10 Must-Hear Songs About Longing That Will Strike a Chord
In the vast universe of music, longing takes many forms—whether it’s the mournful wail of a guitar, the haunting call of a trumpet, or the pulsating beats from a digital sound machine. It’s a universal feeling captured beautifully in lyrics and melodies, creating an intricate tapestry of emotion.
Singer-songwriter community and activist Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha points this out in her essay, suggesting that longing is not merely a source of sorrow, but can be a safe haven, especially for LGBTQ and disabled people. It’s a double-edged sword, blending joy and yearning with the bittersweet sting of what’s absent. Longing can track far beyond just love—it can resonate with a desire for community, security, or even just a good time on the dance floor.
A Journey Through Sound
In 2013, the realization dawned: a deep dive into my musical preferences revealed that at least 20 of my beloved tracks were steeped in longing. Fast forward to the next year, and I had ballooned a Spotify playlist to over 3,000 tunes dedicated to this universal sentiment. While classic songs certainly capture this feeling, it’s the hidden gems that truly shine in their exploration of longing.
Let’s take a closer look at 10 incredible tracks that spotlight this poignant theme, featuring genres that range from country and jazz to rock and folk.
1. Sweet Honey in the Rock – “Run, Run, Mourner Run”
This stirring performance from the legendary all-women group echoes the haunting history of the American Civil War. Lead singer Bernice Johnson Reagon delivers a vocal performance that’s raw, powerful, and utterly mesmerizing. When you listen, you can feel history come alive.
2. Sarah McLachlan – “Good Enough”
Known for her ethereal voice, Sarah McLachlan strips it down in this live version of “Good Enough.” The 1999 take from her album Mirrorball reveals a raw, muscular energy that encapsulates the yearning in her lyrics—transforming it into an anthem of empowerment and resilience.
3. Mavis Staples – “This Little Light of Mine”
Mavis Staples reimagines this classic spiritual into a driving rock anthem, infusing it with anti-war sentiments that resonate deeply. Her artistry bridges the gap between past struggles and present day activism—a timeless testimony to hope.
4. Joan Baez & Indigo Girls – “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright”
This haunting rendition of Bob Dylan’s classic fuses the talents of three iconic artists, creating an acoustic experience that lingers in your heart long after the last note. Baez’s interpretive skill and the Indigo Girls’ harmonies elevate a breakup song into something profoundly moving.
5. The Velvelettes – “He Was Really Sayin’ Somethin’”
Let’s not forget this Motown gem that glides under the radar. With an infectious groove led by gospel-inspired piano, this upbeat track keeps the longing light yet powerful—perfect for a dance floor moment!
6. Tanya Tucker – “Bring My Flowers Now”
In this poignant reflection on life’s fleeting nature, Tanya Tucker’s voice carries the weight of both sorrow and dignity. It’s a reminder to appreciate things while we can—timeless wisdom wrapped in melodic beauty.
7. Brad Paisley – “He Didn’t Have to Be”
Country music doesn’t get much better than this tear-jerking narrative. Paisley captures the longing for paternal love through clever songwriting and a heartfelt delivery that calls forth powerful emotions.
8. Bill Withers – “I Can’t Write Left-Handed”
Withers gives voice to the silent suffering of war veterans in this poignant performance. The song’s understated elegance paired with his rich storytelling makes it a hidden treasure worthy of more ears.
9. Sarah Vaughan – “I’ll Be Seeing You”
Her vocal prowess shines in this live interpretation, with Vaughan’s ability to convey emotion eclipsing even her technical skill. It’s a heart-wrenching experience you won’t want to miss.
10. Steve Earle – “Someday”
This track encapsulates the bittersweet essence of longing. Earle’s lyrics hum with urgency and a palpable desire to break free—it’s a rocking ode to dreams deferred that resonates deeply with us all.
Stream the Vibes
If you want to tap into these resonant feelings and vibe with something truly special, check out this carefully curated Spotify playlist. These songs not only showcase the nuances of longing; they remind us of music’s power to heal, connect, and transform.
So, plug in, turn up the volume, and let the waves of longing wash over you. Happy listening!
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