18 Songs about the End of the World and the Apocalypse

Music has always been a reflection of the human condition, and the end of the world is a topic that has long captured our imagination. From natural disasters to pandemics, from war and conflict to environmental degradation, the prospect of the apocalypse has been a recurring theme in our collective consciousness.

In this article, we will explore the top 18 songs about the end of the world and the apocalypse, as they capture the fear, despair, and hope that often accompany such cataclysmic events.

Artists from various genres have produced songs that offer different perspectives on the end of the world. Some use apocalyptic imagery to reflect on social and political issues, while others use it to explore personal struggles and relationships. From classics like “The End” by The Doors and “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” by R.E.M. to more recent hits like “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay and “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons, these songs invite us to confront our mortality and consider the fragility of our world. Whether through somber ballads or explosive anthems, these songs remind us that even in the face of the end, there is always the possibility of renewal and rebirth.

1. Everyday is Like Sunday – Morrissey

Everyday is Like Sunday by Morrissey is a melancholic song that describes the emptiness and boredom of a small coastal town. The lyrics portray a sense of loneliness and isolation, with the singer expressing his desire to escape the mundane life he’s living. The song’s slow, atmospheric melody and Morrissey’s signature crooning vocals perfectly capture the mood of the lyrics. It’s a song that many can relate to, as it speaks to the human experience of feeling stuck or unfulfilled in life.

2. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes – Ultravox

Dancing With Tears In My Eyes by Ultravox is a synth-pop ballad about a nuclear disaster. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a couple who are dancing together as they witness the end of the world. The song’s soaring chorus and haunting melody perfectly capture the apocalyptic mood of the lyrics. It’s a powerful and emotional song that combines the upbeat sound of synth-pop with the sobering reality of a disaster. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes is a timeless classic that still resonates with listeners today.

3. The End – The Doors

“The End” by The Doors is a classic psychedelic rock song that captures the sense of impending doom and the end of an era. The haunting melodies, Jim Morrison’s intense vocals, and the hypnotic guitar riffs create an eerie and dark atmosphere. The lyrics describe the end of everything, including the end of love, friendship, and the world as we know it. The song’s atmosphere has made it an iconic addition to the soundtrack of films, television shows, and video games. It is a masterful composition that captures the emotions of the listener and invites them to reflect on the mysteries of life and death.

4. Two Tribes – Frankie Goes to Hollywood

“Two Tribes” by Frankie Goes to Hollywood is a catchy and energetic pop song that incorporates elements of rock and dance music. The song’s theme is the tension between the East and West during the Cold War era, and the fear that nuclear war might break out at any moment. The song is characterized by its dramatic use of sound effects, including alarms and sirens, and the intense delivery of the lyrics by the lead vocalist, Holly Johnson. The song’s powerful message and danceable beat made it an instant hit upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic to this day. It is a reminder of the fear and uncertainty of the Cold War era and the importance of striving for peace and understanding between different cultures and nations.

5. We Will Become Silhouettes – The Postal Service

“We Will Become Silhouettes” is a song by the American indie rock band The Postal Service. The lyrics describe a couple’s survival in an apocalyptic world where they hide in a fallout shelter to escape a nuclear explosion. The song’s melancholic melody and the haunting vocals of lead singer Ben Gibbard evoke a sense of loneliness and despair. Despite the bleak subject matter, the song’s underlying message is one of hope, as the couple’s love helps them to overcome the devastation and look forward to the future. “We Will Become Silhouettes” was released in 2005 and quickly became a fan favorite and critical success.

6. London Calling – The Clash

“London Calling” is the title track from The Clash’s seminal 1979 album. The song’s lyrics capture the sense of impending doom and social unrest in the late 1970s in Britain. The song’s urgent, driving rhythm and rebellious attitude reflect the band’s punk ethos and political activism. The song’s lyrics describe a world on the brink of collapse, where people are fighting for their survival and the government is failing to provide for its citizens. Despite the bleak subject matter, the song’s infectious melody and catchy chorus have made it an enduring anthem of rebellion and resistance. “London Calling” remains one of the most iconic songs of the punk era and a cultural touchstone for generations of fans.

7. Redemption Song – Bob Marley

“Redemption Song” by Bob Marley is a beautiful and powerful acoustic song that showcases Marley’s signature message of hope and redemption. The lyrics of the song speak about the struggles of slavery and oppression, while also offering a message of hope for a better future. The simple yet moving melody of the song is accompanied by Marley’s soulful and emotional vocals, making it a true masterpiece of his career.

8. 1999 – Prince

“1999” by Prince is a classic dance-pop song from the 80s that has stood the test of time. The song is an upbeat celebration of the coming of the new millennium, and is driven by a pulsing beat, funky bassline, and catchy synth hooks. Prince’s distinctive falsetto vocals and dynamic guitar work add to the infectious energy of the song, making it a dancefloor staple that never fails to get people moving. The song is a testament to Prince’s unique blend of funk, rock, and pop that made him one of the most iconic and innovative musicians of his time.

9. The Final Countdown – Europe

“The Final Countdown” by Europe is a classic rock anthem released in 1986. It features a memorable keyboard riff and a soaring guitar solo. The song’s lyrics describe the tension and anticipation of an upcoming event, possibly a battle or a competition, and the resolve to give it everything they’ve got. The chorus, with its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, has become an iconic part of popular culture and is often used in sports arenas and movies. “The Final Countdown” is a must-listen for anyone who loves classic rock, and its upbeat energy and catchy melody make it a perfect pick-me-up song.

10. A Hard Rains a Gonna Fall – Bob Dylan

“A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall” is one of Bob Dylan’s most celebrated protest songs. The song was released in 1963 and has become one of Dylan’s signature works. The lyrics are filled with apocalyptic imagery and describe a world in which suffering and tragedy have become commonplace. The song is considered a powerful statement on the political and social upheavals of the 1960s, and its message remains relevant today. The song’s lyrics are a reflection of the concerns and fears of its time and have become a timeless classic of folk music. With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, “A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall” is a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking truth to power.

11. 4 Minutes – Madonna ft. Justin Timberlake and Timbaland

“4 Minutes” is a high-energy, electro-pop collaboration between Madonna, Justin Timberlake, and Timbaland. Released in 2008, the song features pounding beats, soaring synths, and catchy vocal hooks from both Madonna and Timberlake. The lyrics are playful and suggestive, with Madonna and Timberlake trading lines about how they only have “four minutes to save the world” and urging each other to “come on boy, I’ve been waiting for somebody to pick up my stroll.” The song’s frenetic pace and upbeat tone make it a perfect dancefloor filler, and it’s become one of Madonna’s most popular singles.

12. Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival

“Bad Moon Rising” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival, released in 1969. The song features driving guitar riffs, propulsive drums, and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics are ominous, warning of a coming storm and a “bad moon on the rise.” Some have interpreted the song as a metaphor for the political and social unrest of the late 1960s, while others see it as a straightforward description of a natural disaster. Regardless of its meaning, “Bad Moon Rising” has become one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most beloved songs, and its infectious energy and catchy hooks have made it a staple of classic rock radio.

13. Five Years – David Bowie

“Five Years” by David Bowie is the opening track of his album “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars”. The song sets the stage for the album’s concept, which explores the themes of fame, self-destruction, and death. The lyrics describe a world that is facing its final moments, where people have only five years left to live. Bowie’s haunting vocal delivery and the dramatic instrumentation create a sense of urgency and impending doom that runs through the entire album.

14. Red Rain – Peter Gabriel

“Red Rain” by Peter Gabriel is a powerful and emotional song that features Gabriel’s signature blend of world music influences and progressive rock. The lyrics describe a vivid and intense dream in which red rain falls from the sky and covers everything in its path. The song’s message is open to interpretation, but it is often seen as a metaphor for the destructive power of nature and the need for humanity to come together to address global issues. The song features intricate instrumentation, including Gabriel’s distinctive use of the Fairlight CMI synthesizer, and his expressive vocal performance adds to the song’s emotional impact.

15. 2012 (It Ain’t the End) – Jay Sean ft. Nicki Minaj

“2012 (It Ain’t the End)” is a song by British singer Jay Sean, featuring rapper Nicki Minaj. It was released in 2010, and became a commercial success, charting in several countries. The song is a party anthem, with a dance beat, and lyrics about celebrating life and living in the moment. The title refers to the 2012 phenomenon, a popular belief at the time that the world would end in 2012. Jay Sean’s smooth vocals and Nicki Minaj’s rap verse add to the energetic feel of the song, making it a catchy and fun track.

16. Apocalypse Please – Muse

“Apocalypse Please” is a song by British rock band Muse, released in 2004. The song has a haunting piano introduction that gives way to a dramatic, guitar-driven sound, and lyrics that explore themes of despair and apocalyptic visions. The chorus, “This is the end of the world,” is repeated several times, adding to the sense of urgency and tension. The song features Matt Bellamy’s powerful vocals, as well as the band’s signature mix of rock and classical elements. “Apocalypse Please” is a standout track from Muse’s album “Absolution,” and has become a fan favorite, often played at their live shows.

17. It’s the End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine) – R.E.M.

“It’s the End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” is a song by American rock band R.E.M., released in 1987. The song has a fast-paced, stream-of-consciousness style of lyrics that reference various cultural, political, and historical events, and has been described as a “mini-novel.” The chorus, “It’s the end of the world as we know it, and I feel fine,” became a popular catchphrase and a cultural reference. The song features catchy guitar riffs, driving drums, and Michael Stipe’s distinctive vocals. “It’s the End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” is a classic R.E.M. song, and a testament to their unique sound and style.

18. One Last Time – Ariana Grande

This song finds Ariana racked with guilt as she admits to her ex-boyfriend that she’s been unfaithful. She requests “one last time” with him as a final goodbye. Although this song is about a relationship, many people have used it to discuss farewells of any kind. The lyrics talk about a relationship that ended, and it’s the singer’s fault, so she’s apologizing and asking for one last moment with him before they break it off forever.