17 Amazing Songs with Clapping in Them

Clapping is a fundamental element of music that can be found in many genres and styles of music. It has been used to create rhythmic patterns and to keep time for centuries, and continues to be a popular technique among musicians today.

In some songs, clapping can be the centerpiece, driving the rhythm and energy of the entire track. In this context, clapping serves as a powerful tool for bringing people together, creating a sense of community and shared experience. There are countless examples of songs that feature clapping, from classic rock anthems to modern pop hits.

These songs often have a universal appeal that transcends genre and era, and they can be found on playlists and radio stations around the world. Some songs use clapping as a way to create a sense of joy and celebration, while others use it to add intensity or create tension. Whatever the purpose, clapping is a powerful and versatile tool that has been used by some of the greatest musicians of all time to create memorable and impactful songs.

In this collection of amazing songs with clapping, we will explore some of the best examples of this technique, and delve into the stories and emotions behind the music.

1.Bang a Gong (Get It On) – T-Rex

“Bang a Gong (Get It On)” is a classic rock song by the British band T-Rex, released in 1971. With its catchy guitar riff and Marc Bolan’s sultry vocals, the song has become a staple of rock radio and pop culture. The lyrics are somewhat ambiguous, with Bolan’s use of metaphors and wordplay creating a sense of sexual tension and excitement. The song’s driving rhythm and infectious melody make it a timeless rock anthem that continues to be enjoyed by audiences today. “Bang a Gong (Get It On)” is a testament to T-Rex’s influence on the glam rock movement and their place in rock history.

2.No Fun – The Stooges

“No Fun” is a raw and gritty rock song by American band The Stooges, released in 1969. The song’s driving rhythm and Iggy Pop’s confrontational vocals embody the rebellious spirit of punk rock that would emerge in the following decade. The lyrics reflect a sense of nihilism and disillusionment with the world, with Pop declaring that “there’s no fun to be had” and urging the listener to “come on and get some” anyway. The song’s minimalist instrumentation and aggressive delivery influenced countless punk and alternative rock bands that followed. “No Fun” remains a classic example of The Stooges’ raw and unapologetic approach to rock music.

3.Stuck in the Middle With You – Stealers Wheel

“Stuck in the Middle with You” is a folk rock song by Scottish band Stealers Wheel, released in 1972. The song’s catchy melody and clever lyrics, with its playful use of metaphor and wordplay, make it an enduring classic of the era. The upbeat rhythm and sunny harmonies belie the darker themes of the song, which touch on feelings of uncertainty and disillusionment in the face of life’s challenges. The song’s memorable hook and infectious energy have made it a popular choice for use in films and TV shows, cementing its place in popular culture. “Stuck in the Middle with You” is a testament to Stealers Wheel’s unique blend of folk, rock, and pop sensibilities.

4.Only the Good Die Young’ – Billy Joel

“Only the Good Die Young” is a classic rock song by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel, released in 1977. The song’s playful and irreverent lyrics, which urge a Catholic girl to give up her virginity, caused some controversy upon its release but have since become a beloved part of Joel’s catalog. The song’s catchy melody, driving piano chords, and gospel-inspired backing vocals give it a timeless quality that still resonates with audiences today. Joel’s confident delivery and wry sense of humor make “Only the Good Die Young” a standout track in his impressive career, and a testament to his ability to blend rock, pop, and other musical influences into a unique sound.

5.Take the Money and Run – Steve Miller Band

“Take the Money and Run” is a classic rock song by American band the Steve Miller Band, released in 1976. The song’s catchy guitar riff and upbeat tempo make it a quintessential feel-good rock anthem. The lyrics tell the story of a couple on the run from the law, with the catchy refrain “go on take the money and run” adding to the song’s fun, carefree vibe. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, with its use in films and TV shows cementing its place in popular culture. “Take the Money and Run” is a testament to the Steve Miller Band’s ability to craft memorable, infectious rock songs that stand the test of time.

6.I Want to Hold Your Hand – The Beatles

“I Want to Hold Your Hand” is a classic pop song by British band The Beatles, released in 1963. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus epitomize the exuberance and optimism of the early 1960s, and helped to launch The Beatles’ worldwide fame. The song’s simple, yet heartfelt lyrics express the innocent longing of a young lover, and the desire for physical affection. The song’s infectious energy and sing-along chorus make it an enduring favorite among fans of The Beatles and pop music in general. “I Want to Hold Your Hand” is a testament to The Beatles’ songwriting prowess, and their ability to create music that transcends time and culture.

7.Jack and Diane – John Cougar Mellencamp

“Jack and Diane” is a classic rock song by American singer-songwriter John Cougar Mellencamp, released in 1982. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo, along with Mellencamp’s distinctive voice, make it a memorable rock anthem. The song’s lyrics tell the story of two young lovers growing up in a small town, and their dreams of escaping to a brighter future. The song’s chorus, with its repetition of “Oh yeah, life goes on,” captures the bittersweet nostalgia of looking back on one’s youth. “Jack and Diane” remains a beloved classic of American rock music, and a testament to Mellencamp’s ability to create catchy, heartfelt songs that resonate with audiences.

8.Another One Bites the Dust – Queen

“Another One Bites the Dust” is a classic rock song by British band Queen, released in 1980. The song’s iconic bassline and infectious rhythm make it a favorite of fans of funk, disco, and rock music. The song’s lyrics, with its repeated chorus of “Another one bites the dust,” have been interpreted as a commentary on the high stakes and cutthroat nature of the music industry, and the toll it can take on performers. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, with its use in films, TV shows, and sporting events cementing its place in popular culture. “Another One Bites the Dust” is a testament to Queen’s ability to blend diverse musical influences into a unique sound, and to create music that transcends genres and generations.

9.My Best Friend’s Girl – The Cars

“My Best Friend’s Girl” is a classic new wave song by American band The Cars, released in 1978. The song’s infectious guitar riff and catchy chorus make it a quintessential example of the new wave sound that was popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is in love with his best friend’s girlfriend, and the conflicting emotions that result. The song’s energetic, upbeat tempo and the smooth vocals of lead singer Ric Ocasek make it a fan favorite. “My Best Friend’s Girl” is a testament to The Cars’ ability to blend rock, pop, and new wave influences into a distinctive sound, and to create music that is both catchy and emotionally resonant.

10.Tender – Blur

This song is about Damon Albarn’s breakup with his girlfriend, Elastica frontwoman Justine Frischmann. In an interview with The Observer, Frischmann confessed that she cried the first time she heard this song, then became irritated and embarrassed, before her attitude finally softened. Damon Alban and Graham Coxon of Blur wrote the song and the two bandmates shared the vocals on the track. The London Community Gospel Choir performed the backing vocals.

11.All the Young Dudes – Mott the Hoople

All the Young Dudes was a turning point for the then-struggling British band. Mott the Hoople were on the verge of breaking up when David Bowie stepped in and gave them the song “All the Young Dudes”. Bowie also produced the album, which took Mott “from potential has-beens to avatars of the glam rock movement”. A remastered and expanded version was released by Sony BMG on the Columbia Legacy label in the United Kingdom and the United States on 21 February 2006.
The title track, “All the Young Dudes”, was released as a single prior to the album and charted worldwide, becoming the “ultimate ’70s glitterkid anthem”. “Sweet Jane”, a cover of the Velvet Underground song from their 1970 album Loaded, was issued as a single in Canada, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and the United States, though not in their home market of the UK. “One of the Boys”, originally the B-side of “All the Young Dudes”, was also released in North America and Continental Europe.

12.Eight Days a Week – The Beatles

“Eight Days a Week” is a classic pop song by British band The Beatles, released in 1964. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it an iconic example of the “Merseybeat” sound that defined the early years of the British Invasion. The song’s lyrics express the intensity and joy of falling in love, with the narrator declaring his willingness to devote all his time and energy to his beloved. “Eight Days a Week” remains a beloved favorite of Beatles fans and a testament to the band’s enduring popularity and influence.

13.Andy Warhol – David Bowie

“Andy Warhol” is a song by British musician David Bowie, released in 1971. The song is a tribute to the influential American artist, and features a hypnotic, repetitive melody and sparse instrumentation. The lyrics reference Warhol’s art and lifestyle, and offer a meditation on the nature of celebrity and the role of the artist in society. “Andy Warhol” is a standout track on Bowie’s iconic album “Hunky Dory,” and remains a favorite of fans of his work. The song is a testament to Bowie’s ability to push the boundaries of pop music, and to use his platform to explore complex and challenging themes.

14.Sinnerman – Nina Simone

“Sinnerman” is a classic gospel song that has been covered by a number of artists, but perhaps the most powerful rendition was by American singer-songwriter and civil rights activist Nina Simone. Her version, released in 1965, is an intense and haunting performance that showcases Simone’s incredible voice and her ability to convey raw emotion through music. The song’s lyrics are based on traditional African American spirituals, and tell the story of a sinner trying to outrun his past and find redemption. Simone’s version of “Sinnerman” is a masterclass in vocal performance, with her soaring vocals driving the song’s emotional power.

15.We Will Rock You – Queen

“We Will Rock You” is an iconic stadium anthem by British rock band Queen, released in 1977. The song’s distinctive beat, created by a combination of clapping, stomping, and chanting, has become instantly recognizable and is a staple at sports events and concerts around the world. The song’s simple lyrics and powerful rhythm create a sense of unity and energy that is impossible to resist, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and motivate people to this day. “We Will Rock You” is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create a sense of shared purpose and passion.

16.Hand Clapping Song – The Meters

“Hand Clapping Song” is a funky instrumental track by American funk band The Meters, released in 1970. The song’s distinctive rhythm and driving bassline make it a quintessential example of the New Orleans funk sound that The Meters helped to define. As the title suggests, the song also features plenty of hand claps and percussion, creating a party-ready atmosphere that is impossible to resist. “Hand Clapping Song” is a standout track on The Meters’ self-titled album, and remains a favorite of funk fans around the world.

17.Living for the City – Stevie Wonder

“Living for the City” is a powerful soul song by American musician Stevie Wonder, released in 1973. The song tells the story of a young man from the country who moves to the city in search of a better life, only to find himself caught up in poverty, racism, and injustice. The song’s lyrics and Wonder’s soulful delivery make it a poignant and timely commentary on the struggles faced by many African Americans in the 1970s, and the need for greater social justice and equality. “Living for the City” is a masterpiece of soul music, and a testament to Wonder’s ability to use his art to shed light on important social issues.