31 Best Songs About Sunsets Of All Time

Posted on by Daniel Reyes
best songs about sunsets

The best songs about sunsets tend to highlight how beautiful and calming they can be.

On the other hand, there are also songs that focus on how sad and lonely sunsets can make someone feel.

Watching the sunset is one of the most comforting moments we can experience.

The calm as the sun goes down is palpable and we feel in balance with ourselves!

Here’s the selection of our favorite songs that both directly or indirectly mention sunsets.

They’ll be listed in a variety of genres, and styles, as well as different decades.

1. “Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles

The Beatles’ 1969 record “Here Comes The Sun” is one of the band’s most beloved tracks by a lot of its audience.

The sun-drenched ode to sunny days was written by George Harrison during a period of creative isolation that he went through at the time.

The Beatles - Here Comes The Sun (2019 Mix)

The song is widely considered to be one of Harrison’s finest moments as a songwriter, and its optimistic lyrics are a perfect antidote to the dark days of winter.

In the United Kingdom, this song was released as a single, where it reached the top of the charts, and it remains a staple of radio playlists to this day.

2. “Love Like A Sunset Part II” by Phoenix

“Love like a Sunset Part II” by Phoenix is a beautiful and haunting ballad that tells the story of a love that is slowly fading away, just like it happens in sunsets.

The lyrics are written in a way that makes the listener feel as though they are watching the sunset, with the colors gradually fading into darkness.

Love Like a Sunset, Pt. 2

It is a very short song in comparison to many of the others we’ll mention in this list, but the imagery is gorgeously bittersweet, plus the music perfectly complements the overall mood.

The music ends with the sound of an acoustic guitar that slowly fades away to finish the song with a sense of relief and a deep feeling of contentment.

3. “Sunset” by Kid Ink

Kid Ink is an American rapper and record producer from Los Angeles, California.

His debut album, Up & Away, was released on May 8, 2012, and he has since released two studio albums, My Own Lane in 2014 and Full Speed in 2015.

“Sunset” was released as the lead single from his second studio album, My Own Lane, and is a mid-tempo hip-hop song with smooth, laid-back production.

Kid Ink - Sunset

The song features Ink’s singing voice instead of his rapping voice for the most part, and the lyrics are about living in the moment and enjoying life.

One of the main lines that perfectly describes the overall meaning of the lyrics is: “Now, just picture me Hollywood living, riding through the sun, riding through the sunset.”

The theme throughout the verses and chorus has this story-telling form of singing that walks you through his perception of his dream lifestyle.

4. “California Sunset” by Neil Young

The song “California Sunset” by Neil Young is a classic example of the singer-songwriter genre that was and still is very popular today.

Was conceived as a simple ballad, with Young’s clear, warm voice accompanied by acoustic guitars, violins, and drums.

Neil Young-California Sunset

The lyrics are nostalgia-tinged, and paint a picture of a carefree time spent in the past: “I remember long ago, how I wondered where I’d go.”

When it comes to this line specifically, it is the one that in my opinion, sets the tone of the story that the singer is trying to tell us.

However, there is also an undercurrent of hope and new beginnings as he sings: “You’re my home now and it’s true, California, here’s to you.”

This contrast between nostalgia and hope gives the song its emotional power and makes it an enduring classic that’s worth listening.

5. “Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset” by Luke Bryan

“Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset” is a sentimental song about young love and the passing of time, especially when times are simple.

The ideas embodied in the track’s lines are straightforward but effective, and the melody is catchy and easy to sing along to.

Luke Bryan - Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset (Official Music Video)

Luke Bryan’s voice is as smooth as ever, and he delivers a beautiful interpretation that will leave listeners feeling nostalgic for their own youthful times and romances.

This is the perfect track to listen to every summer and either remember the good old days or create new ones.

6. “Waterloo Sunset” by The Kinks

The song was written by lead singer, rhythm guitarist, and main songwriter Ray Davies and is about the singer’s fascination with the view from Waterloo station of the sun setting over the River Thames.

The lyrics describe the narrator looking at two couples passing over a bridge, with the protagonist thinking about the pair and analyzing what they do.

The Kinks - Waterloo Sunset (Official Audio)

In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked “Waterloo Sunset” at number 42 on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, and was re-ranked at number 14 on the 2021 list.

Although this just reflects the personal opinion and preference of whoever made the list, it’s still a great accomplishment.

7. “Californication” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

“Californication” lyrics are based on the band’s experience of living in Los Angeles, and the title refers to the effects of the “Californication” on American culture.

The song features a sunset-inspired melody, and the verse includes the line: “The sun may rise in the East at least it’s settled in a final location,” which is exactly where the song mentions the sun for the first time.

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Californication (Official Music Video) [HD UPGRADE]

Although the story is not directly talking about sunsets in any shape or form, it’s still one of those songs that subconsciously set the vibe for a moment like that.

It goes without saying that this track was a commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks and Modern Rock Tracks charts.

It has since been certified Platinum multiple times by the Recording Industry Association of America.

8. “Inner City Blues” by Marvin Gaye

This tune describes the feeling of hopelessness that many residents of the inner city experience at some point in their lives.

However, the song also offers a message of longing and hope, as the singer looks to the future and dreams of a better life.

Marvin Gaye - Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

“Inner City Blues” is widely considered to be one of Gaye’s best songs, and it has been covered by a number of other artists.

Although it doesn’t mention sunsets in the lyrics, the song can surely be associated with the image of a sunset, as it evokes a feeling of calm and nostalgia.

It’s just one of those songs that make you think of times like that when you’re looking back on your life and reflecting on what’s happened.

9. “Strawberry Swing” by Coldplay

Coldplay’s track “Strawberry Swing” is a gorgeous and memorable ode to summer love, and it’s one of the band’s most successful ballads.

The lyrics are written in an ethereal, dreamlike style that perfectly captures the feeling of watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Coldplay - Strawberry Swing (Official Video)

The music is similarly atmospheric, with gentle guitars and piano creating a sweeping soundscape that perfectly matches the drums.

Such a mix gives us a track that feels both timeless and deeply personal, like a memory that you can’t quite shake.

It’s no wonder that the song has become such a favorite among sunset-watchers; it perfectly captures the magic of that moment when day turns to night.

10. “Canadian Sunset” by Eddie Heywood & Norman Gimbel

This song is about two people who met and fell in love while on a ski trip in Canada.

The lyrics describe the beauty of the scenery and the warmth of the couple’s relationship.

Canadian Sunset - Eddie Heywood and Hugo Winterhalter

As a whole, the song has a romantic, almost dream-like quality to it that makes it perfect for a winter date night.

Furthermore, the words used in the song are very simple and easy to understand, but they still convey a deep level of emotion.

This makes the song perfect for anyone who wants to feel the love, even if they don’t speak English as their first language.

11. “Two Suns In The Sunset” by Pink Floyd

The song “Two Suns in the Sunset” by Pink Floyd is a melancholy yet hopeful song about the end of something and is a very special one on this list.

It is about two lovers who are forced to part ways, one sun sets on their relationship, but they know that there is still hope.

As there is another sun waiting to rise again, a new day will start, but the person is reminiscing on the many things that they have left undone.

Two Suns In The Sunset

The lyrics talk about how the couple is feeling in the moment, and how they might be trying to stay positive despite the circumstances.

Now, on the other hand, the narrator predicts that it was too soon to be gone, but he also notes that there are “two suns in the sunset.”

This leaves the possibility that, even though the world may end, there is still hope for a new beginning.

12. “Early Sunsets Over Monroeville” by My Chemical Romance

“Early Sunsets Over Monroeville” by My Chemical Romance is a great ballad with a message that resonates long after the last note has faded.

It tells the story of someone who is thinking of “running away and hiding” with a certain person in their life.

early sunsets over monroeville // my chemical romance - lyrics

The early sunsets over Monroeville are beautiful and can make the world feel small for some reason, but they make life seem perfect.

The singer is talking about how they would hold hands and walk around, and everything felt right in the world.

Even though things like elevators and half-price sales can be traps, the beauty of the sunsets made it all worth it.

In the end, the singer is talking about how they would never want to let go of the person they were with, and how that person has changed since they were bitten.

That’s why the song can be interpreted as a way of appreciating the beauty and light of sunsets because it can all change very fast in life.

13. “Sunset Lover” by Petit Biscuit

“Sunset Lover” by Petit Biscuit is one of those so-called feel-good EDM track that is perfect for summertime listening, and vacation recap videos.

The song’s tropical sound and laid-back vibe are reminiscent of a lazy day at the beach, giving listeners a sense of relaxation and escapism.

Petit Biscuit - Sunset Lover (Official Video)

The record’s positive energy is infectious, and its catchy melody is sure to stick in your head long after the song is over.

“Sunset Lover” is the perfect track to add to your summer playlist, whether you’re looking to dance the night away or just chill out in the sun.

14. “What Makes the Sunset?” by Frank Sinatra

This song is about the things that make life beautiful and special, and how love is the most important thing of all.

Sinatra’s voice is full of emotion as he asks what makes the sunset, the moonrise, and a shooting star fall.

What Makes the Sunset? - Frank Sinatra

He wonders why these things happen, and if it’s because of his love for the person he’s singing to.

The song is about how love makes even the simplest things seem magical a lot of times in life.

When it comes to the lyrics, they are simple but beautiful, and the melody is catchy and easy to remember.

The overall message of the song is that love is the most important thing in life.

15. “Sunsets For Somebody Else” by Jack Johnson

“Sunsets for Somebody Else” by Jack Johnson is a heart-wrenching ballad about the pain of lost love or simply living life differently than what was expected.

This song is about the feeling of being lost and alone in a world that is moving too fast.

Jack Johnson, as the narrator sees someone they know, but can’t quite place them, and wonders what their life must be like.

Jack Johnson - Sunsets For Somebody Else (Official Audio)

They see this person as being successful and happy, but also realize that they are probably selling sunsets for somebody else – possibly meaning they are living a life that isn’t really their own.

On the other hand, the singer tries to shake off these feelings of envy and insecurity, but ultimately can’t help but feel like they are missing out on something.

Additionally, the lyrics suggest that the person the narrator is seeing may be going through the same thing – feeling lost and alone in a world that is moving too fast.

Johnson’s lyrics are simple but moving, and his plaintive voice conveys the deep anguish idea in a perfectly executed way.

16. “Wasted Sunsets” by Deep Purple

The track “Wasted Sunsets” by Deep Purple is hauntingly and beautiful at the same time.

It also carries a message that is both timeless and relevant since the lyrics tell the story of something that has ended, and the singer reflects on everything that happened and is currently happening.

Deep Purple - Wasted Sunsets (Perfect Strangers)

This song is about wasted opportunities and lost chances and about how someone can be waiting for something better to come along, but it never does.

It reflects on how life can sometimes be unfair and how we often take things for granted.

It’s definitely a sad song, but it also has a message of hope and resilience; despite the darkness and disappointment that we may face in life, we should never give up on ourselves or our dreams.

17. “Sunshine Blues” by Bahamas

“Sunshine Blues” by Bahamas is a song about the longing for someone who may not love you back.

The singer is hoping that someday, the person they love will realize how much they care for them.

Throughout the song, the singer talks about how they are jealous of anyone who gets to be with the person they love, and how they wish they could be with them instead.

They also talk about how they are sending their love out into the universe, in the hopes that it will find its way to the person they love.

In the end, the singer declares that no one could ever love the person they love more than they do.

This song is a reminder that we should enjoy the moments that we do have, and not chase after things that we may never catch.

It is a great example of Bahamas’ skills as a songwriter as he captures the feeling of longing and frustration in a way that is both relatable and poetic.

If you’re a fan of good songwriting, then this is definitely a song for you to listen to and analyze in detail.

18. “Red Sails In The Sunset” by Nat King Cole

It’s a beautiful, romantic ballad about a person waiting for their loved one to come home.

The lyrics are simple but very evocative, and the melody is lovely and catchy with multiple gems hidden in its double meanings.

Behind these meanings, the song can be interpreted as being about hoping for the best and trusting that everything will work out in the end.

Nat "KING" Cole - Red Sails In The Sunset - Original Vinyl

No matter what trials and tribulations we face in life, we should always keep our eyes on the horizon and hope for better days ahead.

Its relationship with the sunset happens in the title and in the lyrics, where it’s used as a metaphor for the end of a day and the beginning of a new one.

The sunset is also a time when we reflect on the past and look forward to the future.

In this way, the song is about hope, nostalgia, and looking toward the future and new beginnings.

19. “Submarines” by The Lumineers

The Lumineers’ song “Submarines” has a piece of moving music that tells the story of a person struggling to tell others about something they saw.

Said person saw a submarine and no one believes them that they did, so they’re describing how they felt at the moment.

The Lumineers - "Submarines" (Official Video)

The lyrics talk about how the police make jokes and everyone thinks the person is lying.

In the end, the person’s credibility is shot and they die with the secrets of the sea.

Such words can be interpreted in different ways but in general, it is a song about being disbelieved and feeling alone in times when you need others the most.

The song is melancholy and bittersweet, but ultimately it’s a reminder that even when it feels like everything is conspiring against us, we should just keep moving forward.

When we’re watching the sunset, these are some common emotions that we might feel, so I decided to added to this list for that purpose.

20. “Lonely Boy” by The Black Keys

“Lonely Boy” by The Black Keys is a song about the struggles of young love.

The lyrics speak to the feeling of being alone and waiting for someone who may never come.

The Black Keys - Lonely Boy [Official Music Video]

Despite the negative connotations of the lyrics, the song has an upbeat and catchy sound that makes it a favorite among fans of the band.

As for the relationship between this song and the sunset, I think that the two share a feeling of loneliness and isolation.

Both are about waiting for something that may never come, and both have an air of sadness about them.

However, there is also a feeling of hope in both the song and the sunset.

In the song, the protagonist is hopeful that their love will eventually come to them, and in the sunset, there is always the hope that the next day will be better.

21. “Into The Sunset” by Mike Batt and Bonnie Tyler

“Into The Sunset” is a song by Mike Batt and Bonnie Tyler.

It is about two people who have been through a lot together and are now riding off into the sunset.

BONNIE TYLER & MIKE BATT --- INTO THE SUNSET

The lyrics talk about the dangers they face and how they need to stick together to make it through.

Additionally, the song speaks to the idea of never giving up on your dreams and continuing to fight for what you believe in.

As an uplifting and motivational song about staying together and never giving up, “Into The Sunset” is perfect for anyone who needs a little inspiration in their life.

Whether you’re facing tough times or just need a reminder to never give up on your dreams, this song will give you the boost you need.

The record is a tribute to all those who have ever known the beauty of a sunset, and it captures the feeling of wonder and peace that comes with witnessing this natural phenomenon.

22. “Setting Sun” by the Chemical Brothers

The song “Setting Sun” by the Chemical Brothers is a seamless example of how music can be both haunting and beautiful.

The rhythm starts with a simple, ethereal melody that gradually builds in intensity as more and more layers are added.

The Chemical Brothers - Setting Sun (Official Music Video)

The result is a feeling of both dread and wonder as if the sun is slowly rising over an apocalyptic landscape.

But even as the song reaches its climax, the melody remains consistent, creating an eerie feeling of calm in the midst of chaos.

Although this won’t be a song you’d want to listen to if you’re trying to stay calm and just appreciate the beauty of a sunset, it’s still related to the idea of when people show their true colors.

The line “you’re showing your color like a setting sun” perfectly builds on this idea in a very direct way.

23. “Castle On The Hill” by Ed Sheeran

“Castle On The Hill” is a song by Ed Sheeran about his hometown and childhood friends.

The lyrics talk about growing up and how things change over time, but also how Sheeran misses the simplicity of his youth and the people he used to know.

Ed Sheeran - Castle On The Hill [Official Lyric Video]

He does mention sunsets specifically in some parts of the song, which could be interpreted as a symbol of hope and happiness despite everything that has changed.

“When we watched the sunset over the castle on the hill” could be seen as a moment of peace and beauty in the midst of change and turmoil.

24. “Sunset Boulevard” by John Barrowman

“Sunset Boulevard” is a song about the dark side of Hollywood.

It’s about the people who come to Los Angeles with dreams of making it big, but end up struggling to survive.

John Barrowman - Sunset Boulevard

The song is also about the people who take advantage of those struggling to make it big and the dark secrets that are hidden behind the glamorous facade of Hollywood.

As for its relation to sunsets, Sunset Boulevard is one of the most famous streets in Los Angeles and is known for its beautiful sunsets and views of the city.

Although the song specifically, is not directly about sunsets, it does mention them in relation to the city and Hollywood.

25. “Sunburn” by Muse

“Sunburn” is a song by English rock band Muse.

It was released as the second single from their debut album, Showbiz (1999)

The lyrics of “Sunburn” can be interpreted in multiple ways, but the overall message seems to be about the dangers of greed and corruption.

It features imagery of a burning sun, which could symbolize the destruction it can cause.

On the other hand, the lyrics also mention hiding from the world behind a broken frame, which could represent the lies and deception that people in positions of power often use to keep their secrets hidden.

“Sunburn” is a powerful song that exposes the dark side of humanity and the dangers of unchecked greed.

As a metaphor, “Sunburn” is a way of describing something that’s currently happening and how it can slowly damage oneself.

26. “Sundown” by Gordon Lightfoot

“Sundown” by Gordon Lightfoot presents a man who is reflecting on its current relationship.

This song is about a man who is warning another man not to mess with his woman.

He talks about how she is beautiful and how he knows all of the moves that a man could make to try and seduce her.

Gordon Lightfoot - Sundown (Official Audio)

Also, he describes her as looking like a queen and says that she can be tough to handle.

Even though he knows all of this, he also still warns the other man that he will be in trouble if he tries to steal her away.

In the end, he says that it’s a shame when he feels like he’s winning, but he’s really losing again.

This could mean that he’s warning the other man not to get too attached to his woman because he knows that he will just end up getting hurt in the end.

27. “After The Gold Rush” by Neil Young

“After The Gold Rush” is a song written by Neil Young and released on his album of the same name in 1970.

The song is about society’s reliance on technology and progress, and how it can lead to destruction.

Neil Young - After The Gold Rush

As for the lyrics, they are based on a dream Young had in which he saw the world’s knights and peasants coming together to sing, while Mother Nature looked on.

It mentions how the world is changing and how technology is taking over, but also has a message of hope for the future.

The lyrics are filled with many phrases that immediately put images and ideas into the mind, which is one of the things that makes this song so great.

Such imagery is beautiful and awe-inspiring, and it’s a perfect example of how a song can be both personal and relatable at the same time.

28. “Sunset” by Garrett Nash (Gnash)

Garrett Nash’s “Sunset” is a lovely song that features the singer’s emotive voice and touching lyrics.

The song tells the story of a young couple in love, and how their relationship changes as they face the challenges of life and they have to see each other go.

gnash - sunset (official lyric video)

Nash’s stunning vocal performance conveys the emotional journey of the protagonist, and the result is a moving and poignant record that is sure to resonate with listeners.

The lyrics are about how the sunset reminds him of his loved ones and how he misses them when they’re not around.

Also, they perfectly capture the feeling of longing for someone you love.

Overall, the song has a mellow and nostalgic feel, making it perfect for listening to at sunset.

29. “Sunset” by Stevie Wonder

The song “Sunset” by Stevie Wonder reflects on the preciousness of time.

Each of its lines is simple but profound, and they are set to a melody that is both catchy and memorable.

Stevie Wonder - Sunset

The strength of the music lies in its ability to evoke strong emotions, and it is this that has made it one of Wonder’s most popular songs.

This song is perfect for anyone who has ever lost someone they love.

It’s a song for anyone who is struggling with grief and missing someone terribly.

This song brings comfort to those who are grieving and is a reminder that we are not alone in our pain.

And that even though our loved ones are gone, they are still with us in our memories.

30. “Follow The Sun” by Xavier Rudd

“Follow the Sun” is the title track from Xavier Rudd’s eighth studio album.

This song is about following your dreams and living in the moment and it encourages listeners to set their intentions and cherish every moment.

Xavier Rudd - Follow The Sun [official music video]

Tomorrow is a new day for everyone, so make the most of it!

The lyrics are about taking risks, enjoying life, and staying positive despite the challenges that come your way.

The song is slow and optimistic, with a message that everyone might be able to relate to: following one’s heart and chasing your dreams, no matter how challenging they may seem.

31. “Chasing The Sunset” by Imaginary Cities

The track “Chasing the Sunset” by Imaginary Cities is a synth-pop ballad with a retro sound that’s very easy to like and enjoy.

The music begins with a simple melody that is soon joined by a complex web of synths and percussion.

Imaginary Cities - Chasing the Sunset (live at The Ballroom in Winnipeg)

The result is a mix that is nostalgic and forward-thinking that makes you think about your life, both present, and past.

When it comes to the lyrics, they tell the story of a relationship that is slowly fading away; the singer is trying to hold on, but they know that it’s time to let go.

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