18 Best Songs About Fire That Are Smokin’ Hot

Fire has long been a source of fascination and inspiration for artists across genres, and music is no exception. From classic rock and roll to contemporary pop, there are countless songs that reference fire in their lyrics or titles.

These songs use the imagery of fire to convey a range of emotions, from passion and desire to destruction and chaos. Whether it’s the raw energy of Jerry Lee Lewis’s “Great Balls of Fire” or the political urgency of Midnight Oil’s “Beds are Burning,” these songs demonstrate the enduring power of fire as a symbol in music. Some of the most iconic songs about fire include The Rolling Stones’ “Play With Fire,” which features a haunting melody and provocative lyrics, and The Doors’ “Light My Fire,” which became an anthem of the counterculture movement in the 1960s. Other notable songs include Bob Dylan’s “This Wheel’s on Fire,” which was co-written with The Band’s Rick Danko and explores themes of change and transformation, and Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire,” which uses fire as a metaphor for the intensity of love and passion.

Overall, songs about fire continue to captivate and inspire listeners, providing a powerful soundtrack to our experiences of love, loss, and the mysteries of the world around us.

1.‘Play With Fire’ by The Rolling Stones

‘Play With Fire’ is a song by the legendary English rock band, The Rolling Stones. Released in 1965, it was written by the band’s lead vocalist, Mick Jagger, and guitarist, Keith Richards. The song is known for its dark and moody lyrics and features a distinctive melody played by a harpsichord. Jagger’s vocals are both menacing and seductive, warning a potential lover of the consequences of playing with fire. The song was controversial at the time of its release due to its suggestive lyrics and was even banned by some radio stations. However, it has since become one of the band’s most beloved tracks, known for its haunting melody and powerful vocals. It has been covered by various artists over the years, but the original remains a timeless classic.

2.‘Light My Fire’ by The Doors

‘Light My Fire’ is a song by the iconic American rock band, The Doors. Released in 1967, it was written by the band’s guitarist, Robby Krieger, and features the unmistakable vocals of lead singer Jim Morrison. The song is known for its catchy guitar riff, memorable organ solo, and Morrison’s intense and passionate vocals. ‘Light My Fire’ became a massive hit for The Doors, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning the band widespread acclaim. The song has since become a classic rock staple and is often cited as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Jose Feliciano, who had a hit with his own version in 1968. ‘Light My Fire’ remains a beloved classic of the 1960s counterculture and a testament to The Doors’ enduring legacy.

3.‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ by Billy Joel

‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ is a song by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel. Released in 1989, the song is a rapid-fire list of historical events and figures from the mid-20th century, set to an uptempo beat and catchy melody. The song was written in response to Joel’s frustration with the current state of the world, and his belief that many of the problems we face today are the result of past actions and decisions. The song became a massive hit for Joel, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning him widespread acclaim. It has since become a cultural touchstone, with its lyrics referenced in various media and pop culture. ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ remains a powerful commentary on the cyclical nature of history and the impact of our actions on the world around us.

4.‘Fire It Up’ by Modest Mouse

‘Fire It Up’ is a song by the American indie rock band Modest Mouse. Released in 2007, the song features a driving rhythm and frenetic guitar riffs, combined with lead singer Isaac Brock’s distinctive vocal style. The song’s lyrics are open to interpretation, but seem to convey a sense of frustration with modern society and the need to break free from the constraints of everyday life. ‘Fire It Up’ was well-received by critics and has become a fan favorite, known for its high-energy performance and memorable chorus. The song’s title has since become a popular catchphrase and has been used in various contexts, from sports chants to political campaigns. ‘Fire It Up’ remains a powerful anthem of rebellion and individualism in the face of conformity.

5.‘Who By Fire’ by Leonard Cohen

Who By Fire’ is a haunting and introspective song by Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen. The song was released in 1974 and draws heavily from Jewish liturgy, with the title and many of the lyrics coming from the Jewish prayer for Yom Kippur, known as the Unetaneh Tokef. The song features Cohen’s distinctive deep voice and poetic lyrics, accompanied by mournful strings and a Spanish guitar. Who By Fire’ is a contemplation of mortality and the fragility of life. The song’s lyrics explore the ways in which we can be taken by death, either suddenly or gradually, and asks the ultimate question of who will be the next to go. Despite its heavy subject matter, the song is incredibly beautiful and moving, showcasing Cohen’s unparalleled talent as a songwriter and performer.

6.‘Hairdresser on Fire’ by Morrissey

Hairdresser on Fire’ is a satirical and irreverent song by British singer Morrissey. Released in 1985 as a B-side to his single ‘Everyday is Like Sunday’, the song features Morrissey’s distinctive vocals and biting lyrics, combined with a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm. The song’s lyrics are a scathing critique of the hairdressing profession, with Morrissey taking aim at the perceived superficiality and vanity of the industry. Despite its provocative lyrics, ‘Hairdresser on Fire’ is a beloved song among Morrissey fans, known for its irreverent humor and catchy melody. The song showcases Morrissey’s unique perspective and willingness to take on controversial subjects, as well as his incredible talent as a songwriter and performer.

7.‘Sex on Fire’ by Kings of Leon

Sex on Fire’ is a high-energy and infectious rock song by American band Kings of Leon. Released in 2008, the song features driving guitar riffs and pounding drums, combined with lead singer Caleb Followill’s raw vocals. The song’s lyrics are open to interpretation, but seem to be about the intensity of physical attraction and desire, with the metaphor of fire used throughout the song. Sex on Fire’ was a massive hit for Kings of Leon, reaching number one on various charts around the world and earning the band widespread acclaim. The song remains a staple of rock radio and has become one of Kings of Leon’s signature songs.

8.‘Fire and Rain’ by James Taylor

Fire and Rain’ is a melancholy and introspective song by American singer-songwriter James Taylor. Released in 1970, the song features Taylor’s soulful vocals and gentle acoustic guitar, combined with poignant lyrics about his struggles with addiction and the loss of a close friend. The song’s title refers to the line “I’ve seen fire and I’ve seen rain,” which Taylor uses as a metaphor for the highs and lows of life. Fire and Rain’ was a huge hit for Taylor, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning him widespread critical acclaim. The song has since become a classic of the singer-songwriter genre, known for its raw emotion and beautiful melody. ‘Fire and Rain’ is a powerful testament to the human experience and the resilience of the human spirit.

9.‘This Wheel’s on Fire’ by Bob Dylan

This Wheel’s on Fire’ is a song by American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan, co-written with Canadian musician and producer Rick Danko. The song was originally released in 1967 by Dylan’s backing band, The Band, and features a distinctive, upbeat melody and cryptic, surreal lyrics. The song’s title is a metaphor for the chaos and turmoil of the time, with the wheel representing the world and its problems. This Wheel’s on Fire’ has been covered by many artists over the years, including Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger, and The Trinity, who had a hit with the song in the UK in 1968. The song remains a beloved classic of the psychedelic rock era, known for its unique blend of Dylan’s poetry and The Band’s musical prowess.

10.‘Londons Burning’ by The Clash

London’s Burning’ is a fast-paced and energetic punk song by British band The Clash. Released in 1977 on their self-titled debut album, the song features aggressive guitar riffs, pounding drums, and lead singer Joe Strummer’s urgent vocals. The song’s lyrics are a commentary on the social and political unrest in Britain at the time, with the refrain “London’s burning” serving as a metaphor for the chaos and disorder. London’s Burning’ is a classic of the punk genre, known for its raw energy and politically charged lyrics. The song’s frenzied pace and urgent message made it a favorite of both punk fans and critics alike, and it has since become a staple of The Clash’s discography.

11.‘Burning Down the House’ by The Talking Heads

Burning Down the House’ is a danceable and funky song by American rock band The Talking Heads. Released in 1983, the song features a driving beat, catchy keyboard riffs, and lead singer David Byrne’s distinctive vocals. The song’s lyrics are abstract and surreal, with the metaphor of “burning down the house” suggesting a sense of impending chaos or destruction. Burning Down the House’ was a hit for The Talking Heads, reaching number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning them widespread critical acclaim. The song’s infectious energy and Byrne’s charismatic performance made it a favorite of both fans and critics, and it remains a staple of the band’s live shows.

12.‘I’m on Fire’ by Bruce Springsteen

‘I’m on Fire’ is a haunting and atmospheric song by American singer-songwriter Bruce Springsteen. Released in 1985, the song features Springsteen’s trademark acoustic guitar and raspy vocals, combined with a moody synthesizer melody. The song’s lyrics are sparse and suggestive, with Springsteen portraying a man consumed by desire and longing. I’m on Fire’ was a hit for Springsteen, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning him critical acclaim. The song’s understated production and Springsteen’s restrained performance make it a standout in his catalog, and it remains a fan favorite to this day. ‘I’m on Fire’ is a testament to Springsteen’s ability to convey complex emotions with a few simple words and a haunting melody.

13.‘Firewall’ by Bright Eyes

Firewall’ is a moody and introspective song by American indie rock band Bright Eyes. Released in 2002, the song features a stripped-down arrangement of acoustic guitar and piano, combined with lead singer Conor Oberst’s raw and emotional vocals. The song’s lyrics explore themes of isolation and self-doubt, with the metaphor of a “firewall” representing the emotional barriers that people put up to protect themselves. Firewall’ is a standout track on Bright Eyes’ acclaimed album ‘Lifted or The Story Is in the Soil, Keep Your Ear to the Ground.’ The song’s minimalist production and Oberst’s vulnerable performance make it a poignant reflection on the human experience.

14.‘Fire’ by The Jimi Hendrix Experience

Fire’ is a high-energy and bluesy song by American guitarist Jimi Hendrix and his band The Jimi Hendrix Experience. Released in 1967, the song features Hendrix’s virtuosic guitar playing, combined with driving bass and drums. The song’s lyrics are suggestive and playful, with Hendrix using the metaphor of fire to describe his desire for a woman. Fire’ was a hit for Hendrix, reaching number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s electrifying guitar work and Hendrix’s charismatic stage presence made it a favorite of both fans and critics, and it remains a classic of the psychedelic rock era.

15.‘Firestarter’ by The Prodigy

Firestarter’ is a high-energy and aggressive song by British electronic dance music group The Prodigy. Released in 1996, the song features a heavy drumbeat, distorted guitar riff, and Keith Flint’s distinctive vocals. The song’s lyrics are confrontational and rebellious, with Flint declaring himself a “firestarter” and urging listeners to take action against the establishment. Firestarter’ was a breakthrough hit for The Prodigy, reaching number one in the UK and propelling them to international success. The song’s combination of rock and electronic music, along with its provocative lyrics and intense energy, made it a landmark in the development of electronic dance music.

16.‘Ring of Fire’ by Johnny Cash

Ring of Fire’ is a classic country song written by June Carter and Merle Kilgore, and famously recorded by American singer Johnny Cash. Released in 1963, the song features a lively mariachi-inspired arrangement, with horns and backing vocals adding to the festive atmosphere. The song’s lyrics describe the powerful attraction between Cash and Carter, using the metaphor of a “ring of fire” to represent the intensity of their love. Ring of Fire’ was a hit for Cash, reaching number one on the country charts and crossing over to the pop charts as well. The song’s catchy melody and memorable lyrics made it a classic of the country and rockabilly genres, and it remains one of Cash’s most beloved songs.

17.‘Great Balls of Fire’ by Jerry Lee Lewis

Great Balls of Fire’ is a classic rock and roll song originally recorded by Jerry Lee Lewis in 1957. The song features Lewis’s distinctive piano playing, along with a driving beat and his energetic vocals. The lyrics describe a passionate love affair, using metaphorical language to express the intense attraction between the singer and his lover. Great Balls of Fire’ was a major hit for Lewis, reaching number two on the Billboard charts and cementing his status as one of the most exciting performers of the early rock and roll era. The song has since become a classic of the genre, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.

18.‘Beds are Burning’ by Midnight Oil

Beds are Burning’ is a political rock song by Australian band Midnight Oil, released in 1987. The song features a catchy guitar riff and driving beat, along with lead singer Peter Garrett’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics address the issue of indigenous land rights in Australia, calling for the return of land to Aboriginal people and urging listeners to take action on the issue. Beds are Burning’ was a major hit for Midnight Oil, reaching the top ten in numerous countries around the world. The song’s powerful message and catchy melody made it a landmark in the band’s career, and it remains one of their most popular and enduring songs.