The 27 Best Songs About Birds (Ultimate Bird Song Playlist)

songs about birds

Written by: Cody

Updated: Jan 4, 2023

As humans, we’ve been fascinated with birds for centuries. They can uncover a range of emotions within us. Whether that be feeling envious that they can fly or the imagination of being free to soar wherever you please.

That’s exactly why so many artists have written songs about birds. From country to rock, the genre doesn’t matter. Every song has something unique to say.

What Are the Best Songs About Birds?

From sparrows to doves, there’s a song for just about every popular bird. This list encompasses the best songs about birds of all time.

1. “Blackbird” By The Beatles

One of my favorite fingerpicking songs of all time, “Blackbird” is a hauntingly beautiful song about hope and freedom.

Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these broken wings and learn to fly

The lyrics are written from the perspective of a blackbird who is imprisoned but dreams of flying away to a better place. According to McCartney, the song is actually referring to the racial troubles that were happening in the American South in the 1960s.

2. “Surfin’ Bird” by The Trashmen

Love it or hate it, this is one of those songs that just get stuck in your head. Likely what made it even more famous was its appearance in multiple family guy episodes.

A-Well-a everybody’s heard about the bird!
Bird bird bird, b-bird’s the word.

With its fast-paced tempo and catchy chorus, “Surfin’ Bird” is sure to be an earworm.

3. “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

“Play Bree Bird” every guitarist at an open mic night has heard that once or twice.

But on a more serious note, “Free Bird” is a legendary rock song that speaks to the desire for freedom and independence.

‘Cause I’m as free as a bird now
And this bird you cannot change

Using the metaphor of a bird soaring through the sky freely this classic song not only paints a picture lyrically but also melts faces with its iconic guitar solo performed by Allen Collins.

Read Next: 29 Most Beautiful Songs About Animals (Of All Time)

4. “I’m Like A Bird” By Nelly Furtado

Nelly Furtado is a Canadian singer-songwriter who released this hit on her album “Whoa, Nelly! in 2000.

I’m like a bird, I only fly away
I don’t know where my soul is (soul is)

It’s a song about the fear of commitment and not really knowing what you want. If you read between the lines of the lyrics, it speaks about the idea of being afraid to open yourself up to love and to the potential of getting hurt.

5. “Three Little Birds” By Bob Marley & The Wailers

“Three Little Birds” is the perfect song to brighten your day. “Three little birds, pitch by my doorstep” how could you not smile at the thought of that?

Three little birds
Pitch by my doorstep
Singin’ sweet songs

Marley’s laid-back music and uplifting lyrics in this tune are a great way to relax when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Because as he says “every little thing is gonna be alright”.

Whether you’re a fan of reggae or not, “Three Little Birds” is a feel-good tune that’s impossible not to bop your head to. So go ahead and let the good vibes flow!

Read Next: 31 Best Beach Songs – The Ultimate Beach Playlist

6. “Birds” By Coldplay

This upbeat song is an awesome one to add to your playlist.

Chris Martin uses his signature falsetto voice which really adds to the uplifting feeling of the overall song.

And we’ll be birds
Flying free

It speaks about a person who is stuck in a difficult situation but is dreaming of escape with their partner. Despite the obstacles in their way, they are determined to find a way out.

7. “Bird on the Wire” By Leonard Cohen

This slow, poetic, masterpiece is one that soars above the mundane.

Leonard Cohen’s gravelly voice opens this song with a plea to be heard.

Like a bird on the wire
Like a drunk in a midnight choir

“Bird on the Wire” is a reflection on the struggles and joys of life, using the metaphor of a bird perched on a wire. The song, which features Cohen’s distinctive baritone voice and introspective lyrics, has become one of his popular songs and certainly deserves a spot on this list of songs about birds.

8. “Birds of a Feather, We Rock Together” By Vulfpeck

If you love funk then you’ll love Vulfpeck.

And if you’re looking for a funky song about birds, look no further than “Birds of a Feather”.

Birds of a feather, we rock together

This catchy tune is about staying together and being there for each other in good times. With soulful vocals, groovy instrumentation, and melodic lines that are out of this world, this song is sure to get your groove on.

9. “Fly Like an Eagle” by Steve Miller Band

Eagles are one of the most majestic birds in the world.

Their fierce, huge predators that take what they want and soar high above the rest of the birds. “Fly Like an Eagle” perfectly encapsulates the feeling of wanting to fly like an eagle.

Fly like an eagle, let my spirit carry me
I want to fly like an eagle

With its instantly recognizable melody the song has become one of the most beloved tracks of the 1970s and continues to be a radio staple to this day. This song is perfect for anyone who needs a little inspiration to chase their dreams. Soaring high above the clouds, eagle-style, is the only way to fly!

10. “Birds” By Imagine Dragons

With its powerful animated imagery in the music video “Birds” by Imagine Dragons is a song about a young girl who learn from her mother that she can fly.

I know that, ooh, birds fly in different directions
Ooh, I hope to see you again

Perhaps the idea of being able to fly signifies how we’re all different and we need to accept our differences no matter what. The song, which features the band’s signature mix of rock, pop, and electronic influences, has become a fan favorite and a highlight of their live performances.

Read Next: 13 Best Songs About Monsters to Give You the Heebie-Jeebies

11. “Sparrow” By Simon & Garfunkel

Name a more iconic singer-songwriter duo than Simon and Garfunkel…

“Sparrow” is a beautiful ode to the overlooked. The song celebrates the sparrow, a tiny creature that most people ignore or take for granted. The oak tree, swan, and wheat all refuse to love the sparrow, but the Earth does not.

I won’t share my branches with no Sparrow’s nest

The Earth sees the worth in the sparrow and recognizes that everything on Earth is connected. The song is a reminder to us all to love and appreciate the small things in life.

12. “Bluebird” By Paul McCartney & Wings

McCartney wrote Blackbird for The Beatles and “Bluebird” for his own band, Paul McCartney & Wings.

Released in 1973 on the album Band on the Run, “Bluebird” is a song where the narrator portrays himself as a bluebird and unites with the love of his life.

Touch your lips with a magic kiss
And you’ll be a bluebird too

The bluebird is a symbol of happiness and freedom, and this song embodies those qualities. It’s a feel-good song that celebrates the joy of being together.

13. “When Doves Cry” by Prince

Prince unfortunately passed away in 2015 but his song “Wehn Doves Cry” lives on.

With a rocking opening guitar riff and the use of sounds that are unusual to say the least, “When Doves Cry” was the lead single from Prince’s 1984 album “Purple Rain” and became an immediate hit. In fact, it was ranked number one on the Billboard Year-End Hot 100 singles of 1984.

Don’t make me chase you
Even doves have pride

By listening to it do you notice something that just feels different about the song? Yep… it has no bass! Some same the lack of bass helps create tension and provide a sense of “something missing” which goes hand in hand with the lyrics.

14. “A Broken Wing” by Martina McBride

Our first country song of the list, “A Broken Wing” is a heartbreaking ballad about a toxic relationship.

And with a broken wing
She still sings

The lyrics tell the story of a woman who has given her all to a man who constantly breaks her spirit, only to come back later begging for forgiveness. He has essentially “broken her wing” but even so, she carries on. This song is perfect for anyone who has ever been in a difficult relationship.

15. “Vultures” by John Mayer

https://youtu.be/9WDkazi__Bw

John Mayer is one of my favorite artists. “Vultures” is a groovy song about the never-ending cycle of life and death.

All of these vultures hiding
Right outside my door

The song is inspired by the resilience of vultures, which are able to thrive in even the harshest of environments. The vultures in the song represent the challenges and obstacles that we face in life, and how we must overcome them to reach our full potential.

There will always be “vultures” so to speak in life that want to take from you but never give back. The chorus of the song is a reminder to stay strong and not back down from anything that stands in your way.

Read Next: 22 Best Songs About Flowers Ever Created (Updated for 2023)

16. “Songbird” by Fleetwood Mac

https://youtu.be/wTi19MPOvDw

The simplicity of “Songbird” by Fleetwood Mac is what makes this song so special. Christine McVie’s voice coupled with a slow piano accompaniment creates a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere.

And the songbirds are singing,
Like they know the score

It’s a beautiful song about finding love and being loved in return. The lyrics are emotional and Christine’s voice was recorded to give the feeling that she was singing to an empty house after a show. This creates an intimate and vulnerable atmosphere that really speaks to the heart of the song.

Read Next: 10 Easy Piano Songs: The Ultimate Beginner’s List

17. “White Sparrows” By Billy Talent

It’s hard to say goodbye, even harder when it’s a permanent goodbye. In “White Sparrows,” Billy Talent sings of the pain of losing a loved one.

White sparrows fell from heaven and carried her away

He recalls happy memories of dining with his lost love, and the anguish of knowing she’s gone forever. This song reminds us that life goes on, even when it feels like our hearts have stopped. That being said, it doesn’t things any easier to lose someone we love.

Read Next: 20 Best Funeral Songs of All Time to Honor Someone’s Life

18. “The Eagle and the Hawk” By John Denver

“The Eagle and the Hawk” is a song about the freedom of flight. Although the eagle is probably known as the most majestic bird, the hawk is a close second. Painting imagery of both of these birds soaring side by side speaks to the beauty of flight.

I am the eagle, I live in high country
In rocky cathedrals that reach to the sky

This song is rather short, clocking in at just 2 minutes and 16 seconds in length. That being said, the lyrics are poignant and talk about how the eagle and hawk share the same freedom, despite their different appearances.

The song is an ode to nature and the majesty of birds.

19. “Skyline Pigeon” By Elton John

Elton John described this song as one of the first great tunes he and Bernie Taupin wrote together.

It describes someone releasing a pigeon from their hands and letting them fly away to be free.

Fly away, skyline pigeon fly
Towards the dreams
You’ve left so very far behind

This song could even be interpreted as a metaphor for the human desire to escape from the mundane and every day. Just like the pigeon how was released, we too wish to be free and soar toward our dreams.

Read Next: The 34 Saddest Songs of All Time (Updated for 2023)

20. “Rockin’ Robin” By Bobby Day

Now, this tune is a throwback. It was released by Bobby Day in 1958 and has continued to be popular over the years. Being featured on countless TV shows and even being included in some kids’ toys.

All the little birds on Jaybird Street
Love to hear the robin go tweet tweet tweet

This classic tune is about one of the most beloved birds in North America. It’s got that 50s be-bop feel to it that when you close your eyes you can just imagine how everyone back in the day used to dance to it.

21. “Hummingbird Heartbeat” By Katy Perry

Katy Perry’s “Hummingbird Heartbeat” is a sultry and butterfly-inducing song about new love. The lyrics are playful and passionate, hinting at the electric connection that the singer shares with her partner.

You give me the hummingbird heartbeat
You spread my wings and make me fly

It’s full of longing and desire, and it’s easy to imagine being swept up in the romance of it all.

The “hummingbird heartbeat” section of the chorus is a symbol of the fluttery feeling of being in love. And it’s clear that Perry is head-over-heels for her new boo.

22. “Eagle” By ABBA

Yet another song with the majestic “Eagle” in the title. That’s the third one so far!

Fun fact: Eagle is the longest track ABBA ever recorded with the album version clocking in at 5 minutes and seconds.

It’s a beautiful ballad about the power and majesty of eagles.

And I dream I’m an eagle
And I dream I can spread my wings

The lyrics articulate how eagles can travel anywhere they please, and how they are able to soar high in the sky. Watching the music video, there is more or less a constant backdrop of an eagle flying throughout the entire song.

The song is a reminder of the strength and freedom that eagles represent.

23. “Birds Don’t Sing” By TV Girl

This might be one of the lesser-known songs about birds on this list but it’s still a good one!

If you watch the music video you’ll probably realize that it doesn’t look like they had much of a budget and the acting is pretty bad but hey, it’s still a good bedroom pop track!

Birds don’t sing, they just fall from the sky

This is one of those songs where the music starkly contrasts with the lyrics. The lyrics in this one tell the story of a love that was never meant to be.

This provides the listener with an interesting experience as they are drawn in by the music but then brought back to reality by the lyrics.

24. “Songbird” By Jesse Colin Young

https://youtu.be/8g-LCYmp9CU

This song opens up with a quick little flute solo. What better way to open a song about birds than with a wind instrument?

This folk-rock tune represents the beauty and magic of music, and its ability to carry us away to other worlds.

Listen to the songbird
Hear the singing

The lyrics evoke images of soaring through the sky and listening to the songbird. If I were to extract some sort of meaning from this song it’s that it’s a love letter to music itself, and how it has the ability to transport us away from our everyday lives.

25. “Hummingbird” By Seals and Crofts

Opening this song with a soft and gentle classical guitar melody combined with harmonizing vocals sets the stage for the rest of the song. The instrumentation then builds to a more upbeat rhythm as the lyrics start to tell a story.

Oh hummingbird
Mankind was waiting for you to come flying along

“Hummingbird” is a plea to the titular bird not to fly away. The singer talks about how mankind was waiting for the hummingbird to come flying along and how they were wrong to harm it.

Like mankind does too often, we are many times too self-centered and don’t think about the other creatures in the world that have just as much of a right to exist as we do.

26. “Songbird” By Kenny G

https://youtu.be/QN2RnjFHmNY

“Songbird” by Kenny G is the perfect song for a lazy Sunday afternoon. The mellow soprano saxophone melody is soothing and calming, like a warm summer breeze.

Although there are no lyrics to this song, the music alone is enough to transport the listener to a place of peace and serenity.

If you’re looking for a song to help you relax and enjoy the moment, grab a piña colada and put on “Songbird” by Kenny G.

27. “Bird Song” By Jerry Garcia

The late, great Jerry Garcia is best known for his work in the band The Grateful Dead.

However, Mr. Garcia also wrote music for his own solo albums, of which “Bird Song” is one.

All I know is something like a bird within her sang,
All I know she sang a little while and then flew on

The structural composition of this song is unorthodox and unlike most tunes you’re probably used to. Although the Grateful Dead was sort of known for doing that. The song is structured as: Chorus – Verse – Chorus. And that’s it.

The lyrics speak of a bird singing happily before flying away, leaving the listener wondering what it all means. Garcia’s beautiful melody is the perfect backdrop for this song, making it a deserving mention in this list of songs about birds.

Final Thoughts

The popularity of bird songs is evident in the number of songs that have been written about them.

From the Beatles to John Denver, a wide range of artists have included references to birds in their music.

There are many reasons why people find bird songs so appealing. Bird songs can be relaxing, soothing, and inspiring. So the next time you need a remind of the beauty of these little (and large) flying creatures, check out this list of songs about birds.

About Cody
Cody is the founder of Musician Tuts, a free tutorial hub for musicians. He has over 15 years of experience playing a variety of instruments and dabbling in audio engineering. He spends his days blogging, listening to Spotify, and playing music.

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