Are you feeling a little adventurous and looking for some new tunes to explore? Or maybe you just want to feel sentimental and appreciate a classic tune about a meaningful place. Either way, having a song with a location in the title makes for an entertaining and captivating melody.
To help you out on your search, we’ve compiled a list of the best songs with a location in the title you need to hear. Get ready for an eclectic mix of tunes from veteran and up and coming artists, both classic and modern.
“London Calling” by The Clash
The eponymous track from their classic 1979 album, “London Calling” by The Clash is without a doubt one of the best songs of all time. The hard-hitting punk rock tune is an anthem of the city and the post-punk movement it spawned. Every time it’s played, it stirs up feelings of nostalgia and rebellion.
“New York State of Mind” by Billy Joel
Featuring Billy Joel’s classic piano and vocal talent in a soulful ballad, “New York State of Mind” is a strong contender for the best song with a location in the title. The iconic jazz-inspired track stands out against the backdrop of the noisy hustle and bustle of the city. It celebrates the resilience and strength of New York City but also pays homage to the people and experiences that make it home.
“California Love” by 2pac feat. Dr. Dre
It’s impossible to make a “best songs with a location in the title” list without mentioning “California Love” by 2Pac feat. Dr. Dre. This hip-hop classic is guaranteed to get the party started and set the mood for a night full of dancing and nostalgia. The beat, the rhymes, and the chorus are practically perfect.
“Nashville Skyline” by Bob Dylan
The somber yet dignified “Nashville Skyline” by Bob Dylan is an ode to the beautiful city of Nashville. Dylan paints an aural picture full of melancholic Americana. His lovely singing style and iconic harmonica accompaniment make this track a classic.
“New Orleans is Sinking” by the Tragically Hip
The Canadian rock band the Tragically Hip is well-known for their excellent tunes and impressive live performances. “New Orleans is Sinking” is one of their greatest tracks and its title is a literal reference to its chorus as the band documents the city’s decline and deterioration.
“The Girl from Ipanema” by Astrud Gilberto and Stan Getz
The iconic “Girl from Ipanema” by Stan Getz and Astrud Gilberto is a jazz, samba, and bossa nova classic. The beautiful melody coupled with Gilberto’s breathy vocals and Getz’s jazzy saxophone create an irresistible track. This popular tune wasn’t just a hit in its homeland, Brazil, but all over the world.
“Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin
No best songs with a location in the title list would be complete without mentioning “Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin. This classic rock song features the band’s famed heavy guitar riffs and soaring vocals, as well as surprisingly flamenco inspired guitar and drum lines. It’s a song that’s sure to get everyone up and rocking out.
“Big Apple” by Grandmaster Flash
This iconic hip-hop track by Grandmaster Flash originally released in 1982 is still one of the best tracks about New York City. The catchy, disco-influenced beat coupled with Flash’s old-school rap is pure gold.
“Paris (0oooh La La)” by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
This soulful and infectious track by singer-songwriter Grace Potter and the Nocturnals is a love letter to the beautiful French city of Paris. Swaying guitars, soaring strings, and Potter’s sultry vocals make this stunning track one to remember.
“Miami” by Will Smith
Will Smith is back and bearing treats – “Miami” is his charming tribute to the Magic City. This party vibes track from the summer 2019 album features Smith’s trademark wit, soulful singing, and lyrical charm.
“Chicago” by Sufjan Stevens
Singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens might be best known for his beautiful folk albums but he has also released some beautiful upbeat pop tracks, including this one, “Chicago”. This track is full of charming sounds, whimsical lyrics, and of course, references to the Windy City.
“Romeo and Juliet” by Dire Straits
The classic love story of Romeo and Juliet has been told many times over but Dire Straits’ version might just be the best. This track has it all – romantic lyrics, dreamy instrumentals, and of course, a poetic reference to the city of Verona.
“California Gurls” by Katy Perry feat. Snoop Dogg
This is the ultimate summer track and an earworm if there ever was one. Released in 2010, “California Gurls” by Katy Perry and featuring Snoop Dogg is full of fun beats, catchy lyrics, and of course, plenty of references to the Golden State.
These are all amazing songs and each one has a message about a specific location that will resonate with listeners. From punk rock anthems to electro-pop, from classic jazz and R&B to hip-hop, each of these tunes has something special to offer. Whether you’re looking for a classic tune or a new single, these best songs with a location in the title are sure to provide you with hours of entertainment.
