10 Best Songs With The Word ‘Hollywood’ In The Title

10 Best Songs With The Word 'Hollywood' In The Title

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Hollywood has long been a muse for songwriters, conjuring images of dazzling dreams, starry-eyed ambition, and the gritty realities hidden behind the glitz. In rock and roll, the word “Hollywood” has served as a canvas for storytelling, a metaphor for larger truths, and a snapshot of a city both adored and misunderstood. From soulful odes to biting critiques, these songs reveal how the idea of Hollywood resonates across genres, decades, and perspectives.

Thin Lizzy captured the darker side of ambition with the sharp-edged realism of “Hollywood (Down On Your Luck),” while Billy Joel’s “Say Goodbye to Hollywood” reflected a deeply personal farewell to the city’s shimmering promise. Bob Seger’s “Hollywood Nights” celebrated the electrifying highs and lows of a whirlwind romance in the Hollywood Hills, and Kool & The Gang’s “Hollywood Swinging” painted a carefree, funk-driven picture of the city’s vibrant energy.

The Runaways’ “Hollywood” channeled the rebellious defiance of youth chasing stardom, and Supertramp’s “Gone Hollywood” juxtaposed the glamor of success with the isolation it often brings. Steely Dan’s “West of Hollywood” offered a cerebral take on existential longing, contrasting with 10cc’s theatrical critique of fame in “Somewhere In Hollywood.” Boz Scaggs’ “Hollywood” delved into the tension between achievement and artifice, while The Pretenders’ “Hollywood Perfume” added a darkly introspective perspective on the fleeting nature of fame.

Together, these songs showcase the many ways that Hollywood has been used as a symbol, a setting, and a state of mind in rock and roll.

# 10 – Hollywood – Boz Scaggs

Well, it doesn’t get any more simple than a one-word title. And why not start with one from one of our favorite musical artists of all time. Boz Scaggs’ “Hollywood” captures the intoxicating allure and hidden pressures of fame, blending smooth grooves with a nuanced narrative. The song comes from his 1977 album Down Two Then Left, recorded at Davlen Sound Studios and Hollywood Sound Recorders in Los Angeles, California. Under the production of Joseph Wissert, Scaggs collaborated with a stellar roster of musicians, including Jeff Porcaro on drums, David Hungate on bass, Ray Parker Jr. and Steve Lukather on guitar, and Greg Phillinganes on keyboards. These accomplished artists contributed to the richly textured sound that defines the track, marrying the gloss of the West Coast aesthetic with Scaggs’ distinctive vocal style.

“Hollywood” explores the rise of a star in the entertainment capital, its lyrics brimming with imagery that reflects both glamour and cynicism. Lines such as “I see your name in lights, I see them standing in line” evoke the dazzling allure of success, while “Camera, action, do it again” reveals the relentless cycle of performance and public expectation. The song balances celebration and critique, painting a multidimensional picture of Hollywood’s allure and demands. This thematic interplay creates a compelling narrative that stands out within the album’s sophisticated exploration of relationships and ambition.

The critical reception of Down Two Then Left highlights Scaggs’ ability to craft polished yet introspective music. Although it didn’t achieve the blockbuster success of its predecessor, Silk Degrees, the album peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard 200, with “Hollywood” praised for its wit and evocative sound. The song’s lush production and vivid storytelling make it a quintessential reflection of its era while remaining timeless in its insights. As one of the most engaging tracks with “Hollywood” in the title, it solidifies Scaggs’ legacy as a masterful chronicler of the human experience wrapped in musical sophistication.

Read More: 10 Most Rocking Boz Scaggs Songs

# 9 – Hollywood Perfume – The Pretenders

“Hollywood Perfume,” from The Pretenders’ 1994 album Last of the Independents, offers a vivid and haunting exploration of love, longing, and the intoxicating allure of Hollywood’s darker side. Recorded at multiple studios, including The Townhouse and The Church in London, the song was produced by Stephen Street and Chrissie Hynde, with Hynde’s evocative vocals driving its emotional core. The album features a lineup that includes Hynde, Adam Seymour on guitar, Andy Hobson on bass, and Martin Chambers on drums, alongside various session musicians. The meticulous production and polished instrumentation create a lush backdrop that amplifies the song’s themes of disillusionment and yearning.

Lyrically, “Hollywood Perfume” is steeped in cinematic imagery, using the titular scent as a metaphor for the seductive yet destructive allure of fame and desire. Lines like “I feel like a fugitive escaped from my life / Seeking refuge in the sensual heat” convey a sense of escape and entrapment, while references to “neon sex and doom” underscore the tension between glamour and decay. Hynde’s lyrical prowess is matched by the sultry instrumentation, which weaves together a hypnotic melody and a pulsing rhythm, capturing the surreal allure of Hollywood’s late-night mystique. Compared to Boz Scaggs’ “Hollywood,” which emphasizes the ascension of a star within the entertainment industry, “Hollywood Perfume” delves into the internal struggles of an individual lost amidst the city’s superficiality.

Critically, Last of the Independents marked a strong comeback for The Pretenders, with singles like “I’ll Stand By You” garnering significant attention. While “Hollywood Perfume” was not released as a single, it stands out as one of the album’s most atmospheric and introspective tracks. The album reached No. 30 on the Billboard 200, showcasing The Pretenders’ enduring ability to craft poignant and resonant music. The song’s introspection and layered storytelling parallel the emotional depth found in “Hollywood” by Boz Scaggs, as both tracks expose the dualities of life under the bright lights of fame and ambition.

In “Hollywood Perfume,” The Pretenders artfully blend reflective lyrics, evocative imagery, and rich production to create a track that lingers long after it ends. Its exploration of the human condition through the lens of Hollywood’s seductive veneer cements its place as a compelling entry in this list, further proving the band’s ability to balance raw emotion with masterful craftsmanship.

# 8 – Somewhere In Hollywood – 10cc

“Somewhere In Hollywood,” was released on 10cc’s 1974 album Sheet Music. The album was recorded at Strawberry Studios in Stockport, England, and produced by the band’s members—Lol Creme, Kevin Godley, Eric Stewart, and Graham Gouldman—whose collective ingenuity crafted its innovative sound. With all four members contributing vocals and instrumental versatility, the track exemplifies 10cc’s ability to combine intricate arrangements with biting social commentary. The lush orchestration and theatrical delivery elevate the song to a level of cinematic storytelling rarely seen in popular music.

The lyrics of “Somewhere In Hollywood” weave a surreal narrative that critiques the shallow glamour of Tinseltown. Lines like “A star with the stature of a Harlow / Who’s doomed and groomed to enrapture” evoke the fleeting nature of fame, while the refrain “Lights, action, sound—Roll ’em!” highlights the relentless machine-like quality of the industry. The song’s vivid imagery recalls the sharp lyrical wit of “Hollywood Perfume” by The Pretenders, another entry on this list, but where The Pretenders focus on personal experiences, 10cc broadens the scope to lampoon the entire Hollywood system. The track’s complex structure, blending shifts in tempo with lush string arrangements, mirrors the chaotic and layered reality it critiques.

Critics have praised Sheet Music as one of 10cc’s finest works, with “Somewhere In Hollywood” often singled out as a centerpiece for its ambitious storytelling and musical sophistication. The album reached No. 9 on the UK Albums Chart, marking a commercial and artistic breakthrough for the band. This track, in particular, showcases Kevin Godley’s theatrical lead vocals, complemented by Lol Creme’s intricate arrangements. Together, they create a haunting yet satirical mood that resonates with the disillusionment depicted in Boz Scaggs’ “Hollywood,” though with a more sardonic edge.

In “Somewhere In Hollywood,” 10cc achieves a masterful blend of biting humor and genuine pathos, encapsulating the allure and tragedy of fame in a way that remains timeless. Its layered instrumentation, sharp lyricism, and cinematic feel make it a compelling entry in this article, further cementing 10cc’s reputation as one of the most inventive bands of their era.

# 7 – West Of Hollywood – Steely Dan

Steely Dan’s “West of Hollywood,” the sprawling and introspective closing track from their 2000 album Two Against Nature, offers a richly layered exploration of unfulfilled desires and existential disillusionment. The song was recorded between 1997 and 1999 at River Sound in New York City and Studio LaCoCo in Kauai, Hawaii. Produced by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, Two Against Nature marked the band’s long-awaited return to the studio after a twenty-year hiatus, blending their signature jazz-rock fusion with intricate storytelling. The album features an impressive array of musicians, including Jon Herington on guitar, Chris Potter on tenor saxophone, and Keith Carlock on drums, whose contributions lend the track its vibrant yet introspective energy.

Lyrically, “West of Hollywood” paints a surreal narrative of lost connection and emotional detachment, encapsulated by lines like “Look in my eyes / Don’t you see the core is frozen?” The repeated refrain, “I’m way deep into nothing special,” underscores the protagonist’s disillusionment while juxtaposing the mystique of Hollywood’s westward sprawl. The lyrics unfold like a fragmented memory, weaving together themes of fleeting pleasure, regret, and the tyranny of unmet expectations. In its narrative depth and layered instrumentation, the song shares thematic kinship with 10cc’s “Somewhere In Hollywood,” another track on this list that critiques the illusions of fame and glamour, albeit with Steely Dan’s distinctive sardonic tone.

Critically, “West of Hollywood” epitomizes the sophisticated craftsmanship that defines Two Against Nature, an album that earned Steely Dan four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. The interplay between Donald Fagen’s cool, detached vocals and Chris Potter’s fiery saxophone solo brings the song’s introspection to life, serving as a fitting culmination to the album’s reflective tone. Compared to Boz Scaggs’ “Hollywood,” which captures the allure and rise of stardom, “West of Hollywood” focuses instead on the emotional void left in the wake of dreams deferred.

In “West of Hollywood,” Steely Dan masterfully weaves intricate melodies, incisive lyrics, and evocative musicianship into a haunting portrait of existential malaise. Its contemplative nature and rich production make it a compelling entry in this list, reaffirming the band’s status as purveyors of both musical innovation and profound storytelling.

Read More: Top 10 Steely Dan Songs

# 6 – Gone Hollywood – Supertramp

“Gone Hollywood” opens Breakfast in America, the 1979 masterpiece by Supertramp, with a sharp critique of disillusionment and resilience amidst the glitter of Los Angeles. Recorded between May and December 1978 at The Village Recorder in Los Angeles, California, the album was produced by Peter Henderson alongside the band. The song features Rick Davies on lead vocals and keyboards, Roger Hodgson on backing vocals and guitars, John Helliwell on woodwinds, Dougie Thomson on bass, and Bob Siebenberg on drums. The meticulous production and lush arrangements set the tone for an album that would go on to become a cultural landmark, topping the Billboard 200 chart and winning two Grammy Awards.

Lyrically, “Gone Hollywood” tells the story of a dreamer disillusioned by the harsh realities of pursuing fame in the entertainment capital. Lines such as “It’s just heartbreaking / I should have known that it would let me down” reflect the protagonist’s initial dismay, while later verses, including “Now I ride in a big fine car / I’m the talk of the boulevard,” reveal a hard-earned triumph. This dichotomy of struggle and eventual success mirrors the themes explored in Boz Scaggs’ “Hollywood,” which also grapples with the allure and challenges of fame. However, where Scaggs’ song revels in the ascension of stardom, Supertramp’s track juxtaposes the highs and lows with biting realism.

Critically, Breakfast in America was both a commercial juggernaut and a critical darling, praised for its ambitious storytelling and polished sound. “Gone Hollywood” serves as an ideal opening track, drawing listeners into a narrative that resonates with anyone who has confronted the gap between expectation and reality. The song’s plaintive saxophone lines, courtesy of John Helliwell, add a touch of melancholy that contrasts with its driving rhythm, amplifying its emotional depth. In comparison to “West of Hollywood” by Steely Dan, another song on this list, “Gone Hollywood” leans more on raw emotional storytelling than cerebral introspection, yet both capture the complexities of navigating the promise and pitfalls of Los Angeles.

Supertramp’s “Gone Hollywood” delivers a powerful combination of introspection, ambition, and optimism. Its layered instrumentation, sharp lyrics, and masterful production make it a cornerstone of Breakfast in America and a significant entry in this list of songs capturing the multifaceted essence of Hollywood.

Read More: Top 10 Supertramp Songs

# 5 – Hollywood Swinging – Kool & The Gang

“Hollywood Swinging,” released in 1974, stands as one of Kool & The Gang’s most iconic tracks, capturing the exuberance and style of Hollywood through a funky lens. Featured on the album Wild and Peaceful, the song was recorded at Media Sound Studios in New York City and produced by Kool & The Gang with Gene Redd. The group’s classic lineup—Robert “Kool” Bell on bass, Ronald Bell on keyboards and saxophone, George Brown on drums, Robert Mickens on trumpet, Dennis Thomas on alto saxophone, Charles Smith on guitar, and Rick Westfield on keyboards—delivers a tight, infectious groove that helped solidify their place in the pantheon of funk music.

Lyrically, “Hollywood Swinging” is a celebratory ode to the glamour and allure of Los Angeles. Lines like “The city of the stars, movies, women, and cars” encapsulate the song’s carefree celebration of the Hollywood lifestyle, while the repeated refrain, “Hey, hey, hey, what ya got to say?” creates a call-and-response dynamic that energizes the track. The lyrics also reflect the dream of success and self-expression, with the narrator reminiscing about seeing Kool & The Gang live and aspiring to make it in the music scene. The song’s exuberant tone contrasts with the disillusionment found in Supertramp’s “Gone Hollywood,” illustrating how different artists interpret the complexities of Hollywood in distinct ways.

“Hollywood Swinging” became a major hit, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the Hot Soul Singles chart. Critics have consistently praised the track for its irresistible rhythm and timeless groove, with its influence extending beyond the 1970s. It has been sampled in numerous songs, including Will Smith’s “Miami” and Mase’s “Feel So Good,” proving its enduring cultural relevance. In comparison to “Hollywood Perfume” by The Pretenders, which explores the darker, more introspective side of the Hollywood experience, Kool & The Gang’s track revels in the city’s celebratory and carefree aspects, making it a perfect entry in this list.

“Hollywood Swinging” remains a quintessential funk anthem, encapsulating the vibrancy and promise of Hollywood with its dynamic instrumentation and jubilant lyrics. Its enduring popularity and cultural impact solidify its place among the greatest songs with “Hollywood” in the title, offering a lighthearted yet profound perspective on the allure of the entertainment capital.

Read More: Top 10 Kool & The Gang Songs

# 4 – Hollywood – The Runaways

“Hollywood,” featured on The Runaways’ 1977 album Queens of Noise, is a bold and energetic anthem that captures the spirit of chasing fame under the bright lights of Los Angeles. Recorded in 1976 and produced by Kim Fowley and Earle Mankey, the track showcases the band’s blend of hard rock and punk influences, with its gritty yet melodic sound. The lineup on the album includes Cherie Currie on lead vocals, Joan Jett on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, Lita Ford on lead guitar, Jackie Fox on bass, and Sandy West on drums, each contributing to the band’s raw, unapologetic energy.

The lyrics of “Hollywood” reflect the allure and ambition of aspiring to stardom, with lines like “Each night alone I dream / That I’m a rebel roller queen” embodying the youthful determination to break through in the entertainment capital. The repeated refrain, “Hollywood, it feels so good,” emphasizes the dreamlike allure of the city while hinting at the challenges beneath the surface. Compared to the upbeat celebration of success in Kool & The Gang’s “Hollywood Swinging,” this track captures the hunger and striving of someone still fighting to reach the top, adding a layer of grit to its narrative.

Critically, Queens of Noise marked an evolution in The Runaways’ sound, balancing their raw punk roots with a more polished production. While the album received mixed reviews at the time, it has since been recognized as a pivotal moment in the band’s career, cementing their influence on the punk and hard rock scenes. “Hollywood” stands out for its catchy chorus, driving rhythm, and dynamic guitar work from Lita Ford, which underscores the rebellious spirit of the track. In comparison to Supertramp’s “Gone Hollywood,” which explores the disillusionment of fame, The Runaways’ song is brimming with the fiery optimism of those determined to make their mark.

Read More: Top 10 Runaways Songs

# 3 – Hollywood (Down On Your Luck) – Thin Lizzy

“Hollywood (Down On Your Luck)” by Thin Lizzy delivers a gritty portrayal of ambition, struggle, and disillusionment in the heart of the entertainment capital. Released in 1981 on the album Renegade, the song was recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, and mixed at Good Earth Studios in London. Produced by Chris Tsangarides and band leader Phil Lynott, the track features Lynott on bass and lead vocals, Scott Gorham and Snowy White on guitars, and Brian Downey on drums. This lineup brings a powerful blend of melodic rock and sharp storytelling that underscores the song’s themes of chasing dreams in a world rife with challenges.

Lyrically, the song paints a stark picture of life in Hollywood, contrasting its glamorized image with the harsh realities faced by those striving for success. Lines like “Nobody gives a break / When you’re down on your luck” reveal the cutthroat nature of the industry, while the refrain “Lady Chance, she won’t dance” speaks to the fickleness of fortune. In comparison to Kool & The Gang’s “Hollywood Swinging,” which celebrates the vibrant lifestyle of the city, Thin Lizzy’s track emphasizes the relentless grind and the emotional toll of chasing dreams that often seem just out of reach. The track’s driving rhythm and dynamic guitar interplay amplify its sense of urgency and determination, mirroring the struggle depicted in the lyrics.

Critics often highlight Renegade as an album that showcased Thin Lizzy’s ability to blend hard rock with introspective themes, even as the band faced internal challenges. While the album did not achieve the commercial success of earlier works like Jailbreak, “Hollywood (Down On Your Luck)” stands out for its vivid storytelling and memorable riffs. Its narrative of perseverance aligns with the themes found in Supertramp’s “Gone Hollywood,” though Lynott’s lyrics lean more heavily on the pressures of survival in a city that promises so much yet delivers so selectively.

# 2 – Hollywood Nights – Bob Seger

“Hollywood Nights” by Bob Seger is a rousing ode to the allure and heartbreak of Los Angeles, captured with vivid storytelling and relentless energy. Released in 1978 on Stranger in Town, the song was recorded at Criteria Studios in Miami, Florida, and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Sheffield, Alabama. Produced by Bob Seger and Punch Andrews, the track features Seger on vocals, along with members of the Silver Bullet Band and the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. The dynamic instrumentation, including Drew Abbott’s searing guitar work and Chris Campbell’s driving bassline, anchors the song’s high-octane narrative.

Lyrically, “Hollywood Nights” chronicles the story of a Midwestern boy who finds himself seduced and ultimately left adrift in the dazzling world of Hollywood. Lines like “She stood there bright as the sun on that California coast” paint a cinematic picture of initial infatuation, while “He spent all night staring down at the lights of L.A. / Wondering if he could ever go home” captures the bitter aftermath of the whirlwind romance. The song’s themes of longing and displacement echo the sentiments found in Thin Lizzy’s “Hollywood (Down On Your Luck),” though Seger’s tale is more focused on personal relationships than societal struggles. The driving rhythm and passionate delivery amplify the emotional highs and lows, creating an immersive listening experience.

Critically and commercially, “Hollywood Nights” cemented its place in Seger’s catalog as a fan favorite. The single peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and contributed to the success of Stranger in Town, which reached No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and achieved multi-platinum status. Its energetic tempo and anthemic chorus stand in contrast to the slower, funk-driven groove of Kool & The Gang’s “Hollywood Swinging,” highlighting the diverse ways artists have approached the theme of Hollywood. Seger’s raw, heartfelt vocals lend authenticity to the story, making it a compelling addition to this list.

“Hollywood Nights” is a masterful blend of rock intensity and evocative storytelling, capturing the allure and pitfalls of the Hollywood dream. Its relentless drive, paired with its richly detailed narrative, ensures its enduring appeal and solidifies its place as one of the most electrifying tracks on this list. Seger’s ability to weave a tale that is both personal and universal makes “Hollywood Nights” a quintessential exploration of ambition, love, and the mystique of Los Angeles.

Read More: Top 20 Bob Seger Songs

# 1 – Say Goodbye To Hollywood – Billy Joel

Billy Joel’s “Say Goodbye to Hollywood” stands as a poignant tribute to change and farewell, capturing the transience of relationships and the inevitable march of time. Released in 1976 on his album Turnstiles, the song was recorded at Ultrasonic Studios in Hempstead, New York, under the production of Joel himself. Featuring the first collaboration with the group that would later become his regular backing band, including Liberty DeVitto on drums, Doug Stegmeyer on bass, and Richie Cannata on saxophone, the track showcases Joel’s growing confidence as both a songwriter and bandleader.

Lyrically, “Say Goodbye to Hollywood” is inspired by Joel’s move back to New York from Los Angeles, with lines like “Life is a series of hellos and goodbyes” reflecting the emotional weight of leaving behind a chapter of his life. The song’s title and thematic content evoke a wistfulness similar to the regret and resilience in Thin Lizzy’s “Hollywood (Down On Your Luck),” though Joel’s focus leans more introspective and personal. Musically, the track pays homage to Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound, with Liberty DeVitto’s booming drumbeat reminiscent of Ronnie Spector’s “Be My Baby,” adding a nostalgic layer that underscores the song’s themes of memory and departure.

Critically, “Say Goodbye to Hollywood” has been praised for its lyrical depth and sophisticated arrangement. While not initially a chart-topping single, the live version from Joel’s 1981 Songs in the Attic album gained greater recognition, showcasing the track’s enduring appeal and Joel’s dynamic performance style. Compared to Bob Seger’s “Hollywood Nights,” which highlights the exhilaration and heartbreak of the Hollywood experience, Joel’s track is more reflective, capturing the bittersweet process of moving on from a place that no longer feels like home.

“Say Goodbye to Hollywood” exemplifies Billy Joel’s gift for storytelling, blending heartfelt lyrics, soaring melodies, and masterful production to create a song that resonates with listeners. Its place in this list is well-earned, as it provides a deeply personal and universal perspective on the highs and lows of saying goodbye, making it an essential entry in this exploration of Hollywood-inspired songs.