Water flows through music like a mighty river, shaping melodies and lyrics with its fluid essence. From gentle ripples to crashing waves, artists have captured water’s many forms in song. The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, and TLC are just a few who’ve penned aquatic anthems that have made a splash.
Music’s love affair with H2O runs deep, touching genres from rock to pop and beyond. These songs don’t just skim the surface; they dive into themes of life, love, and renewal. As we explore the best water-inspired tunes, you’ll discover how this vital element has soaked into the fabric of musical history.
Contents
- 1. Waterfalls – TLC
- 2. Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel
- 3. Water Under the Bridge – Adele
- 4. Ripple – Grateful Dead
- 5. Black Water – The Doobie Brothers
- 6. The Ocean – Led Zeppelin
- 7. Water – Brad Paisley
- 8. Something in the Water – Carrie Underwood
- 9. Water Runs Dry – Boyz II Men
- 10. Down By The Water – The Decemberists
- 11. Wade In The Water – Eva Cassidy
- 12. Dirty Water – The Standells
- 13. Drink the Water – Jack Johnson
- 14. Oily Water – Blur
- 15. Water Water – Empress Of
- 16. The Water Is Wide – James Taylor
- 17. Cool Water – Jack Scott, Sweet, Ron Furmanek
- 18. Misty Water – The Kinks
- 19. The Water Song – The Incredible String Band
- 20. Deeper Water – Paul Kelly
1. Waterfalls – TLC
Track Name: Waterfalls
Release Year: 1994
TLC’s “Waterfalls” dives deep into social issues, using water as a metaphor for life’s challenges. The R&B track’s smooth melody flows like a gentle stream, contrasting its heavy themes. Its iconic music video features the group performing on water, cementing the song’s aquatic imagery in pop culture.
The song’s impact rippled through the music industry, earning two Grammy nominations. Its lyrics about HIV and drug abuse made waves, sparking conversations about taboo topics. “Waterfalls” remains a powerful anthem, its message as relevant today as when it first splashed onto the charts in 1994.
2. Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel
Track Name: Bridge Over Troubled Water
Release Year: 1970
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” stands as a beacon among water-themed songs. Simon & Garfunkel’s soulful ballad flows with piano-driven melody and soaring vocals. The lyrics paint a picture of unwavering support, using water as a metaphor for life’s challenges.
The song’s production quality shines, with its crisp sound and layered arrangement. It’s garnered numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards for Record and Song of the Year in 1971. Artists from Aretha Franklin to Josh Groban have covered this timeless classic, each adding their unique ripple to its enduring legacy.
3. Water Under the Bridge – Adele
Track Name: Water Under the Bridge
Release Year: 2015
Adele’s “Water Under the Bridge” flows with a catchy pop rhythm and soulful vocals. The track’s upbeat tempo contrasts its lyrics about a relationship on the brink. Its watery metaphor paints a vivid picture of love slipping away, like a current that can’t be stopped.
The song’s production shines with crisp percussion and layered harmonies. Adele’s powerhouse voice rides the wave of the instrumental, creating a memorable chorus. Fans have embraced this tune as a danceable breakup anthem, proving Adele’s knack for turning heartache into musical gold.
4. Ripple – Grateful Dead
Track Name: Ripple – 2013 Remaster
Release Year: 1970
“Ripple” by the Grateful Dead flows like a gentle stream. Its folk-rock melody carries listeners on a journey of self-discovery. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of life’s ebbs and flows, much like water itself.
The 2013 remaster adds clarity to Jerry Garcia’s soothing vocals. It brings out the warmth of the acoustic guitar and mandolin. Fans often cite this track as a prime example of the Dead’s softer side, showcasing their versatility beyond psychedelic jams.
5. Black Water – The Doobie Brothers
Track Name: Black Water
Release Year: 1974
“Black Water” by The Doobie Brothers is a groovy ode to the Mississippi River. The song’s catchy melody and swampy vibe transport listeners to the Deep South. Its smooth harmonies and acoustic guitar riffs create a laid-back atmosphere perfect for a lazy day on the water.
The track’s standout feature is its a cappella bridge, showcasing the band’s vocal prowess. This unique element helped propel “Black Water” to become The Doobie Brothers’ first #1 hit. The song’s enduring popularity has made it a staple at their live shows, where fans eagerly anticipate singing along to the iconic chorus.
6. The Ocean – Led Zeppelin
Track Name: The Ocean – Remaster
Release Year: 1973
Led Zeppelin’s “The Ocean” captures the essence of water’s rhythmic power. The song’s riff rolls like waves, ebbing and flowing with Robert Plant’s vocals. Its remastered version from 1973 amplifies the aquatic feel, making it a standout in water-themed rock anthems.
The track’s production shines in its crisp, fluid sound. John Bonham’s drums crash like breakers on a shore, while Jimmy Page’s guitar work sparkles like sunlight on water. It’s a prime example of Led Zeppelin’s ability to evoke natural elements through music. Fans often cite it as a favorite for its maritime energy and infectious groove.
7. Water – Brad Paisley
Track Name: Water
Release Year: 2009
Brad Paisley’s “Water” makes a splash in the country music scene. The upbeat tune celebrates the joy of aquatic activities. Its catchy melody and playful lyrics paint a vivid picture of summertime fun.
The song’s production shines with crisp guitar riffs and Paisley’s signature twang. Fans and critics alike embraced the track, making it a summer anthem. The music video adds to the watery theme, featuring Paisley performing on a floating stage.
8. Something in the Water – Carrie Underwood
Track Name: Something in the Water
Release Year: 2014
Carrie Underwood’s “Something in the Water” makes a splash in the world of water-themed songs. This country-pop anthem dives deep with its powerful vocals and uplifting message. The track’s production shines, blending traditional country elements with a modern polish that elevates its impact.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of spiritual renewal through baptism. Its catchy chorus and soaring melody stick with listeners long after the final note fades. “Something in the Water” isn’t just a hit; it’s a cultural touchstone that resonated with fans and critics alike, snagging a Grammy for Best Country Solo Performance.
9. Water Runs Dry – Boyz II Men
Track Name: Water Runs Dry
Release Year: 1994
Boyz II Men’s “Water Runs Dry” flows with smooth R&B vibes. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a relationship drying up like a river. Its gentle harmonies and soulful vocals perfectly capture the essence of fading love.
The music video adds depth to the water theme. It features the group singing on a beach, waves crashing behind them. This visual element enhances the song’s message about the ebb and flow of relationships. “Water Runs Dry” remains a fan favorite, often sparking nostalgic memories of ’90s romance.
10. Down By The Water – The Decemberists
Track Name: Down By The Water
Release Year: 2011
The Decemberists’ “Down by the Water” dives into the folk-rock genre with a splash. Its haunting melody and Colin Meloy’s distinctive vocals create a mesmerizing aquatic atmosphere. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of longing and loss, set against the backdrop of a watery landscape.
The track’s production shines with its crisp, clear sound. Gillian Welch’s backing vocals add depth, like ripples on a calm lake. The song’s catchy chorus sticks with you long after the last note fades. It’s a perfect addition to any playlist of water-themed tunes, capturing the essence of liquid landscapes in musical form.
11. Wade In The Water – Eva Cassidy
Track Name: Wade In The Water
Release Year: 1997
Eva Cassidy’s rendition of “Wade in the Water” is a soulful journey through blues and gospel. Her powerful voice carries the spiritual’s message with raw emotion. The song’s aquatic theme flows through every note, creating a mesmerizing experience.
The 1997 recording showcases Cassidy’s unique ability to blend genres. Her guitar work adds depth to the traditional arrangement. Fans often cite this track as a standout in her catalog of water-themed songs.
12. Dirty Water – The Standells
Track Name: Dirty Water
Release Year: 1966
The Standells’ “Dirty Water” is a gritty ode to Boston’s Charles River. Its raw garage rock sound captures the essence of polluted urban waterways. The song’s catchy riff and rebellious lyrics made it an unexpected hit in 1966.
“Dirty Water” became an anthem for Boston sports teams. Fans at Fenway Park still sing it after Red Sox victories. The track’s enduring popularity proves that even murky waters can inspire great music. It’s a testament to rock’s power to turn grime into gold.
13. Drink the Water – Jack Johnson
Track Name: Drink the Water
Release Year: 2011
Jack Johnson’s “Drink the Water” is a mellow acoustic tune that flows like a gentle stream. The song’s laid-back vibe perfectly captures the essence of water’s calming nature. Its simple melody and Johnson’s soothing vocals create a serene atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of our connection to water and its importance in our lives. Johnson’s environmental message shines through, reminding us to appreciate this vital resource. The track’s subtle production allows the natural sounds of acoustic guitar and soft percussion to take center stage. It’s a refreshing addition to any playlist about water.
14. Oily Water – Blur
Track Name: Oily Water – Live at Wembley Stadium
Release Year: 2024
Blur’s live rendition of “Oily Water” at Wembley Stadium in 2024 drenches listeners in a wave of nostalgia. The song’s watery theme flows through distorted guitars and Damon Albarn’s haunting vocals. It’s a grungy, psychedelic trip that showcases Blur’s ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their Britpop roots.
The track’s production quality shines in this live version, with crisp acoustics filling the massive stadium. Fans sway like seaweed in a current, caught up in the song’s hypnotic rhythm. Graham Coxon’s guitar work stands out, creating a sonic whirlpool that pulls the audience deeper into the aquatic experience. It’s a testament to Blur’s enduring appeal and their knack for crafting immersive, water-themed tracks.
15. Water Water – Empress Of
Track Name: Water Water
Release Year: 2015
Empress Of’s “Water Water” dives into the depths of electropop with a refreshing splash. The song’s pulsating beats and shimmering synths create an aquatic soundscape. Its lyrics explore themes of desire and emotional fluidity, mirroring water’s ever-changing nature.
The track’s production glistens like sunlight on a rippling surface. Lorely Rodriguez’s vocals ebb and flow, carrying listeners on a sonic tide. Live performances of “Water Water” often feature mesmerizing visual effects that transform stages into oceanic dreamscapes. It’s a standout in the pool of water-themed songs, blending catchy hooks with deep emotional currents.
16. The Water Is Wide – James Taylor
Track Name: The Water Is Wide
Release Year: 1991
James Taylor’s rendition of “The Water Is Wide” is a serene folk ballad that perfectly captures the essence of water’s vastness. His smooth vocals glide over gentle acoustic guitar, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love as boundless as the sea.
The track’s production is crisp, allowing Taylor’s emotive performance to shine through. It’s become a fan favorite at live shows, where Taylor often shares anecdotes about his connection to the ocean. This timeless piece has inspired numerous covers, cementing its place in the pantheon of water-themed songs.
17. Cool Water – Jack Scott, Sweet, Ron Furmanek
Track Name: Cool Water – Remastered
Release Year: 2011
Jack Scott’s remastered version of “Cool Water” brings a refreshing twist to the classic water-themed tune. The 2011 release showcases crisp production quality, enhancing the song’s timeless appeal. Its country-western vibe paints a vivid picture of a parched traveler yearning for water in a barren landscape.
The track’s simple yet evocative lyrics capture the essence of thirst and relief. Scott’s smooth vocals glide over gentle guitar strums, creating a soothing atmosphere. This rendition stands out among water-themed songs for its ability to transport listeners to a sun-baked desert, making them almost taste the cool water themselves.
18. Misty Water – The Kinks
Track Name: Misty Water – Stereo Mix
Release Year: 1968
The Kinks’ “Misty Water – Stereo Mix” from 1968 is a hidden gem in the realm of aquatic-themed tunes. Its dreamy melody and Ray Davies’ soothing vocals paint a vivid picture of a foggy waterscape. The song’s gentle rhythm mimics the lapping of waves, creating a serene atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
This track showcases The Kinks’ softer side, a departure from their usual rock-driven sound. The stereo mix adds depth to the listening experience, letting you feel like you’re floating on a misty lake. It’s a perfect addition to any playlist about water, transporting listeners to a tranquil waterside setting with its evocative lyrics and mellow instrumentation.
19. The Water Song – The Incredible String Band
Track Name: The Water Song – 2010 Remaster
Release Year: 1968
The Incredible String Band’s “The Water Song” is a psychedelic folk gem from 1968. Its hypnotic melody and ethereal vocals transport listeners to a mystical water world. The song’s dreamy lyrics paint vivid images of rippling streams and shimmering seas, making it a standout in the water-themed music category.
The 2010 remaster breathes new life into this aquatic anthem. It enhances the original’s intricate acoustic guitar work and adds depth to the harmonies. Fans of The Incredible String Band will appreciate the crisp sound quality that brings out hidden nuances in the song’s layered composition. This remastered version is a must-listen for anyone exploring the best songs about water.
20. Deeper Water – Paul Kelly
Track Name: Deeper Water
Release Year: 2010
Paul Kelly’s “Deeper Water” dives into the depths of human experience. The song’s gentle acoustic strumming and Kelly’s raw vocals create a serene yet powerful atmosphere. Its lyrics paint vivid images of life’s journey, using water as a metaphor for growth and change.
The track’s simple arrangement allows Kelly’s storytelling to shine. Fans and critics alike have praised its poetic simplicity and emotional resonance. “Deeper Water” has become a staple in Kelly’s live performances, often eliciting a hushed reverence from audiences. It’s a prime example of Kelly’s knack for crafting songs that flow like rivers, carrying listeners along on a current of melody and meaning.