19 Songs about Nature to Help You Appreciate its Beauty

Nature has always been a source of inspiration for musicians, artists, and poets throughout history. From the rolling hills and majestic mountains to the vast oceans and lush forests, the natural world provides an endless array of sights, sounds, and experiences that evoke feelings of awe and wonder. As human beings, it’s easy to take the beauty of nature for granted and overlook the vital role it plays in our lives. However, there are many songs that celebrate the wonders of the natural world and encourage us to appreciate its beauty.

These songs range from reflective and introspective ballads to upbeat and catchy anthems, each highlighting different aspects of nature and its importance. Some songs, such as “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” by Peter, Paul and Mary, and “Going Up the Country” by Canned Heat, reflect on the impact of human activity on the environment and raise important questions about the future of our planet. Other songs, such as “Sunshine on My Shoulders” by John Denver and “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong, celebrate the simple joys of life and remind us to appreciate the beauty around us. Ultimately, songs about nature offer a unique and powerful way to connect with the natural world and appreciate its beauty. Whether you’re looking for a way to reflect on the impact of human activity on the environment or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the world around you, there’s a song out there that can help you do just that.

1.Natural Beauty – Neil Young

“Natural Beauty” by Neil Young is a poignant and introspective ballad that speaks to the importance of preserving the natural world. With hauntingly beautiful guitar riffs and Young’s signature crooning voice, the song implores listeners to appreciate the simple beauty of nature and the impact of human activity on the environment. The lyrics are reflective and melancholic, yet hopeful and inspiring, and the overall message of the song is one of stewardship and responsibility for the earth we live on.

2.Eyes Wide Open – Gotye

“Eyes Wide Open” by Gotye is an upbeat and energetic track that explores the idea of living in the present moment and being mindful of the world around us. The song’s catchy chorus and driving beat make it a fun and engaging listen, while the lyrics delve into deeper themes of self-awareness and connection. Gotye’s distinct vocals and creative use of instrumentation create a unique sound that sets the song apart from others in its genre, and the overall message of the song is one of positivity and self-discovery.

3.Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) – Marvin Gaye

“Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)” by Marvin Gaye is a soulful and socially conscious song that addresses the pressing issue of environmental degradation. The song’s mellow instrumentation and Gaye’s smooth vocals create a somber yet powerful mood, as the lyrics lament the damage humans have done to the natural world. The song also touches on themes of social justice and inequality, and Gaye’s poignant delivery makes the message all the more impactful. “Mercy Mercy Me” remains a poignant reminder of the need to protect the environment for future generations.

4.Truth to Power – OneRepublic

“Truth to Power” by OneRepublic is an anthemic and motivational track that encourages listeners to stand up for their beliefs and speak out against injustice. The song’s driving beat and soaring chorus create a sense of empowerment and urgency, as lead singer Ryan Tedder delivers a powerful vocal performance. The lyrics speak to the importance of taking action and making a difference in the world, and the song’s message of unity and determination is both timely and timeless. “Truth to Power” is a call to arms for those who seek to make positive change in the world.

5.Going Up the Country – Canned Heat

“Going Up the Country” by Canned Heat is a lively and upbeat song that captures the free-spirited energy of the 1960s. The song’s signature flute melody and driving rhythm create a sense of excitement and adventure, as lead singer Bob Hite sings about leaving the city behind and heading for the countryside. The lyrics reflect the counterculture movement of the time, which embraced a back-to-nature philosophy and rejected mainstream values. “Going Up the Country” remains a classic of the era, evoking a sense of nostalgia and the carefree spirit of a bygone time.

6.Where Have All the Flowers Gone – Peter, Paul and Mary

“Where Have All the Flowers Gone” by Peter, Paul and Mary is a poignant and timeless protest song that speaks to the futility of war and the human toll of conflict. The song’s gentle guitar melody and three-part harmonies create a sense of melancholy and reflection, as the lyrics trace the cycle of life and death that war perpetuates. The song’s simple yet powerful chorus, “When will they ever learn?” is a haunting reminder of the tragic consequences of violence and conflict. “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” has become a staple of the anti-war movement and remains a powerful statement of peace and hope for a better world.

7.Seminole Wind – John Anderson

“Seminole Wind” by John Anderson is a heartfelt tribute to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Seminole people of Florida. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and Anderson’s twangy vocals create a sense of reverence and respect for the land and its people. The lyrics speak to the history of the Seminole tribe and their struggles to maintain their way of life in the face of encroaching modernity. “Seminole Wind” is a celebration of the rich cultural diversity of America and a reminder of the importance of preserving our heritage and honoring those who came before us.

8.Don’t Go Near the Water – The Beach Boys

“Don’t Go Near the Water” by The Beach Boys is a socially conscious song that addresses the issue of pollution and environmental degradation. The song’s upbeat melody and harmonies create a catchy and engaging listen, while the lyrics urge listeners to take responsibility for protecting the natural world. The song’s message is clear and urgent, and it speaks to the need for collective action to address environmental problems. “Don’t Go Near the Water” remains a timely and relevant reminder of the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.

9.After the Gold Rush – Neil Young

“After the Gold Rush” by Neil Young is a haunting and introspective song that speaks to the disillusionment and uncertainty of the post-60s era. The song’s spare instrumentation and Young’s plaintive vocals create a sense of vulnerability and melancholy, as the lyrics paint a bleak picture of a world in crisis. The song’s enigmatic imagery and cryptic lyrics have inspired countless interpretations, but at its core, “After the Gold Rush” is a meditation on the fleeting nature of fame and the human condition. The song’s haunting melody and poetic lyrics have made it a classic of the folk-rock genre and a testament to the enduring power of Neil Young’s music.

10.Sunshine on My Shoulders – John Denver

“Sunshine on My Shoulders” by John Denver is a tender and sentimental ballad that celebrates the simple joys of life and the beauty of nature. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and Denver’s soothing vocals create a sense of warmth and comfort, as the lyrics express gratitude for life’s small pleasures. “Sunshine on My Shoulders” is a reminder of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the world around us, and it remains a beloved classic of the folk-pop genre.

11.(Nothing but) Flowers – Talking Heads

“(Nothing but) Flowers” by Talking Heads is a satirical and playful song that imagines a world without technology and consumerism. The song’s upbeat melody and David Byrne’s distinctive vocals create a sense of whimsy and irreverence, as the lyrics poke fun at the excesses of modern society. “Nothing but Flowers” is a witty and thought-provoking critique of consumer culture and a call to re-examine our relationship with the natural world. The song’s clever wordplay and catchy melody have made it a fan favorite and a standout track on the Talking Heads’ final album.

12.Radioactive – Imagine Dragons

“Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons is a powerful and electrifying rock anthem that blends elements of alternative rock, electronic, and hip hop genres. The song’s pulsating beat, driving bassline, and soaring vocals create a sense of urgency and energy, as the lyrics speak to the transformative power of love and the human spirit. “Radioactive” is a dynamic and intense song that speaks to the challenges and struggles of modern life, and it has become a defining track of Imagine Dragons’ career. The song’s distinctive sound and impactful message have made it a fan favorite and a modern classic of the rock genre.

13.Big Yellow Taxi – Joni Mitchell

“Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell is a poignant and prophetic song that speaks to the environmental issues of the 1970s and beyond. The song’s catchy melody and Mitchell’s distinctive vocals create a sense of playfulness and irony, as the lyrics warn of the dangers of environmental degradation and urbanization. “Big Yellow Taxi” has become an anthem for the environmental movement, and its famous chorus “they paved paradise and put up a parking lot” has become a rallying cry for those who seek to protect the natural world. The song’s timeless message and timeless appeal have made it a classic of the folk-pop genre and a testament to Joni Mitchell’s enduring influence as a songwriter and artist.

14.S.O.S (Mother Nature) – will.i.am

“S.O.S (Mother Nature)” by will.i.am is a socially conscious and urgent song that speaks to the environmental issues of our time. The song’s catchy beat, groovy bassline, and will.i.am’s charismatic vocals create a sense of urgency and energy, as the lyrics urge listeners to take action to protect the planet. “S.O.S (Mother Nature)” is a call to arms for the environmental movement, and its message of sustainability and conservation is as relevant today as it was when the song was released. The song’s infectious melody and positive message make it a standout track on will.i.am’s album and a testament to the power of music to inspire change.

15.Time is Ticking Out – The Cranberries

“Time is Ticking Out” by The Cranberries is a haunting and melancholic song that speaks to the fragility of life and the urgency of the environmental crisis. The song’s somber melody and Dolores O’Riordan’s ethereal vocals create a sense of introspection and reflection, as the lyrics express a sense of foreboding and concern for the future. “Time is Ticking Out” is a powerful and emotive song that speaks to the gravity of the environmental crisis and the need for action. The song’s haunting beauty and poignant message have made it a fan favorite and a testament to The Cranberries’ enduring legacy as a band.

16.What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong

“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong is a timeless classic that celebrates the beauty and wonder of the world. The song’s gentle melody and Armstrong’s distinctive vocals create a sense of warmth and optimism, as the lyrics express gratitude for the simple joys of life. “What a Wonderful World” has become an anthem of hope and inspiration, and its message of love, peace, and acceptance has resonated with listeners for generations. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Louis Armstrong’s enduring legacy as a musician and a human being.

17.Mother Nature’s Son – The Beatles

“Mother Nature’s Son” by The Beatles is a beautiful and folksy song that celebrates the natural world and the simple pleasures of life. The song’s acoustic guitar and Paul McCartney’s gentle vocals create a sense of intimacy and warmth, as the lyrics speak to the joys of nature and the importance of living in harmony with the earth. “Mother Nature’s Son” is a tribute to the beauty and resilience of the natural world, and its message of simplicity and connection has made it a fan favorite and a testament to The Beatles’ enduring influence as a band.

18.Where Do the Children Play? – Cat Stevens

“Where Do the Children Play?” by Cat Stevens is a reflective and poignant song that highlights the impact of human activity on the natural world and raises important questions about the future of our planet. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and Stevens’ emotive vocals create a sense of introspection and longing, as the lyrics address the loss of natural habitats, pollution, and the consequences of our actions. “Where Do the Children Play?” is a call to action and a plea for a more sustainable and equitable future for all living beings.

19.Earth – Lil Dicky

“Earth” by Lil Dicky is a unique and innovative song that uses humor and satire to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage people to take action. The song features an all-star cast of musicians and celebrities, each voicing a different animal or aspect of the natural world, and the lyrics touch on topics such as climate change, deforestation, and animal conservation. “Earth” is a testament to the power of music to raise awareness and inspire change, and its catchy chorus and playful lyrics make it a memorable and engaging anthem for environmental activism.