20 Best Songs About Soaring

Nina Hampson

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of soaring. Whether you’re flying through the air or simply feeling on top of the world, there’s something about that sense of freedom and euphoria that is unmatched.

And it’s no wonder that so many songs have been written about it! From classic rock to modern pop, there’s something for everyone on this list of 20 best songs about soaring. So put on your favorite song and let yourself feel the joy of flight!

By the way, if you’re searching for songs about soaring, you may also like some of our other playlists, like songs about adventure, songs about jumping, songs about legacy, songs about sunsets, and songs about sweat.

Eight Miles High – The Byrds

The Byrds - Eight Miles High (Audio)

“Eight Miles High” is a song by the American rock band The Byrds. It was released as the lead single from their 1966 album Fifth Dimension. The song was written by band members Roger McGuinn, David Crosby, and Gene Clark, and it was inspired by their experience of flying in an airplane. The song quickly became a hit, reaching the top of the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. However, its suggestive lyrics caused controversy, and it was banned by many radio stations. Despite the controversy, “Eight Miles High” remains one of the most iconic songs of the 1960s, and it continues to be beloved by fans of The Byrds.

Leaving On A Jet Plane – Peter, Paul & Mary

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2m\u002d\u002dR3J6f4

Leaving on a Jet Plane is a song written by John Denver in 1966 and later popularized by the folk group Peter, Paul & Mary. The song is about a young person who is leaving home to travel the world, and it captures the feelings of both excitement and sadness that come with leaving loved ones behind. The lyrics paint a picture of the wide-open world that awaits the traveler, and the chorus assures loved ones that they will “be back again.” Though the song is sad, it also has an uplifting message about the possibilities that come with exploring new horizons.

To Live Is To Fly – Townes Van Zandt

To Live Is To Fly is a song written by Townes Van Zandt and released on his 1970 album Delta Momma Blues. The song has been covered by a number of artists, including Steve Earle and Willie Nelson. The song is about the joy of living, and how even the most mundane aspects of life can be beautiful when seen from the right perspective. The narrator compares life to a bird in flight, which can soar above the troubles of the world and see the beauty in everything. The song is an encouragement to live life to the fullest and to appreciate all the little moments that make up our days. Whether we’re “high as a kite” or “struggling just to stay afloat”, the song reminds us that life is precious and should be lived to the fullest.

Amelia – Joni Mitchell

In “Amelia” Joni Mitchell tells the story of Amelia Earhart, who was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. The song reflects on Earhart’s life and her legacy, with Mitchell singing that “we are all amelia.” The lyrics describe how Earhart was fearless and unstoppable, and how she inspired others to reach for their own dreams. The song is both a tribute to Earhart and a call to action, urging listeners to never give up on their own ambitions. “Amelia” is a haunting and beautiful song that celebrates a truly remarkable woman.

Fly By Night – Rush

Rush - Fly By Night

Fly by Night” is a song by Canadian rock band Rush. It was released as the title track to their second album, Fly by Night, in February 1975. The song was written by all three members of Rush: Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart. “Fly by Night” is a song about leaving the mundane behind and embracing the unknown. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who is eager to spread his wings and explore the world. The song’s positive message and soaring melodies make it an anthem for anyone who is looking to break free from the everyday grind. “Fly by Night” is one of Rush’s most popular songs, and it remains a staple of their live shows to this day.

The Best Way To Travel – The Moody Blues

The Best Way To Travel

Taken from the album On the Threshold of a Dream, “The Best Way to Travel” is a song written by Justin Hayward and performed by The Moody Blues. It is a song about the joys and liberating feeling of soaring through the air. The lyrics describe the sensation of transcending the everyday world and being free like a bird. The speaker in the song compares flying to the best way to travel, as it allows you to escape the mundane and experience true freedom. The mood of the song is uplifting and optimistic, painting a picture of a carefree life where anything is possible. With its catchy melody and positive message, “The Best Way to Travel” is a song that perfectly captures the feeling of flight.

I’m Mandy Fly Me – 10cc

10cc - I'm Mandy Fly Me

“I’m Mandy Fly Me” is a song by the British rock band 10cc. The song was released as a single in 1976 and peaked at number six on the UK Singles Chart. The song was written by band members Eric Stewart and Graham Gouldman and was inspired by David Bowie’s song “Space Oddity”. The lyrics of “I’m Mandy Fly Me” tell the story of a man who is infatuated with a woman named Mandy. He dreams of flying away with her to a place where they can be together forever. The song has an upbeat, positive message and is perfect for anyone who is dreaming of a better life.

Airplanes – B.o.B. And Hayley Williams

B.o.B - Airplanes (feat. Hayley Williams of Paramore) [Official Video]

Airplanes by B.o.B. and Hayley Williams is a song about soaring. The lyrics tell the story of a plane’s journey from the ground to the sky, and the feeling of freedom that comes with it. The song is uplifting and inspirational, with a catchy beat that makes it impossible to not want to sing along. The music video features footage of actual airplane takeoff and landing, as well as shots of B.o.B. and Hayley Williams performing the song on a roof top. Overall, Airplanes is a fun and inspiring song that is perfect for anyone who loves to travel or dreams of taking to the skies.

I’m Like A Bird – Nelly Furtado

Nelly Furtado - I'm Like A Bird (Official Music Video)

The song “I’m Like a Bird” by Nelly Furtado is about the feeling of freedom that comes from being able to let go and just soar. The lyrics describe the sensation of floating through the air, weightless and free. The imagery in the song creates a sense of wonder and possibility, making it the perfect soundtrack for any moment when you’re feeling ready to take flight. Whether you’re standing on the edge of a cliff, about to take a leap of faith, or simply letting go of something that’s been weighing you down, “I’m Like a Bird” will give you the boost you need to spread your wings and fly.

Fly Away – Lenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz - Fly Away (Official Music Video)

Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz is a song about the feeling of release and freedom that comes with flying. The lyrics describe the sensation of wind rushing through your hair and the sense of peace that comes with being above the clouds. The song also touches on the theme of wanderlust, with the singer longing to “spread my wings and fly away.” Overall, Fly Away is a celebration of the joys of flight and serves as a reminder that there’s always something new to discover in the world.

Aeroplane – Red Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Aeroplane [Official Music Video]

“Aeroplane” is a song by American rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers, released as the fourth single from their fifth studio album, Blood Sugar Sex Magik. The lyrics were written by lead singer Anthony Kiedis about his experience riding on an airplane for the first time, and the feeling of liberation and elation that he felt while doing so. The music was composed by guitarist John Frusciante and bassist Flea, with production handled by Rick Rubin. Upon its release, “Aeroplane” was met with positive reviews from music critics, many of whom praised its catchy melody and summery atmosphere.

Fly – Nicki Minaj And Rihanna

Nicki Minaj - Fly ft. Rihanna

“Fly” is a song by Nicki Minaj and Rihanna, released in 2011. The song is about soaring above one’s difficulties and reaching new heights. The lyrics encourage listeners to stay positive and pursue their dreams despite challenges. In the chorus, Minaj and Rihanna sing: “Don’t let life bring you down / Just keep your head up high / And fly.” The refrain “And fly” is repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the importance of staying determined and focused. “Fly” is an uplifting anthem about overcoming obstacles and achieving success. It is a reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

Paper Planes – M.I.A.

M.I.A. - Paper Planes

“Paper Planes” is a song by British rapper M.I.A. The song was released in 2007 as the third single from her album Kala. The song is built around a sample of the 1982 song “Straight to Hell” by The Clash. The lyrics of “Paper Planes” are about flying away from problems and finding success. The chorus of the song features the line “All I wanna do is (Boom boom boom)/And make some money”. This line has been interpreted as a reference to drug dealing. In the video for the song, M.I.A. is seen working at a fast food restaurant and fantasizing about being a famous rapper. The video ends with a group of people robbing the restaurant.

Given To Fly – Pearl Jam

Pearl Jam - Given to Fly (Official Audio)

Given To Fly is a song by the American rock band Pearl Jam. Written by vocalist Eddie Vedder, the song was released in 1997 as the second single from the band’s fifth studio album, Yield. The song peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance in 1998. Given To Fly is a song about soaring. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is “given to fly” and “tries to touch the sun.” The song is an anthem for those who feel called to explore and discover new things. The soaring guitars and Vedder’s powerful vocals create a sense of uplift, making Given To Fly an empowering song for anyone who feels called to follow their dreams.

Learning To Fly – Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd - Learning To Fly (Official Music Video HD)

Learning to Fly is a song by English rock band Pink Floyd. It was released as the lead single from their album A Momentary Lapse of Reason in 1987, and it reached number 15 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song was written by Pink Floyd vocalist and guitarist David Gilmour and bassist Roger Waters. Gilmour, who sings lead vocals on the track, has said that the song is about “How do I get over this fear of flying?” The lyrics also make reference to the Wright brothers and their pioneering work in aviation. The song has been described as “uplifting” and “inspirational”, and it has been used in several films, including Top Gun and The Aviator.

Leaving On A Jet Plane – John Denver

John Denver - Leaving On A Jet Plane (Official Audio)

Leaving On A Jet Plane is a song written by John Denver in 1966 and famously performed by Peter, Paul, and Mary. The song is about a man who is leaving on a jet plane and is unsure when he will be back again. Despite the sense of sadness and uncertainty in the lyrics, the overall tone of the song is one of hope and possibility. The lyrics speak to the feeling of longing for adventure and freedom that many of us experience at some point in our lives. In this way, the song captures both the beauty and the sorrow of leaving home in pursuit of something new. Whether we are actually boarding a plane or simply embarking on a new chapter in our lives, Leaving On A Jet Plane is a reminder that there is always something to look forward to.

Sunset (Bird of Prey) – Fatboy Slim

Fatboy Slim - Sunset (Bird of Prey) [Official HD Video]

“Sunset (Bird of Prey)” is a song by Fatboy Slim, released as a single in 1998. The song is about the feeling of freedom and joy that comes from flying like a bird. The lyrics describe the sensation of gliding through the air, with the sun setting in the background. The song has a relaxed, blissful atmosphere that reflects the feeling of soaring through the sky. In addition to its lyrical content, “Sunset (Bird of Prey)” is also notable for its use of sampling. The song samples a speech from Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin, as well as audio from the television series “Star Trek”. These samples add to the song’s themes of exploration and adventure. “Sunset (Bird of Prey)” is an uplifting track that captures the sense of wonder that comes from experiencing the natural world.

Big Jet Plane – Angus And Julia Stone

Angus and Julia Stone - Big Jet Plane [Official Music Video]

Angus and Julia Stone’s song “Big Jet Plane” is a soaring ode to the freedom of flight. The Australian siblings sing about a relationship that’s hit a rough patch, and how getting away from it all on a big jet plane can be the best remedy. They paint a picture of escape, with lyrics like “leave all your love and your loving behind / you can have it all, just give me time.” There’s a sense of possibility in the song, as they imagine all the places they could go and things they could see if they could just get away from their problems. The chorus is an Anthem to wanderlust, with the pair singing “I’m gonna get a ticket for a big jet plane / I’m gonna leave this town, I’m gonna see the world.”

Aviation – The Last Shadow Puppets

The Last Shadow Puppets - Aviation (Official Video)

The Last Shadow Puppets are a British rock band formed in 2007 by Alex Turner and Miles Kane. The band’s debut album, The Age of Understatement, was released to critical acclaim in 2008. Their sophomore album, Aviation, was released in 2016. Aviation is a song off of the Aviation album and is about, as the title suggests, soaring. The lyrics are written in a metaphor about flying and how it can feel. The song opens with the lines ” take me away on an airplane / Up to the clouds where the sun always shines.”

Blackbird – The Beatles

Blackbird (Remastered 2009)

Blackbird is a song by the Beatles that was released in 1968 on The Beatles (The White Album). The song was written by Paul McCartney and credited to Lennon-McCartney. It is one of the most popular songs from The Beatles era and has been covered by many artists over the years. Blackbird is a simple song, with only two verses and a chorus. However, its message is powerful and resonates with many people. The song is about overcoming adversity and taking flight, which are themes that are still relevant today. McCartney has said that he wrote the song in response to the racial tension in America during the 1960s.