20 Best Iconic Songs About Animals

These Songs About Animals capture everything from whimsical tales to deep symbolic meanings, offering listeners a diverse soundtrack that explores love, life, and even social issues through the lens of the animal kingdom. 

Music has always been a powerful way to connect with the natural world, and over the years, artists have crafted countless songs that celebrate or reflect on animals. 

Whether it’s an anthem of empowerment or a nostalgic ballad, these tracks span multiple genres and eras, proving that animals have always been a source of creative inspiration for musicians. 

In this blog, we’ll look at 20 iconic Songs About Animals that have left their mark on music history.

1. “Monkey” by George Michael (1987) – Swinging Animals

About this song:

  • Album: Faith
  • Released: 1987
  • Artist: George Michael
  • Genre: Funk, Classic Soul, Big Band, Vocal/Easy Listening, Adult Contemporary
  • Key Lyric: “Why can’t you do it? Why can’t you set your monkey free? Always givin’ in to it. Do you love your monkey or do you love me?”

“Monkey” was released in 1987 as the fourth single from George Michael’s debut solo album Faith, which signified his transition into a more serious and mature artist.

The song tackles the emotional toll of being in a relationship with someone struggling with addiction, where the ‘monkey’ refers to the burden of addiction.

Michael co-wrote and infused the song with an energetic, danceable rhythm, juxtaposing the heavy subject matter with an upbeat funk-pop sound.

At the time, Michael was forging his identity as a solo artist after Wham!, exploring deeper and more personal themes in his music.

“Monkey” became one of the many hits from Faith, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and further cementing George Michael as a force in pop music during the late 1980s.

2. “Fireflies” by Owl City (2009) – Glowing Animals

About this song:

  • Album: Ocean Eyes
  • Released: 2009
  • Artist: Owl City
  • Genre: Alternative/Indie, Dance/Electronic, Pop
  • Key Lyric: “I’d like to make myself believe that planet Earth turns slowly.”

“Fireflies” was released in 2009 as the lead single from Owl City’s album Ocean Eyes, marking Adam Young’s breakthrough into mainstream success.

Written by Young, the song captures his vivid imagination and fascination with the natural world, particularly drawing inspiration from his experiences of insomnia and childhood wonder.

The song’s light, electronic melody combined with dreamy lyrics paints a picture of a whimsical night illuminated by fireflies.

At the time of its release, Young was an independent musician from Minnesota, composing and recording music in his parents’ basement.

“Fireflies” quickly climbed the charts globally, reaching No. 1 in multiple countries, becoming synonymous with the rise of indie electronic pop in the late 2000s.

3. “Man Gave Names to All the Animals” by Bob Dylan (1979)

About this song:

  • Album: Slow Train Coming
  • Released: 1979
  • Artist: Bob Dylan
  • Genre: Rock, Reggae
  • Key Lyric: “Man gave names to all the animals In the beginning, in the beginning.”

Released in 1979 as part of Bob Dylan’s Slow Train Coming album, “Man Gave Names to All the Animals” is a playful and seemingly simplistic folk song that hides deeper spiritual undertones.

The song was written during Dylan’s “Christian period,” following his conversion to Christianity, and it presents a creative retelling of the biblical story of Adam naming the animals.

Featuring a reggae-inspired melody, this song diverged from Dylan’s earlier work, blending religious themes with a light-hearted and childlike approach to storytelling.

Though its repetitive and simple structure gave it a unique sound, the song polarized fans, with some appreciating the spiritual symbolism and others puzzled by its tone.

Despite the mixed reception, “Man Gave Names to All the Animals” has endured as one of Dylan’s more curious and memorable tracks, particularly for its blend of biblical narrative and folk traditions.

Read more: Songs About Monkeys

4. “When Doves Cry” by Prince (1984) – Emotional Songs About

Animals

About this song:

  • Album: Purple Rain
  • Released: 1984
  • Artist: Prince
  • Genre: R&B/Soul
  • Key Lyric: “This is what it sounds like when doves cry.”

Released in 1984, “When Doves Cry” was a lead single from Prince’s iconic album Purple Rain and is often regarded as one of his most innovative compositions.

Prince wrote, produced, and performed the entire track, excluding a bassline, a bold move that contributed to its distinctive, haunting sound.

The song’s lyrics delve into the emotional pain and complexity of love, comparing the cry of doves to the sorrow experienced during relationship turmoil.

Prince was deeply involved in the composition process, often drawing from his personal relationships and inner emotional world to craft his lyrics.

Upon release, “When Doves Cry” became a massive commercial success, topping the charts worldwide and solidifying Prince’s reputation as a musical visionary unafraid to take risks.

5. “Black Beatles” by Rae Sremmurd and Gucci Mane (2016) – Insect Animals

About this song:

  • Album: SremmLife 2
  • Released: 2016
  • Artist: Rae Sremmurd
  • Genre: Dance/Electronic, Pop, Hip-Hop/Rap
  • Key Lyric: “That girl is a real crowd pleaser (Oh, yeah). Small world, all her friends know of me (They know me).”

“Black Beatles” was released in 2016 and became an unexpected cultural phenomenon, largely due to its association with the viral Mannequin Challenge.

Rae Sremmurd, along with Gucci Mane, crafted the song as a tribute to their success, likening themselves to rock legends The Beatles in both status and influence.

The song’s hard-hitting trap beat, produced by Mike Will Made-It, combined with boastful lyrics, resonated with a generation of hip-hop fans looking for anthems of success and excess.

“Black Beatles” was created during Rae Sremmurd’s SremmLife 2 sessions, reflecting their rise to stardom and dominance in the hip-hop scene.

The track quickly shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Rae Sremmurd’s biggest hit and establishing their influence in modern rap culture.

6. “Crocodile Rock” by Elton John (1973) – Reptile Animals

About this song:

  • Album: Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player
  • Released: 1973
  • Artist: Elton John
  • Genre: Rock and roll, Glam rock, Children’s Music, Pop, Folk
  • Key Lyric: “Well, Crocodile Rocking is something shocking. When your feet just can’t keep still, I never knew me a better time, and I guess I never will.”

“Crocodile Rock” was released in 1973 as part of Elton John’s album Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player, blending nostalgia for the 1950s rock ‘n’ roll era with John’s signature pop sound.

Written by John and lyricist Bernie Taupin, the song reflects their youth, music, and dancing memories, with the ‘Crocodile Rock’ symbolizing simpler, joyful times.

Musically, the song’s upbeat tempo and infectious melody make it one of John’s most energetic and playful tracks, capturing the spirit of early rock.

Taupin later noted that the song was meant to be lighthearted and fun, never intended as anything too serious or profound in its meaning.

“Crocodile Rock” became Elton John’s first U.S. number-one hit, helping solidify his status as one of the biggest music stars of the 1970s.

Read more: Songs About Cats

7. “Running Bear” by Johnny Preston (1960) – Song About Wild Animals

About this song:

  • Album: ROCK
  • Released: 1960
  • Artist: Johnny Preston
  • Genre: Pop
  • Key Lyric: “Running Bear loved Little White Dove. With a love big as the sky.”

Released in 1960, “Running Bear” is a rockabilly track by Johnny Preston that tells the tragic love story of two Native American lovers, Running Bear and Little White Dove.

The song was written by J.P. Richardson, better known as The Big Bopper, who crafted a Romeo-and-Juliet-style narrative set against the backdrop of Native American folklore.

Despite its lighthearted and catchy melody, the song carries a melancholy message about forbidden love, ending with the lovers meeting a tragic fate.

Preston recorded the song in 1959 with background vocals from Richardson and members of the band, who later passed away in the same plane crash that claimed Buddy Holly’s life.

“Running Bear” became a hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and cementing Johnny Preston’s place in rock and roll history.

8. “At the Zoo” by Simon & Garfunkel (1968) – Song About Zoo Animals

About this song:

  • Album: Bookends
  • Released: 1968
  • Artist: Simon & Garfunkel
  • Genre: Children’s Music, Pop, Folk
  • Key Lyric: “But you can take the crosstown bus. If it’s raining or it’s cold. And the animals will love it. If you do, if you do now.”

Released in 1968, “At the Zoo” appeared on Simon & Garfunkel’s Bookends album, showcasing the duo’s blend of whimsical storytelling and deeper social commentary.

Written by Paul Simon, the song humorously anthropomorphizes animals at the zoo, attributing human traits and flaws to different species in a way that reflects societal issues.

The song is often interpreted as a satirical look at urban life, where the zoo serves as a metaphor for the absurdities of modern society.

Composed during a cultural change in the late 1960s, Simon’s lyrics capture a sense of innocence and a more cynical undertone.

“At the Zoo” remains one of the lighter and more playful tracks from Bookends, contrasting with the more serious songs on the album while still delivering a thought-provoking message.

9. “Animal Farm” by The Kinks (1968)

About this song:

  • Album: The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society
  • Released: 1968
  • Artist: The Kinks
  • Genre: Children’s Music, Pop, Rock, Folk
  • Key Lyric: “On Animal Farm. My animal home.”

“Animal Farm” was released in 1968 as part of The Kinks’ album The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society, a concept album celebrating idyllic rural life.

Ray Davies, the band’s lead singer and primary songwriter, penned “Animal Farm” as a nostalgic tribute to simpler times, where the animal farm represents a peaceful retreat from urban chaos.

The song reflects Davies’ yearning for innocence and a return to a pastoral ideal, far removed from the complexities of the modern world.

Unlike George Orwell’s Animal Farm, this song does not focus on political themes but uses animals as symbols of purity and freedom.

Though not commercially successful at the time of release, “Animal Farm” has since gained recognition as a key part of The Kinks’ exploration of English culture and heritage.

Read more: Songs About Frogs

10. “Panda” by Desiigner (2016) – Endangered Animals

About this song:

  • Album: New English
  • Released: 2016
  • Artist: Desiigner
  • Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
  • Key Lyric: “I got broads in Atlanta (Ooh). Twistin’ dope, lean, and the Fanta (Grrah).”

“Panda” was released in 2016 as the breakout hit for Brooklyn rapper Desiigner, catapulting him to fame with its catchy hook and trap beats.

The song’s lyrics draw comparisons between a black-and-white BMW X6 and a panda bear, using the imagery of the car as a symbol of wealth and success.

Desiigner wrote the song when he was just 18 years old, drawing from his aspirations of making it big in the music industry.

“Panda” quickly gained viral attention, largely due to its infectious beat, leading to its heavy social media use and eventually a remix with Kanye West.

The track topped the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the most defining songs of 2016 and setting the stage for Desiigner’s early success in the rap game.

11. “Dark Horse” by Katy Perry (2013) – Mysterious animals in competition

About this song:

  • Album: Prism
  • Released: 2013
  • Artist: Katy Perry
  • Genre: Pop
  • Key Lyric: “So you wanna play with magic? Boy, you should know what you’re fallin’ for. Baby, do you dare to do this? ‘Cause I’m comin’ at you like a dark horse.”

“Dark Horse” was released in 2013 as part of Katy Perry’s Prism album, blending pop and trap music with mystical, otherworldly themes.

Co-written by Perry, along with producers Dr. Luke and Max Martin, the song explores the idea of an unexpected, powerful love that comes with a warning of its consequences.

The track’s dark, seductive tone contrasts with much of Perry’s earlier upbeat pop hits, marking a departure into more experimental territory.

Featuring rapper Juicy J, the song fuses elements of hip-hop, resulting in a sound that felt fresh and cutting-edge at the time of its release.

Dark Horse” became one of Perry’s most successful singles, topping the charts in multiple countries and receiving praise for its genre-blending approach.

12. “A Horse With No Name” by America (1971) – Desert Animals Journey

About this song:

  • Album: America
  • Released: 1971
  • Artist: America
  • Genre: Folk rock, Soft rock, Country rock, Rock, Folk
  • Key Lyric: “I’ve been through the desert on a horse with no name. It felt good to be out of the rain.”

“A Horse With No Name” was released in 1971 as the debut single of the band America and became their first major hit.

Written by band member Dewey Bunnell, the song tells the story of a journey through the desert, using a nameless horse as a metaphor for self-discovery and isolation.

The song’s folk-rock sound was influenced by Neil Young, and its evocative lyrics, despite their simplicity, evoke a feeling of mystery and existential wandering.

Bunnell later explained that the song was inspired by his experiences growing up in the deserts of California and Arizona.

Despite initial controversy over its perceived drug-related themes, “A Horse With No Name” topped the charts and remains one of America’s signature tracks.

13. “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor (1982) – Fierce Animals Power

About this song:

  • Album: Eye of the Tiger
  • Released: 1982
  • Artist: Survivor
  • Genre: Hard rock, Arena rock, Classic Rock
  • Key Lyric: “It’s the eye of the tiger, it’s the thrill of the fight. Risin’ up to the challenge of our rival.”

“Eye of the Tiger” was released in 1982 as the theme song for the movie Rocky III, quickly becoming an anthem for motivation and perseverance.

Written by Survivor members Jim Peterik and Frankie Sullivan at the request of Sylvester Stallone, the song was meant to embody the fighting spirit of the movie’s protagonist.

The powerful guitar riff and driving beat give the song an intense, energizing feel, perfect for the training montages and fight scenes in Rocky III.

The song’s title refers to the fierce determination and focus required to achieve greatness, a theme that resonated with audiences worldwide.

“Eye of the Tiger” topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became a global hit, earning Survivor a Grammy nomination and securing its place in pop culture.

14. “Bless the Beasts and Children” by Carpenters (1971) – Protecting Animals and Kids

About this song:

  • Album: Bless the Beasts and Children
  • Released: 1971
  • Artist: Carpenters
  • Genre: Folk
  • Key Lyric: “Light their way. When the darkness surrounds them. Give them love. Let it shine all around them.”

Released in 1971, “Bless the Beasts and Children” was the title track for the movie of the same name, reflecting the Carpenters’ soft rock style and emotional depth.

Written by Barry DeVorzon and Perry Botkin Jr., the song expresses a plea for compassion toward the vulnerable, particularly animals and children.

Karen Carpenter’s haunting vocals add a layer of tenderness to the song, capturing the theme of innocence and the need for protection.

The song was recorded when the Carpenters were gaining fame, highlighting their ability to tackle more serious, socially conscious topics.

“Bless the Beasts and Children” became a fan favorite and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.

15. “Cat’s in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin (1974)

About this song:

  • Album: Verities & Balderdash
  • Released: 1974
  • Artist: Harry Chapin
  • Genre: Folk rock, Folk music, Soft rock, Rock, Folk
  • Key Lyric: “And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon. Little boy blue and the man on the moon.”

“Cat’s in the Cradle” was released in 1974 as part of Harry Chapin’s Verities & Balderdash album, and it quickly became one of his most famous songs.

The song was inspired by a poem written by Chapin’s wife, Sandy, and it tells the story of a father who is too busy to spend time with his son, only to regret it later in life.

The song’s simple melody and poignant lyrics struck a chord with listeners, offering a powerful commentary on the importance of family and time.

Chapin wrote the song during a period of reflection on his own life and relationships, capturing the bittersweet realization of time lost.

“Cat’s in the Cradle” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a timeless anthem about parental responsibilities and missed opportunities.

16. “Animals” by Maroon 5 (2014)

About this song:

  • Album: V
  • Released: 2014
  • Artist: Maroon 5
  • Genre: Rock
  • Key Lyric: “Baby, I’m preyin’ on you tonight. Hunt you down, eat you alive. Just like animals (Hey), animals (Oh). Like animals-mals (Oh).”

“Animals” was released in 2014 as the second single from Maroon 5’s V album, known for its provocative lyrics and infectious beat.

Co-written by lead singer Adam Levine, the song uses animalistic metaphors to describe the primal intensity of romantic pursuit and desire.

The track features a driving pop-rock sound, blending heavy percussion with Levine’s signature falsetto vocals to create a seductive atmosphere.

The song sparked some controversy upon its release due to its dark, predatory tone and accompanying music video depicting a stalker-like scenario.

Despite the controversy, “Animals” became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and gaining significant radio airplay.

17. “Animal” by Def Leppard (1987)

About this song:

  • Album: Hysteria
  • Released: 1987
  • Artist: Def Leppard
  • Genre: Rock
  • Key Lyric: “I got to feel it in my blood, whoa, oh. I need your touch don’t need your love, whoa, oh. And I want, and I need, and I lust, animal.”

“Animal” was released in 1987 as part of Def Leppard’s Hysteria album, marking a major turning point for the band with its polished production and radio-friendly sound.

Written by the band members, the song took nearly three years to complete due to the meticulous recording process overseen by producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange.

The lyrics use wild, untamed imagery to convey a sense of freedom and passion, reflecting the band’s rock-and-roll lifestyle during the late ’80s.

The song’s anthemic chorus and powerful guitar riffs helped it become a fan favorite and a staple of Def Leppard’s live performances.

“Animal” became the band’s first top 10 hit in the UK, solidifying their place in the hard rock scene and contributing to the massive success of Hysteria.

18. “Black Cat” by Janet Jackson (1989) – Mysterious Animals Symbol

About this song:

  • Album: Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814
  • Released: 1989
  • Artist: Janet Jackson
  • Genre: R&B/Soul, Pop
  • Key Lyric: “Black cat, nine lives, short days, long nights. Living on the edge, not afraid to die.”

“Black Cat” was released in 1989 as part of Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814 album, showcasing her ability to blend rock with pop and R&B.

Written solely by Jackson, the song is a high-energy rock track that addresses themes of rebellion, danger, and personal empowerment.

With its heavy guitar riffs and fast-paced tempo, “Black Cat” stands out as one of Jackson’s more aggressive and edgy songs, reflecting her desire to push musical boundaries.

The song was composed during a time when Jackson was experimenting with different genres, aiming to reach a broader audience with a more diverse sound.

“Black Cat” became a commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Jackson a Grammy nomination for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.

19. “Butterfly” by Crazy Town (1999) – Transformation of Animals

About this song:

  • Album: The Gift of Game
  • Released: 1999
  • Artist: Crazy Town
  • Genre: Hip hop music, Rap rock, Nu metal, Rock
  • Key Lyric: “Come my lady, come-come my lady. You’re my butterfly, sugar baby.”

“Butterfly” was released in 1999 as part of Crazy Town’s debut album, The Gift of Game, blending rap and rock elements with a catchy, melodic chorus.

The song samples Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Pretty Little Ditty,” giving it a laid-back, psychedelic vibe that contrasts with the rap verses.

Lyrically, “Butterfly” is a love song, with the band members reflecting on their romantic relationships’ beauty and transformative power.

The track became an unexpected hit, topping charts worldwide and bringing Crazy Town brief but widespread fame at the turn of the millennium.

Despite being criticized for its commercial sound, “Butterfly” remains a signature song of the early 2000s, often associated with the rap-rock genre of that era.

20. “Talk to the Animals” by Rex Harrison (1967)

About this song:

  • Album: Doctor Dolittle (Soundtrack)
  • Released: 1967
  • Artist: Rex Harrison
  • Genre: Stage & Screen
  • Key Lyric: “If I could talk to the animals, just imagine it. Chatting to a chimp in Chimpanzee.”

“Talk to the Animals” was released in 1967 as part of the soundtrack for the film Doctor Dolittle, performed by actor Rex Harrison.

The song, written by Leslie Bricusse, captures the whimsical concept of being able to communicate with animals, a central theme of the movie.

Harrison’s spoken-singing style and the lighthearted melody made the song an enduring favorite among children and adults.

The film and song were created when musicals were highly popular in Hollywood, contributing to the song’s immediate success.

“Talk to the Animals” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, becoming one of the most iconic tracks associated with animal-themed movies.

Songs About Animals

Conclusion

From Katy Perry’s mystical “Dark Horse” to America’s contemplative “A Horse With No Name,” these Songs About Animals showcase the creativity and versatility of music. 

Each song tells a different story, using animals as metaphors, symbols, or companions in their narratives. 

Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, pop, or hip-hop, there’s something for everyone in this diverse playlist of animal-inspired tunes. 

Let these songs remind you of the enduring connection between music, animals, and the human experience.

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