24 Best Songs about San Francisco, the Golden City

San Francisco, known for its picturesque beauty, iconic landmarks, and cultural diversity, has long been a source of inspiration for musicians around the world. Over the years, countless songs have been written about the City by the Bay, each capturing a unique aspect of its vibrant and dynamic character.

From Scott McKenzie’s classic “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)” to Tony Bennett’s timeless “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” the songs that pay tribute to the city are as diverse and eclectic as the city itself. Whether it’s the foggy hills, the Golden Gate Bridge, or the bustling streets of Chinatown, San Francisco has inspired countless artists to put their own spin on the city’s many facets.

Other notable songs about San Francisco include “Lights” by Journey, which captures the excitement and energy of the city’s nightlife, and “San Francisco Days” by Chris Isaak, a nostalgic and wistful ode to the city’s past and present. Whether you’re a native San Franciscan or a visitor to the city, the songs that celebrate its many charms are a reminder of the unique beauty and cultural richness that make San Francisco such a special place.

So put on your headphones, hit play, and let the music take you on a journey through the heart and soul of San Francisco.

1. (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay – Otis Redding

(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding is a timeless classic and one of the most iconic songs in the history of soul music. Released in 1968, the song became Redding’s biggest hit and has since been covered by countless artists. The song is a soulful ballad about a man who is sitting on a dock, watching the tide roll away, and reflecting on his life. The lyrics touch on themes of loneliness, homesickness, and the fleeting nature of time. The song is famous for its unforgettable whistling solo, which is said to have been added to the track as a placeholder for a planned horn section that was never recorded due to Redding’s untimely death.

2. Lights – Journey

“Lights” by Journey is a classic rock song that was released in 1978. The song starts with a beautiful piano melody and then leads into the first verse where Steve Perry’s vocals take center stage. The lyrics describe a city at night, with bright lights shining and streets crowded with people. The chorus is catchy and has become an anthem for many people who have visited or lived in a big city. The song’s melody is infectious and will have you singing along by the end of the first chorus. The guitar solo is one of the most memorable parts of the song, showcasing Neal Schon’s incredible talent on the guitar. The song has a timeless quality and continues to be loved by people of all ages.

3. San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair) – Scott McKenzie

“San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)” by Scott McKenzie is a song that was released in 1967 during the summer of love. The song was written by John Phillips of The Mamas & The Papas and was meant to promote the Monterey Pop Festival. The lyrics encourage people to come to San Francisco and to wear flowers in their hair, symbolizing the peace and love movement that was happening at the time. The song’s melody is mellow and peaceful, fitting perfectly with the message of the song. The lyrics are simple but powerful, and the song has become an iconic representation of the counterculture movement of the 1960s. “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)” is a song that will transport you to a different time and place and leave you feeling hopeful for a better world.

4. I Left My Heart in San Francisco – Tony Bennett

“I Left My Heart in San Francisco” is a classic song by Tony Bennett that was released in 1962. The song’s lyrics describe the city of San Francisco and the memories that the singer has of it, including the famous Golden Gate Bridge. The song has become an anthem for the city of San Francisco and is often played at events and gatherings to celebrate the city’s rich history and culture. Tony Bennett’s smooth vocals are perfectly suited to the song’s romantic and nostalgic tone. The arrangement is simple, with a piano and strings providing a beautiful backdrop to the singer’s voice. The song has endured through the years and is still considered a classic today.

5. Fake Tales of San Francisco – Arctic Monkeys

“Fake Tales of San Francisco” is a song by the British band Arctic Monkeys that was released in 2005. The song’s lyrics describe a band that has come to San Francisco to play a show, but finds that the city’s music scene is not what they expected. The song is a critique of the music industry and the trend of bands pretending to be from a certain place in order to seem more authentic. The song’s melody is upbeat and catchy, with the Arctic Monkeys’ signature sound of fast-paced guitar riffs and energetic drumming. The lyrics are clever and satirical, poking fun at the idea of authenticity in music. “Fake Tales of San Francisco” is a fun and energetic song that will have you tapping your feet and singing along.

6. Grace Cathedral Hill – The Decemberists

“Grace Cathedral Hill” by The Decemberists is a song that was released in 2003. The song’s lyrics describe a couple sitting on a hill overlooking the city of San Francisco, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. The song has a dreamy quality to it, with a slow and melodic melody that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. The Decemberists’ signature sound of acoustic guitars, accordion, and upright bass creates a beautiful and rich sound that perfectly complements the song’s gentle and introspective tone. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, describing the beauty of the city and the emotions that the couple is feeling. “Grace Cathedral Hill” is a beautiful and heartfelt song that will transport you to a different time and place.

7. San Francisco Blues – Peggy Lee

“San Francisco Blues” is a song by the legendary jazz singer Peggy Lee that was released in 1959. The song’s lyrics describe the city of San Francisco and the blues that the singer is feeling while she’s there. The song has a slow and sultry melody, with Peggy Lee’s smooth vocals perfectly capturing the mood of the lyrics. The arrangement is simple, with a piano and upright bass providing a beautiful backdrop to the singer’s voice. The lyrics are melancholy and introspective, describing the singer’s feelings of loneliness and sadness. “San Francisco Blues” is a timeless classic that perfectly captures the mood of the city and the emotions that it can evoke.

8. Cold Wind – Arcade Fire

“Cold Wind” is a song by the Canadian indie rock band Arcade Fire, which was released in 2005. The song has a haunting quality to it, with a slow and atmospheric melody that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. The lyrics describe the city of San Francisco and the emotions that the singer is feeling as they walk through the city. The song’s instrumentation is sparse, with a few simple guitar chords and a piano providing a beautiful and melancholy backdrop to the singer’s voice. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, describing the beauty of the city and the loneliness that the singer is feeling. “Cold Wind” is a beautiful and introspective song that perfectly captures the mood of San Francisco.

9. Save Me, San Francisco – Train

“Save Me, San Francisco” is a song by the American rock band Train that was released in 2009. The song’s lyrics describe the city of San Francisco and the singer’s memories of it. The song has a catchy and upbeat melody, with Train’s signature sound of pop rock guitars and energetic drumming. The lyrics are nostalgic and sentimental, describing the singer’s love for the city and the memories that they have of it. The song has become an anthem for the city of San Francisco and is often played at events and gatherings to celebrate the city’s rich history and culture. “Save Me, San Francisco” is a fun and energetic song that will have you tapping your feet and singing along.

10. San Francisco Days – Chris Isaak

“San Francisco Days” is a song by the American singer-songwriter Chris Isaak, released in 1993. The song has a classic rock and roll feel to it, with a driving rhythm and powerful guitars. The lyrics describe the city of San Francisco and the emotions that the singer is feeling as he wanders through its streets. The song’s instrumentation is rich and full, with electric guitars, drums, and a harmonica creating a dynamic and powerful sound. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, describing the city’s beauty and the singer’s love for it. “San Francisco Days” is a classic rock song that perfectly captures the spirit and energy of the city.

11. I’m Always Drunk in San Francisco – Carmen McRae

“I’m Always Drunk in San Francisco” is a jazz song by the American singer Carmen McRae, released in 1956. The song has a slow and melancholy melody, with Carmen McRae’s smooth and sultry voice perfectly capturing the mood of the lyrics. The lyrics describe the singer’s love for the city of San Francisco and the way that it makes her feel. The song’s instrumentation is simple, with a piano and an upright bass providing a beautiful and understated backdrop to the singer’s voice. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, describing the way that the city’s atmosphere and culture can be both inspiring and overwhelming. “I’m Always Drunk in San Francisco” is a beautiful and timeless jazz standard that perfectly captures the mood of the city and the emotions that it can evoke.

12. San Francisco – Ben Gibbard and Jay Farrar

“San Francisco” is a song by the American musicians Ben Gibbard and Jay Farrar, released in 2009. The song has a folk-inspired sound, with acoustic guitars and harmonicas providing a beautiful and understated backdrop to the singers’ voices. The lyrics describe the city of San Francisco and the emotions that it evokes in the singers. The song’s instrumentation is simple and stripped down, with a few basic chords and melodies creating a haunting and introspective sound. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, describing the beauty of the city and the way that it can inspire and uplift. “San Francisco” is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the city and its people.

13. Got the Gate on the Golden Gate – Mel Tormé

“Got the Gate on the Golden Gate” is a jazz song by the American singer Mel Tormé, released in 1955. The song has a swing-inspired sound, with brass and saxophones creating a lively and energetic backdrop to Tormé’s smooth and sultry voice. The lyrics describe the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the emotions that it evokes in the singer. The song’s instrumentation is rich and full, with a big band sound that perfectly captures the energy and excitement of the city. The lyrics are playful and upbeat, describing the joy and excitement of driving across the Golden Gate Bridge. “Got the Gate on the Golden Gate” is a classic jazz standard that perfectly captures the spirit of San Francisco and its iconic landmarks.

14. Piazza, New York Catcher – Belle and Sebastian

“Piazza, New York Catcher” is a song by the Scottish indie pop band Belle and Sebastian, released in 2003. The song has a gentle and melodic sound, with acoustic guitars, violins, and horns creating a beautiful and understated backdrop to the singer’s voice. The lyrics describe a romance between a baseball player and a girl in New York City. The song’s instrumentation is simple and elegant, with a few basic chords and melodies creating a wistful and nostalgic sound. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, describing the beauty of New York City and the way that it can inspire love and romance. “Piazza, New York Catcher” is a beautiful and romantic indie pop song that perfectly captures the mood and atmosphere of the city.

15. San Francisco – Judy Garland

“San Francisco” is a song by the American singer and actress Judy Garland, released in 1961. The song has a classic pop sound, with a lush and orchestral arrangement creating a powerful and emotional backdrop to Garland’s powerful voice. The lyrics describe the city of San Francisco and the emotions that it evokes in the singer. The song’s instrumentation is rich and full, with a sweeping arrangement that perfectly captures the energy and excitement of the city. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, describing the way that the city’s beauty and culture can inspire and uplift. “San Francisco” is a classic pop standard that perfectly captures the spirit of the city and the emotions that it can evoke.

16. Saint Dominic’s Preview – Van Morrison

“Saint Dominic’s Preview” is a song by the Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison, released in 1972. The song has a jazzy and soulful sound, with horns, keyboards, and guitars creating a complex and dynamic backdrop to Morrison’s distinctive voice. The lyrics describe the beauty and mystery of the city of San Francisco, with its vibrant culture and eclectic mix of people. The song’s instrumentation is complex and intricate, with a variety of musical textures and layers creating a rich and immersive sound. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, describing the city in vivid detail and capturing the essence of its unique character. “Saint Dominic’s Preview” is a classic rock song that perfectly captures the spirit and energy of San Francisco.

17. We Built This City – Starship

“We Built This City” is a song by the American rock band Starship, released in 1985. The song has a classic rock sound, with guitars, keyboards, and drums creating a driving and energetic backdrop to the powerful vocals of lead singer Grace Slick. The lyrics celebrate the spirit of creativity and innovation in the city of San Francisco, describing the way that its artists and musicians have built a vibrant and dynamic culture. The song’s instrumentation is bold and anthemic, with a catchy chorus and sing-along verses that make it a beloved classic of 80s rock. The lyrics are optimistic and upbeat, celebrating the spirit of invention and collaboration that has made San Francisco a center of artistic and cultural innovation. “We Built This City” is a classic rock anthem that perfectly captures the spirit of San Francisco and the creative energy of its people.

18. San Franciscan Nights – Eric Burdon & The Animals

“San Franciscan Nights” is a song by Eric Burdon & The Animals, released in 1967. The song has a classic rock sound, with guitars, drums, and keyboards creating a dynamic and energetic backdrop to Burdon’s powerful vocals. The lyrics describe the vibrant nightlife and cultural scene in San Francisco, with its colorful characters and diverse mix of people. The song’s instrumentation is bold and driving, with a catchy chorus and powerful verses that make it a classic of 60s rock. The lyrics capture the spirit of excitement and adventure that characterized San Francisco in the 60s, with its vibrant counterculture and dynamic music scene. “San Franciscan Nights” is a classic rock song that perfectly captures the spirit and energy of San Francisco.

19. Welcome to Paradise – Green Day

“Welcome to Paradise” is a song by the American punk rock band Green Day, released in 1994. The song has a fast-paced and energetic sound, with guitars, drums, and bass creating a driving and powerful backdrop to the gritty vocals of lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong. The lyrics describe the struggles and challenges faced by young people in the city of Oakland, just across the bay from San Francisco. The song’s instrumentation is raw and intense, with a driving beat and urgent vocals that make it a classic of 90s punk rock. The lyrics capture the frustration and alienation of young people struggling to make their way in a tough and often unforgiving world. “Welcome to Paradise” is a powerful and provocative song that reflects the realities of life in the Bay Area, and the challenges faced by those who call it home.

20. San Francisco Knights – People Under the Stairs

“San Francisco Knights” is a song by the hip-hop duo People Under the Stairs, released in 1999. The song has a groovy and funky sound, with a mix of samples, live instruments, and scratching creating a dynamic and infectious beat. The lyrics describe the adventures of two friends as they explore the city of San Francisco, taking in its sights and sounds. The song’s instrumentation is rich and varied, with a mix of soulful samples and live instruments that create a vibrant and lively soundscape. The lyrics capture the sense of wonder and excitement that comes from exploring a new city, and the joy of discovering all the hidden gems that make San Francisco such a unique and special place. “San Francisco Knights” is a fun and funky song that perfectly captures the spirit and energy of the city.

21. Mission in the Rain – Jerry Garcia Band

“Mission in the Rain” is a song by the Jerry Garcia Band, released in 1978. The song has a laid-back and mellow sound, with Garcia’s guitar and vocals weaving together in a gentle and contemplative melody. The lyrics describe a rainy night in the Mission District of San Francisco, with Garcia reflecting on the beauty and complexity of life. The song’s instrumentation is sparse and understated, with a gentle rhythm and subtle harmonies that create a sense of peacefulness and introspection. The lyrics capture the essence of San Francisco’s diverse and complex culture, with its mix of beauty and hardship, joy and sorrow. “Mission in the Rain” is a beautiful and poetic song that speaks to the heart and soul of San Francisco.

22. Don’t Marry Her – The Beautiful South

“Don’t Marry Her” by The Beautiful South is a cheeky and irreverent song that challenges conventional notions of love and commitment. The lyrics are filled with explicit language and provocative imagery, but the overall tone is playful and light-hearted. The song is a commentary on the often unrealistic expectations placed on couples, and the pressure to conform to societal norms. The chorus, “Don’t marry her, fuck me,” is a bold statement of desire that challenges the traditional idea of monogamy and fidelity. The song’s message is ultimately one of personal freedom and individual choice, urging listeners to live their lives on their own terms and not conform to societal expectations. Musically, “Don’t Marry Her” is a catchy pop song with a brass section that gives it a distinctive sound. The vocal delivery is full of attitude and swagger, perfectly matching the rebellious lyrics. The song was a hit in the UK, reaching the top ten in the charts, and remains a fan favorite for its irreverent and provocative message.

23. San Francisco – Vanessa Carlton

“San Francisco” by Vanessa Carlton is a nostalgic song that talks about the memories and experiences of the singer in San Francisco. The song begins with the singer reminiscing about a time when she was 18 and visited the city for the first time. She recalls how she fell in love with the city’s energy and describes the various sights and sounds that captivated her. As the song progresses, the singer talks about how San Francisco has changed over the years and how she feels like she has grown with the city. The melody of the song is simple, with a piano-driven sound that is characteristic of Vanessa Carlton’s music. The chorus of the song is catchy and upbeat, with the singer repeating the phrase “San Francisco” several times. The lyrics are poignant and evocative, capturing the sense of wonder and nostalgia that many people feel when they think about the city.

24. San Francisco Street – RaiThistlethwayte

“San Francisco Street” by Rai Thistlethwayte is a jazzy and soulful tribute to the city of San Francisco. The song has a smooth and groovy melody with a prominent piano riff that captures the lively and bustling energy of the city. The lyrics describe the singer’s experiences walking along San Francisco Street, with its vibrant and diverse population, eclectic shops, and lively music scene. The song’s chorus is particularly catchy and memorable, with the singer repeating the phrase “San Francisco Street” over a groovy bassline and jazzy piano chords. The song’s bridge features a funky guitar solo that adds to the song’s upbeat and lively vibe. Overall, “San Francisco Street” is a fun and energetic song that celebrates the unique culture and vibrancy of San Francisco. The song’s infectious groove and catchy melody will have listeners tapping their feet and singing along, while the lyrics capture the city’s eclectic and diverse spirit. It is a perfect song to listen to while strolling along the streets of San Francisco, soaking up the city’s unique atmosphere.