13 Songs about Swimming That Are Sure to Make a Splash

Swimming is an activity that has inspired musicians for generations. From the thrill of diving into a cool pool on a hot summer day to the quiet serenity of swimming in a peaceful lake, the joys and challenges of swimming are rich fodder for songwriters. In this article, we’ll explore the top 13 songs about swimming that are sure to make a splash.

These songs cover a wide range of genres, from classic rock and pop to indie and alternative. Some celebrate the simple pleasures of swimming, while others explore the deeper emotions and metaphors that the activity can evoke. Whether you’re a competitive swimmer or just love to splash around in the water, these songs are sure to capture the magic and excitement of this beloved pastime. So, grab your towel, put on your favorite swimwear, and dive into our list of the top 13 songs about swimming.

1. Swimming Lesson – Eels

“Swimming Lesson” is a song by American rock band Eels from their 2000 album, “Daisies of the Galaxy.” The song is a whimsical and upbeat tune about swimming, with frontman Mark Oliver Everett singing about the joys of diving into the water and how it can wash away all of life’s troubles. The song features a catchy melody and upbeat instrumentation, including a playful trumpet section. It’s a perfect song for anyone who loves to swim or just wants to feel carefree for a few minutes.

2. Swim Good – Frank Ocean

“Swim Good” is a song by American singer-songwriter Frank Ocean from his 2011 mixtape “Nostalgia, Ultra.” The song features a smooth and atmospheric beat that compliments Ocean’s soulful vocals. The lyrics describe Ocean’s attempt to escape his problems by driving to the ocean and swimming until he can’t anymore. The chorus features a clever play on words, with Ocean singing “I’m about to drive in the ocean, I’ma try to swim from something bigger than me.” “Swim Good” showcases Ocean’s unique style of blending R&B, hip-hop, and indie influences, and it’s a perfect song for anyone who wants to feel like they’re escaping their problems and diving headfirst into the unknown.

3. Nightswimming – R.E.M.

Nightswimming by R.E.M. is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that evokes the memories of swimming at night with friends. The song’s dreamy and melancholic sound is enhanced by the poignant lyrics that capture the bittersweet feelings of growing up and leaving behind the innocence and freedom of youth. The piano-driven melody and Michael Stipe’s emotive vocals create a nostalgic atmosphere that is both introspective and introspective. The song’s theme of night swimming and the memories it evokes make it a perfect addition to any playlist about swimming.

4. Swimming – Breathe Owl Breathe

Breathe Owl Breathe’s Swimming is a serene and ethereal acoustic ballad that captures the tranquility and peace that swimming can bring. The song’s gentle guitar strumming and softly crooned vocals evoke the feeling of floating on the water’s surface, letting go of all worries and stresses. The lyrics describe the freedom and weightlessness of swimming and the way it can bring a sense of calm and clarity to the mind. The song’s dreamy atmosphere and delicate instrumentation make it a perfect addition to any playlist for relaxing by the pool or taking a peaceful swim in a quiet lake.

5. Front Crawl – Frank Turner

“Front Crawl” by Frank Turner is an upbeat, energetic song that perfectly captures the thrill of swimming. The song’s driving guitar riffs and pounding drums make it impossible not to move your feet, while Turner’s passionate vocals encourage listeners to dive headfirst into the water and let the waves wash their troubles away. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery, from the “sparkle of the sunlight on the water” to the “rush of the current against my skin,” making it easy to imagine yourself floating weightlessly in a cool, refreshing pool. Whether you’re an avid swimmer or just looking for a fun, uplifting tune to get you moving, “Front Crawl” is sure to make a splash.

6. I Go Swimming – Peter Gabriel

“I Go Swimming” by Peter Gabriel is a playful, funky track that celebrates the joys of swimming in all its forms. The song’s infectious bassline and bouncy rhythm create a carefree, summery vibe that’s impossible not to groove along to, while Gabriel’s distinctive voice adds a touch of whimsy and humor to the lyrics. From swimming “in a pool, in a pond, in a river” to “swimming in sweat,” the song celebrates the many ways that swimming can bring us joy and release. Whether you’re a competitive swimmer, a casual dipper, or just looking for a fun, upbeat song to get you moving, “I Go Swimming” is the perfect soundtrack for your next aquatic adventure.

7. Swimming Pools (Drank) – Kendrick Lamar

“Swimming Pools (Drank)” by Kendrick Lamar is a song that reflects on the dangers of alcoholism and substance abuse. The song features a catchy chorus and a hypnotic beat, which serve to highlight the darker themes of the lyrics. Lamar’s verses explore the ways in which alcohol can lead to reckless behavior and have long-term consequences. Overall, the song serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excessive drinking.

8. Jump in the Pool – Friendly Fires

“Jump in the Pool” by Friendly Fires is an upbeat indie dance track that celebrates the liberating feeling of jumping into a pool on a hot day. The song features a catchy guitar riff and driving rhythm, which perfectly capture the feeling of diving into cool water. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, encouraging the listener to let go and enjoy the moment. “Jump in the Pool” is an infectious and joyful song that captures the carefree spirit of summertime.

9. Night Swimmers – Foals

“Night Swimmers” by Foals is a haunting and atmospheric track that evokes the feeling of swimming at night. The song features a dreamy melody and shimmering guitars, which create a sense of mystery and exploration. The lyrics describe the sensation of being weightless in the water and the sense of freedom that comes from being immersed in the darkness. “Night Swimmers” is a mesmerizing and otherworldly song that captures the magic of swimming under the stars.

10. Kern River – Merle Haggard

“Kern River” is a melancholic song by Merle Haggard, written as a tribute to his friend who drowned in the Kern River, California. Haggard’s signature baritone voice blends beautifully with the mournful melody, evoking feelings of loss, regret, and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the river’s dangers and the tragedy that can strike unexpectedly. The song’s chorus, “I’ll never swim Kern River again, it was there that I met her, it was there that I lost my best friend,” is a haunting reminder of the fragility of life and the pain of losing someone we love.

11. The Swimming Song – Loudon Wainwright III

“The Swimming Song” is a playful and upbeat tune by Loudon Wainwright III, celebrating the joys of swimming and summertime. Wainwright’s distinctive voice and simple acoustic guitar strumming give the song a charmingly casual vibe, perfect for a lazy day by the pool or beach. The lyrics describe the various types of swimming strokes and techniques, culminating in the catchy chorus, “This summer, I went swimming, this summer, I might have drowned, but I held my breath, and I kicked my feet, and I moved my arms around.” The song’s infectious energy and carefree spirit make it a classic summer anthem.

12. Swimming Pool – Emmy the Great

“Swimming Pool” by Emmy the Great is a dreamy indie-pop song that captures the bittersweet feeling of a summer romance coming to an end. The languid guitar riffs and ethereal vocals create a hazy, wistful atmosphere, perfectly suited to the song’s introspective lyrics. The chorus, “I’m not sure I’m ready for goodbye, let’s pretend it’s not tonight, let’s go swimming,” is a poignant expression of the desire to hold onto a fleeting moment of happiness. The song’s dreamy soundscapes and poignant lyrics make it a standout track in Emmy the Great’s discography.

13. The Anchor Song – Björk

“The Anchor Song” by Björk is a surreal and evocative song that uses swimming as a metaphor for the search for stability and security in life. Björk’s ethereal voice floats above a swirling electronic soundscape, creating a sense of movement and fluidity. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s journey through the sea, searching for an anchor to hold onto amidst the tumultuous waves. The chorus, “I live by the ocean, and during the night, I dive into it, down to the bottom, underneath all currents, and drop my anchor,” is a powerful image of resilience and determination. The song’s otherworldly sound and poetic lyrics make it a standout track on Björk’s debut album.