“Everything Has Changed” by Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran is a sweet and romantic song that was released in 2013. The song’s lyrics reflect on the theme of personal growth and the power of love to change one’s perspective on life. The song’s gentle acoustic sound and the chemistry between Swift and Sheeran create a charming and uplifting atmosphere that resonates with listeners. “Everything Has Changed” has become a fan favorite and a testament to the talents of both Swift and Sheeran as songwriters and performers.
15. “11:59” by Michael Franti & Spearhead ft. Sonna Rele
“11:59” by Michael Franti & Spearhead ft. Sonna Rele is a powerful and socially conscious song that was released in 2020. The song’s lyrics reflect on the current state of the world and the need for change and unity. The song’s blend of reggae, hip-hop, and soul creates an energetic and uplifting atmosphere that resonates with listeners. Sonna Rele’s soulful vocals and Franti’s rapid-fire lyrics combine to create a dynamic and memorable track. “11:59” has become a fan favorite and a testament to Franti’s continued commitment to creating music that inspires and empowers.