If you’re new to busking or just looking for some inspiration, it can be tough to decide what songs to play.
With so many options out there, it can be difficult to know where to start, and what type of songs are likely to get the best response from a busy, bustling crowd.
Luckily, we’ve put together a list of the best busking songs that are sure to please any audience, no matter what their taste in music may be.
Included in this list are songs from all sorts of genres, eras, and artists, so you’re sure to find something that suits your style.
So whether you’re a diehard rocker or a gentle folk singer, there’s something on this list for you.
Table of Contents
- 31. “Free Fallin’” by Tom Petty
- 30. “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas
- 29. “That’s What I Like” by Bruno Mars
- 28. “Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi
- 27. “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Joan Jett
- 26. “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol
- 25. “Summer Of ‘69” by Bryan Adams
- 24. “Dance Monkey” by Tones And I
- 23. “Mamma Mia” by ABBA
- 22. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
- 21. “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5
- 20. “We Will Rock You” by Queen
- 19. “What I Got” by Sublime
- 18. “A-O-K” by Tai Verdes
- 17. “Imagine” by John Lennon
- 16. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley & The Wailers
- 15. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson
- 14. “Glimpse of Us” by Joji
- 13. “Photograph” by Ed Sheeran
- 12. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain” by CCR
- 11. “Someone Like You” by Adele
- 10. “Friends In Low Places” by Garth Brooks
- 9. “You Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC
- 8. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes
- 7. “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens
- 6. “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan
- 5. “House Of The Rising Sun” by The Animals
- 4. “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
- 3. “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison
- 2. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
- 1. “Hotel California” by Eagles
31. “Free Fallin’” by Tom Petty
“She’s a good girl, loves her mama. Loves Jesus and America, too.”
“Free Fallin'” is a song about the simple joys and freedoms of life.
The narrator talks about a girl who loves her life and enjoys simple things, like horses and Elvis.
Despite the hard times that come with living in Reseda (a tough neighborhood in Los Angeles), she remains positive and upbeat.
The lyrics suggest that the narrator is envious of her because he is “a bad boy” who has broken her heart.
30. “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas
“I close my eyes, only for a moment and the moment’s gone.”
The lyrics to “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas are about how everything in life is temporary and will eventually come to an end.
It is a reminder to not take anything for granted and to enjoy the time we have while we have it.
Even though things may seem permanent, they’re really not, and everything is just dust in the wind.
In the end, all we are is dust in the wind and pretty much form a very tiny fraction of what the world is.
29. “That’s What I Like” by Bruno Mars
“Gold jewelry shining so bright. Strawberry champagne on ice. Lucky for you, that’s what I like, that’s what I like.”
![Bruno Mars - That’s What I Like [Official Music Video]](https://www.guitarbased.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FPMivT7MJ41M%2F0.jpg)
This song is all about the simple things in life that make us happy.
Its lyrics talk about enjoying the little moments and not needing material things to be content.
Bruno Mars sings about how he likes spending time with his loved ones, eating good food, and just having a good time.
The song has a catchy beat and makes you want to get up and dance; it’s a feel-good song that is perfect for any occasion.
28. “Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi
“Take my hand, we’ll make it I swear. Woah, livin’ on a prayer.”
The lyrics to “Livin’ On A Prayer” are about a working-class couple struggling to make ends meet.
Both are ‘ livin’ on a prayer ‘ because they are hoping and praying that things will get better for them.
The song is an uplifting anthem about never giving up and believing in yourself, even when times are tough.
“Take my hand, we’ll make it I swear” is a line from the song that really sums up the message.
No matter what happens in life, we should always stick together and help each other out. We’re all in this together!
27. “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Joan Jett
“I love rock ‘n’ roll. So put another dime in the jukebox, baby.”
The lyrics to “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” are pretty straightforward and have no hidden meaning as far as we know.
It’s about how much the singer loves rock and roll music, and how it makes her feel good.
She also sings about dancing and having a good time, but again, there’s not much deeper meaning to it than that.
It’s just a fun, catchy song that gets people moving and in a good mood.
26. “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol
“We’ll do it all, everything on our own.”
“Chasing Cars” is a song by the alternative rock band Snow Patrol.
The song became one of the band’s most successful singles, reaching top places on many charts across the world.
Its lyrics have been interpreted in many ways, but they seem to be about the idea of never giving up on love and fighting for what you believe in.
The song has a simple and catchy melody, which might be another reason why it became so popular.
25. “Summer Of ‘69” by Bryan Adams
“I got my first real six-string, bought it at the five and dime. Played it ’til my fingers bled, was the summer of ’69.”
The lyrics to “Summer of ’69” by Bryan Adams are about a time that the singer looks back on fondly.
He talks about getting his first guitar and playing it with his friends.
Even though things didn’t always go smoothly, he remembers the summer as feeling like it would last forever.
The song also has a bit of nostalgia for a simpler time, when you could fall in love and it would last forever.
24. “Dance Monkey” by Tones And I
“They say oh my God I see the way you shine. Take your hand, my dear, and place them both in mine.”
“Dance Monkey” is a song about a person who sees someone they are attracted to and asks them to dance.
Its lyrics are about the speaker’s admiration for the other person’s dance moves and style.
They beg to see the person dance just one more time before they move on.
It has a catchy, upbeat rhythm that makes it perfect for dancing and is also about never giving up on your dreams, no matter how difficult they may seem.
23. “Mamma Mia” by ABBA
“Mamma Mia” is a song about a young woman’s conflicted feelings toward her mother.
On one hand, she recognizes all the ways her mother has wronged her and wants to end their relationship.
But on the other hand, she still loves and misses her mother deeply.
The lyrics express the young woman’s inner turmoil as she tries to decide what to do.
It is sung from the perspective of a young woman and she starts by saying that she has been “cheated by you since I don’t know when.”
This suggests that there has been some kind of emotional manipulation or abuse going on in their relationship.
The young woman says that she has made up her mind that this “must come to an end.”
However, she then appears to have a change of heart, as she says “look at me now” and wonders aloud if she will ever learn.
It’s possible that she is referring to the fact that she keeps going back to her mother despite the pain she has caused.
22. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
“The day we met, frozen I held my breath. Right from the start, I knew that I’d found a home for my heart.”
![Christina Perri - A Thousand Years [Official Music Video]](https://www.guitarbased.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FrtOvBOTyX00%2F0.jpg)
The lyrics to “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri are about the speaker’s never-ending love for someone.
She expresses that, even though time may pass, their love will continue to grow stronger.
The lyrics also emphasize how waiting for this person was worth it, and they would do it all over again.
To the singer, this love is worth fighting for and worth dying for and ultimately, the lyrics convey a deep and eternal love that will never fade away.
21. “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5
“Beauty queen of only eighteen, she had some trouble with herself.”
The lyrics to “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5 are about a girl that the singer considers a “beauty queen” who is having some trouble with herself.
He is always there to help her, but she always belongs to someone else.
He drives for miles and ends up at her door, and he wants more than just what he’s had before.
The song is about the singer wanting to make the beauty queen feel beautiful, and how he doesn’t mind spending every day out in the rain for her.
Its lyrics also talk about how relationships are not always easy, but that it’s worth it to try and make things work.
20. “We Will Rock You” by Queen
“Buddy, you’re a boy, make a big noise, playing in the street, gonna be a big man someday.”
The lyrics to “We Will Rock You” are about somebody who is down on their luck, but still has hope for the future.
Overall, the song is upbeat and encourages the listener to keep going despite whatever challenges they may be facing.
Its lyrics also contain a message of unity, with the repeated line “we will rock you.”
This could mean that no matter what happens, we’re all in this together and will survive as long as we stand together.
19. “What I Got” by Sublime
“Early in the morning, risin’ to the street, light me up that cigarette and I’ll strap shoes on my feet.”
This song is about appreciating what you have in life, and not taking things for granted.
Its lyrics talk about how love is the most important thing in life, and how it’s worth more than material possessions.
Even when things are tough, the singer reminds us that “lovin’ is what I got.”
This means that as long as we have love in our lives, we have everything we need.
Ultimately, this song is about staying positive and grateful for what we have, even when it might not seem like much.
18. “A-O-K” by Tai Verdes
“Living in this big blue world, with my head up in outer space. I know I’ll be A-O, A-O-K.”
The lyrics of this song are about staying positive and optimistic, no matter what life throws your way.
As for the title, “A-O-K”, stands for “All OK”, which is a reassuring message to anyone who is struggling.
The song also has a fun and upbeat feel to it, which makes it perfect for busking!
It was released not too long ago, but it went viral, so a lot of people may already know it.
The lyrics are also pretty relatable, which is probably another reason why it’s so popular and a great option to consider.
17. “Imagine” by John Lennon
“Imagine all the people, livin’ life in peace.”
This song had to be mentioned sooner or later on a list like this.
“Imagine” by John Lennon is probably the most widely known and beloved peace anthem of all time.
The lyrics are simple, yet profound, and they call for us to imagine a world without division, hunger, or war – a world where we can live in peace and harmony.
It has been covered by countless artists over the years, and its message of hope and unity still rings true today.
On top of that, it’s just a beautiful song, plain and simple.
16. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley & The Wailers
“Don’t worry about a thing. ‘Cause every little thing gonna be all right.”
“Three Little Birds” is a song by Bob Marley & The Wailers.
Its lyrics are about how everything is going to be alright, even when things seem bad.
The three little birds represent hope and happiness, and the message of the song is that if you keep your head up and stay positive, things will eventually get better.
It’s often seen as a symbol of hope and resilience, and it has been used by many people in times of hardship.
Additionally, the melody of the song is very catchy and easy to sing along to, which makes it perfect for busking.
15. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson
“‘Cause this is thriller, thriller night, and no one’s gonna save you from the beast about to strike.”
“Thriller” is a song by American singer Michael Jackson; it’s a medium-paced disco song with elements of pop, funk, and rock.
Jackson’s vocal spans two octaves, from Bb3 to Eb5, so if you’re in that singing range, this could be the perfect song for you.
The lyrics for “Thriller” focus on the theme of horror, with Jackson’s character (a zombie) being resurrected by a girl.
The opening line, “It’s close to midnight and something evil’s lurking in the dark”, sets the tone for the song, which has been described as “the perfect pop song for Halloween”.
14. “Glimpse of Us” by Joji
“‘Cause sometimes I look in her eyes, and that’s where I find a glimpse of us.”
The lyrics of “Glimpse of Us” by Joji are about a person who is in a relationship with someone who is not their first choice.
He is looking at their partner and seeing glimpses of the person they used to be in love with.
Even though their current partner is perfect in many ways, the narrator can’t help but think about the person they used to be with.
They try to fall for their current partner but find themselves constantly thinking about the past.
As such, the song could be interpreted as a longing for what once was, and a yearning for a love that is no longer there.
13. “Photograph” by Ed Sheeran
“Loving can hurt, loving can hurt sometimes, but it’s the only thing that I know.”
The lyrics to “Photograph” by Ed Sheeran are about the power of memories and how they can keep us connected to the people we love even when they’re not with us.
It talks about how love can be both beautiful and painful, but it’s worth going through tough times because it’s the only thing that makes us feel alive.
The chorus talks about how we keep our love in a photograph, and how those memories can keep us going when things get tough.
Even when we’re apart, the song says, we can still hold onto each other through our memories.
12. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain” by CCR
“I wanna know, have you ever seen the rain? Comin’ down on a sunny day.”
This song is about longing for someone or something and feeling lost without them.
Its lyrics talk about how the rain is a metaphor for the sadness and loneliness that the person is feeling.
They are wondering if the person they are singing to has ever felt this way before.
It’s also about hope, and how even though the rain is hard, it all eventually comes to an end and the sun shines again.
11. “Someone Like You” by Adele
“I heard that you’re settled down, that you found a girl and you’re married now.”
The lyrics to “Someone Like You” by Adele are about a woman who has been hurt by a man she loved.
She is looking for someone like him, but she knows that it will be difficult to find someone who can make her feel the same way he did.
The song is about moving on from a relationship that has ended, and about finding someone new to love.
10. “Friends In Low Places” by Garth Brooks
“Blame it all on my roots, I showed up in boot and ruined your black tie affair.”
The song is about a person who is down on their luck and uses their friends to help them get through tough times.
Its lyrics talk about how the person has friends in low places, where they can drink and forget their problems.
The song also talks about how the person is not big on social graces, and how they will slip down to the oasis to drink with their friends.
For those of you busking with acoustic guitars, this song will have the perfect vibe for this type of performance.
9. “You Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC
“She was a fast machine, she kept her motor clean, she was the best damn woman that I ever seen.”
This song is about a woman who is so seductive and attractive that she “shakes” the narrator all night long.
Its lyrics are suggestive, with references to American thighs and being taken for a ride.
The song is also about the physicality of attraction and sexual desire, and it’s a very fun and upbeat tune.
There’s not a lot of depth to it, but that’s not really the point – it’s just a song to enjoy dancing to or listening to when you’re in a good mood.
8. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes
“I’m gonna fight ’em all. A seven nation army couldn’t hold me back.”
The lyrics of “Seven Nation Army” are actually quite simple, and according to songwriter Jack White, they’re meant to be interpreted however the listener wants.
Some people believe the song is about the struggles of working-class Americans, while others think it’s a rallying cry for soldiers.
Whatever the case, the song’s driving guitar riff, and catchy melody have made it one of The White Stripes’ most popular and iconic songs.
7. “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens
“Para bailar La Bamba, se necesita una poca de gracia.”
The La Bamba song is a traditional Mexican folk song that has been popularized by many artists over the years.
Its lyrics are very simple Spanish phrases that talk about how to dance “La Bamba.”
The phrases also talk about how happy and carefree the person singing the song is.
Many people believe that the lyrics of the song are meant to be a representation of Mexican culture and how fun and lively it is.
6. “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan
“Mama, take this badge off of me, I can’t use it anymore. It’s gettin’ dark, too dark to see, I feel like I’m knockin’ on heaven’s door.”
“Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” is a song written and sung by Bob Dylan.
It was originally released in 1973 as part of the soundtrack to the film Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid.
The song has been covered by many artists, including Guns N’ Roses, Eric Clapton, and Pearl Jam.
Its lyrics of the song are about a person who is dying and knocking on heaven’s door, asking for help.
The person is likely in pain and suffering, and they are looking for relief.
Dylan has said that the song is about “anybody under any kind of stress.”
Some have interpreted the lyrics as being about drug addiction, while others have interpreted them as being about the pain of losing a loved one.
No matter what the interpretation, the song is about someone who is struggling and looking for help.
5. “House Of The Rising Sun” by The Animals
“There is a house way down in New Orleans, they call the Rising Sun.”
“House of the Rising Sun” is a traditional folk song, thought to have originated in the early 1900s.
The song is about a life of poverty and hardship and reflects the struggles of workers during that time.
Its lyrics tell the story of a young man who is lured into a life of gambling and prostitution in New Orleans.
He eventually returns home, only to find that his family has disowned him, so the song is a warning against leading a life of vice and degradation.
It was popularized in the 1960s by The Animals, who had a hit with their cover of the tune.
The band added their own twist to the lyrics and it has since been covered by many other artists today.
4. “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
“Well, you done done me in, you bet I felt it. I tried to be chill, but you’re so hot that I melted.”
![Jason Mraz - I'm Yours (Official Video) [4K Remaster]](https://www.guitarbased.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FEkHTsc9PU2A%2F0.jpg)
The lyrics to “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz are about taking chances and enjoying the moment.
He talks about how life is short and we should not hesitate to seize opportunities everytime we can.
The chorus repeats the phrase “It cannot wait, I’m yours” which means that we should not wait to take advantage of what life has to offer.
In general, the rythm is upbeat and positive, and encourages us to live in the moment and enjoy life.
3. “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison
“Hey, where did we go? Days when the rains came. Down in the hollow. Playin’ a new game.”
The lyrics to “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison are about nostalgia and looking back on fond memories.
In the song the singer is reminiscing about a time when they were carefree and happy, playing games and skipping in the rain.
They remember hiding behind a rainbow and standing in the sunlight, laughing.
Most likely they are wanting to go back to those simpler times and feeling nostalgic for the people and moments from the past.
2. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
“Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone, it’s not warm when she’s away”
“Ain’t No Sunshine” is a song written and recorded by American soul singer Bill Withers.
This song was released in 1971 and became a big hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Its lyrics are about a man who is trying to deal with the loss of his love.
He sings about how the sun doesn’t shine anymore without her and how he feels lost without her.
It’s got a sad vibe and feel, but is also hopeful, as the man sings about how he will eventually find another love.
This song is perfect for busking because of its simple but effective lyrics and catchy melody.
It’s a great song to play if you want to attract attention and get people singing along.
1. “Hotel California” by Eagles
“On a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair. Warm smell of colitas, rising up through the air.”
This song is the perfect busking song that will have everybody singing along in any setting.
It’s about a person’s journey to the Hotel California, which represents excess and materialism.
The lyrics describe the individual’s descent into temptation and addiction, and how they are ultimately unable to escape.
Overall, the song has been interpreted as a critique of the hedonistic lifestyle of many Americans in the 1970s.
It could also be interpreted as a metaphor for addiction and the dangers of giving into temptation.
The lyrics of the song are very descriptive and paint a picture of the hotel and the people who inhabit it.
Said hotel is described as a place where you can find anything you want, but you can never leave, which can represent the dangers of addiction and excess, and how they can trap a person.
If you’re looking for one song that you must learn to play while busking, then this is definitely the one.
More than 10 years of experience playing and writing about guitars! When not writing, I can be found strumming away some Johnny Cash tunes. Favorite all time guitar is the Gibson Les Paul. #TeamGibson
