11 Songs About Grass: Where Grass Steals the Show
Hey there, fellow music lovers and DJs! It’s TBone here, from Level Tunes, bringing you another curated playlist that’s close to my heart.
This time, I’ve decided to dive into something a bit unique – a collection of 11 songs about grass.
You heard it right! Why grass, you ask? Well, it’s not just the foundation beneath our feet; it’s a symbol of growth, nature, and sometimes, just the simplicity of life.
Each song in this list explores different facets of grass – metaphorically or literally – offering us a fresh perspective on everyday life.
I’ve carefully selected these tracks because they resonate with the vibrant, often overlooked moments of joy and contemplation we find in the world around us.
Whether you’re a DJ looking to add some depth to your sets or a music enthusiast craving a new theme to explore, this list promises to take you on a unique auditory journey. Let’s embrace the green beneath us through the universal language of music!
Here are the songs about grass that you can check out:
List Of Songs About Grass
Songs about grass in a list format:
1. “Green Grass” by Tom Waits
From the 2004 album Real Gone, released under Anti- Records, “Green Grass” is a hauntingly beautiful track that captures Tom Waits’ distinctive, gravelly voice against a backdrop of minimalist instrumentation. This song evokes a sense of nostalgia and loss, with the green grass serving as a metaphor for things that have passed away. Waits’ lyrical prowess turns the simple imagery of grass into a poignant reflection on memory and time. I chose this song for its deep emotional impact and Waits’ unique ability to paint vivid pictures with his words. The sparse arrangement featuring just Waits’ voice and a few instruments highlights his storytelling skill, making “Green Grass” a standout track about the theme of grass.
2. “Grass” by XTC
Featured on their 1986 album Skylarking, released under Virgin Records, “Grass” by XTC is a euphoric celebration of youth, love, and the simple pleasure of lying in the grass with someone you care about. The song’s lush production, courtesy of producer Todd Rundgren, complements its lyrical content, creating a dreamy, almost psychedelic experience. I included “Grass” in this list for its joyful, uplifting vibe and its ability to transport listeners to a carefree, sunny afternoon. The combination of Andy Partridge’s and Colin Moulding’s songwriting with Rundgren’s production genius makes “Grass” a quintessential summer song.
3. “Who Will Cut Our Hair When We’re Gone?” by The Unicorns
Though not a song, but an album by The Unicorns released in 2003 under Alien8 Recordings, this title deserves a mention for its quirky take on existential questions, with the grass metaphor possibly stretching to the idea of growth and the inevitable. The album’s eclectic mix of indie rock, pop, and lo-fi elements showcases the band’s inventive approach to music and lyricism. Each track, while not directly about grass, carries undercurrents of life’s transitory nature and the beauty found in everyday moments. I selected this album for its creative spirit and the way it challenges listeners to find deeper meaning in the mundane.
4. “Wet Grass Inspired” by Boards of Canada
This instrumental track from Boards of Canada’s In a Beautiful Place Out in the Country EP, released in 2000 under Warp Records, captures the ethereal beauty of nature through its ambient electronic soundscape. “Wet Grass Inspired” evokes the sensation of walking through a dew-covered field at dawn, with its soothing, repetitive melodies and subtle field recordings. I chose this track for its ability to invoke the serene and contemplative aspects of grass and nature through music. Boards of Canada’s mastery of atmospheric sound design makes “Wet Grass Inspired” a must-listen for those seeking a moment of peace and introspection.
5. “Grass Ain’t Greener” by Chris Brown
Off his 2016 album Royalty, released under RCA Records, “Grass Ain’t Greener” is a contemporary R&B track that uses the grass as a metaphor for relationships and the human tendency to seek something better on the other side, only to find that issues exist everywhere. Chris Brown’s smooth vocals and the modern production give this song a catchy yet reflective quality. I included “Grass Ain’t Greener” for its relatable theme and Brown’s skillful blending of personal narrative with a broader message. The song’s modern sound and universal message offer a different perspective on the grass theme, resonating with listeners navigating their relationships.
6. “Summer Grass” by Type O Negative
From their 2007 album Dead Again, released under SPV GmbH, “Summer Grass” captures Type O Negative’s signature blend of gothic metal and melancholy lyricism. The song reflects on the ephemeral nature of life, love, and beauty, with the imagery of summer grass symbolizing moments that are vibrant yet fleeting. Peter Steele’s deep, resonant vocals and the band’s dense, atmospheric instrumentation create a powerful and immersive listening experience. I chose “Summer Grass” for its emotional depth and the way it uses the grass motif to explore themes of mortality and the passage of time. The song stands out for its ability to blend heaviness with introspection.
7. “Blue Ridge Mountains” by Fleet Foxes
On their 2008 self-titled debut album, released under Sub Pop Records, Fleet Foxes’ “Blue Ridge Mountains” is a folk masterpiece that paints a vivid picture of nature, heritage, and familial bonds. The song’s lush harmonies and acoustic instrumentation transport listeners to the verdant landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with references to “quivering forests” and “peaks of grass.” I selected this track for its exquisite portrayal of the natural world and the sense of belonging and connection it evokes. Robin Pecknold’s songwriting shines, offering a timeless piece that celebrates the beauty of the earth and our place within it.
8. “Let’s Live For Today” by The Grass Roots
This classic hit from The Grass Roots, found on their 1967 album of the same name and released under Dunhill Records, is an anthem of seizing the moment and the transient nature of life. “Let’s Live For Today” combines catchy pop-rock melodies with thought-provoking lyrics that urge listeners to embrace the present. The inclusion of “grass” in the band’s name and this song’s message encapsulates the theme of growth and the importance of the here and now. I included this song for its upbeat sound and enduring message, highlighting how music from decades ago still resonates with contemporary audiences.
9. “Dandelion” by The Rolling Stones
Released as a single in 1967 and later included in various compilations, “Dandelion” by The Rolling Stones is a whimsical, psychedelic ode to childhood innocence and the simple joys of nature, including the titular weed that grows in the grass. The song’s playful melody and Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals make it a delightful listen. I chose “Dandelion” for its light-hearted take on the grass theme and the Stones’ ability to explore different musical styles. The song’s nostalgic charm and joyful energy make it a standout track about appreciating the little things in life.
10. “Tall Grass” by Captured By Robots
On their 2019 album Endless Circle of Bullshit, released independently, Captured By Robots delivers a fierce critique of societal and environmental issues through their unique blend of metal and experimental music. “Tall Grass” stands out for its aggressive sound and thought-provoking lyrics, discussing themes of isolation and the struggle against conformity. I selected this song for its intense energy and the way it challenges listeners to think critically about the world around them. The band’s innovative use of robotic musicians alongside human performance adds a fascinating layer to their music and message.
11. “Fields of Gold” by Sting
From his 1993 album Ten Summoner’s Tales, released under A&M Records, “Fields of Gold” is one of Sting’s most beloved tracks, offering a serene and heartfelt meditation on love and the passage of time against the backdrop of golden barley fields. The song’s gentle melody and Sting’s soothing voice create a sense of warmth and intimacy. I included “Fields of Gold” for its poetic lyrics and the emotional depth it brings to the theme of grass. It’s a beautiful, reflective piece that celebrates the enduring nature of love and the beauty found in the world around us.
Fun Facts: Songs About Grass
“Green Grass” by Tom Waits
- The Versatility of Tom Waits: Tom Waits is known for his gravelly voice and incorporation of various music styles ranging from jazz to blues and beyond. “Green Grass” showcases his ability to create a deeply atmospheric and moody track using minimal instrumentation, highlighting his versatility as a musician.
“Grass” by XTC
- Skylarking’s Troubled Production: The making of Skylarking, the album that features “Grass,” was fraught with tension between XTC and producer Todd Rundgren. Despite this, the album is often cited as one of the band’s best works, with “Grass” being a standout track that captures the essence of an idyllic summer day.
“Wet Grass Inspired” by Boards of Canada
- Mysterious Duo: Boards of Canada, consisting of brothers Michael Sandison and Marcus Eoin, are known for their reclusive nature and the use of nostalgic samples and analog equipment in their music. “Wet Grass Inspired” is a prime example of their ability to evoke complex emotions through simple, yet deeply layered, soundscapes.
“Grass Ain’t Greener” by Chris Brown
- A Personal Touch: “Grass Ain’t Greener” is said to reflect Chris Brown’s personal experiences and relationships, making it a more introspective piece in his discography. The song’s relatable theme of always looking for something better, only to be disappointed, resonates with many listeners’ own life experiences.
“Summer Grass” by Type O Negative
- Peter Steele’s Deep Voice: The late Peter Steele, lead vocalist and bassist for Type O Negative, was known for his deep, bass-baritone voice, which added a unique depth to the band’s music. “Summer Grass” benefits from Steele’s distinctive vocal style, enhancing the song’s melancholic atmosphere.
“Blue Ridge Mountains” by Fleet Foxes
- Acclaimed Debut: Fleet Foxes’ self-titled debut album, which includes “Blue Ridge Mountains,” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release. The album is praised for its intricate harmonies and rich lyricism, establishing the band as a key figure in the indie folk genre.
“Let’s Live For Today” by The Grass Roots
- A Cover Success: Interestingly, “Let’s Live For Today” is a cover of an Italian song titled “Piangi con me” by the Rokes. The Grass Roots’ version became a huge hit, peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1967, and has since become an anthem of the 1960s counterculture movement.
“Dandelion” by The Rolling Stones
- Psychedelic Experimentation: Released during the peak of the psychedelic rock era, “Dandelion” showcases The Rolling Stones’ experimentation with psychedelic sounds and themes. The song reflects the band’s willingness to explore new musical territories beyond their blues-rock roots.
“Fields of Gold” by Sting
- Inspired by Actual Fields: Sting has mentioned that the inspiration for “Fields of Gold” came from the barley fields next to his home in England. The song reflects his deep appreciation for the beauty of the English countryside, making it one of his most personal and enduring hits.
There you have it, folks – a journey through the grass, exploring its myriad representations in music across genres and eras. From introspective ballads to upbeat anthems, these songs remind us of the beauty and complexity of life. Tune in, and let the grass lead the way to new auditory landscapes.
Thanks for reading.
TBone