7 Songs Like Video Games: From Rhye to Leon

Hey fam, it’s your resident music aficionado, DJ TBone, spinning up another blog post for your auditory delight.

Recently, I’ve been obsessively vibing to the hauntingly beautiful ‘Video Games’ by the queen herself, Lana Del Rey.

Its melancholic melody, nostalgic tone, and lyrical depth got me thinking – there’s a universe of similar tunes just waiting to be explored.

So, I’ve dug deep into my record crates to compile a list of seven lesser-known tracks that encapsulate this unique sound.

Whether you’re a DJ, a casual listener, or a passionate music lover, I guarantee this selection will take you on an unforgettable sonic journey. Buckle up, folks!

Here are the songs like Video Games that you can check out:

List Of Songs Like Video Games

Songs like Video Games in a list format:

1. “Cherry” by Rhye

“Cherry” hails from Rhye’s 2021 album, “Home,” released under the Loma Vista label. Like “Video Games,” it is a beautifully melancholic piece, offering a soft, soothing melody that serenely washes over you. Rhye’s Michael Milosh’s tender vocals blend effortlessly with the exquisite instrumentals, adding depth and texture to the song. I chose “Cherry” due to its introspective nature, poetic lyrics, and delicate orchestration, which give it a charm akin to Lana’s classic. Intriguingly, the album features contributions from the Danish National Girls’ Choir, adding a celestial touch to this atmospheric track.

2. “New York” by St. Vincent

Annie Clark, famously known as St. Vincent, captured the somber and reflective nature of “Video Games” in her 2017 song, “New York,” from the album “Masseduction,” released under Loma Vista Recordings. The track beautifully captures the poignant feelings of love and loss in the city that never sleeps. I picked “New York” because of its emotive power, sophisticated songwriting, and St. Vincent’s authentic vocals, all reminiscent of Lana Del Rey’s style. Notably, the album features Thomas Bartlett on piano, adding a beautiful complexity to the piece.

3. “The One” by Charlotte Lawrence

From the 2019 EP “Navy Blue,” under the Atlantic Records label, “The One” by Charlotte Lawrence echoes the melancholic love theme from “Video Games.” Lawrence’s lyrics are wrapped in sorrowful simplicity, accompanied by a hauntingly beautiful melody that sends shivers down your spine. I included “The One” for its raw emotion and Lawrence’s distinctive voice, both of which parallel Lana Del Rey’s hypnotic allure.

4. “Visions” by Alice Boman

Alice Boman’s 2020 track “Visions,” from her album “Dream On” released under [PIAS] Recordings, is a beautifully crafted song brimming with hushed tones and emotive lyrics. The Swedish singer-songwriter’s ethereal voice over the minimalistic piano arrangement creates an intimate atmosphere akin to “Video Games.” Boman’s raw talent and unique sound drew me to include “Visions” on this list.

5. “Saturdays” by Twin Shadow

“Saturdays,” a track from Twin Shadow’s 2018 album “Caer,” released by Reprise Records, has a similar reflective undertone as “Video Games.” This song’s synth-infused, moody soundscape is paired with George Lewis Jr.’s (aka Twin Shadow) melancholic vocals. I chose “Saturdays” for its engaging melody, introspective lyrics, and Lewis’s captivating voice. Its production, featuring HAIM on backing vocals, adds a charming touch.

6. “Motion Sickness” by Phoebe Bridgers

“Motion Sickness,” from Phoebe Bridgers’ 2017 debut album “Stranger in the Alps” released under Dead Oceans, is a beautifully complex piece of indie-folk music. Bridgers’ poignant storytelling, coupled with her soft, evocative vocals, echo the emotional depth found in “Video Games.” I selected “Motion Sickness” for its heartfelt narrative, intricate songwriting, and Bridgers’ authentic musical style.

7. “River” by Leon Bridges

“River,” a track from Leon Bridges’ 2015 album “Coming Home,” released by Columbia Records, offers a soulful and gospel-infused take on the introspective beauty of “Video Games.” The song is powerful and raw, with Bridges’ soulful voice telling a heartfelt tale of redemption and hope. The reason I chose “River” is its deep emotional resonance, coupled with Bridges’ enchanting vocals and the minimalistic arrangement, which remind me of the solemn beauty of Lana Del Rey’s work.

Fun Facts: Tracks Similar to Video Games

1. “Cherry” by Rhye

Did you know that Rhye’s Michael Milosh recorded “Home” while being isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic? The home studio became his creative sanctuary, adding an intimate and personal touch to songs like “Cherry”. The Danish National Girls’ Choir’s involvement in the album is another fun fact, adding an extra layer of musical depth to the tracks.

2. “New York” by St. Vincent

“New York” isn’t just a metaphorical ode to the city but a lament for the end of St. Vincent’s relationship with Cara Delevingne, a British model and actress. St. Vincent has described the track as a ‘Rorschach Test’, with listeners interpreting its significance based on their personal experiences and feelings.

3. “The One” by Charlotte Lawrence

“The One” is a heartfelt expression of love and vulnerability, which Charlotte Lawrence co-wrote with her father, Bill Lawrence, the creator of TV shows like “Scrubs” and “Cougar Town.” Talk about a creative family!

4. “Visions” by Alice Boman

Interestingly, Alice Boman’s first musical release was an EP she recorded for fun, and she had no intention of officially releasing it. However, the raw and intimate sound of her music caught attention, and “Visions” continued this trend with its emotional depth and simplicity.

5. “Saturdays” by Twin Shadow

“Saturdays” was a sonic departure for Twin Shadow, marking his first foray into pop music. The track features vocals from pop rock band HAIM, adding an exciting collaboration to the song’s history.

6. “Motion Sickness” by Phoebe Bridgers

“Motion Sickness” is an autobiographical song, inspired by Bridgers’ difficult relationship with her mentor, Ryan Adams. The song’s depth and Bridgers’ honest writing style have won her a dedicated fanbase.

7. “River” by Leon Bridges

Did you know that “River” gained wide recognition after being featured in the award-winning HBO series “Big Little Lies”? Its popularity introduced Leon Bridges to a whole new audience, further establishing his position in the music industry.

And there you have it, folks! Seven masterpieces that echo the ethereal beauty of Lana Del Rey’s “Video Games.” Music, like emotions, transcends boundaries, and I hope these songs transport you to new heights.

Until next time, keep the music playing, and stay tuned for more. DJ TBone, signing off!

Thanks for reading.

TBone