7 Songs Like Running up That Hill: Must-Hear Songs

Hey there, music aficionados! TBone here, from Level Tunes, and I’m thrilled to share with you a handpicked list of 7 incredible tracks that vibe just like Kate Bush’s iconic “Running Up That Hill”.

As a DJ and a die-hard music lover, I’ve always been fascinated by songs that aren’t just tunes, but experiences. “Running Up That Hill” is one such masterpiece that transcends time and genre, a perfect blend of emotion and rhythm.

So, why this list?

Well, if you’re like me, always hunting for songs that stir the soul and move the feet, you’re in for a treat.

Each song on this list mirrors that magical blend of haunting melodies and captivating beats, creating an unforgettable musical journey. Let’s dive into the sounds that echo the essence of a classic, and discover some new favorites along the way!

Here are the songs like Running up That Hill that you can check out:

List Of Songs Like Running up That Hill

Songs Like Running up That Hill in a list format:

“Teardrop” by Massive Attack

From their 1998 album “Mezzanine,” released under Virgin Records, “Teardrop” by Massive Attack is a hauntingly beautiful track. The song features the ethereal vocals of Elizabeth Fraser from the Cocteau Twins, which add an otherworldly dimension to the already atmospheric sound. Much like “Running Up That Hill,” “Teardrop” combines a deeply emotional resonance with a unique sound profile, making it a staple in the trip-hop genre. The way the song builds up, layer by layer, with a delicate blend of electronic and organic instruments, creates a mesmerizing experience. It’s the kind of track that gets under your skin and stays with you, just as Kate Bush’s masterpiece does.

“Breathe” by Télépopmusik

Released in 2001 on the album “Genetic World” by Capitol Records, “Breathe” by Télépopmusik is a gem in the world of electronic music. The song features the serene vocals of Angela McCluskey, which perfectly complement the soothing, down-tempo beats. The reason I’ve included “Breathe” in this list is its ability to transport the listener to a different headspace, akin to the introspective journey “Running Up That Hill” offers. It’s a song that blends electronic elements with a soulful touch, creating a chill, ambient atmosphere that’s both relaxing and engaging.

“Glory Box” by Portishead

“Glory Box,” from Portishead’s 1994 album “Dummy” released under Go! Beat Records, is a trip-hop masterpiece. With Beth Gibbons’ hauntingly raw vocals and the song’s sultry, moody beats, it encapsulates a similar vibe to “Running Up That Hill.” The song’s blend of melancholic lyrics and the rich, textured soundscapes make it a standout track. It’s that emotional depth, combined with the innovative use of samples and turntable scratching, that places “Glory Box” on this list. The song has a timeless quality, much like Kate Bush’s work, and it’s a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the fusion of emotion and music.

“Sweet Harmony” by The Beloved

The Beloved’s “Sweet Harmony,” from their 1993 album “Conscience” under EastWest Records, is a classic that echoes the evocative energy of “Running Up That Hill.” This track stands out with its uplifting melody and the smooth, comforting vocals of Jon Marsh. The reason for its inclusion here is the perfect balance it strikes between a deep, meaningful message and an irresistibly catchy tune. It’s a song that manages to be both introspective and joyous, a combination that fans of Kate Bush will surely appreciate. The way it combines elements of electronic and pop music makes it a delightful auditory experience.

“Hide and Seek” by Imogen Heap

Imogen Heap’s “Hide and Seek,” from her 2005 album “Speak for Yourself,” released under Megaphonic Records, is a song that captures a similar essence to “Running Up That Hill.” The entire track is sung a cappella and heavily processed with a vocoder, creating a unique and haunting sound. What makes this song so special, and why it’s on this list, is its raw emotional power, delivered through Heap’s layered vocals. The song’s innovative use of technology to create an ethereal, otherworldly atmosphere is something that resonates with fans of Kate Bush’s experimental sounds.

“Protection” by Massive Attack feat. Tracey Thorn

Another masterpiece by Massive Attack, “Protection,” features the captivating vocals of Tracey Thorn (from Everything But The Girl). Released in 1994 on the album of the same name under Virgin Records, this track shares the emotive depth and musical intricacy of “Running Up That Hill.” The song is a beautiful blend of Thorn’s soulful voice and Massive Attack’s signature trip-hop sound. I’ve chosen it for its ability to evoke a sense of introspection and emotional resonance, much like Kate Bush’s music. It’s a song that envelops you in its warm, lush soundscapes and keeps you there, lost in thought.

“Wandering Star” by Portishead

Portishead makes another appearance on this list with “Wandering Star,” from their 1994 album “Dummy,” released under Go! Beat Records. The song is a brilliant showcase of the band’s ability to fuse melancholic lyrics with haunting melodies. Beth Gibbons’ voice, full of longing and despair, perfectly complements the dark, brooding instrumental backdrop. The reason for its inclusion is its striking similarity in mood to “Running Up That Hill.” It’s a song that embodies the essence of trip-hop, with its slow tempo, heavy use of sampling, and the overall feeling of melancholic introspection it evokes. A true classic for those who love the deeper, more emotive side of music.

Fun Facts: Songs Like Running up That Hill

“Teardrop” by Massive Attack

• Fact 1: The song’s famous harpsichord melody was actually a happy accident. Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja played a wrong note while composing, which led to the creation of the iconic riff.
• Fact 2: “Teardrop” was used as the theme song for the American TV show “House M.D.,” making it recognizable to millions who might not have been familiar with trip-hop.
• Fact 3: The music video for “Teardrop” features a singing fetus in the womb, a striking visual that adds an extra layer of depth to the song’s emotional resonance.

“Breathe” by Télépopmusik

• Fact 1: “Breathe” was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2004 in the category of Best Dance Recording, which is a testament to its cross-genre appeal.
• Fact 2: This song gained widespread popularity after being featured in a Mitsubishi car commercial, showcasing the power of advertising in propelling songs to fame.

“Glory Box” by Portishead

• Fact 1: “Glory Box” samples “Ike’s Rap II” by Isaac Hayes, a classic example of how Portishead creatively integrates different musical elements into their work.
• Fact 2: The song’s title refers to an Australian term for a dowry chest, adding a layer of metaphorical meaning to the lyrics and the theme of longing and transition.

“Sweet Harmony” by The Beloved

• Fact 1: The music video for “Sweet Harmony” is quite memorable, featuring lead singer Jon Marsh and several women, all seemingly naked, in a white room. It was a simple yet effective visual that complemented the song’s theme of unity and harmony.
• Fact 2: “Sweet Harmony” was actually a reworking of an earlier The Beloved song titled “1000 Years From Today,” showcasing the band’s ability to evolve their music.

“Hide and Seek” by Imogen Heap

• Fact 1: Imogen Heap recorded “Hide and Seek” in one take, using only a keyboard and a vocoder, which is a testament to her musical prowess and the song’s raw emotional power.
• Fact 2: The song gained a surge in popularity after being featured in the season finale of the second season of the TV show “The O.C.,” where it was used in a pivotal, dramatic scene.

“Protection” by Massive Attack feat. Tracey Thorn

• Fact 1: The song’s music video, directed by Michel Gondry, is noted for its inventive use of reverse footage, adding to the song’s dreamlike quality.
• Fact 2: “Protection” was actually the title track of Massive Attack’s second album, highlighting the band’s shift towards a more mellow, dub-influenced sound compared to their debut album.

“Wandering Star” by Portishead

• Fact 1: The title “Wandering Star” is a reference to a song from the musical “Paint Your Wagon,” but Portishead’s version is far more melancholic and introspective.
• Fact 2: This song, like many others on the “Dummy” album, makes extensive use of samples, including one from “Magic Mountain” by Eric Burdon and War, demonstrating Portishead’s skill in blending various musical elements.

And there you have it, fellow music enthusiasts! A journey through sounds that resonate with the spirit of “Running Up That Hill.” Each song holds its own charm, weaving stories and emotions that transcend time. Dive in, listen deeply, and let these tracks carry you to new musical horizons!

Thanks for reading.

TBone