The relationship between humans and horses is a long and storied one, from ancient battles to the modern show ring.
Many of these stories have been immortalized in song, with countless artists singing of their bond with horses.
From the outlaws of the Wild West to the majestic steeds of fantasy, these songs celebrate the power of the horse.
This article will explore 15 of the best songs about ponies and horses, from classic rock to modern country.
Each song is unique in its own way, capturing the spirit of the horse and the human connection.
We will look at the lyrics and the context of each song, examining how it captures the essence of the horse.
So, grab your cowboy hat and saddle up, as we explore the best songs about ponies and horses.
1. “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X Ft. Billy Ray Cyrus
The 2018 single “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus has gained widespread popularity due to its country-rap blend and unique music video.
The song is a catchy tune with a sing-along chorus that has resonated with people from all walks of life.
The song’s fusion of country and hip-hop music styles has made it a hit in both genres.
In addition, its music video has become a viral sensation, garnering millions of views with its vibrant and colorful visuals.
The song has become a classic and is sure to remain popular for years to come.
2. “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones
Released in 1971, The Rolling Stones‘ “Wild Horses” is a classic rock ballad that speaks to the majesty and independence of equine creatures.
Lyrically, the song speaks to the power of the horse as an iconic symbol of freedom and power.
Musically, the song has a slow, wistful tempo which adds to its overall melancholic tone.
The song’s instrumental arrangement is made up of a variety of instruments such as electric guitar, organ, and backing vocals.
In addition, the song’s unique vocal delivery is a testament to the talent of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.
“Wild Horses” is a timeless representation of the beauty and strength of horses.
3. “Chasin’ Wild Horses” by Bruce Springsteen
“Chasin’ Wild Horses”, written and performed by Bruce Springsteen, is a rousing tribute to the spirit of the wild horse.
Springsteen’s lyrics express admiration for the horse’s freedom and determination, noting that it is impossible to possess them and that their spirit is too strong to be tamed.
Musically, the song is a lively country-rock anthem, with a driving beat and an uplifting chorus.
Springsteen’s trademark vocal style is also an integral part of the song, lending it a sense of intensity and emotion.
“Chasin’ Wild Horses” is an enduring classic that celebrates the beauty and power of the wild horse.
4. “Fastest Horse In Town” by Sturgill Simpson
Sturgill Simpson’s “Fastest Horse In Town” is a high-energy country-rock anthem that pays homage to the power and speed of the horse.
It blends a rock-style electric guitar solo with old-timey twangy banjo and slide guitar.
The lyrics describe the thrill of riding a powerful horse and the joy of a carefree life away from the stresses of the city.
The upbeat tempo and powerful lyrics evoke a sense of freedom and connection to the natural world.
This song is a tribute to the power and beauty of horses.
5. “Black Horse And The Cherry Tree” by KT Tunstall
KT Tunstall’s Grammy-nominated song, “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree”, is an upbeat folk-rock tune that tells the story of a young woman’s journey to self-discovery and freedom.
The lyrics explore themes of self-exploration, determination, and independence, as the protagonist chooses to take a chance on herself and leave her old life behind.
The song is driven by an energetic rhythm and acoustic guitar riffs that create an atmosphere of adventure and courage.
The overall effect is an uplifting and inspiring message of hope and empowerment.
6. “Goodbye Horses” by Q Lazzarus
Q Lazzarus’ “Goodbye Horses” is a melancholic yet uplifting song. It serves as a reminder of the beauty found in life’s challenging moments.
The song’s lyrics describe a person’s longing for freedom and their wish for something better.
The music is haunting, featuring elements of gothic, industrial, and new-wave music.
The instrumentation is sparse, with a steady drumbeat and minimal synth accompaniment.
The chorus builds in intensity, with Lazzarus’ powerful vocals conveying the emotion of the lyrics.
“Goodbye Horses” is an emotionally stirring song, one that captures the power of accepting life’s hardships.
7. “Three White Horses” by Andrew Bird
Andrew Bird’s “Three White Horses” is a stirring blend of folk and indie rock that captures the power of accepting life’s hardships.
Instrumentation includes acoustic guitar strumming, emotive violin, and hauntingly beautiful vocal harmonies.
The lyrics tell a story of accepting the inevitability of life’s struggles.
The song expresses the bittersweet emotions of life’s changing seasons, and how one must accept the hardships that come along with growth and transformation.
An uplifting, optimistic message is conveyed as the song comes to a close.
8. “Tennessee Stud” by Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash’s “Tennessee Stud” is a classic country-western song that features simple, yet powerful instrumentation and lyrics.
Written by Cash himself, the song tells the story of a wild horse that the narrator claims to have been the fastest he ever seen.
The song is set to the backdrop of a hauntingly beautiful banjo and acoustic guitar, which creates a unique and timeless sound.
Cash’s distinct vocal delivery and the song’s catchy chorus make “Tennessee Stud” an enduring classic of the genre.
9. “Chestnut Mare” by The Byrds
The transition from Johnny Cash’s “Tennessee Stud” to The Byrds’ “Chestnut Mare” is evident in the content of the songs, both of which feature horses as their subject.
“Chestnut Mare” is a three-minute country rock track that features the signature vocal harmonies of The Byrds.
In the song, the protagonist is in love with a chestnut mare, a breed of horse known for its fiery temperament and distinctive reddish-brown color.
The lyrics are straightforward and evoke a sense of longing, as the protagonist longs for the chestnut mare.
The song is a touching tribute to the beauty of horses and a testament to The Byrds’ ability to create music that is both heartfelt and timeless.
10. “A Horse With No Name” by America
America’s 1971 hit single, “A Horse With No Name”, tells the story of a desert journey gone awry, and captures a vivid and poetic image of the vastness of the American West.
The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of loss and isolation, depicting the protagonist’s struggles to find his way without a companion.
Musically, the track is marked by its sparse, country-rock sound and catchy guitar hook.
Its timeless message and imagery have earned “A Horse With No Name” a place as one of the most beloved songs about horses and ponies.
11. “A Horse In The Country” by The Cowboy Junkies
The Cowboy Junkies’ 1992 song, “A Horse In The Country”, captures a melancholic yet romantic portrait of rural life in the American Midwest.
Using sparse acoustic instrumentation, the song paints a vivid picture of a rural landscape and its inhabitants.
The song evokes a feeling of contentment in the listener, as if life in the countryside is a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of the modern world.
It is an evocative and beautiful tribute to the beauty of rural life.
12. “Only The Horses” by Scissor Sisters
Aside from their upbeat electropop style, Scissor Sisters’ 2012 single “Only The Horses” is a testament to the band’s versatility, with its melancholic yet uplifting folk-influenced melodies.
The lyrics express a sense of longing and freedom, as the narrator sings of the power of the horse to take them away from life’s troubles.
Instrumentally, the track features a blend of acoustic and electronic elements, including a banjo, synthesizers, and electronic drums, which together create a unique and dynamic soundscape.
The song’s message is both timeless and inspiring, and its musical composition is both intricate and powerful.
13. “Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses” by U2
From their acclaimed 1991 album Achtung Baby, U2’s iconic track “Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses” is an emotive rock ballad that conveys the band’s signature sound.
It is a mid-tempo song about a person reflecting on life and the choices they have made.
The lyrics make use of the metaphor of a wild horse to convey the idea of a journey of self-discovery.
The instrumentation is mostly guitar-driven, with a lush array of strings and acoustic guitars that give the song an evocative atmosphere.
Bono’s passionate vocals add further emotion to this powerful track, making it an essential part of the U2 catalog.
14. “High Horse” by Kacey Musgraves
Kacey Musgraves’ chart-topping single “High Horse” is a country-pop anthem that delivers a message of self-empowerment and taking control of one’s life.
The song has a strong beat and a catchy chorus, with Musgraves’ smooth vocals driving the message home.
Lyrically, the song speaks of standing up to people who try to take advantage of or bully others.
The song’s music video also reinforces this message, showing Musgraves standing her ground against a group of cowboys.
All in all, “High Horse” is an empowering and uplifting song that speaks to anyone who wants to take control and live life on their own terms.
15. “Bring On The Dancing Horses” By Echo & The Bunnymen
Continuing the exploration of musical tributes to horses, Echo & The Bunnymen’s 1985 single “Bring On the Dancing Horses” offers an upbeat, dreamlike tribute to the animals.
The track is a synth-pop classic, pairing the band’s signature guitar sound with a bouncy dance beat.
Lyrically, the song speaks to the joy and freedom associated with horses and their ability to bring a sense of joy and enchantment into the lives of people.
The song has remained popular over the years, garnering praise from music journalists and fans alike.
Best Songs About Ponies & Horses – Final Thoughts
Ponies and Horses have been an inspiration to many songwriters and artists over the years.
From Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus to Scissor Sisters and U2, many popular songs have been released featuring the majestic animals.
Whether it is a track about the speed of a horse or the beauty of a pony, these songs make excellent additions to any music library.
From the slow-paced melodies of Bruce Springsteen to the upbeat vibes of Kacey Musgraves, these 15 songs offer something for everyone.
Whether you are looking for a song to lift your spirits or just to add some variety to your music library, these songs are a great place to start.
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