10 Best Rock Songs With The Word ‘Sun’ In The Title

10 Best Rock Songs With The Word 'Sun' In The Title

Feature Photo: Rampal Singh

The sun has been one of the most enduring symbols in rock music, representing everything from hope and renewal to sorrow and loss. Its presence in rock songs spans decades and genres, allowing artists to tap into its literal and metaphorical meanings. Whether it’s a sign of optimism breaking through dark times or a reflection on the inevitable passage of time, the sun has provided a powerful backdrop for musicians to explore a variety of emotional landscapes.

This list of 10 Best Rock Songs About the Sun highlights tracks that use the sun in unique and creative ways. From the hopeful melodies of The Beatles’ “Here Comes the Sun” to the ominous tones of Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun,” these songs show just how versatile this imagery can be. Pink Floyd’s “Fat Old Sun” evokes nostalgia, while The Animals’ “House of the Rising Sun” tells a dark story of ruin. The Police’s “Invisible Sun” tackles political tension, while Peter Frampton’s live anthem “I Wanna Go to the Sun” offers an escape to freedom. These diverse uses of the sun as a theme demonstrate its lasting relevance in rock music and its ability to speak to both personal and universal experiences.

# 10 – Black Hole Sun – Soundgarden

“Black Hole Sun,” written by Soundgarden’s lead vocalist Chris Cornell, was released in 1994 as the third single from the band’s fourth studio album Superunknown. Produced by Michael Beinhorn and recorded at Bad Animals Studio in Seattle, the song became an iconic track in the grunge movement of the ’90s. Cornell’s dark, surreal lyrics and the haunting melodies combine to make this one of the band’s most memorable songs. While the band was known for its heavy, intense sound, Black Hole Sun stands out for its melancholic tone and more atmospheric instrumentation, showcasing Soundgarden’s versatility.

Musically, “Black Hole Sun” is driven by a hypnotic guitar line and Cornell’s haunting vocals. The song features Matt Cameron on drums, Kim Thayil on guitar, and Ben Shepherd on bass. Thayil’s use of psychedelic elements in his guitar work added to the eerie quality of the song, while the arrangement mixed elements of grunge with more classic rock influences. It topped the US Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart for seven weeks and finished as the number-one track on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart for 1994. Internationally, it was a major hit, reaching the top ten in multiple countries, including Australia, Canada, and France, and even peaked at number one in Iceland.

Lyrically, “Black Hole Sun” explores themes of despair, isolation, and a longing for release. The lines, “Black hole sun, won’t you come / And wash away the rain,” evoke a feeling of yearning for something to cleanse or escape from the emotional turmoil Cornell expressed. The imagery of the sun, juxtaposed with the ominous “black hole,” suggests a corrupted, bleak version of a once-bright force. The song’s haunting tone is furthered by its cryptic lyrics, which create a sense of unease and existential questioning, fitting perfectly with the grunge movement’s introspective ethos. As the first track on this list of songs with “sun” in the title, “Black Hole Sun” sets a tone of both reflection and darker emotions.

Read More: Top 10 Soundgarden Songs

# 9 – I’ll Follow the Sun – The Beatles

“I’ll Follow the Sun” is a tender ballad by The Beatles, written and sung by Paul McCartney. Released in 1964 on Beatles for Sale in the United Kingdom and Beatles ’65 in the United States, the song marked a shift from the upbeat rock ‘n’ roll sound the band had become known for, showcasing a softer, more introspective side. Written by McCartney when he was just 16 years old, the song reflects a youthful longing for change and an acceptance of life’s impermanence. The track’s minimalist arrangement, with McCartney’s gentle vocals at the forefront, offers a quiet but poignant contrast to the energetic hits the band produced during this period.

The recording of I’ll Follow the Sun took place at Abbey Road Studios in October 1964, with George Martin serving as producer. Ringo Starr’s drumming is notably restrained, as he taps lightly on a percussion box, allowing McCartney’s acoustic guitar and vocals to take center stage. The rest of the band provides subtle backing harmonies, creating a warm and reflective atmosphere. This minimalist approach was a deliberate choice, as the band sought to differentiate their singles and avoid sounding formulaic.

Lyrically, “I’ll Follow the Sun” expresses the inevitability of change and the need to move forward despite emotional loss. McCartney sings, “One day you’ll look to see I’ve gone / For tomorrow may rain, so I’ll follow the sun,” conveying the bittersweet acceptance of leaving a relationship behind. The song’s understated simplicity, both musically and lyrically, highlights its emotional weight. As the first track on this new list of songs with “sun” in the title, I’ll Follow the Sun exemplifies a reflective, almost melancholic tone, offering a contrast to other songs on the list, which may explore different facets of sunlight as a metaphor for hope or renewal.

Read More: Top 10 Beatles Love Songs

# 8 – House of the Rising Sun – The Animals

“House of the Rising Sun” is one of The Animals’ most iconic songs, featured on their American debut album The Animals, released in 1964. The song, often associated with traditional folk roots, was transformed into a rock anthem by the British band. The track was recorded at Kingsway Studios in London in May 1964, produced by Mickie Most. With Alan Price on the haunting organ, Hilton Valentine’s powerful guitar riff, and Eric Burdon’s raw and soulful vocals, the band created a blues-rock version that resonated worldwide. This recording helped catapult The Animals to international fame, and the single topped the charts in both the UK and the US, making it one of the standout tracks of the British Invasion era.

The song itself is a traditional folk ballad with origins tracing back to the 18th century, although its exact beginnings are debated. When The Animals brought it into the rock world, they gave the tune a darker, more intense tone. The song tells the story of a man who fell into a life of ruin due to the vices of gambling and drinking, symbolized by the titular “House of the Rising Sun,” often interpreted as a reference to a brothel or gambling den in New Orleans. Burdon’s emotionally charged delivery gives the tale of despair and regret even greater weight, while the arrangement, featuring Price’s chilling organ performance, evokes a feeling of dread and inevitability.

Lyrically, “House of the Rising Sun” stands as one of the most poignant expressions of downfall in rock music. Its narrative voice pleads with others to avoid the same fate, with lines like “Oh mother, tell your children / Not to do what I have done.” The song fits the theme of this list perfectly, as it embodies the idea of being trapped or “used” by circumstances, much like other songs included here, such as Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun.” However, whereas “Black Hole Sun” veers into surreal imagery, The Animals’ song remains rooted in the gritty realism of regret and loss.

Read More: Top 10 Songs From The Animals

# 7 – Invisible Sun – The Police

“Invisible Sun” by The Police, from their 1981 album Ghost in the Machine, is a song that explores the darker side of human existence, yet ultimately focuses on resilience and the hope for a brighter future. Written by Sting, the track reflects the band’s shift toward a more politically conscious and experimental sound. The song was recorded at AIR Studios in Montserrat and Le Studio in Quebec, produced by Hugh Padgham alongside The Police. “Invisible Sun” reached number two on the UK Singles Chart, and though not released as a single in the US, it remains a significant part of the band’s discography.

Musically, the song is driven by a repetitive, almost hypnotic synthesizer melody, underscored by a sparse and brooding atmosphere. The song contrasts its relatively dark subject matter with a haunting yet uplifting tone. Sting’s lyrics express the challenges of living through conflict and despair, possibly inspired by the political unrest in Northern Ireland at the time. The line “I don’t want to spend the rest of my life / Looking at the barrel of an Armalite” directly references the violence of the Troubles, illustrating the psychological toll of living in a war-torn environment. Despite the grim backdrop, the “invisible sun” represents a glimmer of hope that keeps people going, even through the darkest times.

Lyrically, “Invisible Sun” connects well with the theme of perseverance, much like The Animals’ “House of the Rising Sun.” While the latter tells the story of personal downfall and a life wasted, “Invisible Sun” emphasizes finding inner strength amid external chaos. Both songs mention “the sun” as a symbol but in vastly different contexts: “House of the Rising Sun” represents ruin and regret, while “Invisible Sun” signifies hope and endurance. These contrasts create a multifaceted look at how rock music can use similar imagery to convey complex emotional experiences.

# 6 – I Wanna Go To The Sun – Peter Frampton

“I Wanna Go to the Sun” is a standout track from Frampton Comes Alive!, Peter Frampton’s 1976 breakthrough live album, which became one of the most successful live albums in rock history. The song originally appeared on Frampton’s 1974 studio album Somethin’s Happening, but it truly found its energy in the live performances that fueled Frampton Comes Alive!. Recorded at a series of concerts in 1975, including shows at Winterland in San Francisco, the live version of “I Wanna Go to the Sun” showcases Frampton’s signature blend of soulful guitar work, uplifting melodies, and heartfelt lyrics, capturing the vibrant essence of his live performances.

Musically, “I Wanna Go to the Sun” features an intricate and emotional guitar solo that is emblematic of Frampton’s style. His Les Paul work shines throughout, and the audience’s connection to the music is palpable, adding to the track’s intensity. The song’s expansive live version taps into a classic ‘70s rock sound, with Frampton’s fluid transitions between acoustic and electric textures, bringing new life to the already powerful studio recording. The lineup on Frampton Comes Alive! includes Frampton on guitar and vocals, Stanley Sheldon on bass, Bob Mayo on keyboards and guitar, and John Siomos on drums. The album’s production, handled by Frampton and Chris Kimsey, captured the spontaneous energy of his live shows.

Lyrically, “I Wanna Go to the Sun” offers a meditation on escapism and the yearning for freedom, with Frampton expressing a desire to break free from the restrictions of everyday life. The imagery of going to the sun reflects a deep longing for transcendence and peace. In comparison to other songs on this list, such as Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun,” where the sun symbolizes darkness and chaos, Frampton’s sun is a place of liberation and light. This contrast highlights the diverse ways rock artists use the symbol of the sun to express complex emotions.

As the opening track on this list, “I Wanna Go to the Sun” sets a tone of freedom and adventure, and its soaring live version demonstrates why Peter Frampton became a major figure in the ‘70s rock scene. The song’s optimistic outlook contrasts well with the darker, more introspective songs on this list, offering a balance of perspectives on the sun’s symbolic power in rock music.

Read More: Top 10 Peter Frampton Songs

# 5 – Waiting For The Sun – The Doors

“Waiting for the Sun” is a song by the Doors from their 1970 album Morrison Hotel. Although the song shares its title with the band’s 1968 album, it was not included on that earlier release and instead found its home on Morrison Hotel. Written by frontman Jim Morrison, the song reflects the band’s fascination with themes of hope, enlightenment, and the search for a better reality, characteristic of much of their music.

Musically, “Waiting for the Sun” features the Doors’ signature blend of bluesy rock and psychedelia, anchored by Ray Manzarek’s hypnotic keyboard work and Robby Krieger’s steady guitar riffs. The song’s arrangement builds tension as Morrison’s evocative vocal delivery crescendos into the chorus, creating a sense of anticipation and yearning. Recorded in 1969 at Elektra Sound Recorders in Los Angeles and produced by longtime collaborator Paul A. Rothchild, the song showcases the band at a transitional point in their career as they explored more complex arrangements while staying true to their bluesy roots.

Lyrically, the song speaks to themes of waiting and longing, with Morrison poetically expressing a desire for a brighter future. Lines like “This is the strangest life I’ve ever known” suggest a sense of disillusionment with the present, while the titular “sun” represents a distant hope for change and resolution. In comparison to songs like Peter Frampton’s “I Wanna Go to the Sun,” where the sun is a symbol of escape and freedom, Morrison’s take on the sun represents an abstract, almost unreachable ideal. This deeper philosophical approach mirrors the darker undercurrents often present in the Doors’ work, contrasting with more straightforward songs on this list that explore personal liberation.

“Waiting for the Sun” adds a unique, introspective layer to this list of songs about the sun, focusing on the tension between yearning for something greater and the frustration of its delay. As the Doors often did, they craft a sonic landscape that bridges the gap between the psychedelic and the tangible, leaving listeners with a sense of unresolved longing, making it one of the most thought-provoking tracks here.

Read More: The Doors Most Underrated Songs

# 4 – Fat Old Sun – Pink Floyd

“Fat Old Sun” is a song by Pink Floyd from their 1970 album Atom Heart Mother. Written and sung by guitarist David Gilmour, the song stands out as one of the more pastoral and serene pieces in Pink Floyd’s catalog. It was recorded during the sessions at Abbey Road Studios in London and produced by the band themselves alongside longtime collaborator Norman Smith. This song exemplifies the band’s shift from the psychedelic experimentation of their earlier albums to a more structured, folk-influenced sound that would continue to evolve in their later work.

Musically, “Fat Old Sun” is built around Gilmour’s gentle acoustic guitar work and soothing vocals, with the song gradually expanding into a lush, atmospheric soundscape that includes organ, drums, and an expressive guitar solo. The song’s layered textures highlight Gilmour’s skill as a composer, creating a dreamlike ambiance that contrasts with the more experimental and avant-garde tracks on Atom Heart Mother. The peaceful, almost nostalgic vibe of the song makes it a standout on the album, a moment of quiet reflection amidst the more expansive and experimental pieces.

Lyrically, “Fat Old Sun” is a celebration of the simple beauty of life, particularly the peacefulness of a summer day. The imagery evokes pastoral scenes of the sun setting over the countryside, with Gilmour’s vocals imbuing the lyrics with a sense of warmth and comfort. In comparison to other songs on this list, like Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun,” which offers a more dark and surreal interpretation of the sun, “Fat Old Sun” is grounded in simplicity and contentment. The sun in Gilmour’s composition symbolizes a source of calm and joy, standing in stark contrast to the existential themes that often permeate Pink Floyd’s work.

“Fat Old Sun” brings a soothing, reflective tone to this list, contributing a song that celebrates the peaceful and rejuvenating power of the sun. Its laid-back, almost meditative quality offers a different take on the sun compared to the heavier, more intense interpretations found in other songs on the list, making it an essential piece in the exploration of sun-themed rock tracks.

Read More: Top 10 Pink Floyd Deep Tracks

# 3 – Into The Sun – Grand Funk Railroad

“Into the Sun” by Grand Funk Railroad is one of the standout tracks from their debut album On Time, released in 1969. The song epitomizes the band’s gritty and raw sound, characterized by powerful guitar riffs, thunderous bass, and hard-hitting drums. Produced by Terry Knight and recorded at Cleveland Recording Company, the album introduced the band’s energetic style, which would go on to define their early success. “Into the Sun” captures the essence of Grand Funk Railroad’s early sound—heavy, blues-infused rock with a relentless drive that reflects the band’s roots in Michigan’s industrial landscape.

Musically, “Into the Sun” exemplifies the heavy, groove-laden rock that Grand Funk Railroad was known for. The track begins with a slow, deliberate build-up, led by Mark Farner’s guitar, before bursting into full throttle, powered by the rhythm section of Mel Schacher’s bass and Don Brewer’s drums. Farner’s gritty vocals add to the song’s energy, with lyrics that speak of a journey towards enlightenment and change. The repetitive, almost hypnotic nature of the song mirrors the band’s live performances, where extended jams and instrumental breakdowns were key to their appeal. It fits seamlessly into On Time, an album that blends rock, blues, and psychedelic elements, all staples of the late 1960s rock scene.

Lyrically, “Into the Sun” portrays a metaphorical quest for clarity and growth, with the sun symbolizing light and understanding. As Farner sings, “Things are changing for the better, now I’m not afraid,” the lyrics express a sense of personal development and optimism. This contrasts with other sun-themed songs on this list, such as Pink Floyd’s “Fat Old Sun,” which leans towards a peaceful, pastoral imagery of the sun. In “Into the Sun,” the journey towards the sun represents ambition and a powerful forward momentum, fitting the hard rock context of Grand Funk Railroad’s music. The sun is not just a passive element in the background but a destination to be reached, representing success and self-assurance.

In comparison to other songs on the list, “Into the Sun” stands out for its raw, unpolished sound, which reflects the hard-working, blue-collar ethos of the band. Where “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden presents a surreal and dark image of the sun, “Into the Sun” exudes a sense of triumph and achievement, making it a fitting opening for On Time and a perfect addition to this list.

# 2 – The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine (Anymore) – Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

“The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine (Anymore)” was originally recorded by Frankie Valli as a single in 1965, before it gained more widespread recognition with The Walker Brothers’ rendition the following year. Written by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio, key collaborators with Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, the song was produced with the same emotional depth that Valli’s vocals typically brought to the group’s hits. Though Valli’s version did not achieve significant commercial success, it remains an evocative and haunting track in his catalog.

Musically, “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine (Anymore)” leans on its rich orchestration and melancholic atmosphere, elements that reflect the sorrowful themes embedded in the lyrics. The song’s lush arrangement, with sweeping strings and a powerful, slow-building vocal delivery from Valli, presents a deep sense of loss and isolation. Valli’s voice, known for its incredible range and emotional intensity, is the centerpiece here, blending perfectly with the song’s heavy-hearted mood. Despite its initial underperformance, the song stands out for its production quality, which echoes the grandiose style that Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons became famous for.

Lyrically, the song speaks to feelings of abandonment and despair, with lines like “Loneliness is the coat you wear” and “The sun ain’t gonna shine anymore” serving as vivid metaphors for the emotional emptiness the protagonist feels. The sun, in this context, is a symbol of hope and happiness that has been lost, adding to the somber nature of the song. In comparison to other tracks on this list, such as “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden or “Into the Sun” by Grand Funk Railroad, Valli’s “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine (Anymore)” is more about loss and the inability to find light or hope, rather than a pursuit of change or self-discovery. While Grand Funk Railroad’s track is energetic and triumphant, this song resides in the shadows, making it a poignant and fitting addition to the list of rock songs about the sun.

In terms of production, the song was recorded in 1965 and features The Four Seasons’ signature lush, full-bodied sound under the careful direction of producer Bob Crewe. While it wasn’t a chart-topping hit for Valli, it’s a notable part of his expansive career and later found more success with other artists, proving the enduring power of its emotional resonance.

# 1 – Here Comes The Sun – The Beatles

“Here Comes the Sun” is one of The Beatles’ most beloved tracks, written by George Harrison for the band’s 1969 album Abbey Road. Harrison penned the song at the home of his friend Eric Clapton, finding inspiration in the simple joy of seeing the sun after a long English winter. It has since become one of Harrison’s signature contributions to The Beatles’ catalog, celebrated for its uplifting lyrics and soothing acoustic melody.

Recorded at EMI Studios (Abbey Road Studios) in London, Abbey Road marked the band’s final studio recordings as a group. The song was produced by George Martin, with Harrison leading the instrumentation on guitar and vocals. Paul McCartney played bass, while Ringo Starr contributed drums. Notably, John Lennon did not play on the track as he was recovering from a car accident. The track’s warm, acoustic-led arrangement, driven by Harrison’s use of a capo on the 7th fret, paired with subtle synthesizer touches, encapsulates a feeling of hope and renewal.

Lyrically, “Here Comes the Sun” offers a simple yet powerful message of optimism. In lines like “Little darling, it’s been a long, cold, lonely winter” and “Here comes the sun, and I say it’s all right,” Harrison celebrates the end of hardship and the arrival of brighter days. This theme of rejuvenation stands in contrast to other songs on this list, such as Soundgarden’s darker “Black Hole Sun,” which deals with internal and external turmoil. While “Black Hole Sun” is more about facing the grim aspects of life, “Here Comes the Sun” serves as a gentle reminder of hope and positivity even in difficult times. It also shares a sense of optimism with Grand Funk Railroad’s “Into the Sun,” but with a more understated and reflective tone.

Critically, “Here Comes the Sun” is hailed for its delicate composition and lyrical simplicity. It remains a timeless anthem for hope and a key example of George Harrison’s growth as a songwriter during his time with The Beatles. The song was never released as a single but remains one of the band’s most streamed and covered tracks, often considered one of the defining moments of Abbey Road.