11 Songs About Matter: Exploring Existence

Hey everyone, TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and passionate music aficionado!

Today, I’m thrilled to share something a bit different and deeply fascinating: a curated list of 11 songs that delve into the concept of ‘matter.’

Why matter, you might ask?

Well, music isn’t just about beats and melodies; it’s a profound medium through which artists explore the universe’s building blocks, including the very essence of existence itself.

From the tangible to the philosophical, these tracks offer a unique auditory journey into how matter shapes our world and thoughts. As a DJ who adores unearthing tracks with depth and a story, I found these songs not only musically enriching but also intellectually stimulating.

So, whether you’re a fellow DJ looking to add some thematic depth to your sets or a music lover eager for a playlist that piques both your ears and mind, this list is for you. Let’s dive into the music that matters, in every sense of the word!

Here are the songs about matter that you can check out:

List Of Songs About Matter

Songs about matter in a list format:

“Atoms for Peace” by Thom Yorke

From the album The Eraser, released in 2006 under XL Recordings, Thom Yorke’s “Atoms for Peace” is a mesmerizing track that delves into the complexities of the modern world, with a nod to the atomic age. The song title itself, borrowed from a speech by Eisenhower and later the name of Yorke’s supergroup, hints at the duality of scientific progress—both its potential for peace and destruction. Yorke’s haunting vocals, combined with electronic beats and ethereal sounds, create a soundscape that reflects on the elemental, yet complex nature of matter. The album features contributions from notable musicians such as Nigel Godrich, producer and “sixth member” of Radiohead, adding layers of depth to the track. I chose this song for its poetic engagement with the theme of matter, both in the physical sense and its implications for humanity.

“Dark Matter” by Björk

Featured on her 2011 album Biophilia, released under One Little Indian Records, “Dark Matter” is a testament to Björk’s unique ability to blend science with music. The entire album is a multimedia exploration of nature, music, and technology, with “Dark Matter” focusing on the mysterious and unseen aspects of the universe. Björk’s use of unconventional instruments and electronic arrangements, alongside her distinctive vocals, crafts a song that is as enigmatic as its title suggests. The track invites listeners to ponder the unobservable forces that govern the cosmos, making it a perfect addition to this playlist. “Biophilia” was celebrated for its innovative approach to music and education, featuring collaborations with scientists and multimedia artists to create an immersive experience. “Dark Matter” encapsulates the album’s spirit by inviting curiosity and wonder about the universe’s building blocks.

“Chemical Calisthenics” by Blackalicious

From the album Blazing Arrow, released in 2002 under MCA Records, “Chemical Calisthenics” is a high-energy track that turns the periodic table into a lyrical playground. Gift of Gab, the rapper behind Blackalicious, delivers a rapid-fire enumeration of chemical reactions and properties, backed by Cut Chemist’s slick production. This song stands out for its educational yet entertaining approach to the topic of matter, showcasing the artist’s virtuosic wordplay and deep understanding of chemistry. The track also features DJ Shadow on production, adding an extra layer of intricacy to the mix. I included “Chemical Calisthenics” for its creative and engaging take on the elements that compose the physical world, making it a standout track for anyone interested in the intersection of science and hip-hop.

“Under the Milky Way” by The Church

This classic track from The Church’s 1988 album Starfish, released under Arista Records, captures the ethereal beauty of the night sky and our place within the universe. “Under the Milky Way” is known for its melancholic melody, jangling guitars, and evocative lyrics that conjure images of a starry night. The song’s reference to the Milky Way galaxy serves as a metaphor for feelings of longing and search for meaning in the vastness of the universe. The Church, with Steve Kilbey’s distinctive voice and Marty Willson-Piper’s and Peter Koppes’ atmospheric guitar work, created a timeless track that resonates with listeners who look to the stars and wonder about the matter that makes up the cosmos. This song was chosen for its poetic exploration of our connection to the universe and the introspective journey it invites.

“Galaxies” by Laura Veirs

Laura Veirs’ “Galaxies” is a highlight from her 2005 album Year of Meteors, released through Nonesuch Records. This song beautifully merges the personal with the cosmic, using the imagery of galaxies and celestial bodies to explore themes of love and separation. Veirs’ folk-infused indie rock is complemented by Tucker Martine’s production, weaving together acoustic elements with electronic textures to create a soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive. The inclusion of “Galaxies” in our playlist is due to its ability to bring the concept of matter down to a human scale, reminding us of the cosmic connections that bind us across time and space. Veirs’ lyrical craftsmanship and the song’s lush instrumentation make it a must-listen for those who find poetry in the physics of the universe.

“The Scientist” by Coldplay

Coldplay’s “The Scientist,” from their 2002 album A Rush of Blood to the Head, released under Parlophone, is a poignant ballad that, while not directly about matter, engages with the theme of

scientific inquiry and the desire to understand the world’s underlying truths. Chris Martin’s heartfelt vocals and the band’s emotive instrumentation create a powerful narrative about love, loss, and the quest for knowledge. The song’s title and lyrical content metaphorically link the process of scientific discovery with the complexities of human relationships, suggesting that both realms are governed by universal laws that we strive to comprehend. “The Scientist” stands out for its ability to weave scientific curiosity into a deeply personal story, making it resonate with listeners who appreciate the beauty in seeking answers to life’s great questions. Coldplay, known for their melodic prowess and thoughtful songwriting, crafted a track that beautifully encapsulates the emotional depth of our interactions with the world, both seen and unseen. I chose this song for its elegant portrayal of the pursuit of understanding, a theme that aligns with our exploration of matter in all its forms.

“We Are All Made of Stars” by Moby

Moby’s “We Are All Made of Stars,” from his 2002 album 18, released under V2 Records, is an uplifting track that reminds us of our shared cosmic heritage. The song is inspired by the scientific fact that the elements within our bodies were forged in the hearts of distant stars. Moby’s electronic production and soothing vocals convey a message of unity and interconnectedness, emphasizing that, at a fundamental level, we are all composed of the same stellar matter. This song was selected for its optimistic view of humanity’s place in the universe and its ability to inspire wonder and a sense of belonging. Moby, an artist known for his activism and deep reflections on life and society, uses “We Are All Made of Stars” to bridge the gap between the cosmic and the personal, encouraging listeners to recognize the matter that connects us all.

“A Glorious Dawn” by Symphony of Science

“A Glorious Dawn,” a track from the Symphony of Science project by John Boswell, creatively uses auto-tuned vocal samples from scientists Carl Sagan and Stephen Hawking to explore the wonders of the cosmos. Released in 2009, this song is part of a larger effort to bring scientific knowledge to the public through music. The track blends electronic music with direct quotes from Sagan’s and Hawking’s speeches, turning complex scientific concepts into a compelling musical experience. This innovative approach to discussing the universe and our place within it makes “A Glorious Dawn” an essential addition to our playlist. The song’s focus on the beauty of scientific discovery and the interconnectedness of all matter captures the essence of our thematic journey, celebrating the awe-inspiring complexity of the cosmos through a harmonious blend of science and art.

“Cosmic Love” by Florence + The Machine

Featured on their 2009 album Lungs, released under Island Records, “Cosmic Love” is a powerful ballad by Florence + The Machine that uses celestial imagery to describe the overwhelming force of love. Florence Welch’s commanding vocals, paired with harp, drums, and ethereal production, create a mystical atmosphere that perfectly captures the song’s cosmic theme. The lyrics metaphorically relate love to stars, planets, and the universe, exploring the idea that our deepest emotions are as vast and mysterious as the cosmos itself. “Cosmic Love” was chosen for this playlist for its ability to convey the intensity of human feelings through the lens of the universe’s grandeur, showcasing the emotional depth that can be achieved when exploring the concept of matter in relation to our innermost experiences.

“Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)” by Muse

From the soundtrack of the 2010 film The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, released under Warner Bros. Records, “Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)” by Muse combines rock dynamism with themes of cosmic enormity and eternal love. The song draws inspiration from the astronomical phenomenon of neutron stars colliding, an event of incredible energy and brilliance, to symbolize the enduring power of love. Matt Bellamy’s passionate vocals and the band’s signature blend of rock and classical influences make this track both grandiose and deeply moving. “Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)” was selected for its dramatic portrayal of love’s capacity to transcend time and space, mirroring the intense and transformative processes that shape the universe itself.

“Starman” by David Bowie

“Starman,” a track from David Bowie’s 1972 album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, released under RCA Records, is an iconic song that captures the imagination with its story of an extraterrestrial being bringing hope to Earth’s youth. Bowie’s creative genius shines through in his portrayal of Ziggy Stardust, a character that embodies the intersection of rock music, science fiction, and the exploration of identity and existence. The song’s catchy melody, innovative arrangements, and thought-provoking lyrics have cemented it as a classic in the realm of rock and beyond. “Starman” was chosen for its visionary approach to the theme of matter, exploring not only the physical aspects of the universe but also delving into the metaphysical questions about our place within it. Bowie’s ability to blend storytelling with music, creating a narrative that feels both intimate and expansive, speaks to the power of song to transcend the mundane and reach for the stars. His Ziggy Stardust persona, a blend of human and alien, challenges listeners to consider the broader spectrum of existence and the interconnectedness of all beings, regardless of their origin. “Starman” serves as a reminder of the potential for music to explore complex themes like matter, existence, and identity, in ways that are both accessible and deeply resonant.

Fun Facts: Songs About Matter

“Atoms for Peace” by Thom Yorke

• Thom Yorke’s Solo Venture: While Thom Yorke is best known as the lead vocalist of Radiohead, “Atoms for Peace” is from his debut solo album, The Eraser. This project allowed Yorke to explore electronic music and themes of political anxiety and personal unease, distinct from his work with Radiohead.
• Song Title Inspiration: The title “Atoms for Peace” was inspired by a speech made by American President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953, aimed at promoting peaceful uses of atomic energy during the Cold War. This historical context adds a layer of depth to Yorke’s exploration of modern anxieties and hopes.

“Dark Matter” by Björk

• Biophilia Educational Project: Björk’s album Biophilia was part of a larger educational project that included a series of apps, one for each song on the album, designed to teach listeners about music and science. “Dark Matter” is connected with the theme of exploring the unknown, both musically and scientifically.
• Unique Instruments: For the Biophilia project, Björk used several specially constructed instruments, including a gravity harp and a tesla coil, to create the unique sounds that characterize the album. This inventive approach to music production reflects the exploratory nature of “Dark Matter.”

“Chemical Calisthenics” by Blackalicious

• Educational Rap: “Chemical Calisthenics” is notable for its educational content, effectively turning the periodic table into a rap song. Gift of Gab’s rapid-fire delivery of chemical terms and reactions showcases his lyrical prowess and makes learning about chemistry unexpectedly entertaining.
• Collaboration with Cut Chemist: The song features production by Cut Chemist, known for his work with Jurassic 5 and Ozomatli. His collaboration with Blackalicious on this track brings together hip-hop and turntablism with an educational twist, making it a standout piece in both artists’ discographies.

“Under the Milky Way” by The Church

• Accidental Hit: “Under the Milky Way” is perhaps The Church’s most well-known song, yet its success was somewhat accidental. The band members have mentioned in interviews that the song was a last-minute addition to the Starfish album and that its commercial success took them by surprise.
• Instrumentation: The song features a distinctive bagpipe solo played on a keyboard, which has become one of its most recognizable elements. This unique choice of instrumentation contributes to the song’s atmospheric quality and enduring appeal.

“We Are All Made of Stars” by Moby

• Astronomical Inspiration: Moby has stated that the song was inspired by quantum physics and the universe. The title reflects the fact that elements found in the human body were once part of stars that exploded billions of years ago, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things.
• Music Video with Celebrities: The music video for “We Are All Made of Stars” features appearances by several celebrities, including Verne Troyer, Kato Kaelin, and Corey Feldman, among others. The video’s star-studded cast adds a playful element to the song’s profound underlying message.

Diving into songs about matter has been a cosmic journey, blending music with the mysteries of the universe. Each track offers a unique perspective on the elemental, inviting us to explore the world in new, melodious ways. Join us in this sonic exploration of existence itself.

Thanks for reading.

TBone