18 Songs about the Future to Help You Look Ahead

The future is an uncertain and often daunting prospect, full of unknown challenges and potential opportunities. However, music has the power to help us navigate these uncertainties and find hope and inspiration in the face of adversity. From Leonard Cohen’s hauntingly beautiful “The Future” to Dua Lipa’s upbeat and infectious “Future Nostalgia”, there are countless songs about the future that can help us look ahead with a sense of optimism and excitement.

Some of these songs offer words of wisdom and encouragement, urging us to stay the course and hold on to hope even in the darkest of times. Others offer a sense of escape or release, helping us to imagine a world beyond our current struggles and limitations. Whether you’re feeling stuck in the present or looking for a source of inspiration and motivation, there is a song out there for you. In this collection, we have compiled a diverse selection of songs about the future to help you look ahead with confidence and excitement.

From John Legend’s soulful “Tomorrow” to Bastille’s anthemic “Give Me the Future”, these songs offer a range of perspectives and styles, united by a common message of hope and possibility. So take a listen, and let these songs help you navigate the uncertainties of the future with grace and determination.

1.The Future – Leonard Cohen

“The Future” by Leonard Cohen is a hauntingly beautiful song that explores themes of uncertainty and anxiety about the future. Cohen’s deep, gravelly voice is accompanied by a slow, mournful melody that creates a sense of foreboding. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world on the brink of collapse, where hope is in short supply and darkness seems to be closing in. Despite the bleakness of the message, there is a glimmer of hope in the final lines, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of redemption.

2.Future Proof – Massive Attack

“Future Proof” by Massive Attack is a mesmerizing electronic track that combines elements of trip-hop and ambient music. The song features a hypnotic beat and ethereal vocals, with lyrics that touch on themes of progress and transformation. The track builds slowly, adding layer upon layer of sound until it reaches a mesmerizing crescendo. The song’s title refers to the idea that technology and innovation will ultimately “future proof” us, allowing us to evolve and adapt to changing times. Overall, “Future Proof” is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant piece of music that invites listeners to contemplate the possibilities of the future.

3.Future – Paramore

“Future” by Paramore is an upbeat and catchy pop-rock song that celebrates the potential of the future. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to embrace change and take risks, suggesting that the unknown can be a source of excitement rather than fear. Lead singer Hayley Williams’ powerful vocals are backed by energetic guitar riffs and driving percussion, creating a sense of optimism and possibility. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious melody make it a feel-good anthem for anyone looking to take on the world.

4.Future Nostalgia – Dua Lipa

“Future Nostalgia” by Dua Lipa is a disco-inspired pop song that combines retro influences with modern production techniques. The song’s lyrics reflect on the fleeting nature of time and the bittersweet nostalgia that comes with looking back on the past. Lipa’s sultry vocals are backed by a funky bassline and shimmering synths, creating a sound that is both classic and contemporary. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hooks make it a dancefloor filler, while its introspective lyrics give it a depth and emotional resonance that sets it apart from typical pop fare. Overall, “Future Nostalgia” is a bold and inventive track that showcases Lipa’s versatility and artistry.

5.My Future – Billie Eilish

“My Future” by Billie Eilish is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases the singer’s emotive vocals and poetic lyrics. The song’s introspective lyrics reflect on the uncertainties of the future and the need for self-discovery and growth. The sparse instrumentation and dreamy production create an ethereal atmosphere, emphasizing the song’s intimate and personal message. Eilish’s vulnerable and raw performance captures the essence of the song’s message, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journey of self-discovery.

6.A Better Future – David Bowie

“A Better Future” by David Bowie is a hopeful and uplifting track that encourages listeners to look to the future with optimism and determination. The song’s lyrics celebrate the possibilities of progress and social change, suggesting that a better future is within our reach if we work together. Bowie’s unmistakable vocals are backed by a lively rhythm section and bright guitar riffs, creating a sense of energy and momentum. The song’s optimistic message and infectious melody make it a standout track on Bowie’s later albums, and a testament to his enduring influence and creativity.

7.Future Reflections – MGMT

“Future Reflections” by MGMT is a dreamy and psychedelic track that blends elements of electronic, pop, and rock music. The song’s lyrics explore themes of identity and self-discovery, with a particular focus on the ways in which our past experiences shape our future. The song’s hazy production and meandering melody create a sense of introspection and contemplation, while the band’s signature use of synthesizers and electronic effects give the song a futuristic edge. “Future Reflections” is a standout track on MGMT’s acclaimed debut album, and a testament to the band’s creative vision and experimental approach to music.

8.Future Lovers – Madonna

“Future Lovers” by Madonna is a sultry and seductive dance-pop track that showcases the singer’s signature style and energy. The song’s lyrics explore themes of romance and desire, with a particular emphasis on the thrill of new love and the potential for a bright future together. Madonna’s vocals are backed by a pulsating electronic beat and shimmering synths, creating a sound that is both infectious and alluring. The song’s catchy hooks and irresistible groove make it a dancefloor staple, while its themes of love and hope give it a timeless quality that has made it a fan favorite.

9.In the Year 2525 – Zager & Evans

“In the Year 2525” by Zager & Evans is a thought-provoking and dystopian track that imagines a bleak and mechanized future. The song’s lyrics describe a world in which humans have become increasingly dependent on technology and machines, with disastrous consequences for the environment and society. The song’s ominous tone and haunting melody create a sense of unease and uncertainty, underscoring the bleakness of the vision presented in the lyrics. “In the Year 2525” became a surprise hit in the late 1960s, and its stark message continues to resonate with listeners today.

10.Virtual Insanity – Jamiroquai

“Virtual Insanity” by Jamiroquai is a funky and energetic track that combines elements of funk, soul, and jazz with electronic production techniques. The song’s lyrics reflect on the dehumanizing effects of technology and modernity, suggesting that our reliance on screens and virtual experiences is taking us further away from genuine human connection. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious groove make it a fan favorite, while the band’s virtuosic musicianship and inventive production give it a timeless quality that has made it a classic of 1990s pop music.

11.Future Starts Slow – The Kills

“Future Starts Slow” by The Kills is a gritty and intense track that showcases the band’s raw and visceral sound. The song’s lyrics describe the rush of adrenaline that comes with taking risks and embracing the unknown, suggesting that the key to a fulfilling life is to embrace the future with confidence and fearlessness. The song’s driving rhythm and distorted guitar riffs create a sense of urgency and momentum, while the haunting vocals of Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince’s explosive drumming give the track a powerful edge. “Future Starts Slow” is a standout track on The Kills’ acclaimed album “Blood Pressures”, and a testament to the band’s dynamic and uncompromising approach to rock music.

12.Dear Future Husband – Meghan Trainor

“Dear Future Husband” by Meghan Trainor is a catchy and upbeat track that celebrates the joys of finding true love and a committed partner. The song’s lyrics playfully list the qualities and behaviors that the singer desires in a future spouse, from opening doors and buying flowers to showing respect and loyalty. The song’s upbeat production and infectious melody create a sense of joy and optimism, while Trainor’s confident and sassy vocals give the song a fun and empowering edge. “Dear Future Husband” was a chart-topping hit for Trainor in 2015, and its catchy hooks and playful lyrics continue to make it a fan favorite.

13.Future People – Alabama Shakes

“Future People” by Alabama Shakes is a soulful and funky track that showcases the band’s powerful vocals and bluesy guitar work. The song’s lyrics describe a longing for a better world and a brighter future, urging listeners to come together and work towards a more equitable and just society. The song’s infectious groove and dynamic instrumentation create a sense of joy and celebration, while the soaring vocals of Brittany Howard give the track a transcendent quality. “Future People” is a standout track on the band’s critically acclaimed album “Sound & Color”, and a testament to their innovative and genre-bending approach to rock music.

14.FutureSex/LoveSound – Justin Timberlake

“FutureSex/LoveSound” by Justin Timberlake is a sultry and seductive track that combines elements of funk, R&B, and electronic music. The song’s lyrics describe a night of passion and desire, with Timberlake’s smooth vocals conveying a sense of sensuality and intimacy. The song’s infectious beat and electronic production give it a modern and futuristic edge, while Timberlake’s dynamic vocal range and showmanship make it a standout track on his album of the same name. “FutureSex/LoveSound” was a chart-topping hit for Timberlake in 2006, and a defining track of his career as a solo artist.

15.Tomorrow – John Legend

“Tomorrow” by John Legend is a hopeful and inspiring track that encourages listeners to persevere through difficult times and hold on to the promise of a better tomorrow. The song’s lyrics describe the challenges and obstacles that we all face in life, but also emphasize the resilience and strength that comes from facing adversity with grace and determination. Legend’s soulful vocals and piano work create a sense of emotional depth and intimacy, while the song’s uplifting melody and gospel-inspired harmonies give it a sense of joy and celebration. “Tomorrow” is a standout track on Legend’s album “Bigger Love”, and a testament to his ability to create music that is both inspiring and deeply personal.

16.Hope for the Future – Paul McCartney

“Hope for the Future” by Paul McCartney is a haunting and ethereal track that was originally written for a video game of the same name. The song’s lyrics describe the power of imagination and the human spirit, urging listeners to hold on to hope even in the darkest of times. McCartney’s melodic vocals and shimmering guitar work create a sense of otherworldliness and wonder, while the song’s electronic production and futuristic soundscapes give it a sense of grandeur and scale. “Hope for the Future” is a testament to McCartney’s ability to create music that transcends genre and medium, and a reminder of the enduring power of hope and imagination.

17.Give Me the Future – Bastille

“Give Me the Future” by Bastille is an anthemic and energizing track that combines the band’s signature synth-pop sound with a sense of urgency and determination. The song’s lyrics describe a longing for something more, a desire to break free from the limitations of the present and embrace the limitless potential of the future. The song’s dynamic instrumentation and soaring vocals create a sense of empowerment and possibility, while the driving beat and electronic production give it a sense of momentum and energy. “Give Me the Future” is a standout track on the band’s album “Doom Days”, and a testament to their ability to create music that is both introspective and inspiring.

18.Any Day Now – Elbow

“Any Day Now” by Elbow is a haunting and atmospheric track that blends the band’s characteristic indie-rock sound with a sense of introspection and melancholy. The song’s lyrics describe a longing for change and a sense of restlessness, with the band’s frontman Guy Garvey’s emotive vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and yearning. The song’s sparse instrumentation and ambient production give it a sense of intimacy and atmosphere, while the soaring chorus and anthemic quality create a sense of hope and possibility. “Any Day Now” is a standout track on the band’s album “The Take Off and Landing of Everything”, and a reminder of the enduring power of great songwriting and emotive performance.