20 Best Songs About Years

Chelsea Cooke

As we approach the end of another year, it’s a good time to reflect on how that year felt. Was it a long time, or a short one? Did it feel like it flew by, or did every day seem to drag? In this article, we’ll explore how a year can feel like both a long and a short time, and how that feeling can depend on what happens during that year. We’ll also look at 20 of the best songs about years, and how they capture different aspects of this unit of time.

By the way, if you’re a fan of songs about years, you might also enjoy songs about fireworks, songs about freaks, songs about islands, songs about los angeles, and songs about minutes.

7 Years – Lukas Graham

Lukas Graham - 7 Years [Official Music Video]

7 Years by Lukas Graham is a song about growing up and the passage of time. The song reflects on the choices made in life and how they can affect the future. The lyrics are both personal and relatable, resonating with listeners of all ages. The song has a catchy hook and an upbeat tempo, making it enjoyable to listen to. 7 Years is a reminder that life is precious and should be lived to the fullest. It is a great song for anyone who is looking for motivation or inspiration.

It Was a Very Good Year – Frank Sinatra

It Was A Very Good Year (2008 Remastered)

It Was a Very Good Year is a song by Frank Sinatra that was released in 1965. The song is about a man looking back on his life and reflecting on the good years he has had. The lyrics talk about how the man has had many experiences, both good and bad, but overall it has been a very good year. The song is a ballad, and Sinatra’s vocals are very smooth and emotive. The song has been covered by many artists, including Eric Clapton and Bob Dylan. It Was a Very Good Year is a classic song that captures the feeling of reflection and nostalgia.

In the Year 2525 (Exordium & Terminus) – Zager and Evans

In the Year 2525 (Exordium & Terminus)

In the Year 2525 is a song released in 1969 by the American duo Zager and Evans. The song was an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The song is notable for its predictions about the future, including the development of artificial intelligence, space exploration, and genetic engineering. While some of these predictions have come true, others have not. However, the song remains popular for its catchy tune and intriguing lyrics. In the Year 2525 is a reminder that, although the future may be uncertain, it is also full of possibilities.

Holland, 1945 – Neutral Milk Hotel

“Holland, 1945” is a song by the American indie rock band Neutral Milk Hotel. The song was released as the third single from the band’s second album, In the Aeroplane Over the Sea, on March 3, 1998. The song is about the liberation of the Dutch city of Amsterdam from Nazi occupation during World War II. The song’s title refers to the day of Amsterdam’s liberation, May 7, 1945. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a young man who is in love with a woman who has been taken captive by the Nazis. The man imagines what it would be like to rescue her and take her away to Holland. 

Fourth of July – Sufjan Stevens

Sufjan Stevens, "Fourth Of July" (Official Audio)

Fourth of July is a song by Sufjan Stevens that was released on his album, Carrie & Lowell. The song is about the singer’s memories of his mother, who died when he was young. The lyrics are written in a nostalgic and wistful tone, as the singer looks back on his childhood and reflects on how time has passed since then. The song makes use of summertime imagery to evoke the feeling of nostalgia and includes references to fireworks and barbecues – two quintessential Fourth of July activities. The song ends with the singer declaring his love for his mother, and pledging to never forget her. Fourth of July is a beautiful and moving tribute to the singer’s mother and is sure to resonate with anyone who has lost a loved one.

4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy) – Bruce Springsteen

4th Of July, Asbury Park (Sandy) (Live Video Version featuring Danny Federici)

The Bruce Springsteen song “4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)” is a widely beloved track among his fans. The song was released in 1973 on Springsteen’s debut album “Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J.” and it remains one of his most well-known tracks. The song is an ode to the New Jersey shore town of Asbury Park, which was a popular summer destination for many in the 1970s. The song reflects on the town’s history, as well as the hope and promise of its future.

My Next Thirty Years – Tim McGraw

My Next Thirty Years

In his song “My Next Thirty Years,” country music star Tim McGraw reflects on the choices he has made in his life and the things he still wants to accomplish. The song is ostensibly about looking back on one’s life at the age of 30, but it can also be Applied to anyone at any stage of life. The lyrics emphasize the importance of making the most of every day, living with no regrets, and being grateful for the people and experiences that have shaped us. The song is a reminder that it’s never too late to make changes in our lives and that we should always strive to reach our full potential. Whether we’re 30 or 50 or 70, we all have more years ahead of us to make a difference in the world. Thanks for the perspective, Tim!

Can’t Turn Back the Years – Phil Collins

Phil Collins - Can't Turn Back The Years (Official Music Video)

Can’t Turn Back the Years is a song by Phil Collins that was released in 1993. The song is about how time passes by quickly and how we can’t turn back the years. The lyrics talk about how sometimes we wish we could go back to a simpler time, but we can’t because time keeps moving forward. The song is a reminder that we should cherish the moments we have because they will eventually become memories. Can’t Turn Back the Years is a beautiful and sentimental song that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they’ve missed out on something or someone.

Forgotten Years – Midnight Oil

Midnight Oil - Forgotten Years

Forgotten Years is a song by Australian rock band Midnight Oil, released as the first single from their 1990 album Blue Sky Mining. The song was written by frontman Peter Garrett and keyboardist James Newhouse, and it deals with the issue of Aboriginal land rights in Australia. Forgotten Years was a commercial success, reaching number one on the ARIA Singles Chart and number five on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart in the United States. The song won the ARIA Award for Best Rock Performance in 1991, and it has been included on several Midnight Oil compilation albums. In 2003, the song was ranked at number four on Triple J’s Hottest 100 of All Time poll.

Year of the Cat – Al Stewart

Al Stewart - Year of the Cat (Official Audio)

Al Stewart’s song “Year of the Cat” is about the passing of time and the way that our perspective on life changes as we get older. The song is told from the perspective of a man who is looking back on his life, and it is full of images of him reflecting on all the things that have happened over the years. “Year of the Cat” is a beautiful and poetic song about the fleeting nature of time, and how our perspective on it changes as we grow older.

100 Years – Five for Fighting

Five for Fighting - 100 Years: Music Video

Five for Fighting’s “100 Years” is a song about living life to the fullest and cherishing every moment. The song talks about how time seems to fly by and how we often take the years for granted. “100 Years” is a reminder to slow down and appreciate the little things in life. In other words, it’s not material possessions that matter most in life, but rather our relationships and experiences. This message is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced, materialistic world. We are often so focused on working hard and making money that we forget to enjoy the simpler things in life. “100 Years” is a reminder to slow down and smell the roses before it’s too late.

Remember the Time – Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson - Remember The Time (Official Video)

“Remember the Time” is a song by American recording artist Michael Jackson. It was released by Epic Records on January 15, 1992, as the second single from Jackson’s eighth studio album, Dangerous. The song was written and produced by Jackson and Teddy Riley. A new jack swing song, “Remember the Time” features heavy synthesizer instrumentation with a staccato house beat. The lyrics are about reminiscence for a past lover. The song received generally positive reviews from contemporary music critics. “Remember the Time” peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100, and number one on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Hot Dance Club Songs charts.

A Thousand Years – Christina Perri

Christina Perri - A Thousand Years [Official Music Video]

“A Thousand Years” is a song by American singer-songwriter Christina Perri and composer David Hodges. It is taken from the album The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. The song serves as a closing track for the film and is played during the end credits. “A Thousand Years” is a ballad with piano and guitar instrumentation. The lyrics tell the story of enduring love over the course of a thousand years. The song received positive reviews from critics, who praised its melody and Perri’s vocals.

Time After Time – Cyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper - Time After Time (Official HD Video)

Time After Time is a song by Cyndi Lauper that was released in 1984. The song is about the passing of time and how it can sometimes seem to move so slowly, especially when we are waiting for something important to happen. The lyrics describe how, even though time seems to drag, it will eventually pass and we will look back on those moments with fondness. The song also highlights how our perspective on time changes as we get older; when we are young, time seems to move so slowly, but as we age, it starts to speed up. Ultimately, Time After Time is a reminder to appreciate the moments we have, because they will eventually become memories.

We Are Young – Fun

Fun.: We Are Young ft. Janelle Monáe [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

“We Are Young” is a song by the American rock band Fun. The song was released on September 20, 2011, as the lead single from the group’s second studio album, Some Nights (2012). Written by band members Nate Ruess, Andrew Dost, and Jack Antonoff, and produced by Jeff Bhasker, “We Are Young” features vocals by Ruess. It was recorded in 2011 at Electric Lady Studios in New York City. Musically, “We Are Young” is an indie pop and rock song that features piano and synth-pop elements. The song’s lyrics deal with the experience of being young.

Through the Years – Kenny Rogers

Kenny Rogers - Through The Years (Audio)

“Through the Years” is a song performed by American country music artist Kenny Rogers. The song was written by Rogers and Steve Glassmeyer, and was released in September 1981 as the lead single from Rogers’ album Share Your Love. “Through the Years” peaked at number one on the Billboard Country Singles chart, becoming Rogers’ ninth No. 1 on that chart and his sixth consecutive No. 1. The song also reached No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Rogers’ only solo Top 40 hit on that chart. The song has been covered by many artists, including country singers like Ronnie Milsap, George Strait, and Don Williams. “Through the Years” is considered one of Kenny Roger’s signature songs, and has become a staple of country music radio.

Wasted Years – The Iron Maidens

Iron Maiden - Wasted Years (Official Video)

The Iron Maidens’ “Wasted Years” is a song about regret and lost opportunities. The lyrics reflect on a life lived without purpose or direction, and the ways in which time can slip away without us even realizing it. The song is also about how we often fail to appreciate what we have until it’s gone. The Iron Maidens are a heavy metal band formed in Los Angeles in 1981. The band is composed of six female musicians who dress as female characters from the band Iron Maiden. They are considered one of the best tribute bands in the world and have toured internationally. “Wasted Years” is one of their most popular songs, and has been covered by several other artists.

Holding Back the Years – Simply Red

Simply Red - Holding Back The Years (Official 4K Remaster)

Released in 1985, “Holding Back the Years” was written by lead singer Mick Hucknall and produced by Rupert Hine. It was the second single from their fourth studio album, Picture Book. The song is about a relationship that ended prematurely, and the singer’s regrets about not having had more time with his partner. The lyrics are densely emotional, with Hucknall pouring his heart out over a plaintive piano melody. The song struck a chord with listeners, becoming a worldwide hit and helping to cement Simply Red’s reputation as one of the premier pop groups of the 1980s.

God’s Plan – Drake

Drake - God's Plan

Drake’s “God’s Plan” is a song about the journey of life, and how each person experiences different things in their own time. The song starts with the line “Last name ever, first name greatest”, which is a reference to Drake’s own name being Aubrey Drake Graham – his last name being Graham, and his first name being Drake. This line sets up the theme of the song, which is that everyone has their own unique journey to follow. The song then goes on to talk about how life is full of ups and downs, but we should never forget our purpose in life. We all have our own unique paths to follow, and we should never give up on our dreams.

See You Again – Wiz Khalifa

Wiz Khalifa - See You Again ft. Charlie Puth [Official Video] Furious 7 Soundtrack

Wiz Khalifa’s “See You Again” is a song about loss, nostalgia, and the passage of time. The song was written for the film “Furious 7” as a tribute to the actor Paul Walker, who died in 2013. The lyrics follow the story of two friends who are forced to say goodbye, and the video features footage of Walker from the “Fast and Furious” films. While the song is sad, it also has an uplifting message about how memories can keep loved ones alive. The song became a huge hit, reaching number one on the Billboard charts and winning multiple awards. It has been watched over five hundred million times on YouTube, making it one of the most popular songs of all time.