We all know that animals are amazing, and there’s no shortage of songs out there that reflect that. But which songs about animals are the absolute best? Well, I’ve gathered 32 of my favorites for you to check out.
From songs directly addressing a particular animal to others being more metaphor-based, this song list has a little bit of everything.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy some amazing music about some amazing animals.
What Are the Best Songs About Animals?
1. “Wild Horses” By The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones are known for their hard-hitting rock and roll, but with the song “Wild Horses” they take a more gentle country-style approach. Keith Richards wrote this song for his newborn son wherein it explains how it was becoming harder and harder to leave his son to go on tour.
Wild horses
Couldn’t drag me away
Wild, wild horses
The lyrics depict how the narrator could never let the other person go, even if he wanted to (in this case Keith’s son). The song reflects on the idea of family bonding and how it’s easy to take things for granted.
The result of the lyrics and music is a song that is both heartfelt and beautiful.
2. “Crocodile Rock” By Elton John
Elton John has written a huge library of awesome piano-based songs. However, if you want one that will get you up and dancing then Crocodile Rock is for you.
Well, Crocodile Rocking is something shocking
When your feet just can’t keep still
With lyrics that transport you back to a time when things were simpler, this song is perfect for anyone who wants to recapture those carefree moments of their childhood or teens.
So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to crocodile rock the night away!
3. “Eye of the Tiger” By Survivor
Would the movie Rocky really be the same if it wasn’t accompanied by this classic song?
“Eye of the Tiger” has been inspiring people to push themselves to their limits for decades. The driving rhythm of the song combined with the inspiring visuals of Rocky surely got be pumped out to start bettering myself.
It’s the eye of the tiger
It’s the thrill of the fight
The song starts with a catchy, chugging-style, guitar riff that gets stuck in your head from the first listen.
Moreover, the chorus is an upbeat and motivating call to arms that gets you pumped up and ready to take on anything!
4. “Rocky Raccoon” By The Beatles
The Beatles’ Rocky Raccoon is a story of love, loss, and revenge.
Rocky Racoon isn’t about a raccoon at all but rather a man named Rocky Racoon who is seeking revenge.
Rocky Raccoon, checked into his room
After Rocky’s woman abandons him for another man, young Rocky vows to get even. With a gun in hand, he sets out to shoot his rival but ends up getting shot himself.
This song is a classic example of The Beatles’ sense of edgy humor, as it tells a tale of love and violence.
Although this song isn’t about a raccoon specifically, one could argue that the lyrics cleverly use the animal as a metaphor for Rocky’s own feelings of betrayal and anger. What would a raccoon do in this case…?
5. “Free Bird” By Lynyrd Skynyrd
What’s freer than a bird? I would argue not much. Being able to spread your wings and fly wherever you want must be a pretty great feeling.
‘Cause I’m as free as a bird now
And this bird you cannot change
This song was released in 1974 as the second single from the album “Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd”. It is one of the band’s most popular songs and has been voted by Rolling Stone as one of the greatest songs of all time.
The song is about a young man who is struggling to find his place in the world. He is searching for something that will give him a sense of freedom and peace. The song reflects the longing for being as free as a bird that many people feel.
Read Next: The 27 Best Songs About Birds (Ultimate Bird Song Playlist)
6. “Hungry Like the Wolf” By Duran Duran
The lyrics of the song “Hungry Like the Wolf” by Duran Duran perfectly captures the essence of the hungry animal within all of us.
Smell like I sound, I’m lost in a crowd
And I’m hungry like the wolf
According to Genius, it was actually inspired by the fairy tale “Little Red Riding Hood”.
The song speaks to our primal desire to hunt and capture our prey. It’s a fast-paced and exhilarating song that exemplifies the thrill of the chase.
7. “Animals” By Maroon 5
You better start practicing your falsetto skills if you want to learn how to sing “Animals” by Maroon 5.
The lyrics of the song “Animals” by Maroon 5 are about a wild and untamed beast that lurks inside all of us.
Just like animals
Animals
Like animals-mals
More specifically the song seems to use how animals act in nature as a metaphor for a relationship that toxic. The narrator speaks about how his partner can try to go and find somebody new but that “you can’t stay away from me”.
8. “I’m Like a Bird” By Nelly Furtado
Another bird song on this list coming at you from Nelly Furtado’s “I’m Like a Bird”.
This tune depicts someone who is in a relationship but isn’t sure that they can commit to it for too long.
Perhaps because they feel like a bird, they can’t stay in the same place for too long and they need to fly away.
I’m like a bird, I only fly away
I don’t know where my soul is (soul is)
Whether you’re listening to it on a sunny beach day or in the middle of a winter storm, “I’m Like a Bird” is a great choice.
9. “I Love My Dog” By Cat Stevens
Dogs are awesome, they’re man’s best friend. And Cat Stevens perfectly articulates that in his tune rightly named “I Love My Dog”.
I love my dog as much as I love you
But you may fade, my dog will always come through
The lyrics of the song perfectly capture the unbreakable bond between a human and their pet dog. The song reflects how the dog is always there for the person, no matter what, and is always happy to receive love and attention.
It highlights how the narrator’s dog will never fade from a person’s life, unlike other relationships, and how they are always worth having around.
It’s a touching ode to the special relationship between humans and their furry best friends.
10. “I Am The Walrus” By The Beatles
The Beatles are certainly known for experimenting with rather… unusual sounds and subject matter.
I would personally say “I Am The Walrus” falls into that bucket.
“I am the Walrus” is from The Beatles’ 1967 album Magical Mystery Tour. The song was written by John Lennon and paints a picture of surreal images and references to contemporary culture, including drug use, sitting on a cornflake, and Yellow-matter custard.
I am the egg man
They are the egg men
I am the walrus
Goo goo g’joob
The meaning behind the lyrics aren’t super clear by any means. You might even drive yourself a little crazy trying to make sense of it all.
Musically, “I am the Walrus” is distinguished by its eclectic mix of instruments and sound effects, which include a Mellotron, sound collage, reversed tapes, and instruments such as cello, octave mandolin, and double-tracked lead vocals.
11. “Buffalo Soldier” By Bob Marley
The term “Buffalo Soldier” was traditionally used as a nickname for black soldiers in the US army from 1866 until the 1950s.
Bob Marley tells the story of a brave African warrior who was brought to America and forced to fight for survival.
Buffalo soldier, dreadlock Rasta
The Buffalo Soldiers were respected by their fellow soldiers, Native Americans, and the citizens of the United States.
They were highly disciplined and courageous fighters and were highly respected for the service they provided to the country.
Read Next: 20 Best 4th of July Songs to Get You in the Patriotic Spirit
12. “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” By The Tokens
Is there any other child’s movie more classic than The Lion King?
Although “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” predates The Lion King by over 30 years, it ended up being the perfect song to accompany Simba’s journey.
The lion sleeps tonight In the jungle, the mighty jungle
The lion sleeps tonight
The lyrics depict the majesty of the lion, as well as its peaceful slumber in the jungle.
This song is perfect for anyone who loves lions or wants to close their eyes and feel the nostalgia of their childhood.
13. “Cat’s in the Cradle” By Harry Chapin
“Cat’s in the Cradle” is a song about a father and son who are too busy to spend time with each other.
The idea for the name of the song actually came from Harry’s wife, Sandy Chapin. Upon Harry’s first glance at the title, nothing struck him but after his son was born, he was inspired to write this song.
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man in the moon
The song tells the story of a son who grows up to be just like his father, and they eventually regret not spending more time together.
This song is a reminder to always make time for your loved ones because you never know when it might be too late.
Read Next: The 34 Saddest Songs of All Time (Updated for 2023)
14. “Cat Scratch Fever” By Ted Nugent
“Cat Scratch Fever” by Ted Nugent is a song that perfectly encapsulates the wild spirit of the 1970s. The song opens with a heavily distorted guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track.
They give me cat scratch fever
Cat scratch fever
When you listen to the lyrics you’ll soon realize that this song isn’t really about cats but rather about… something else. I’ll leave it at that.
15. “Who Let The Dogs Out” By Baha Men
This classic 2000s song is definitely one you’ll remember if you grew up in the 90s. It was a major hit for Baha Men and has been used in a ton of movies, including where it gained a lot of its popularity: Rugrats in Paris.
Who let the dogs out?
Who, who, who, who, who?
If you’ve ever owned a dog and let them out of the house you know that it can sometimes be a commotion. The lyrics and music video to this song perfectly capture the chaotic feeling of opening the door and seeing a pack of dogs comes running out!
It’s just one of those fun songs that you’ll probably never forget.
16. “A Horse with No Name” By America
The lyrics of “A Horse With No Name” tells the story of a man who has journeyed through the desert on horseback.
I’ve been through the desert
On a horse with no name
He reflects on the beauty of the natural world around him, and the harshness of the desert environment. The song paints a picture of a lonely and isolated journey.
In the end, the horse is let go to run free in the desert. If you’re looking for a deeper meaning to this song you might come to the conclusion that the horse represents something pure and good, while the desert represents a place of loneliness and isolation.
17. “Werewolves of London” By Warren Zevon
“Werewolves of London” is a light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek song about the dangers of werewolves living in London.
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London
Ah-hoo
It was actually more of a joke song (written in 15 minutes) and Warren didn’t even want it included on the album. But alas, it became one of his most popular tracks. Isn’t it funny how that happens?
The song has been featured in many movies and TV shows over the years, and it remains a popular choice during the Halloween season.
18. “Hound Dog” By Elvis Presley
Hound Dog is a song that needs no introduction. First recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952, it was popularized by Elvis Presley in 1956.
You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog
Cryin’ all the time
A classic of rock n’ roll, Hound Dog is a prime example of Elvis’s signature style: catchy, danceable, and downright sassy!
With its irresistible beat and iconic vocal performance, Hound Dog is a song that just makes you want to get up and start kicking your feet.
19. “She Wolf” By Shakira
Shakira’s “She Wolf” is an ode to the wild side of womanhood.
There’s a she wolf in disguise
Coming out, coming out, coming out
The song was released in 2009 as the lead single from her eight studio album also entitled “She Wolf”.
The song is a call to all women to embrace their inner wildness and let it out into the world.
With its catchy beat and empowering message, “She Wolf” might even get you to start howling at the moon. Just don’t do it in London when Warren Zevon is around.
Read Next: 13 Best Songs About Monsters to Give You the Heebie-Jeebies
20. “White Rabbit” By Jefferson Airplane
The lyrics and instrumentation of “White Rabbit” are a whimsical and psychedelic journey into the mind of a person exploring the boundaries of reality and fantasy.
It’s filled with imagery of Alice in Wonderland and explore ideas of self-discovery, exploration, and rebellion.
And if you go chasing rabbits
And you know you’re going to fall
Tell ’em a hookah-smoking caterpillar
Has given you the call
The lyrics are written in a way that is playful and fun, inviting the listener to follow Alice down the rabbit hole.
21. “Barracuda” By Heart
“Barracuda” by Heart is a song that packs a punch. I remember learning this song on guitar and having so much fun with it. With its catchy riff and powerful lyrics, it’s no wonder this song became a classic rock staple.
Ann and Nancy Wilson deliver a fierce vocal and guitar performance over a thumping bassline and driving drums, making “Barracuda” an unforgettable anthem of female empowerment.
Now wouldn’t you, barracuda? Oh
The song tells the story of a woman who is underestimated and written off by her critics, but who always comes out swinging.
It’s a perfect song for anyone who has ever felt like they were up against the world.
22. “Black Horse and The Cherry Tree” By KT Tunstall
KT Tunstall’s 2004 hit “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” is a catchy tune with a quirky, original sound.
Well, the big black horse said “Look this way”
The combination of catchy pop hooks and lyrical depth makes “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” a standout track from KT Tunstall’s debut album, Eye to the Telescope.
23. “I Love My Dog” By Sublime
Hey it’s another song about how awesome gods are!
The lyrics talk about the joys of spending time with one’s dog and the importance of keeping that bond strong.
I love, I love my dog
Yes, I love, I love my dog
And I love, I love my dog
The lyrics almost read like a mantra “I love, I love my dog”. This song is perfect for anyone who loves their dog unconditionally!
24. “Monkey Man” By The Specials
The Specials were one of the most influential ska bands of the late 20th century, and “Monkey Man” is one of their most iconic songs. The lyrics are delivered with a rapid-fire delivery that perfectly captures the frenetic energy of the song’s subject.
This one’s for the bouncers
Big, big monkey man
The Specials’ use of guitars and keyboards gives the track a distinctive ska sound, and the deep bass line provides a solid foundation for the rest of the instruments.
“Monkey Man” is a fun and catchy song that captures the spirit of The Specials’ music.
Read Next: A Blazing Collection of the 31 Best Songs About Fire
25. “Rock Lobster” By The B-52’s
The B-52’s take us on a journey to the deep sea with their song “Rock Lobster.” This song is the perfect music to listen to while you’re beachside, surrounded by friends and enjoying the sun.
Someone reached in and grabbed it
It was a rock lobster
It’s got a lot of franctic parts to it. From the vocal performance to the raging keyword solos, this song is sure to grab your attention. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the beat.
26. “The Dogs of War” By Pink Floyd
“The Dogs of War” is truly a haunting song about the horrors of war.
From the repititive synth line to the piercing vocals, the song reflects the grim reality of war and its effects on soldiers and civilians alike.
Dogs of war and men of hate
With no cause, we don’t discriminate
The lyrics talk about how war is a business, and really all war stems from the greed of humanity. In most cases it’s fought by people who have no cause or discrimination.
It’s a dark and depressing song, but it’s also very powerful.
Read Next: 20 Best Funeral Songs of All Time to Honor Someone’s Life
27. “Monkey” By George Michael
Do you love the monkey or do you love me? George Michael poses this question in his hit song “Monkey.”
A monkey may represent many things, but in this case it seems to symbolize a troublesome person or situation in one’s life. Whether it’s an addiction, a bad habit, or simply someone who is hard to get rid of, the monkey is a reminder that we all have our demons.
Why do I have to share my baby with a monkey? (Monkey)
With a monkey? (Monkey)
Michael’s lyrics ask why we can’t let go of these things that weigh us down, and whether we would rather keep them close or let them go. It’s a catchy tune with a deep message.
It also was one of Michael’s most popular songs peacking at #8 on Billboard’s R&B chart.
28. “Peace Frog” By The Doors
“The lyrics of the song ‘Peace Frog’ by The Doors paint a dark and gritty picture of violence and death. The songs tells the story of a city that is plagued by murder and bloodshed, with the protagonist trying to flee from the carnage.
Nowhere in the lyrics is there actually any mention of a frog at all but perhaps the symbolisim of a frog represents the innocence of the protagonist, who is trying to escape the violence and seek peace.
The lyrics are haunting and evocative, painting a vivid picture of multiple cities in chaos.”
29. “Grey Seal” By Elton John
“Grey Seal” is a beautiful ballad about a grey seal who has seen and experienced everything life has to offer. The seal is wise beyond its years and has a perspective that most people will never know.
And tell me grey seal
How does it feel
To be so wise
The lyrics are interesting to say the least and and it can be interpreted in a variety of ways.
One interpretation might be that the song is a metaphor for the wisdom that comes with age and experience. The grey seal has seen and experienced so much, and has a greater understanding of life than most of us.
Perhaps the song is a reminder to us to seek out wisdom from others who are more experienced than us and to learn from their ways.
30. “Year Of The Cat” By Al Stewart
This piano classic was inspired by the film Casablanca. It’s a mellow, melodic folk-rock song that tells the story of a man being swept up by a mysterious woman and embarking on a fateful journey.
She’ll just tell you that she came
In the Year of the Cat
With its catchy melody storytelling-style of lyrics writing, this classic tune will have you humming without you even realizing it.
31. “Shannon” By Henry Gross
If you love dogs or have one of your own then make sure you have a box of tissues nearby before listening to this one.
Shannon is gone, I hope she’s drifting out to sea
She always loved to swim away
This song is about Carl Wilson’s (of the Beach Boys) dog, Irish Setter, who passed away. It’s a sad song but is also a beautiful ode to a beloved pet.
32. “Plea from a Cat Named Virtute” By Weakerthans
“Plea from a Cat Named Virtute” is a funny tongue-in-cheek song sang from the POV of a cat named virtue. The cat is pondering and asking multiple things from their human such as:
So, we should open up the house
Invite the tabby two doors down
It’s got a nice melody to it, it’s a rock song, and it’s written in a way that I personally have never come across before… But hey, it’s original!
Final Thoughts
With so many great songs about animals it can be hard to choose just a handful. But I think these songs represent some of the best examples of how artists can use animals as a metaphor for human emotions and experiences.
Whether it’s songs about specific animals like dogs or cats, or more general songs about the natural world, these songs all have a special something that makes them perfect for animal lovers and music enthusasists alike
So put on your favorite pair of headphones and enjoy these songs about animals.
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