In music, magic can mean different things; from Harry Potter spells to the feeling we get when we fall in love.
So it’s no wonder that a great number of songs about magic have been written.
And for today’s article, we selected the best songs about magic.
We included different styles and genres, so there’s surely something magical that will suit your preferences.
1. “Strange Magic” by Electric Light Orchestra
“Strange Magic” is a hauntingly beautiful song about a fascinating woman that was released by ELO in 1975 on their album Face the Music.
Harmonies and hooks, in addition to the distinctive ELO string section, make this track stand out.
2. “Rhiannon” by Fleetwood Mac
Stevie Nicks, the main vocalist of Fleetwood Mac, is known to frequently include ethereal elements in her songs, and Rhiannon is not an exception to this rule.
The song tells the story of a mysterious woman who travels across the clouds on her wings. In addition to that, there are some romantic undertones to it.
The story of the novel Triad, in which a lady becomes possessed by a witch named Rhiannon, served as the inspiration for the character.
Nicks learned much later that Rhiannon is in fact a deity who is worshipped in Wales. Nicks would use this mythology as inspiration for subsequent songs as well.
3. “I Put A Spell On You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins
This quick rock song employs the idea of casting a spell as a metaphor to show how desperately a man wants to hold on to the woman he loves.
The lyrics allude to feelings of possessiveness over a love relationship in which one partner appears to be losing interest in the other.
On the other hand, the other person is not ready to give up, and they are willing to do whatever it takes to keep their connection intact.
Even the lyrics of the song say that the love of the protagonist will be enough for the two of them. Staying is the only thing the other person needs to do for things to work out.
4. “Spanish Castle Magic” by The Jimi Hendrix Experience
“Spanish Castle Magic,” which was originally released on Hendrix’s Axis: Bold As Love album in 1967, became a fixture of Hendrix’s live performances.
Noel Redding plays an eight-string Hagstrom bass while being processed by an Octavia effects unit; the tune is excellent.
5. “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” by The Police
This song was written by Sting about 5 years before The Police made their official recording of it.
The song is about a man who has difficulties expressing his feelings for his love interest and continually fantasizes about them being together, but he can’t muster up the confidence to tell her how he feels.
Instead, he portrays everything that she does as being excellent.
6. “A Kind of Magic” by Queen
The legendary band Queen from the United Kingdom contributed this renowned song to the soundtrack of the supernatural action movie, “Highlander.”
In the movie, there are immortals living among humans and they have complete freedom to roam all over the earth.
Their purpose is to be successful in fights alongside the other immortals and take part in the gathering. This is why there is a lyric in the song that says “There could only be one,” which refers to the one and only winner.
7. “Black Magic Woman” by Santana
The song “Black Magic Woman,” which appeared on Santana’s second album Abraxas (1970), went on to become a fan favorite and one of the band’s biggest singles.
Santana had a special liking for early Fleetwood Mac with Peter Green, and hence the cover version of the 1968 track. Congas and timbales were added to the mix to give the song a more exotic vibe.
8. “Wear Your Love Like Heaven” by Donovan
This song does a great job of utilizing psychedelic beats to give the idea that there is some aspect of the mysterious or otherworldly.
However, despite the fact that psychedelic rock inherently sounds like it comes from another universe, this wasn’t something that had been done often at the time.
Donovan was one of the first people to accomplish this, if not the very first. This song evokes feelings of the supernatural with its use of natural imagery, psychedelic color palettes, and several references to extraterrestrial creatures such as God and Allah.
9. “Do You Believe in Magic?” by The Lovin’ Spoonful
This timeless pop song from the 1960s is all about the transformative power that music can have on its listeners.
The story discusses a variety of genres of music and how certain forms of music might influence the feelings and dispositions of the listener.
Additionally, the lyrics exhort the listener to have faith in the power of music to help them let go of their worries and simply take pleasure in life.
10. “Houdini” by Kate Bush
If an essay were to be written on magic, it would be incomplete if Houdini, the great master of illusion, was not mentioned. And who better than master composer Kate Bush to sing about him in a song?
The song ‘Houdini’ was included on Bush’s album ‘The Dreaming.’ The lyrics of the song are written from Bess Houdini’s point of view, who was Harry Houdini’s wife.
The hypothesis that Bess used to place the key to his handcuffs on her tongue and then pass it to him covertly when she gave him a good luck kiss before the act is referenced in the sentence “With a kiss, I’ll pass the key.”
In addition, a séance is alluded to several times throughout the song’s lyrics.
Bess was given the assurance by Houdini that he would communicate with her after his death by utilizing the code phrase “Rosabelle believe.”
11. “Magic” by Coldplay
Coldplay released “Magic” on their sixth studio album “Ghost Stories” in 2014.
And everything about this song indeed is magical; Chris Martin’s soothing voice, a powerful build-up, and a sentimental story behind it.
In one of the interviews, Chris Martin confirmed that “Magic” was written about the breakdown of his relationship with Gwyneth Paltrow.
12. “Magic” by Kylie Minogue
In her 2020 disco hit “Magic”, Kylie Minogue believes that anything can happen.
And it’s true: we don’t know what will happen tomorrow so we might as well enjoy the moment and believe in magic.
13. “You Can Do Magic” by America
I never believed in things that I couldn’t see
I said if I can’t feel it then how can it be
No, no magic could happen to me…
The protagonist in “You Can Do Magic” by America is sure that there’s no magic in this world. And then, of course, someone special casts a spell and they change their mind.
Love is sometimes the mightiest potion of all…
14. “Magic” by B.o.B
B.o.B released “Magic” in 2010, and listening to it immediately takes us back in time. That’s the magic of music.
But in this catchy tune, B.o.B. believes that there’s magic in him. For example, the tracks he touches turn into gold. A lucky guy.
15. “Magic” by Julia Jacklin
This is definitely one of the newest songs on this list.
A talented Australian singer/songwriter released her dreamy song about magic as a part of her third studio album “Pre Pleasure”.
16. “Magic” by POLO & PAN
With POLO & PAN, you can simply sit back, relax, and let the music overwhelm you.
“Magic” is a track from their 2021 album “Deep House Study”, and just like many other tunes they released, it will make you feel carefree and hopeful.
It’s a perfect tune for your magical chill playlist.
17. “Houdini” by Foster The People
Another song dedicated to the famous Harry Houdini is this motivating tune by Foster The People released on their debut album in 2011.
In fact, “Houdini” was their breakthrough song, and we can see why.
The song was also nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Music Video.
18. “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars
Another popular song with magic in the title is “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars.
The song’s title is actually referring to 24-karat gold, the purest kind of gold.
Well, whether you find being rich magical or not, you have to admit that “24K Magic” is quite catchy and danceable.
19. “Magical Mystery Tour” by The Beatles
This fun, quirky song recorded by The Beatles is actually a soundtrack for the British television film of the same name.
Despite widespread media criticism of the ‘Magical Mystery Tour’ film (allegedly because the BBC aired it in black and white first), the soundtrack was a critical and commercial success.
20. “Magic Bus” by The Who
When somebody says magic bus, we immediately think of Harry Potter.
However, let’s not forget about this 1968 track by The Who.
The lyrics of the song aren’t very clear, but one thing is for sure: Roger Daltrey really wants that magic bus.
21. “Black Magic” by Little Mix
This upbeat, catchy pop song about black magic was released in 2015. But the song is somehow still stuck in our heads… Perhaps it’s black magic.
The music video also received positive reactions from critics and fans thanks to its references to beloved witch-themed shows and films.
22. “Spells” by Greentea Peng
Greentea Peng will put a different kind of spell on you with her mesmerizing music.
According to the singer, “Spells” explores the idea of tribalism and the want/illusion or desire to please everyone and gain their acceptance.
23. “Magic” by Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen released “Magic” on his 2007 studio album of the same name. And the song sounds exactly like you would expect it to sound; and that could be good or bad, depending on your relationship with Bruce Springsteen.
Either way, the song “Magic” talks about illusions and not trusting (or trusting) people.
24. “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder
Without a doubt, this is the most iconic song about magic and the supernatural.
And although “Superstition” is this music legend’s number one hit, he actually sings against it: he believes that superstition ain’t the way.
25. “That Old Black Magic” by Frank Sinatra
Speaking of music legends, let’s take a moment to appreciate Frank Sinatra’s cover version of the 1941 tune “That Old Black Magic”.
He is singing about that same old witchcraft when her eyes meet his… Well, we all know that feeling.
26. “Don’t Kill The Magic” by MAGIC!
Conveniently enough, the band called MAGIC! recorded a song called “Don’t Kill The Magic”.
It’s a catchy track about all the ways a man is trying to get his lover back. The song’s protagonist isn’t ready to give up yet, and he’s prepared to do anything. Perhaps even magic.
27. “We Must Believe In Magic” by Johnny Cash
The message of “We Must Believe In Magic” is pretty straightforward. If you believe in magic, you’ll have the universe at your command.
Johnny Cash gave us all pretty good advice back in 1982.
28. “All The Magic” by Natalie Imbruglia
Natalie Imbruglia’s songs are always a nice throwback.
She released “All The Magic” in 2007. It’s a tender song about opening your heart and seeing magic all around you. Just try it – it’s possible.
29. “Magic Touch” by KISS
Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without the magic touch of a beloved face-painted band.
“Magic Touch” is taken from KISS’ album “Dynasty” from 1979. So, it’s definitely not a new track, but there’s still something magical about it.
30. “The Magic Is Working” by Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson’s “The Magic Is Working” will make you want to dance around in your living room.
And that’s the same effect as the magic she’s singing about: it’s, of course, love.
So, this catchy pop tune from the 80s is actually an ode to falling in love.
31. “Potion Approaching” by Arctic Monkeys
The indie legends Arctic Monkeys also released a song about magic and potions.
“Potion Approaching” is a part of their fantastic studio album “Humbug” released in 2007.
The song is captivating and at times mysterious… It sounds like the magic potion is just about to kick in.
32. “Which Witch” by Florence + the Machine
Of course, we also need to include a few songs about witches. They are the main cause of magic, after all…
“Which Witch” by Florence + the Machine is a rather enchanting song about all sorts of witchcraft.
The song is a part of Florence’s brilliant album “How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful”.
33. “Burn The Witch” by Radiohead
Radiohead’s “Burn The Witch” is thematically somewhat different but no less enchanting.
The music video is also quite interesting. In a way, it’s a criticism of authority, but it could also be an introspective song about anxiety and inner demons. Both explanations make sense.
Either way, it’s a fantastic (but almost scary) song that once you hear it, doesn’t leave your head so easily.
34. “Magic Carpet Ride” by Steppenwolf
Steppenwolf’s Aladdin-themed rock track will really take your mind somewhere else – perhaps on a magic carpet ride.
The song was initially released in 1968, and it stayed on song charts for weeks.
In fact, it stayed there longer than any other Steppenwolf song. They obviously found their magical formula.
35. “Season Of The Witch” by Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey did a lovely job in covering Donovan’s hit song “Season Of The Witch”.
This magic-themed song is a perfect song for the upcoming season and your Halloween playlist.
It must be the season of the witch…
Songs About Magic – Final Thoughts
As you can see, songs about magic are quite versatile. For every artist, magic means something else.
After all, magic comes in many forms. And sometimes you just need to pay attention to notice it.
Nevertheless, we hope these songs added a little magic to your day!
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