If you ask people what their favorite color is, a high proportion will say blue. In fact, 35% of the world’s population chose it as their favorite. It is pleasing to the eye and can be evocative, but it is not aggressive. The blue of the seas or the ocean, or the blue of the sky, are all naturally pleasing to us.
In its various shades, blue can indicate strength of character but also an inner calm. To some, it can mean trust and confidence. A good proportion of company logos have something blue in a prominent position.
Also, it can mean that we are sad, and it even gave its name to one of the great musical genres. So, I decided to take a look at songs with blue in the title in a range of genres and periods; let’s get started with…
Contents
Top 105 Songs With Blue in the Title
1
Song Sung Blue by Neil Diamond
This is a song that has stood the test of time and is still very popular today. It seems incredible that it was released 50 years ago, as it still sounds so good today. “Song Sung Blue” was taken from his album, Moods, which was released in 1972.
It was his second American #1, as well as his last. It went to #14 in the UK and had success in other countries, especially in Europe.
The Inspiration
He claims he got his inspiration for the song from a Mozart Piano Concerto. He states that he only wanted to write something simple for the album. Although, the two words ‘Mozart’ and ‘simple’ hardly go together in any circumstances.
A classic song with blue in the name by a masterful showman. Easy listening at its best.
2
Baby Blue by Badfinger
From the album, Straight Up. Badfinger was a band from Swansea in South Wales, whose career reads like a play by the ancient Greek writer Sophocles. They had been around a while, formally known as The Iveys, and played the club scene in London as well as at home.
Like most bands that became successful in the UK in the late 60s and early 70s, they needed something special. That ‘something’ would help you to stand out from the crowd. Badfinger had it in the shape of songwriter and singer Pete Ham.
He wrote great songs, an example being “Without You,” which he wrote with band member Tom Evans. A great song that became a huge hit everywhere for Harry Nilsson.
Apple
They were the first band to be signed to The Beatles’ Apple label. Although they had moderate success in the UK, they were more popular in America and overseas. But, within the Apple circle, including guys like Mal Evans, people recognized their talent and persevered.
Apple collapsed in 1973, and everyone just seemed to walk away from the destruction. One band caught up in it all was Badfinger. No royalties were being paid, and they found themselves amid a financial disaster.
Suicides
Pete Ham committed suicide in 1975 in his house in Weybridge, suffering deep depression from the fallout. A few years later, bass guitarist Tom Evans also killed himself.
There were several attempts to revive the band with musicians they had got to know through Apple. But, it finally all fell apart with the death of drummer Mike Gibbins. And then there was one.
Release Cancellation
“Baby Blue” was caught up in the debacle and, despite having a release date, never came out in the UK. It did well in America, reaching #14. It was a song Pete Ham had written about a girlfriend he had met during an American tour.
The song was finally released in the UK in 2013 after being used in a British TV program. It got to #73. It ranks as the best underrated song with blue in the title.
3
Blue Jay Way by The Beatles
While we are on the subject of Apple and the Beatles, let’s look at “Blue Jay Way.” This was written and sung by George Harrison. It was released almost simultaneously in the UK and America in 1967. And the film Magical Mystery Tour came out just before Christmas of 1967.
This is one of those tracks by The Beatles that many people are not familiar with. But, it stands out as a classic in their ‘psychedelic’ period of transformation through experimentation. Harrison’s mystical influences are very present. Especially some aspects of traditional classical Indian themes. There were no Indian instruments used on the track, but there is plenty of experimentation.
Studio Experiments
There are reverse tape sounds, playing instruments through Leslie cabinets and flanging. George also included a ‘drone’ Hammond organ in the background.
It has been scorned for being uninspiring, monotonous, and self-indulgent. But, others have admired its construction, atmosphere, and the dark mood it creates. It is another of those songs with blue in the title that gets overlooked.
4
Blue Suede Shoes by Elvis Presley
When you ask people to think of a song with ‘blue’ in the title, it is quite likely you will get this as the answer. This is what must be considered a rock n roll standard. It was written by Carl Perkins, and he put it out as a single in 1955.
Presley recorded it a year later. It was the first track on his first album, entitled Elvis Presley, that introduced him to the world. Not a bad example of some of what was to come. And is easily one of the most well known songs with the word blue in its title.
The start of a new era?
Perkins’ original was a little more rockabilly. Presley was in-your-face rock n roll. It was, you might say, one of the songs that opened a new musical era. Others recorded it, including other rock n roll icons like Eddie Cochrane and Buddy Holly.
However, no one ever quite captured the magic of the Presley version. I am not sure Presley was ever seen wearing said ‘blue suedes.’ But, whoever it was wearing them do or say what you like to him. Just don’t step on his shoes.
5
Blueberry Hill by Fats Domino
This is another song that typifies the mid-50s era. And, in my opinion, one of the greatest rock n roll songs from that period. The song was written in 1940, and plenty of people covered it during that decade, most notably the Glenn Miller Orchestra.
More than a song…
It is considered one of the definitive rock n roll songs of the 50s. As such, it was chosen to be played in the TV program “Happy Days.”
It is instantly recognizable by those first few words and that jangling piano. Furthermore, it brings to mind more than just a memory of a song. It brings back a whole culture. As I said, one of the songs and performances that defined an era.
So, we have had a look at some songs with blue in the title. How about a few that relate to ‘Blues’ music.
6
Traveling Riverside Blues by Led Zeppelin
This track is from the album Coda. It is a blues song originally from Robert Johnson. Don’t need to say too much more; you get the drift of how this is going to be and what it is about.
Johnson recorded it in 1937 on his last recording session. It wasn’t released until 1961 on the album King Of The Delta Blues Singers.
At some point…
It must have been heard, probably by Jimmy Page, and Zep started to include it in their stage set in 1969. Page added overdubbed guitar tracks, and the main track was left as a 12-string. Page played slide all the way through, but the highlight must be John Bonham’s triplet drumming.
The early recordings for the BBC’s John Peel Show were later released on the Zeppelin album Coda. As is quite common with Zeppelin, unfortunately, bits of this song found their way into songs where Zeppelin claimed writing credits. In this case, The Lemon Song from Led Zeppelin 2.
You can’t say it is a typical Zeppelin track, but it is a typical 12-bar Delta Blues song. And, they do a half-decent job of it.
7
Me And The Devil Blues by Robert Johnson
This is a track that was also recorded on that last recording session in an old Dallas, Texas, warehouse. Later included on this compilation album, Me and the Devil Blues.
If you don’t know much about this great blues man, then it was worth the time finding out. His music influenced so many people. But, sadly, that influence didn’t come until after his untimely death at the age of just 27 in 1938.
Those who owe him a debt are Muddy Waters, the original Fleetwood Mac, and The Rolling Stones. As well as Led Zeppelin, Free, and a host of others.
The Real Deal
This is what you would call ‘real’ blues. If you like ‘real’ blues music, then Robert Johnson was the ‘real deal.’ Just him, an acoustic guitar and a cigarette, laying it down ‘warts and all.’
No 300 effects pedals covering up inadequacies in his playing with overdrive and just about any other effect. Although, he was often seen wearing a hat.
The Story?
Too much to go into here. If you want a late-night thriller, you can read all about him in “Me and the Devil Blues 1: The Unreal Life of Robert Johnson”.
The song tells a strange tale of a man waking up one morning. He hears a knocking on his door and answers it to find ‘the devil.’ He is told it is ‘time to go.’
It is a story that symbolizes Satan calling in a debt. Whether you believe in all that ‘devil stuff’ is irrelevant. Of course, it was Robert Johnson who also wrote “Crossroads.” A story about a man who sold his soul to the devil so that he could play great guitar.
True or False
It doesn’t matter here. Read the books and make your mind up what the song is all about. All I would say is that he died at the age of 27 from strychnine poisoning. A common enough poison to get hold of. But, if you want to commit suicide? There were easier ways.
The song is typical of Johnson, with some neat guitar playing and that wailing voice; the blues are here.
8
Young Man Blues by The Who
Let’s finish this look at songs that have blue in the title with this one. And many would agree that there isn’t a better way to finish. For those lucky enough to grow up in West London in the 60s, you would have seen some great bands.
The Who, Led Zeppelin, The Yardbirds, Jimi Hendrix, Small Faces, John Mayall, and the rest. You could see them all by popping down the road to some dark and dingy venue.
Perhaps some readers will not agree, but in 1970, The Who were the greatest rock band the world had ever seen. Today it is no different. Even the giants of rock, like Led Zeppelin, have never been able to produce live shows like them.
A Jazz Song?
It was first recorded in 1957 by jazz pianist Mose Allison. On hearing this live version, he said, “This was it. This is a Command Performance of this song”.
It had been in The Who’s stage set since about 1965. And it was included in their iconic and mind-numbing album 1970 Live At Leeds.
Performing with power…
In terms of a live rock band, this is about as good as it gets. Power is not so much about volume; it is adrenaline-fueled power. Anyone can turn the dial on the amp up to 10. But, producing a performance like this is more than just about the volume.
Okay, let’s move on from songs with ‘blues’ in the title to the singular version. Let’s take in a couple of country tracks to let you get your breath back.
9
Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue by Crystal Gayle
When this song came out in 1977, Crystal Gayle was unknown in the UK and Europe. She only had a following in country music circles in America. So one could hardly call her an international singing star. This song from her fourth album, We Must Believe In Magic, changed all that.
Overnight she became successful. She was portrayed in photos and media of the time a little like Scarlett O’Hara in “Gone with the Wind.” Even in the way she dressed. And, it seemed to work in her favor.
The song was written by Richard Leigh, who had written previous successful country songs for her. It reached #2 in America and #5 in the UK. The song was inspired by Richard Leigh’s dog, who had one brown eye and one blue eye.
10
Blue Bayou by Linda Ronstadt
This is a song written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson. Orbison had a big hit with it in 1963. Linda Ronstadt did her version in 1977, and it became a signature song of hers. It reached #3 in America and #35 in the UK. It was later included in her Greatest Hits, Vol. 1 and 2.
It is essentially a soft rock song with a hint of country for good measure. In it, she sings about missing home and how she wants to find a partner and go back there.
A woman who could sing anything…
Of all the great female singers we had during the 60s and 70s, there were very few who could beat Linda Ronstadt. She had a great voice that could cope with Country, Soft Rock, power ballads, Jazz, and Light Opera.
The greatest hits album I provided the link to will show you just how diverse and just good she was. She has retired now, but we are left with a body of work that few can compete with.
11
Blue Velvet by Bobby Vinton
Also included on a Bobby Vinton Greatest Hits compilation for those who like some 60s nostalgia. There have been several versions of this song, notably in 1951 by Tony Bennett.
It was written by Bernie Wayne and Lee Morris in 1950. Despite Tony Bennett and other covers, when this song is mentioned, most think of the Bobby Vinton version from 1963.
Clean cut, typical early 60s songs when life was so easy. A typical song of the time and always good to listen to again.
12
Blue Skies by Jamiroquai
This is a track that was released at the same time as the album from which it came. It, therefore, didn’t get an official physical release and was available for download only.
It gives a good message to all. We all make mistakes; it is part of life and the journey we are all on. Things will get better, though, and blue skies are around the corner.
In some ways a mellow song from this ‘alternative’ funk band. It has its moments for those with a liking for some jazzy rhythms, as is usual with Jay Kay.
Popular Songs with Blue in Them
Space is becoming tight, so a few honorable mentions are called for:
- Rhapsody In Blue by George Gershwin.
- Behind Blue Eyes by The Who.
- Blue Eyes by Elton John.
- Blue Moon by The Marcels.
- Goodbye Blue Sky by Pink Floyd.
- Blue Monday by New Order.
So many to choose from and so many still not mentioned. However, on to the last choice.
13
Blue Letter by Fleetwood Mac
I do like to finish these lists with my number one choice. And this is my number one choice for songs that use the word blue in the title. Now, I am sure this will raise some eyebrows, but in my view, this has always been Fleetwood Mac’s best album. And that includes Rumours.
They had been a great blues band in the 60s with Peter Green. When this album came out, they were accused in some quarters of ‘selling out’ and becoming a ‘pop’ band. A certain amount of truth in that, given this particular track and its style.
A new approach…
The album was just stunning, and the influence of Nicks and Buckingham was felt straight away. “Rhiannon,” “Landslide,” and “Crystal” brought Nicks’ songwriting skills to the fore.
“World Turning” and “I’m So Afraid” brought a great atmosphere. At times deep and dark, at other times playful. As stated, a stunning album.
“Blue Letter” was a simple song but cleverly crafted. It had been written by Richard and Michael Curtis and was a song about a break-up but buried in a happy song. Almost as if the result was good news. And the Coda was a sign of what might be coming along later.
14
True Blue – Madonna
15
Blue (Da Ba Dee) – Eiffel 65
16
Blue Jeans – Lana Del Rey
17
Blue Orchid – The White Stripes
18
Blue Monday – New Order
19
Pale Blue Eyes – The Velvet Underground
20
Crystal Blue Persuasion – Tommy James & The Shondells
21
Blue Morning, Blue Day – Foreigner
22
Blue Ain’t Your Color – Keith Urban
23
Blue on Black – Kenny Wayne Shepherd
24
Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain – Willie Nelson
25
Blue Sky – The Allman Brothers Band
26
Blue Spanish Sky – Chris Isaak
27
The Ballad of Lucy Jordan – Marianne Faithfull
28
Blue Hotel – Chris Isaak
29
Blue Side – Lianne La Havas
30
Bluebird – Paul McCartney
31
Blue on Blue – Bobby Vinton
32
Blue World – Mac Miller
33
Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) – Styx
34
Blue Rose Is – Pam Tillis
35
Blue Monday ’88 – New Order
36
Blue Jean – David Bowie
37
Blue Turns to Grey – The Rolling Stones
38
Blue Skies – Noah and the Whale
39
Blue Valentines – Tom Waits
40
Blue Eyes – Elton John
41
Carolina in My Mind – James Taylor
42
Blue on Black – Five Finger Death Punch
43
Blue Side of the Mountain – The Steeldrivers
44
Blue Sky Mine – Midnight Oil
45
Beyond the Blue Horizon – Lou Christie
46
Crystal Blue – Moby
47
Blue Skies – Willie Nelson
48
Baby Blue Eyes – A Rocket to the Moon
49
Black and Blue – Louis Armstrong
50
Blue Monday People – Curtis Mayfield
More 55 Songs With Blue in the Title
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- Blue Turns to Grey – Cliff Richard
- Carolina Blue – Dolly Parton
- Blue Collar Jane – The Strypes
- Blue-Eyed Girl – Mazzy Star
- Singing the Blues – Guy Mitchell
- My Blue Heaven – Fats Domino
- Blue Jay – First Aid Kit
- Tangled Up in Blue – Bob Dylan
- Blue Days, Black Nights – Buddy Holly
- Blue Streak Mama – Blackberry Smoke
- Blue Light – Mazzy Star
- Bluebird – Kacey Musgraves
- Blue Skies – Ella Fitzgerald
- Blues Before Sunrise – Eric Clapton
- Blue and Sentimental – Count Basie
- My Blue Heaven – The Smashing Pumpkins
- Blue Moon Revisited (Song for Elvis) – Cowboy Junkies
- Deep Blue Day – Brian Eno
- Blue Eyes – Cary Brothers
- Blue Umbrella – John Prine
- Crystal Blue Persuasion – The Five Stairsteps
- Blue Bayou – Roy Orbison
- Blue Ridge Mountain Song – Alan Jackson
- Kentucky Bluebird – Keith Whitley
- Blue Drag – Django Reinhardt
- Blue Hotel – Chris Isaak
- Blue Mornin’ Rain – Patty Griffin
- Blue Skies – Tom Waits
- Blue Light – Bloc Party
- Blue and Yellow – The Used
- Blue Orchid (Version 1) – The White Stripes
- Blue Boy – John Fogerty
- Blue Jean Blues – ZZ Top
- Blue Skies – Noah Reid
- Blue Thunder – Galaxie 500
- Pale Blue Dot – Dream Theater
- Blue Water – David Crosby
- Blue Monday ’95 – Orbital
- Blue Eyes – Middle Brother
- Blue Train – John Coltrane
- Carolina Blue Sky – My Morning Jacket
- Blues Power – Eric Clapton
- Blue Ridge Mountains – Fleetwood Mac
- Blue Eyes – Cary Brothers
- Blue Motel Room – Joni Mitchell
- Bluebird – Christina Perri
- Blue Monday – Flunk
- Blue Day – Joe Purdy
- Blue Smoke – Dolly Parton
- Blue Lips – Regina Spektor
- Blue Murder – David Gilmour
- Blue Mountains – Tracy Chapman
- Bluebird – Alexis Ffrench
- Blue on Black – Ana Popovic
- Blue and Evil – Joe Bonamassa
Searching for Great Songs?
We can help. Take a look at our detailed articles on the Best Songs About Clouds, the Best Songs About Friendship, the Best Songs about Friday, the Best Songs About Dreams, and the Best Songs About Magic for more incredible song selections.
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Songs With Blue in the Title – Conclusion
As Neil Diamond might say, “Plenty of songs sung blue.” It is amazing just how many songs that have blue in the title. So many that I had to leave out, too.
As I said at the beginning, the word ‘blue’ is emotive and can create a variety of emotions and feelings. It can take you from sadness to happiness and most stops in between. Thankfully, it is not aggressive, nor is it threatening. No bad thing.
Quite a few songs with the word blue in the title, more than enough to keep you going for a while.
Until next time, happy listening.
