There’s something about parks that just seems to inspire musicians. Maybe it’s the natural beauty of trees and greenery, or the joy of spending time outdoors. Whatever the reason, parks make for a perfect backdrop for the music. Here are 20 of the best songs about parks that will have you longing to visit one yourself.
By the way, if you’re interested in songs about parks, you may also be interested in songs about being gay, songs about boxers, songs about models, songs about nature, and songs about poker.Saturday In The Park – Chicago
Released in 1972, “Saturday in the Park” is a song by the American rock band Chicago. The song was written by lead singer Robert Lamm and is included on the band’s fifth studio album, V. The song is about a man’s experience of going to a park on a Saturday, enjoying the sunshine and people-watching. The lyrics paint a picture of a busy park full of families and children playing, while the instruments create an upbeat and cheerful melody. The song was a commercial success, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and has since become one of Chicago’s signature songs. In 2003, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
In the Park – Ramones
Released in 1978, “In the Park” is a song by the American punk rock band Ramones. The song is about, as the title suggests, hanging out in the park. The park is seen as a place where people can go to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and quiet. The lyrics paint a picture of a group of friends spending time together, playing games, and generally having a good time. The song has a lighthearted and cheerful vibe, making it a perfect summertime listen.
Itchycoo Park – Small Faces
Itchycoo Park is a song written by Steve Marriott and Ronnie Lane of the Small Faces. The song was released in 1967 and reached number 3 on the UK Singles Chart. Itchycoo Park was inspired by Shoreditch Park in London, which was known for its illegal activities such as drug use and graffiti. The song is about how the park was a place where people could escape the mundanity of their everyday lives and feel free to be themselves. The lyrics describe how the protagonist “felt high” and “felt free” when they were in the park, and how they “didn’t need no shoes” because they were happy just to be there. Itchycoo Park is considered to be one of the first psychedelic pop songs, and its influence can be heard in subsequent works by artists such as the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.
Rosa Parks – OutKast
In 1998, hip-hop duo OutKast released a song called “Rosa Parks” in tribute to the civil rights icon. The song tells the story of Parks’ arrest from the perspective of those who witnessed it. Over a funky bassline and keyboards, OutKast recount how Parks “refused to get off the bus / So we all ain’t gon’ ride.” The song goes on to compare Parks’ act of defiance to that of other historical figures, including Harriet Tubman and Nelson Mandela. With its blend of history and soul, “Rosa Parks” is a fitting tribute to one of the most important figures in American history.
Fortress / Deer Park – The Fall
Deer Park by the Fall is a song about the parks in the city. It is written by Fortress, which is a band from the city. The song is about how the parks are a great place to go to in the fall, and how they are a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The song also talks about how the parks are a great place for people to get exercise, and how they are a great place for people to take their dogs for a walk. The song is a great way to learn about the parks in the city, and it is a great way to learn about what to do in the city in the fall.
Slumming On Park Avenue – Ella Fitzgerald
The song “Slumming on Park Avenue” by Ella Fitzgerald is a playful ode to the contrast between the opulent lifestyle of those who live on Park Avenue and the more humble lifestyle of those who live in the slums. Fitzgerald pokes fun at the wealthy with lines like “They haven’t got a care, they’re always happy and gay/They haven’t got a thing to do all day but play.” But she also shows empathy for them, noting that “they don’t know that people are starving just around the corner.” In the end, Fitzgerald leaves it up to the listener to decide whether the lifestyles of the rich and poor are truly as different as they seem. Either way, “Slumming on Park Avenue” is a catchy and clever tune that is sure to put a smile on your face.
MacArthur Park / Didn’t We – Liza Minnelli
The song “Didn’t We” is a 1971 pop ballad written by Jimmy Webb and made popular by artists such as Liza Minnelli, Waylon Jennings, and Barbra Streisand. The lyrics of the song are about two lovers looking back on their relationship and wondering what might have been. While the song is not specifically about MacArthur Park, the lyrics do mention “walking in the rain.” This could be a reference to the fact that MacArthur Park is often referred to as “the city’s wettest park” due to its history of flooding.
The Rain, The Park And Other Things – The Cowsills
The Rain, The Park, and Other Things by The Cowsills is a song about the joys of spending time in parks. The song describes the many activities that can be enjoyed in parks, from picnicking and playing games to simply enjoying the beauty of nature. The song also highlights the importance of parks in providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. For many people, parks are a place to relax and recharge, and The Rain, The Park, and Other Things perfectly captures this feeling. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll on a sunny day or curled up with a good book on a rainy day, this song will remind you of the simple pleasures to be found in parks.
Walkin’ Thru The Park – Muddy Waters
Muddy Waters was a renowned blues musician who helped to shape the sound of Chicago blues. “Walkin’ Thru the Park” is one of his best-known songs, and it offers a glimpse into his life and the world around him. The song is set in a park, and it describes the various people who can be found there. There are children playing games, couples strolling hand in hand, and workers taking a break from their labors.
Shriner’s Park – Melissa Etheridge
Melissa Etheridge’s song “Shriner’s Park” is a tribute to the many parks that have served as places of refuge and relaxation for her throughout her life. The song begins with a description of a particular park, Shriner’s Park in San Francisco, which has special meaning for Etheridge. She recalls spending time there as a child, running and playing with her friends. The song then goes on to describe how parks provide a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Down In The Park – Foo Fighters
“Down in the Park” is a song by Foo Fighters, released in 1999. The song is about parks, specifically ones that have been taken over by crime and violence. The lyrics describe a place where “nobody smiles” and “little girls turn into little whores.” The song reflects on the decline of public spaces and the feeling of insecurity that comes with it. In the context of the song, parks are a symbol of how society has failed to provide safe and secure places for people to gather. The song ends on a note of hope, with the singer proclaiming that “we will never surrender.”
Beechwood Park – The Zombies
“Beechwood Park” is a song by The Zombies, released as a single in 1968. The song was written by keyboardist Rod Argent and bassist Chris White. It was inspired by a park near Argent’s childhood home in St Albans, England. The song is notable for its use of a quotation from William Blake’s poem “The Tyger” in its opening lines. “Beechwood Park” peaked at number 37 on the UK Singles Chart and number 11 on the US Billboard Hot 100. In 1968, the song was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
Walk In The Park – Beach House
Walk In The Park is a song by American indie rock band Beach House. It was released on their 2010 album Teen Dream. The song is about taking a walk in the park, and the lyrics describe the feel of the sun and the smell of the flowers. The song has a dreamlike quality, and the music video features footage of people walking in slow motion through different parks. Walk In The Park is a popular song among fans of Beach House, and it has been used in many television commercials and movies.
In Your Park – Scorpions
In Your Park is a song by the Scorpions, a German rock band. The song was released as a single in 1984 and was included on the album Love at First Sting. In Your Park is a ballad that features beautiful acoustic guitar work and heartfelt lyrics. The song is about the simple pleasure of spending time in a park, surrounded by nature. The lyrics talk about how parks provide a much-needed oasis from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and how they offer a chance to relax and reset. In Your Park is a warm and inviting song that perfectly captures the feeling of peace and tranquility that can be found in any park.
A Tree In The Park – Sarah Vaughan
“A Tree in the Park” is a song written by Sarah Vaughan. The song is about parks, and how they provide a place for people to relax and enjoy nature. The lyrics describe the trees in the park, and how they provide shade and beauty. The song also talks about how the park is a place where people can come to forget their troubles. “A Tree in the Park” is a happy, uplifting song that celebrates the joys of nature.
Frick Park Market – Mac Miller
In the song “Frick Park Market,” rapper Mac Miller paints a picture of a bustling open-air market in the middle of a city park. The market is full of vendors selling fresh produce, prepared food, and other goods. The atmosphere is one of vibrant energy, with people of all ages and backgrounds enjoying the market’s offerings. Miller portrays the market as a place where people can come together to enjoy good food and good company.
In tha Park – Ghostface Killah
“In tha Park” by Ghostface Killah is a song about the importance of parks in our lives. Parks provide a place for us to enjoy the outdoors, play sports, and spend time with friends and family. They are also an important part of our city’s infrastructure, providing green space and wildlife habitat. In the song, Ghostface Killah pays tribute to parks as “the heart of the city,” and makes a case for their continued support. He argues that parks are essential for our physical and mental health and that they should be enjoyed by everyone. “In tha Park” is a moving ode to the role that parks play in our lives, and an important reminder of their value.
Aluminum Park – My Morning Jacket
Music has the ability to transport us to different places, both real and imaginary. For the band My Morning Jacket, one of those places is Aluminum Park. The song of the same name is an ode to the simple pleasures of spending time in a park, surrounded by nature. It’s a place where “the sun don’t set and the grass don’t die.” The lyrics evoke images of picnics and Frisbee games, of children laughing and couples strolling hand in hand.
Sunday Afternoon In The Park – Van Halen
Sunday Afternoon In The Park By Van Halen is a song all about parks and how great they are! The lyrics talk about how parks are the perfect place to relax and enjoy a sunny day, and how they’re full of happy families and friendly dogs. It’s clear that the band members have spent many a Sunday afternoon in their local park, and they want everyone to know just how wonderful these green spaces can be.
Buffalo In The Park – Anne Murray
Parks are an important part of any city or town. They provide a place for people to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy some time in nature. Parks can also be great places for exercise, picnics, and simply enjoying the outdoors. In her song “Buffalo in the Park,” Anne Murray sings about the many benefits of parks. She describes how they provide a respite from the busyness of city life and a chance to reconnect with nature. parks are also a great place to get some exercise and fresh air. Murray’s song reminds us of all the reasons why parks are such an important part of our communities.
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