Are you a bookworm who loves music?
If so, you’re in for a treat!
This article will take you through some of the best songs about books.
From classics like Kate Bush’s “Wuthering Heights” to modern masterpieces like Green Day’s “Who Wrote Holden Caulfield?”, These 13 songs will satisfy both your literary and musical cravings.
With insightful lyrics that explore characters and themes from beloved books, each song is sure to both captivate and inspire you.
So, let’s dive in and explore the best songs about Books!
1. “Wuthering Heights” by Kate Bush
You can’t talk about books and music without mentioning the iconic song “Wuthering Heights” by Kate Bush!
Bush’s haunting lyrics and ethereal sound capture the passionate, turbulent love story of Emily Bronte’s novel of the same name.
The song is a beautiful tribute to the novel, perfectly encapsulating the characters’ emotions and struggles with life and love.
Bush’s ability to bring the novel to life with her music is a testament to her creativity and artistry.
2. “1984” by David Bowie
Lost in the pages of a book, David Bowie’s music captures the captivating feeling of being entranced by a story.
His song “1984” is a perfect example of that talent, evoking a sense of mystery and nostalgia.
His lyrics draw on the power of words to conjure powerful images and emotions in the listener.
The song is a tribute to the power of literature as if Bowie is paying homage to the books which have inspired him.
He creates a world of beauty and imagination with this track, a world that only the pages of books can bring to life.
3. “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds” by The Beatles
Immerse yourself in a psychedelic wonderland with The Beatles’ classic “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds”.
This timeless song is a celebration of boundless creativity, full of kaleidoscopic beauty.
John Lennon’s inspiration came from a drawing by his son Julian, and the lyrics are full of colorful imagery and dreamy wordplay.
The music evokes a fantastical landscape of Technicolor hues and shimmering sounds that transport the listener to otherworldly realms.
A whimsical ode to the power of literature and the imagination, “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds” will always remain a classic.
4. “Ramble On” by Led Zeppelin
Delve into the mystical world of Led Zeppelin’s “Ramble On”, a track sure to captivate your senses.
Its lyrics capture the magical journey of Frodo and Sam across the Middle-earth.
Musically, the song is a blend of folk and blues rock, with Plant’s vocals soaring over Page’s intricate guitar riffs.
It’s a classic example of the band’s songwriting prowess and a must-listen for fans of literature and rock music alike.
5. “Who Wrote Holden Caulfield?” by Green Day
When it comes to punk rock anthems that resonate with a generation, Green Day’s “Who Wrote Holden Caulfield?” is undoubtedly a standout.
The lyrics of “Who Wrote Holden Caulfield?” are a poetic portrayal of youthful rebellion and the struggle to find one’s place in the world.
Billie Joe Armstrong, Green Day’s lead vocalist and lyricist, uses vivid imagery and poignant lines to convey the feeling of being lost and misunderstood, much like Holden Caulfield in the novel.
Green Day’s song is a powerful tribute to the timeless story of Holden Caulfield.
6. “Scentless Apprentice” by Nirvana
Nirvana, the iconic grunge band led by the late Kurt Cobain, is renowned for its ability to capture raw emotion and rebellion in its music.
One of the most powerful and visceral tracks in their repertoire is “Scentless Apprentice”, a song that embodies the essence of Nirvana’s intense and unapologetic style.
Musically, “Scentless Apprentice” is an onslaught of sound.
The track begins with a dissonant and jarring guitar riff, immediately setting a tone of discord and unease.
Dave Grohl’s drumming is nothing short of ferocious, propelling the song forward with relentless energy.
Krist Novoselic’s bass lines provide a menacing undertone that adds depth to the cacophony.
“Scentless Apprentice” by Nirvana is a testament to the band’s artistic courage and their willingness to delve into the deepest corners of human emotion.
7. “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” by The Police
The Police’s hit single “Don’t Stand So Close To Me” is a relatable and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of human relationships.
Through its lyrics, it tells the story of a teacher’s feelings of guilt and responsibility for the attraction felt between himself and a student.
The song captures the dangers of crossing the boundaries between student and teacher and serves as a warning about the impact these decisions can have.
Its clever use of metaphor and allusion to literature make this a timeless classic.
8. “China In Your Hand” by T’Pau
T’Pau’s “China In Your Hand” is a timeless classic that nails the bittersweet reality of a long-distance relationship.
It poignantly highlights how even the strongest of loves can be tested by physical separation.
You can feel the pain and longing in the lyrics, and the music evokes the same emotions.
There’s a sense of hope in the song, yet it reminds us of the challenges that come with maintaining a relationship from afar.
It’s a powerful reminder of the strength of love, and how with enough effort, it can endure even the toughest of tests.
9. “Paperback Writer” by The Beatles
Calling all aspiring authors, The Beatles’ “Paperback Writer” is your anthem.
Through cleverly crafted lyrics, the song captures the joy of writing.
It narrates the story of a writer in pursuit of fame and a book deal.
With its upbeat melody and clever wordplay, the song conveys the thrill of a writer’s journey.
It’s the perfect ode to the craft of writing, celebrating the joy of creating something new.
It’s a timeless classic for aspiring authors everywhere.
10. “Book Club” by Arkells
Gather your book-loving friends and crank up Arkells’ “Book Club” – a rousing anthem to the joys of reading.
Lyrically, the song speaks to the power of literature to connect us to the past and to each other.
The narrator is relishing in the shared experience of reading and gathering with friends to talk about the books they’ve read.
Musically, the driving beat and rousing chorus will have you joining in the celebration of the written word.
It’s an uplifting, joyful ode to the pleasures of reading.
11. “Flow Like Poe” by MC Lars
Let MC Lars take you on a lyrical journey with “Flow Like Poe” – a tribute to the legendary poet Edgar Allan Poe.
MC Lars’ clever rhymes, witty references, and clever wordplay make this track a lyrical masterpiece.
His homage to Poe is both heartfelt and thought-provoking, as he pays tribute to the master of horror.
By combining hip-hop and punk rock, MC Lars creates a unique soundscape that is both catchy and powerful.
It’s an ode to literature that just can’t be ignored.
12. “The Book I Read” by Talking Heads
Take a journey through literature with Talking Heads’ “The Book I Read”.
The song captures the joy, curiosity, and awe of reading with its upbeat melodies and storytelling lyrics.
Its storytelling style encourages listeners to explore books and the characters within them.
With its infectious beat and guitar riffs, the song encourages readers to believe in the power of books to transport them to fantastic places.
Its lyrics are a testament to the power of reading, as they evoke a sense of awe and wonder at the worlds that books can take us to.
13. “Rocket Man” by Elton John
Transitioning from one great song about books to another, Elton John’s “Rocket Man” is a classic tale of longing for home and a life left behind.
The protagonist embarks on a journey that takes him away from all he knows, leaving him feeling isolated and lonely.
The song speaks to the power of books—their ability to transport us to other worlds, and to comfort us in moments of despair.
Songs About Books – Final Thoughts
You’ve just heard some of the best songs about books ever written!
Whether you like classic rock, punk, or indie, there’s something for everyone.
From Kate Bush’s haunting “Wuthering Heights” to Elton John’s classic “Rocket Man”, these songs provide an insightful look into the minds of the writers.
They tell stories of love, loss, and power, and they will stay with you long after the music stops.
Give them a listen and let their words transport you to a world of literature and imagination.
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