Songs about royalty have been popular in music for centuries.
Many artists have released songs that centre around royal themes, from ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” to Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida”.
This article takes a look at 15 of the best songs about royalty, from various genres and eras.
Each song has been selected based on its lyrical content, musical composition, and overall impact on popular culture.
This comprehensive list includes songs by iconic artists such as The Beatles, Aerosmith, and Tears for Fears.
Whether it is a rock anthem or a love ballad, each of these songs captures the power and majesty of royalty in a unique way.
So, if you’re looking for the perfect song to capture the feeling of being a king or queen, then look no further.
1. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA is a popular song that celebrates the joy of being royalty.
Its musical elements reflect traditional pop-styled melodies and instrumentation mixed with bright, danceable rhythms.
Lyrically, the song speaks to the power of being a queen and the joys of ruling with grace and majesty.
The song’s structure is crafted to create a sense of grandeur and power, with a memorable chorus and a powerful bridge.
Musically, the song is both complex and accessible, making it a great choice for those who love to dance and those who appreciate musical history.
2. “Sun King” by The Beatles
The Beatles’ ”Sun King” is a track that musically depicts the grandeur of a ruler’s reign.
It blends elements of folk and rock music, with a strong emphasis on vocal harmonies, creating a lush and grandiose atmosphere.
Musically, the song is characterized by its steady beat and a heavy reliance on the rhythm section.
The lyrics, meanwhile, provide a vivid picture of a ruler’s power and wealth, with the narrator expressing admiration and awe.
As such, it is a perfect example of a song that celebrates the majesty of a king or queen.
3. “Two Princes” by Spin Doctors
Spin Doctors’ ”Two Princes” is a classic rock song that tells the story of two princes vying for the affection of a princess.
It features the band’s signature style of blues-rock, with prominent use of electric guitar and harmonica.
The chorus is anthemic and catchy, with a memorable guitar riff and harmonica solo.
The lyrics are clever and witty, exploring the themes of love, loyalty, and conflict.
The use of vocal harmonies, dynamic arrangement, and tight instrumentation make this a timeless classic in the rock genre.
4. “Royals” by Lorde
Lorde‘s hit single ”Royals” is a chart-topping pop song that explores the contrast between the glamorous life of the rich and famous and the realities of everyday life.
It features a minimalistic production style, with a sparse beat and simple yet catchy hook.
The lyrics draw on the artist’s experience growing up in a small town in New Zealand, and the contrast between her own life and the lives of the rich and famous that she sees in the media.
Musically, the song is a blend of pop and alternative genres, with its simple structure and sparse production allowing the lyrics and vocal performance to take centre stage.
5. “Kings and Queens” by Aerosmith
Aerosmith‘s hard rock anthem ”Kings and Queens” celebrates the power of royalty and the authority figures that possess it.
A masterful blend of rock and blues, the song features powerful guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and intense vocal delivery.
Lyrically, the song is a tribute to royalty, with singer Steven Tyler delivering a passionate ode to the strength and power of monarchs.
While the song has a hard rock edge, Aerosmith also utilizes a softer side, adding elements of soul and funk to the mix.
Ultimately, ”Kings and Queens” is an anthem that celebrates the majesty and strength of royalty.
6. “Queens Don’t” by RaeLynn
RaeLynn’s empowering country-pop anthem ”Queens Don’t” celebrates female strength and resilience.
It has a distinct percussive beat and driving rhythm guitar accompanied by fiddle and steel guitars that blend together to create an uplifting and engaging sound.
The song’s lyrics contain strong messages of self-confidence, resilience, and empowerment for women.
The upbeat and empowering nature of the song makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a song to celebrate their own strength and courage.
7. “Castle” by Halsey
Halsey’s ”Castle” is a synth-pop anthem that speaks to themes of self-discovery and independence.
The track is a perfect blend of driving beats and soaring melodies, backed by a chorus of lush vocal harmonies.
With its infectious bass groove and bright synthesizers, ”Castle” is an ambitious track with a message of self-determination.
Lyrically, the song speaks to the power of tenacity and resilience in pursuing one’s dreams.
The overall production quality and arrangement of ”Castle” make it an engaging and memorable listen, demonstrating Halsey’s skillful musicianship.
8. “Sultans of Swing” by Dire Straits
Dire Straits’ ”Sultans of Swing” is a classic rock classic that has been celebrated for its timeless feel and impeccable musicianship.
Its lyrics lay on the foundations of a story about a band of street musicians, drawing on a rich history of musical tradition.
Musically, the song features intricate guitar licks, a steady drum beat and a powerful sax solo, which all contribute to its unique sound.
Its intricate song structure and expert instrumentation make it a testament to the band’s skill and experience.
This song stands out as a timeless example of classic rock that is sure to be appreciated for years to come.
9. “Queen Jane Approximately” by Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan’s classic folk-rock song “Queen Jane Approximately” is renowned for its insightful songwriting and powerful musicality.
Lyrically, the song is a tale of a person who is trying to understand the complicated relationship between royalty and the common person.
Musically, the song is propelled by a driving beat, powerful electric guitar riffs, and Dylan’s signature harmonica playing.
The song is a masterclass in combining folk and rock elements and stands out as one of Dylan’s most enduring works.
10. “Queen” by Shawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes‘ single “Queen” is an upbeat pop anthem that celebrates the power and strength of women.
The track features Mendes’ signature vocal delivery, with a mix of lyrics and strong instrumental elements.
He uses a combination of guitar, bass, and drums to create a driving rhythm and a melodic hook.
The song is an ode to strong, independent women, with its lyrics praising the beauty and strength of those who have faced adversity.
Musically, “Queen” is an impressive mix of genres, blending elements of rock, pop, and folk to create a unique sound.
Mendes’ powerful vocal performance provides an emotional resonance, making it an uplifting and inspiring track.
11. “Queen” by Jessie J
Jessie J’s single “Queen” is a soulful, inspiring tribute to female empowerment.
A mid-tempo R&B ballad, it features lyrics that celebrate the strength of women and encourage them to be confident in themselves.
Musically, it is highly melodic with a strong rhythm section, strings and a powerful chorus.
Its instrumentation and production create a lush, emotional atmosphere that further enhances its lyrical message.
An exemplary example of modern-day songwriting, “Queen” is a stunning anthem of female empowerment.
12. “King of Wishful Thinking” by Go West
Go West’s hit “King of Wishful Thinking” is a synth-pop classic that delivers a message of hope and optimism.
The upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus blend well with the thoughtful lyrics.
The production is polished and smooth, with a mix of synths, guitars, and drums.
The song’s upbeat message of positivity and resilience is highlighted by the use of minor chords and a soaring instrumental break.
“King of Wishful Thinking” is an example of the perfect blend of synth-pop and thoughtful lyrics.
13. “King of Sorrow” by Sade
Go West’s “King of Wishful Thinking” offers a commentary on the human desire for a better life, while Sade’s “King of Sorrow” explores the idea of a monarch in a different way.
With its slow groove and jazzy instrumentation, the track paints a picture of a powerful royal who is weighed down by sorrow.
The song’s poignant lyrics reflect the struggles of a ruler who is isolated by the pressures of their position.
14. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears
Released in 1985, Tears for Fears’ hit single “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” offers a commentary on the human desire for control and power.
Synthesizers, electric guitars, and a powerful vocal performance combine to provide a dramatic musical backdrop.
The lyrics reflect the struggle between power and freedom, with a focus on the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Musically, the song is a combination of new wave and synthpop, a blend of genres that was popular in the mid-1980s.
The song is renowned for its catchy chorus and remains a classic to this day.
15. “Viva la Vida” by Coldplay
Coldplay’s 2008 single “Viva la Vida” is an adventurous exploration of the themes of mortality, freedom, and ambition.
It is an epic, orchestral rock track with a strong militaristic beat, which is fitting considering its lyrical themes of royal power and the overthrowing of governments.
The song’s title is Spanish for ‘long live life’ and its lyrics reference Bible passages, making it an anthem of sorts for revolutionaries.
Its musical elements are layered and complex, with the combination of strings, horns, and acoustic guitar creating a distinct and powerful sound.
Best Songs About Royalty – Final Thoughts
Royalty in music is an enduring source of inspiration and entertainment.
From ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” and The Beatles’ “Sun King” to Lorde’s “Royals” and Aerosmith’s “Kings and Queens”, a wide variety of songs have been dedicated to the concept of royalty.
Go West’s “King of Wishful Thinking”, Sade’s “King of Sorrow”, and Tears for Fears’ “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” are further examples of popular songs that explore the idea of royalty in a captivating and evocative manner.
Such songs represent a deep appreciation for the power of music to transport us to worlds of majesty and grandeur.
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