Tattoos are an increasingly popular form of body art, and the creativity and individuality of tattoos have been celebrated in many songs.
This article examines 15 of the best songs about tattoos, exploring the lyrical and musical themes of each song.
From the upbeat pop of Jordin Sparks’ “Tattoo” to the soaring rock of Van Halen’s “Tattoo”, these songs capture the joy, excitement, and personal significance of getting a tattoo.
In addition to examining the music of each song, this article will also consider the lyrical themes, including the symbolism of tattoos, the idea of using tattoos to make a statement, and the idea of tattoos as a form of self-expression.
Through exploring the music and lyrics of these songs, this article will provide an in-depth look at the best songs about tattoos.
1. “Tattoo” by Jordin Sparks
“Tattoo” by Jordin Sparks is a popular song from her 2007 self-titled debut album.
It features heartfelt lyrics about tattoos and the emotions associated with them.
The song is based on a concept of a permanent reminder of love for someone, and the idea of being physically and emotionally marked by the experience.
The lyrics explore the idea of loving someone to the point that you can never forget them, even if you try.
The song is an example of how tattoos can symbolize more than just physical decorations.
2. “Tattoos Together” by Lauv
Lauv‘s track “Tattoos Together” is a tender ode to the emotional significance of tattoos, exploring their power to symbolize the meaningful connection between two souls.
The song’s lyrics focus on the power of tattoos to commemorate moments and relationships in life and the powerful emotions that they can evoke.
Musically, the track combines tender vocals with a simple guitar and piano melody to evoke a sense of intimacy and longing.
The track conveys a strong emotion of love and appreciation for the connection between two people, and the power of tattoos to serve as a physical manifestation of that connection.
3. “New Tattoo” by Saving Abel
Saving Abel’s track “New Tattoo” is an upbeat, rock-inspired piece that celebrates the power of tattoos to commemorate meaningful moments in life.
The lyrics reflect the idea that tattoos can be a powerful form of self-expression.
The song’s fast-paced melody and heavy drums add to the celebratory feel of the track, making it an ideal choice for those looking to celebrate the joy of getting a tattoo.
The track is an empowering reminder that tattoos can represent both special moments and big life changes.
4. “Angel with Tattoos” by Skylar Grey
Skylar Grey‘s track “Angel with Tattoos” is a reflective and sentimental song that explores the power of tattoos to express a person’s innermost feelings.
The lyrics focus on how one’s tattoos can be a physical representation of their innermost thoughts and feelings and can be a source of strength and identity.
The song speaks to the power that tattoos can have in helping an individual to express themselves in ways they may not be able to do through words.
It’s an uplifting and powerful message about self-expression and understanding.
5. “Black Tattoo” by FM Static
FM Static’s track “Black Tattoo” is an emotionally charged rock song that explores the relationship between pain and tattoos.
The song begins with an immediate and dramatic electric guitar riff, setting the tone for the musically intense lyrics.
The lyrics describe a person’s inner pain, and how they use tattoos to express it.
The chorus builds in intensity and conveys the idea of tattoos being a form of self-expression and a way of coping with pain.
The song is an exploration of the power of tattoos and the emotions they can evoke.
6. “Ink My Whole Body” by Wiz Khalifa
Wiz Khalifa’s “Ink My Whole Body” is a hip-hop anthem that celebrates the power of tattoos to express one’s identity and individuality.
The song implies tattoos are a form of self-expression that transcends conventional forms of communication.
Through its lyrical structure, the song conveys that tattoos are a powerful tool to convey unique messages that can stand the test of time.
The production of the song further emphasizes the theme by incorporating heavy bass and drums that are symbolic of the perseverance of tattoos.
In conclusion, “Ink My Whole Body” is a powerful song that celebrates the strength of tattoos as a form of self-expression.
7. “Tattoo Of My Name” by Kid Ink
Kid Ink’s “Tattoo of My Name” is an emotionally charged hip-hop song that explores the idea of having one’s name permanently inked on the body.
The lyrics reference the artist’s desire to make a statement with his tattoo, as a way to immortalize his name in the world.
The song is a reflection of the commitment and risks that come with a tattoo, as well as the artist’s confidence in his identity.
The production and composition of the track are also notable, with a powerful and energizing beat that drives the song forward.
The track is a powerful statement of self-expression and identity.
8. “TATTOO” by Zen-G & Khontkar
Zen-G & Khontkar’s “Tattoo” is a rap song that provides a unique perspective on the concept of body art, exploring the cultural implications of the act and its impact on identity.
He raps about the significance of tattoos, reflecting on the power they have to represent personal stories and symbols.
The song also touches on the social and cultural implications of tattoos, highlighting the ways in which they can be seen as a sign of rebellion or a form of self-expression.
Ultimately, Zen-G & Khontkar’s track serves as an insightful exploration of the impact tattoos have on identity.
9. “Tattoos & Liquor” by Marc Dub
Marc Dub’s “Tattoos & Liquor” provides a vivid portrait of the impact of tattoos on the lives of those who choose to get them, examining the complex relationship between body art and the human condition.
The song’s lyrics describe a person’s experiences with tattoos, from the initial decision to get inked to the long-term consequences of living with the body art.
Dub’s vivid imagery and precise language illustrate the power tattoos have to shape and define an individual’s identity.
The song uses an upbeat tempo to explore the notion that tattoos can be both a source of strength and a reminder of difficult experiences.
The combination of music and lyrics creates a complex, multi-layered narrative about the choices we make and the consequences that follow.
10. “Ink” by Coldplay
Coldplay’s “Ink” provides an intimate look into the emotional complexities of tattooing, exploring the idea of using body art as a way of commemorating important milestones in one’s life.
A melancholic ballad, the song speaks to the power of tattoos to serve as a permanent reminder of a person, event, or place.
The lyrics delve into how tattoos can both evoke sadness and joy, as well as serve as a source of strength and comfort.
The track is a moving reflection of the indelible mark that tattoos can make on an individual’s life.
11. “Tatted Up” by D4L
D4L’s “Tatted Up” is a rap-infused ode to the art of tattoos, celebrating the many ways in which body art can be used to express personal identity.
The song is set to a fast-paced, upbeat instrumental and its lyrics focus on the idea of proudly displaying one’s tattoos as a symbol of personal power and resilience.
The chorus emphasizes the importance of having tattoos that are meaningful and unique, reflecting the individual’s life experiences and identity.
Overall, “Tatted Up” is an empowering and celebratory anthem for those who choose to express themselves through body art.
12. “Tattoo” by Ava Max
Ava Max’s “Tattoo” is a passionate expression of the beauty and power of body art.
The track’s contagious rhythm and catchy chorus are enhanced by Max’s evocative lyrics, which explore the idea of a tattoo as a signifier of love and commitment.
The song paints a vivid picture of the joy and pain of getting a tattoo, and the sense of power and freedom that comes from permanently marking one’s body.
The track captures the essence of the tattoo experience and is sure to resonate with fans of body art.
13. “Tattoo” by Van Halen
Van Halen’s “Tattoo” is an energetic rock anthem that celebrates the power and freedom of body art.
Released in 2012, the song’s upbeat tempo and powerful guitar riffs provide an empowering backdrop for the lyrics.
The song’s chorus conveys a strong message of self-empowerment, encouraging listeners to embrace the uniqueness of their tattoos and to ignore any criticism.
Through its themes of individual expression and self-love, “Tattoo” serves as a powerful statement in support of body art.
14. “Tattoo” by Hunter Hayes
Hunter Hayes’ 2014 single “Tattoo” is a powerful anthem of self-expression and self-love that celebrates the beauty of body art.
Lyrically, the song speaks of a desire to reclaim one’s sense of identity and not be ashamed of being who one is.
Musically, it is a pop-country track, featuring a simple guitar riff and a dance-friendly beat.
The song’s message is both empowering and inspiring, encouraging self-acceptance and embracing one’s own uniqueness.
The song resonates with those who are proud of their tattoos and is an uplifting reminder that beauty is found in all shapes and sizes.
15. “Tattoo On A Sunburn” by Luke Combs
Transitioning from Hunter Hayes’ “Tattoo” to Luke Combs’ “Tattoo On A Sunburn”, the latter offers a more laid-back take on the idea of a tattoo.
Combs’ song is more of a narrative, telling the story of a young man who is trying to leave his past behind.
Musically, the song is light and melodic, providing the perfect backdrop for the artist’s vocals.
Lyrically, the song is deeply personal, exploring the idea of tattoos as a form of self-expression and a symbol of a person’s individual journey.
Overall, “Tattoo On A Sunburn” is an effective and emotionally resonant take on the theme of tattoos.
Best Songs About Tattoos – Final Thoughts
The significance of tattoos in popular culture is undeniable.
Numerous songs about tattoos have been released over the years, ranging from joyful to melancholic.
Whether it is Jordin Sparks’ “Tattoo” or Lauv’s “Tattoos Together”, tattoos have been celebrated in song.
Other songs about tattoos are Saving Abel’s “New Tattoo”, Skylar Grey’s “Angel with Tattoos”, FM Static’s “Black Tattoo”, Van Halen’s “Tattoo”, Hunter Hayes’ “Tattoo”, and Luke Combs’ “Tattoo On A Sunburn”.
All of these songs in some way explore the concepts of self-expression, love, and even loss, proving that tattoos are an important part of our culture and identity.
You may also like: Songs about Teachers