Ever wondered why songs about the future are so popular? In the tapestry of human existence, the future stands as a beacon of hope, uncertainty, and boundless possibility. From the dawn of civilization to the modern age, humanity’s fascination with what lies ahead has permeated cultural expressions, literature, and, of course, the lyrics of songs. The concept of the future serves as both muse and metaphor, reflecting society’s aspirations, fears, and dreams.
Join us as we delve into the allure of the future and explore why it is a recurring theme in song lyrics. From existential ponderings to socio-political commentary, songs about the future encapsulate the human experience, offering glimpses into the collective imagination and the relentless pursuit of what may come to pass. As we journey through melodies and verses we unravel the intricacies of humanity’s enduring fascination with the ever-elusive tomorrow.
Why The Fascination With Songs About The Future?
In our modern society, people are increasingly looking to the future for answers. One significant factor propelling this forward-looking mindset is the looming threat of climate change. With the planet experiencing unprecedented environmental shifts, individuals and governments alike are compelled to envision and plan for a sustainable future.
Even more poignantly, the spectre of war, fuelled by geopolitical tensions and technological advancements in weaponry, drives people to contemplate strategies for peace-building and conflict resolution in the years to come.
Yet most significant in the 21st century is the rapid pace of technological innovation, which underscores the need to anticipate and adapt to the transformative effects of this brave new world of artificial intelligence, automation and digitalization.
But for decades and before, the dream for a better tomorrow has been a common theme and one that is expressed through song lyrics by musicians and artists through the ages.
So let’s get straight into exploring our 50 Best Songs About The Future.
50 Best Songs About The Future
The Beatles – Tomorrow Never Knows
“Tomorrow Never Knows” is a psychedelic rock song by The Beatles, released in 1966 as the final track on their album “Revolver”. The song was inspired by Timothy Leary’s book “The Psychedelic Experience: A Manual Based on the Tibetan Book of the Dead”, and features experimental production techniques such as reverse tape loops and processed vocals.
Joni Mitchell – Big Yellow Taxi
“Big Yellow Taxi” is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released in 1970. The song was inspired by the environmental impact of urbanization and features lyrics about paving paradise to put up a parking lot. It reached number 24 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become one of Mitchell’s most popular and enduring songs.
Boney M – Future World
“Future World” is a song by the German disco group Boney M, released in 1981 as a single from their album “Boonoonoonoos”. The song reached number 16 on the German charts and number 18 on the UK charts. It has a futuristic theme and features electronic instrumentation mixed with traditional African rhythms.
Timbik 3 – The Future’s So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades
“The Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades” is a song by Timbuk3, released in 1986. It reached #19 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and became their biggest hit. The song has an upbeat tempo and its lyrics humorously reflect on the potential of the future. It is said that the song was actually referring to the potential for nuclear holocaust, but it remains ambiguous.
Jamiroquai – Virtual Insanity
“Virtual Insanity” is a song by the British funk band Jamiroquai, released in 1996 as the second single from their album “Travelling Without Moving”. The song’s lyrics address societal issues such as environmental destruction and political corruption. Its distinctive music video, featuring frontman Jay Kay dancing on a moving floor surrounded by furniture that appears to defy gravity, won several awards and helped propel the song to number 3 on the UK Singles Chart.
B-52’s – Song For A Future Generation
“Song For A Future Generation” is a song by the American new wave band B-52’s, released in 1983 as part of their album “Whammy!”. The song did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100 but reached #38 on the US Dance Club Songs chart. It features vocals from all five members of the band and celebrates various cultural icons like Andy Warhol, William S. Burroughs, and Yoko Ono.
Heavy D and The Boys – Letter To The Future
“Heavy D and The Boys – Letter To The Future” is a rap song that was released on January 1, 1993.
David Bowie – Future Legend
“Future Legend” is the opening track of David Bowie’s 1974 album “Diamond Dogs”. The song sets the dystopian tone for the rest of the album, which portrays a post-apocalyptic world inhabited by mutants and outcasts. It features spoken-word lyrics over an eerie electronic soundscape. While it was not released as a single and did not chart on its own, “Diamond Dogs” reached #1 in the UK charts upon its release.
Helloween – Future World
“Future World” is a song by the German power metal band Helloween, released in 1987 as part of their album “Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I”. The lyrics were inspired by science fiction and dystopian themes. The song did not reach any notable chart positions, but it remains a fan favorite and an iconic track in the power metal genre.
Seal – Future Love Paradise
“Future Love Paradise” is a song by British singer Seal, released in 1991 as the lead single from his second studio album. The song reached number 12 on the UK Singles Chart and number 21 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It features a fusion of pop, R&B, and rock genres with lyrics that convey a message of hope and love for the future.
Manic Street Preachers – Love Letter To The Future
“Love Letter to the Future” is a song by Welsh rock band Manic Street Preachers, released on their 2004 album “Lifeblood”. It features atmospheric synths and introspective lyrics about hope for the future amidst uncertainty and chaos.
Pet Shop Boys – Memory of the Future
“Memory of the Future” is a synthpop song by Pet Shop Boys, released on December 31, 2012. It reached number 93 on the UK Singles Chart. The song features Neil Tennant’s distinctive vocals over a pulsating electronic beat and was well-received by critics for its catchy melody and introspective lyrics about the passage of time.
Sting – Forget About the Future
“Forget About the Future” is a song by Sting, released in 1999 as part of his album “Brand New Day”. It did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100 but reached #33 on the US Adult Top 40. The song features a mix of electronic and acoustic instruments with lyrics about living in the present moment and letting go of worries about the future.
Thompson Twins – Future Days
“Future Days” is a song by British pop group Thompson Twins, released in 1985 as the second single from their album “Here’s to Future Days”. It reached number 55 on the UK Singles Chart. The song features a blend of electronic and acoustic instrumentation with lyrics about hope for the future.
Elton John – Rocket Man
“Rocket Man” is a song by Elton John, released in 1972. It tells the story of an astronaut’s loneliness and isolation during a space mission. The inspiration for the song came from Ray Bradbury’s short story “The Rocket Man.” The single reached number two on the UK Singles Chart and number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Neil Diamond – Headed For The Future
“Headed For The Future” is a song by Neil Diamond released in 1986. It peaked at number 53 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and reached number 4 on the Adult Contemporary chart. The song is an upbeat and optimistic anthem about looking forward to a better future.
Massive Attack – Future Proof
“Future Proof” is a song by Massive Attack, released on their album “100th Window” in February 2003. It features haunting vocals by Liz Fraser and has been described as atmospheric and ethereal.
The Human League – Kiss the Future
“The Human League – Kiss the Future” was released in 1990. The song features electronic and synthpop elements, typical of The Human League’s sound.
James Brown – Future Shock of the World
The song “Future Shock of the World” by James Brown was released in 1984. It is a funk and electro-pop track that addresses social issues such as poverty, crime, and drug addiction.
Flaming Lips – Riding to Work in the year 2025
“Riding to Work in the Year 2025” is a song by American rock band The Flaming Lips. It was released on their album “The Soft Bulletin” in 1999 and did not chart as a single. The song features dreamy, psychedelic instrumentation and lyrics that imagine a futuristic world where people commute to work via personal jetpacks.
Busted – Year 3000
“Year 3000” is a song by the English pop-rock band Busted. It was released as the second single from their debut studio album in 2003. The song’s inspiration came from band member James Bourne’s obsession with science fiction and his desire to write a futuristic song. “Year 3000” reached number two on the UK Singles Chart and became one of Busted’s most popular songs.
John Legend – Tomorrow
“Tomorrow” is a soulful ballad by American singer John Legend, released on June 19, 2020. The song did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100 but received critical acclaim for its emotional lyrics and powerful vocals.
Golden Earing – Future
“Future” is a song by the Dutch rock band Golden Earring, released in 1972 on their album “Together”. The song features psychedelic and progressive rock elements with lyrics about the uncertainty of the future.
David Byrne – In The Future
“In The Future” is a song by David Byrne, released on March 9, 2018. It did not chart on any major music charts. The track features lyrics that reflect on the potential impact of technology and artificial intelligence on society in the future.
Zager & Evans – In the Year 2525
“In the Year 2525” is a dystopian science fiction song by Zager and Evans, released in 1969. The inspiration for the song was the fear of technology’s potential to dehumanize society and destroy civilization. (I know right…) It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in July 1969 and remained there for six weeks.
Todd Rundgren – Future
“Future” is a song by American musician Todd Rundgren, released on his 2021 atmospheric drum and bass album “Space Force”.
Pet Shop Boys – This Used To Be The Future
“This Used To Be The Future” is a song by Pet Shop Boys, released on their album “Yes” in 2009. The song features electronic pop elements and explores themes of nostalgia and progress.
Prince – Party Like It’s 1999
“Party Like It’s 1999” is a dance-pop and funk song by American musician Prince, released in 1982. The inspiration for the song was the fear of an impending apocalypse due to nuclear war. The song reached number 12 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become one of Prince’s signature hits.
Styx – Mr Roboto
“Mr. Roboto” is a song by the American rock band Styx, released in 1983 as part of their album “Kilroy Was Here”. The song was inspired by lead singer Dennis DeYoung’s fascination with Japanese culture and technology. It reached #3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and became one of Styx’s most popular songs.
The Byrds – One Hundred Years From Now
“The Byrds One Hundred Years From Now” is a country rock song written by Gram Parsons and released on the album “Sweetheart of the Rodeo” in 1968. The inspiration for the song came from Parsons’ fascination with American history and his interest in exploring themes related to time, mortality, and legacy. Although it did not reach high positions on any major charts, it has since become a classic among fans of country rock music.
David Bowie – A Better Future
“A Better Future” is a song by David Bowie from his 2002 album “Heathen”. The song was inspired by the events of September 11, 2001 and Bowie’s hope for a better future in the aftermath.
David Bowie – Space Oddity
As we see, the future was a serious inspiration for the late great David Bowie. Possibly the most famous of his future-themed tracks, “Space Oddity” was released in 1969. The song was inspired by Stanley Kubrick’s film “2001: A Space Odyssey” and tells the story of Major Tom, an astronaut who becomes lost in space. It reached number five on the UK Singles Chart upon its release.
Rush – 2112
“2112” is a 20-minute-long song by the Canadian rock band Rush, released in 1976 as the title track of their fourth studio album. The song was inspired by Ayn Rand’s novel “Anthem,” and tells a dystopian story set in the year 2112. While it did not chart as a single, the album reached No. 61 on the Billboard charts and has since become one of Rush’s most iconic works.
Dua Lipa – Future Nostalgia
“Future Nostalgia” is the title track of Dua Lipa’s second studio album, released on March 27, 2020. The song is a disco and funk-inspired track with lyrics that celebrate self-empowerment and staying true to oneself. It peaked at number 13 on the UK Singles Chart and received critical acclaim for its catchy melody and retro sound.
Paramore – Future
“Future” is a song by American rock band Paramore. It was released on April 19, 2013 as the fifth and final single from their self-titled fourth studio album. The song features upbeat instrumentation and optimistic lyrics about looking forward to the future despite past struggles.
Leonard Cohen – The Future
“The Future” is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen, released in 1992. The lyrics reflect on the state of the world and its future, with themes of political corruption, war, and technology. The song was not a commercial success and did not reach any significant chart positions. However, it has since become one of Cohen’s most iconic songs and has been covered by various artists.
OneRepublic – Future Looks Good
“OneRepublic – Future Looks Good” is a pop-rock song released on September 23, 2016. The song was inspired by the band’s desire to spread positivity and hope in difficult times. It reached number 15 on the US Adult Top 40 chart and number 20 on the US Hot Rock Songs chart.
Curtis Mayfield – Future Shock
“Future Shock” is a song by American musician Curtis Mayfield, released in 1973. The song was inspired by Alvin Toffler’s book of the same name, which predicted that technological advancements would lead to rapid social and cultural change. “Future Shock” reached #23 on the US R&B chart and #56 on the Billboard Hot 100. It has been noted for its use of synthesizers and electronic effects, which were relatively new at the time.
Black Sabbath – Tomorrow’s Dream
“Tomorrow’s Dream” is a song by the British rock band Black Sabbath, released in 1972 as part of their fourth studio album “Vol. 4”. The song was inspired by the band’s experiences on tour and their longing for a better future. It features heavy guitar riffs and Ozzy Osbourne’s distinctive vocals. While it did not reach high positions on charts, it remains a fan favorite and has been covered by several other artists over the years.
Bon Jovi – Next 100 Years
“Next 100 Years” is a song by American rock band Bon Jovi, released in 2000 as the fourth single from their album “Crush”. The song was inspired by Jon Bon Jovi’s desire to leave a positive legacy for future generations and features optimistic lyrics about the future. It reached number 60 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The Kills – The Future Starts Slow
“The Future Starts Slow” is a song by the indie rock band The Kills. It was released on April 18, 2011, as the lead single from their fourth studio album “Blood Pressures”. The song features a driving rhythm and gritty guitar riffs, with lyrics that explore themes of power dynamics in relationships. While it did not reach any significant chart positions, it received critical acclaim for its raw energy and infectious hooks.
Paul McCartney – Hope For The Future
“Hope for the Future” is a song by Paul McCartney, released in 2014. It was written for the video game “Destiny,” and features lyrics about overcoming obstacles and finding hope in difficult times. The song did not reach significant chart positions, but received positive reviews from critics.
The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun
“Here Comes The Sun” is a song by the Beatles, written by George Harrison. It was released on their 1969 album “Abbey Road”. The song’s inspiration came from Harrison’s relief at the arrival of spring after a long winter in England and is heralded by many as a song about brighter days to come. It reached number 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in November 2019, following its use in a popular movie soundtrack.
Fleetwood Mac – Future Games
“Fleetwood Mac – Future Games” is a song released in 1971 as the title track of Fleetwood Mac’s fifth studio album. The song was written by guitarist Bob Welch and inspired by his interest in science fiction and fantasy literature. It reached number 105 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart but did not reach higher positions on other charts. The song features dreamy vocals, intricate guitar work, and ethereal keyboard textures that create a surreal atmosphere fitting for its subject matter.
Stone Temple Pilots – Years
“Years” is a song by American rock band Stone Temple Pilots, released on their self-titled album in 2010. The song was inspired by the passing of lead singer Scott Weiland’s brother and deals with themes of loss and mortality.
MGMT – Future Reflections
“Future Reflections” is a song by American rock band MGMT, released on their second studio album “Congratulations” in 2010. The song features psychedelic and electronic elements with lyrics that explore themes of time travel and the future. It received critical acclaim for its experimental sound and unique style and was inspired by the band’s fascination with science fiction and their desire to create a futuristic sound that blended different genres together.
The Beatles – When I’m 64
“When I’m Sixty-Four” is a song by The Beatles, released in 1967 on their album “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”. It was written primarily by Paul McCartney and inspired by his own father turning 64 years old. The song features a jaunty melody and lyrics about growing old together with someone you love. It reached number 49 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Kim Petras – Future Starts Now
“Future Starts Now” is an upbeat pop song by German singer Kim Petras, released on November 20, 2020. The song was inspired by the idea of taking control of one’s own future and making positive changes in life – a poignant subject for the proud trans artist.
Bastille – Give Me The Future
“Give Me The Future” is a song by British band Bastille, released on July 30, 2021. It was inspired by the idea of wanting to escape from the present and move forward into a better future. The song has not yet charted on any major music charts as of August 2021.
Noise Factory – Breakage 4 (I Bring You The Future)
I will finish by introducing you to some underground futuristic music – with this quintessential breakbeat track from 1992 which at the time was seen as groundbreaking and is now classed as well before its time. Playing a huge part of the UK rave scene with Breakbeat, Jungle and Hardcore, this track was played in raves and clubs up and down the country – and is the perfect way to round off my 50 best songs about the future!
Closing Thoughts on The 50 Best Songs About The Future
I hope you have enjoyed this collection of songs about the future. The best songs about the future encapsulate humanity’s enduring curiosity and optimism, with their memorable tunes and thought-provoking lyrics, these songs offer insights into our hopes, fears, and aspirations for what lies ahead. As we navigate the complexities of our world, these songs remind us of the possibilities that await and the importance of embracing change.
From contemplating the unknown to envisioning a better tomorrow, these songs continue to resonate and inspire, serving as timeless reflections of our shared human experience.
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