Music has been used for centuries to capture the beauty and majesty of nature.
Trees in particular have been a source of inspiration for many artists, with songs often reflecting their symbolism for life, growth, and the cycle of the seasons.
This article will explore 15 of the best songs about trees as their main subject.
From folk to indie, rock to pop, each of these songs offers a unique and beautiful interpretation of this powerful symbol.
The songs range from classics from the 1960s to modern-day hits, and each has its own unique message about trees, from the power of nature to the sorrow of separation.
This article will offer an overview of how these songs use trees as the basis of their lyrics, as well as a review of each song’s musical style, to provide an insight into why these songs have become so popular.
1. “Weeping Willow” by The Verve
The Verve’s song “Weeping Willow” is a melancholic ballad that lyrically reflects a deep sense of loneliness and emptiness.
The opening line of the song sets the scene for the rest of the track, with its description of a lone willow tree standing in a meadow.
The melancholy tone of the music is punctuated by a sorrowful guitar solo that echoes the sadness of the lyrics.
The song’s message is one of hope and consolation, as it speaks of the strength of nature and the beauty of trees.
It serves as an uplifting reminder that even in times of loneliness, there is still beauty and solace in the natural world.
2. “Underneath The Tree” by Kelly Clarkson
Award-winning artist Kelly Clarkson’s 2013 seasonal hit, “Underneath The Tree“, is a heartfelt ode to the holiday season.
The pop ballad reflects on the beauty of the Christmas season, and its introspective lyrics are both wistful and hopeful.
The song’s melodic chorus and upbeat tempo are a reminder of the joyous spirit of the holidays.
Clarkson’s powerful vocal performance gives the song an emotional depth and intensity that touches the listener.
“Underneath The Tree” is a memorable addition to the canon of Christmas songs.
3. “Shadows And Tall Trees” by U2
U2’s “Shadows And Tall Trees” is an emotive composition that captures the beauty of the winter season.
The song combines elements of folk and rock music and features a driving guitar-based melody.
The lyrics focus on a sense of yearning, with the narrator contemplating the bleakness of a winter landscape and the beauty of the tall trees.
The track is punctuated by Bono’s soulful vocals, creating an atmosphere of longing and nostalgia.
An iconic song, “Shadows And Tall Trees” is an effective ode to the natural world.
4. “The Trees” by Rush
Rush’s “The Trees” is an evocative piece that captures the struggle between progress and nature.
Its lyrics and musical arrangement convey the complex relationship between humans and the environment.
Its steady, yet somber rhythms represent the discord between progress and nature, while its lyrical imagery paints a vivid picture of this battle.
The song’s narrative structure and song structure are a reflection of this conflict, and its poetic lyrics highlight the consequences of man’s interference.
The song ultimately serves as a warning about the consequences of disregarding nature.
5. “Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles
The Beatles’ 1967 single “Strawberry Fields Forever” conveys a surreal soundscape, reflective of the psychedelic revolution of the 1960s.
The song, which is regularly cited as one of the greatest of all time, is highly evocative and explores a range of topics, including the natural world.
Its lyrics suggest a desire to escape reality and seem to contain subtle references to trees.
Thus, “Strawberry Fields Forever” can be seen as an ode to the beauty of nature.
6. “Old Pine” by Ben Howard
The Beatles’ classic song, “Strawberry Fields Forever”, is a psychedelic homage to childhood innocence and, in a way, to nature.
Another song that captures the beauty of nature is Ben Howard’s “Old Pine”.
This folk-rock song is both melancholic and uplifting, as the lyrics tell a story of a man who finds solace in a tree.
The song’s meaningful lyrics, paired with Howard’s emotional vocals, emphasize the importance of being present in the moment and appreciating nature’s beauty.
7. “Heart Of Oak” by Richard Hawley
Richard Hawley’s “Heart Of Oak” is a folk-rock song that poetically celebrates the power of nature and the strength of the elements.
The song is full of imagery related to trees and nature, painting a vivid picture of a tree’s resilience and strength.
Hawley’s lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and admiration for the beauty of the natural world.
The instrumentation of the song is simple and mellow, with the acoustic guitar, piano, and strings providing a mellow and calming backdrop to the lyrics.
The overall effect creates a powerful and emotional resonance with the listener as they are invited to contemplate the resilience of nature.
8. “Birch Tree” by Foals
Moving on to another track about trees, Foals’ “Birch Tree” is a slow-burning folk-rock tune that uses the tree as a metaphor for life’s struggles and joys.
The track is driven by a gentle acoustic guitar and a steady, sympathetic beat, creating a melancholic atmosphere.
Lead singer Yannis Philippakis’ vocals lend an emotional weight to the track, as he sings of the tree’s resiliency in times of hardship.
The lyrics also express a longing for something greater, and ultimately, a hope for a better future.
Foals’ “Birch Tree” is a reflective, thoughtful track that celebrates the power of nature.
9. “Treehouse” by Dream Koala
Dream Koala’s “Treehouse” is a poignant exploration of longing, as the artist reflects on the beauty of childhood memories and the power of imagination.
The track is an atmospheric mix of ethereal synths and guitars, creating a dreamy soundscape.
Lyrically, the song is a nostalgic ode to the solace of nature, with a chorus that speaks of a longing to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.
The track is a reminder that the simple pleasures of childhood, such as spending time in nature, are still possible.
10. “Fake Plastic Trees” by Radiohead
Radiohead’s “Fake Plastic Trees” is a timeless exploration of the sadness and emptiness of consumerism, as the band reflects on the effects of materialism on our lives.
The song is an examination of the way in which people’s lives have become saturated with false, artificial, and empty items and relationships.
Lead singer Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals convey the sense of disconnection and despair that comes with this kind of lifestyle.
The song is a powerful reminder of the need to appreciate and cherish the beauty of nature and the real relationships we have with one another.
11. “Cactus Tree” by Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell’s “Cactus Tree” is an ode to the resilience of the human spirit, as she celebrates the endurance of hope and optimism in the face of difficulties.
The song is a reflection of the struggles and hardships that life can bring, but Mitchell’s lyrics suggest that these difficulties can be overcome with strength of character and perseverance.
The song speaks to the ability of the human spirit to overcome adversity and remain strong in the face of adversity.
Mitchell’s lyrics also speak to the idea of beauty and growth, which can be found even in the most difficult of times.
The song is a powerful reminder of the power of hope and optimism in the face of difficult times.
12. “Boys In The Trees” by Carly Simon
Carly Simon’s song “Boys In The Trees” is a nostalgic reflection on growing up and the dreams of childhood.
It captures the bittersweet nature of remembering one’s past and the feelings of loss that come with acknowledging the distance between one’s childhood dreams and one’s present reality.
The song is characterized by a longing for a simpler past and a sentiment of regret for what could have been.
It is an emotive and thought-provoking piece that speaks to the universal experience of growing up.
13. “Little Willow” by Paul McCartney
Paul McCartney’s song “Little Willow” is a melancholic ode to the fragility of life, underscoring the importance of cherishing one’s relationships and memories.
The song centers around a metaphor of a willow tree, which symbolizes the fragility of life, as a willow is a tree that can bend and be uprooted in a storm.
McCartney’s lyrics convey a sense of sorrow and hope as he encourages listeners to appreciate the time they have with their loved ones.
The song was written shortly after the death of Linda McCartney, and it carries a powerful message of resilience and solace.
14. “Orange Trees” by Marina
Marina’s song “Orange Trees” is a celebration of life and an exploration of the preciousness of the moments we share.
The track reflects Marina’s admiration for the beauty and mystery of nature through her poetic lyrics and upbeat melody.
The song is an ode to the joy of being alive and cherishing the present moment.
The optimistic tune also speaks to the resilience of life and the strength of nature.
Marina’s uplifting message of hope and joy is underscored by her powerful vocals and the bright, summery production.
“Orange Trees” is a timeless reminder to appreciate all that life has to offer.
15. “Pine For Cedars” by Dan Mangan
Dan Mangan’s song “Pine For Cedars” is an ode to the idea of a better future, offering a hopeful and uplifting take on the struggles of life.
The track’s title draws on the metaphor of a pine tree longing for the strong and tall cedars, expressing the desire to one day reach similar heights.
The song’s lyrics are filled with imagery of nature, which serves as a representation of the emotional journey of life.
Mangan’s solemn delivery of the lyrics completes the gentle and delicate atmosphere of the track, creating a powerful and reflective soundscape.
Best Songs About Trees – Final Thoughts
Trees have long been celebrated in music for their symbolism, beauty, and sense of peace.
From classic rock anthems to pop ballads, the subject of trees has been featured in a variety of songs.
From the Verve’s “Weeping Willow” to Kelly Clarkson’s “Underneath the Tree,” these songs all capture the unique beauty and majesty of trees.
While some songs celebrate the joy and peace of trees, others explore the darkness of the shadows and tall trees.
The Beatles’ “Strawberry Fields Forever” and Carly Simon’s “Boys in the Trees” are two examples of this.
It is clear that trees have inspired many of the world’s greatest songs, and will continue to do so for generations to come.
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