11 Underrated John Mayer Songs: 11 Overlooked Tunes

Hey there, music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here, the heart and soul behind Level Tunes. As a DJ deeply passionate about tunes that resonate with the soul, I’ve always had a special spot for John Mayer’s music.

His tracks have this unique ability to blend soulful lyrics with mesmerizing guitar skills, creating a musical journey that’s both introspective and relatable.

Today, I’m super excited to share a list that’s close to my heart – “11 Underrated John Mayer Songs.” This isn’t just another playlist; it’s a carefully curated collection of hidden gems that deserve more spotlight.

Whether you’re a die-hard Mayer fan or just dipping your toes into his discography, these tracks will give you a deeper appreciation of his artistic brilliance. Let’s dive into the world of smooth guitar riffs and heartfelt lyrics, and discover why these underrated masterpieces are worth your attention!

Here are the underrated John Mayer songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated John Mayer Songs

Underrated John Mayer songs in a list format:

1. “Split Screen Sadness” – Heavier Things (2003, Aware/Columbia Records)

“Split Screen Sadness” from John Mayer’s 2003 album “Heavier Things” is a poignant ballad that often goes unnoticed. It’s a song that beautifully captures the essence of longing and the complexities of a fading relationship. Mayer’s vocal delivery, combined with his subtle yet evocative guitar play, creates a melancholic atmosphere that’s hard to shake off. I chose this song for its raw emotional depth and the way it showcases Mayer’s ability to weave heartache into harmonies. The lyrics are introspective, and the melody lingers long after the song ends. This track stands out as a testament to Mayer’s songwriting prowess, often overshadowed by his more popular hits.

2. “St. Patrick’s Day” – Room for Squares (2001, Aware/Columbia Records)

“St. Patrick’s Day” is a hidden gem from Mayer’s debut album, “Room for Squares.” Released in 2001, this song is a lyrical masterpiece that delves into the fear of loneliness and the fleeting nature of relationships. What makes this track stand out is its storytelling – Mayer takes us through a relationship that seems destined to end with the season, yet there’s a glimmer of hope that it might last. The musicianship is top-notch, with a piano accompaniment that adds a layer of depth to the track. It’s a song that deserves more recognition for its lyrical intricacy and the emotional resonance it brings.

3. “Wheel” – Heavier Things (2003, Aware/Columbia Records)

From the same album as “Split Screen Sadness,” “Wheel” is an underrated track that showcases Mayer’s philosophical side. The song touches on themes of change and the cyclical nature of life. Its soothing melody, coupled with Mayer’s reflective lyrics, makes it a track that’s both comforting and thought-provoking. I included “Wheel” in this list for its timeless message and the serene vibe it exudes. It’s a reminder of Mayer’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level, offering solace through his music.

4. “3×5” – Room for Squares (2001, Aware/Columbia Records)

“3×5” is a song that often gets lost in the shuffle of Mayer’s extensive discography. This track, from his debut album, is a contemplative piece about experiencing life’s moments without the urge to capture them through a lens. It’s a commentary on being present and truly absorbing the world around us. Mayer’s gentle guitar strumming and vivid lyrics paint a picture that’s both relatable and inspiring. I chose this song for its beautiful simplicity and the message it conveys about appreciating life’s fleeting moments.

5. “In Repair” – Continuum (2006, Aware/Columbia Records)

“In Repair” from the 2006 album “Continuum” is a standout track that delves into the theme of self-improvement and healing. The song is a raw and honest account of Mayer’s own journey towards personal growth. The bluesy guitar riffs and soulful vocals make it a powerful listening experience. This song makes the list for its vulnerability and the hope it embodies. It’s a musical reminder that we are all works in progress, constantly evolving and growing.

6. “Born and Raised” – Born and Raised (2012, Columbia Records)

The title track of Mayer’s 2012 album, “Born and Raised,” is a folk-infused song that reflects on life, maturity, and the passage of time. The incorporation of harmonica and Mayer’s introspective lyrics give this song a unique flavor that’s different from his other works. It’s a reflective piece that resonates with anyone going through a phase of self-discovery and change. I chose this song for its earnest storytelling and the sense of nostalgia it evokes.

7. “War of My Life” – Battle Studies (2009, Columbia Records)

“War of My Life” from the album “Battle Studies” is a powerful anthem about facing personal demons and overcoming inner turmoil. The song’s

relatively minimalistic arrangement allows Mayer’s emotive vocals to take center stage, conveying a sense of determination and resilience. This song is a personal favorite of mine because it showcases Mayer’s ability to turn his struggles into a source of strength and inspiration for others. The guitar work, though understated, perfectly complements the song’s introspective nature, making it a standout track in Mayer’s discography.

8. “Edge of Desire” – Battle Studies (2009, Columbia Records)

“Edge of Desire” is a deep cut from Mayer’s 2009 album, “Battle Studies.” This song is a raw, emotional plea, characterized by its haunting melody and poignant lyrics. It explores the complexities of desire, longing, and the vulnerability inherent in love. The reason I included this track is its ability to capture the essence of longing with such intensity and honesty. Mayer’s vocal performance is particularly noteworthy, delivering each line with a sense of urgency and raw emotion that truly resonates.

9. “Stop This Train” – Continuum (2006, Aware/Columbia Records)

“Stop This Train,” from the critically acclaimed “Continuum,” is a beautifully crafted song about the inevitable passage of time and the fear of growing older. Its acoustic melody, combined with Mayer’s reflective lyrics, creates an atmosphere of introspection and melancholy. This song makes the list for its universal theme and the comfort it offers to those who fear change. It’s a reminder of Mayer’s ability to articulate deep, universal truths in a way that connects with listeners on a personal level.

10. “Speak for Me” – Born and Raised (2012, Columbia Records)

“Speak for Me” is a standout track from Mayer’s 2012 album “Born and Raised.” This song is a contemplative piece, reflecting on the desire to find one’s own voice in a world full of noise. Its folk-inspired sound, combined with Mayer’s earnest lyrics, makes it a captivating listen. I chose this song for its poignant message about authenticity and the search for genuine expression. It’s a testament to Mayer’s evolution as an artist and his commitment to staying true to his artistic vision.

11. “Clarity” – Heavier Things (2003, Aware/Columbia Records)

Finally, “Clarity” from “Heavier Things” is a song that exudes a sense of peace and, as the title suggests, clarity. The track opens with a bright and uplifting melody that sets the tone for Mayer’s exploration of finding moments of understanding amidst chaos. The reason behind selecting this song is its optimistic outlook and the sense of hope it instills. It’s a refreshing departure from the more introspective themes prevalent in Mayer’s work, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter.

Fun Facts: Underrated John Mayer Songs

“Split Screen Sadness” – Fun Facts

• Recording Process: “Split Screen Sadness” was one of the songs on “Heavier Things” that Mayer recorded using a unique process. He would lay down the tracks at night after most of the studio staff had left, creating a more intimate and reflective recording environment.
• Influential Sound: This song is noted for its use of synthesizers and layered vocals, a departure from Mayer’s usual acoustic-driven style. It showcases his willingness to experiment with different sounds in his music.

“St. Patrick’s Day” – Fun Facts

• Seasonal Reference: The song’s mention of specific months and seasons is unique, symbolizing the timeline of a relationship. It’s one of Mayer’s few songs that references specific times of the year, making it stand out in his discography.
• Piano Melody: Unlike many of Mayer’s guitar-centric tracks, “St. Patrick’s Day” features a prominent piano part, which adds a different texture and depth to the song.

“Wheel” – Fun Facts

• Philosophical Influence: “Wheel” is known for its philosophical lyrics. Mayer has mentioned in interviews that the song was inspired by the cyclical nature of life and relationships, reflecting a more introspective side of his songwriting.
• Musical Complexity: This track is often praised for its complex guitar work and time signature, showcasing Mayer’s technical skills as a musician.

“3×5” – Fun Facts

• Inspiration Behind the Title: The title “3×5” refers to the size of a photograph, highlighting the song’s theme of experiencing life directly rather than through captured images.
• Delayed Release: Interestingly, “3×5” was not initially included in the first pressings of “Room for Squares.” Mayer completed the song after the album’s release, and it was added to later pressings.

“In Repair” – Fun Facts

• Collaborative Creation: “In Repair” is notable for being a collaborative effort. Mayer worked with Charlie Hunter, a guitarist known for his eight-string guitar work, which adds a unique texture to the song.
• One-Day Recording: Mayer has mentioned that “In Repair” was written and recorded in a single day, reflecting the raw and immediate nature of the song’s emotion.

“Born and Raised” – Fun Facts

• Harmonica Addition: The song features a harmonica, played by Mayer himself, which adds a distinct folk/country vibe to the track, differentiating it from his other works.
• Album Theme Reflection: The song encapsulates the overall theme of the “Born and Raised” album, which marks Mayer’s exploration into more folk and country influences in his music.

“War of My Life” – Fun Facts

• Emotional Depth: Mayer has described “War of My Life” as one of his most personal and introspective songs, dealing with his internal battles and the pursuit of self-acceptance.
• Minimalist Production: The song stands out for its minimalist production, focusing on Mayer’s vocals and guitar, which allows the emotional weight of the lyrics to take center stage.

“Edge of Desire” – Fun Facts

• Lyrical Prowess: “Edge of Desire” is often praised for its intricate lyrics, which Mayer has said were particularly challenging to write, aiming to capture the complexity of human emotions.
• Fan Favorite: Despite not being a commercial single, “Edge of Desire” has become a fan favorite, particularly for its emotive live performances.

“Stop This Train” – Fun Facts

• Inspired by Personal Life: Mayer wrote “Stop This Train” during a time when he was dealing with fears about getting older and the health of his parents, making it one of his most personal songs.
• Unique Guitar Technique: The song features a distinct fingerpicking guitar technique that Mayer uses, mimicking the sound of a train on the tracks, which adds to the song’s thematic depth.

“Speak for Me” – Fun Facts

• Lyric Inspiration: “Speak for Me” reflects Mayer’s desire to find a unique voice in the music industry, a theme that resonates with many artists striving for authenticity.
• Acoustic Focus: The song is predominantly acoustic, highlighting Mayer’s skillful guitar play

and his ability to create compelling music with minimal instrumentation.

“Clarity” – Fun Facts

• Jazz Influence: “Clarity” is known for its jazz influences, particularly evident in the horn section featured in the song. This showcases Mayer’s versatility and willingness to blend different genres into his music.
• Opening with a Bang: The song begins with a striking drum intro by legendary drummer, Questlove, from The Roots, which sets a dynamic tone for the track.
• Positive Reception: Upon its release, “Clarity” was praised by critics and fans alike for its uplifting message and refreshing sound, making it a standout track in Mayer’s early career.

And there you have it, folks – a deep dive into some of John Mayer’s most underrated tracks. Each song is a hidden treasure, waiting to be rediscovered. So plug in your headphones, hit play, and let Mayer’s guitar and soulful lyrics take you on an unforgettable musical journey.

Thanks for reading.

TBone