“Songs about being 17” capture the bittersweet blend of freedom and uncertainty, as they reflect on the highs and lows of growing up and navigating life on the edge of adulthood.
For music lovers and teenagers, Songs About Being 17 resonate deeply, capturing the essence of this unique time in life.
Turning 17 is a magical experience, a year filled with self-discovery, first loves, and endless possibilities. It’s the bridge between the innocence of childhood and the responsibilities of adulthood.
In this post, we’ll explore 25 iconic songs that celebrate being 17, each offering a distinct perspective and emotional depth.
Keep reading to discover how these tracks can be the perfect soundtrack for your own teenage years.
1. “Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles (1967)
About this song:
- Album: Magical Mystery Tour
- Released: 1967
- Artist: The Beatles
- Genre: Psychedelic Rock
- Key Lyric: “Living is easy with eyes closed, misunderstanding all you see.”
The Beatles’ “Strawberry Fields Forever,” released in 1967, is a psychedelic rock masterpiece that captures the whimsical and surreal nature of youth.
While not explicitly about being 17, the song discusses the imagination and wonder of childhood.
Composed with innovative production techniques, this track remains a groundbreaking work in music history.
2. “At Seventeen” by Janis Ian (1975)
About this song:
- Album: Between the Lines
- Released: 1975
- Artist: Janis Ian
- Genre: Folk
- Key Lyric: “I learned the truth at seventeen, that love was meant for beauty queens.”
Released in 1975, “At Seventeen” by Janis Ian is a poignant anthem for anyone who has felt the sting of not fitting in.
Ian wrote this song to express her own experiences with bullying and loneliness during her teenage years.
The lyrics poignantly address the pain of not being one of the popular kids and offer solace to those who feel left out.
The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt words make it a timeless classic for anyone navigating the turbulent waters of adolescence.
3. “Seventeen” by Jet (2009)
About this song:
- Album: Shaka Rock
- Released: 2009
- Artist: Jet
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “She’s only seventeen, and out of reach.”
Jet’s “Seventeen,” released in 2009, is a rock track that reflects on the fleeting nature of youth.
Written during the band’s rise to fame, the song captures the nostalgia and longing for simpler times.
Its powerful guitar riffs and emotive lyrics make it a standout track for anyone reminiscing about their teenage years.
Read more: Songs About Being 18
4. “Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus (2000)
About this song:
- Album: Wheatus
- Released: 2000
- Artist: Wheatus
- Genre: Alternative Rock, Pop Punk
- Key Lyric: “I’m just a teenage dirtbag, baby.”
Wheatus’ “Teenage Dirtbag,” released in 2000, is a pop-punk anthem that captures the awkwardness and angst of teenage years.
The song tells the story of an outsider navigating the trials of high school.
Composed with catchy lyrics and a playful melody, this track has become an enduring favorite among teens.
5. “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” from The Sound of Music (1959)
About this song:
- Album: The Sound of Music Soundtrack
- Released: 1959
- Artist: Rodgers and Hammerstein
- Genre: Musical Theater
- Key Lyric: “You are sixteen going on seventeen, baby, it’s time to think.”
“Sixteen Going on Seventeen” from the 1959 musical The Sound of Music is a classic track about the innocence and excitement of young love.
Written by Rodgers and Hammerstein, the song captures the charm and simplicity of teenage romance.
Its timeless melody and sweet lyrics make it a beloved favorite for generations.
6. “17” by Youth Lagoon (2011)
About this song:
- Album: The Year of Hibernation
- Released: 2011
- Artist: Youth Lagoon
- Genre: Dream Pop
- Key Lyric: “When I was seventeen, my mother said to me, ‘Don’t stop imagining.’”
Trevor Powers, known as Youth Lagoon, released “17” in 2011, channeling the nostalgia and introspection of looking back at teenage years.
Powers wrote this song while reminiscing about the dreams and ambitions he had at 17, capturing the bittersweet feeling of growing up.
The ethereal soundscape and reflective lyrics make this song a perfect companion for those quiet moments of teenage contemplation.
Read more: Song About Being 19
7. “Seventeen” by Marina and the Diamonds (2010)
About this song:
- Album: The Family Jewels
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Marina and the Diamonds
- Genre: Indie Pop
- Key Lyric: “I’m gonna fly like a bird, I’m free, with my hands to the sky, I’ll be seventeen.”
Marina and the Diamonds’ “Seventeen,” released in 2007, is an introspective track about the challenges and growth of being a teenager.
Marina wrote this song to reflect on her own experiences of finding her identity and independence.
The song’s haunting melody and honest lyrics make it a powerful anthem for anyone navigating the complexities of being 17.
8. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA (1976)
About this song:
- Album: Arrival
- Released: 1976
- Artist: ABBA
- Genre: Pop, Disco
- Key Lyric: “You are the dancing queen, young and sweet, only seventeen.”
ABBA’s 1976 hit “Dancing Queen” is an iconic celebration of youth and freedom.
The song was inspired by the dance music scene and the joy of being young.
With its infectious melody and uplifting lyrics, it captures the essence of being 17 and feeling like the queen of the dance floor.
This track remains a favorite for anyone who wants to relive the exuberance of their teenage years.
9. “When I Was Seventeen” by Frank Sinatra (1965)
About this song:
- Album: A Man and His Music
- Released: 1965
- Artist: Frank Sinatra
- Genre: Traditional Pop, Jazz
- Key Lyric: “It was a very good year.”
Frank Sinatra’s “When I Was Seventeen,” released in 1965, is a nostalgic ballad that reflects on the joys and challenges of youth.
The song captures the innocence and wonder of being 17.
Composed with Sinatra’s signature style, this track remains a timeless classic.
Read more: Songs About Being 20
10. “Edge of Seventeen” by Stevie Nicks (1981)
About this song:
- Album: Bella Donna
- Released: 1981
- Artist: Stevie Nicks
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Just like the white-winged dove sings a song, sounds like she’s singing.”
Stevie Nicks’ “Edge of Seventeen,” released in 1981, is a powerful rock anthem about the turbulence and passion of being on the brink of adulthood.
Nicks wrote the song while grappling with personal loss and the transition to a new phase in her life.
The driving guitar riff and Nicks’ evocative voice perfectly capture the intensity and uncertainty of being 17.
11. “Seventeen” by Troye Sivan (2018)
About this song:
- Album: Bloom
- Released: 2018
- Artist: Troye Sivan
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “I went out looking for love when I was seventeen.”
Troye Sivan’s “Seventeen,” released in 2018, is a deeply personal song about self-discovery and first love.
Sivan wrote this song to reflect on his own experiences of coming out and finding love as a teenager.
The song’s dreamy melody and heartfelt lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the highs and lows of being 17.
12. “Seventeen” by Sharon Van Etten (2019)
About this song:
- Album: Remind Me Tomorrow
- Released: 2019
- Artist: Sharon Van Etten
- Genre: Indie Rock
- Key Lyric: “I know what you’re gonna be, I know that you’re gonna be.”
Sharon Van Etten’s “Seventeen,” released in 2019, is a heartfelt ode to her younger self and the city that shaped her. Written as a letter to her teenage years,
Van Etten reflects on the dreams, struggles, and growth that come with being 17.
The song’s nostalgic tone and powerful vocals resonate with anyone looking back on their formative years with a mix of fondness and wisdom.
13. “Strawberry Wine” by Deana Carter (1996)
About this song:
- Album: Did I Shave My Legs for This?
- Released: 1996
- Artist: Deana Carter
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “I was caught somewhere between a woman and a child.”
Deana Carter’s 1996 hit, “Strawberry Wine,” is a country ballad that nostalgically recounts the bittersweet experiences of youth.
The song tells the story of a summer romance and the innocence lost along the way.
Carter composed this track to evoke the powerful emotions tied to first loves and significant life changes that often occur around the age of 17.
14. “When You Were Young” by The Killers (2006)
About this song:
- Album: Sam’s Town
- Released: 2006
- Artist: The Killers
- Genre: Alternative Rock
- Key Lyric: “You sit there in your heartache, waiting on some beautiful boy to save you from your old ways.”
The Killers’ “When You Were Young,” released in 2006, is an alternative rock anthem that captures the longing and nostalgia of youth.
The song discusses the dreams and aspirations of being young.
Composed with a powerful melody and evocative lyrics, this track resonates with anyone reflecting on their formative years.
15. “I Saw Her Standing There” by The Beatles (1963)
About this song:
- Album: Please Please Me
- Released: 1963
- Artist: The Beatles
- Genre: Rock and Roll
- Key Lyric: “Well, she was just seventeen, you know what I mean.”
The Beatles’ 1963 hit “I Saw Her Standing There” is a rock and roll classic about the thrill of young love.
Written by Paul McCartney and John Lennon, the song captures the excitement of meeting someone special for the first time.
Its energetic beat and timeless lyrics make it a favorite for anyone reliving their teenage crushes.
16. “Seventeen” by Alessia Cara (2015)
About this song:
- Album: Know-It-All
- Released: 2015
- Artist: Alessia Cara
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “I wish I could freeze the time at seventeen.”
Alessia Cara’s “Seventeen,” released in 2015, is a reflection on the fleeting nature of youth.
Cara wrote this song as a reminder to savor every moment, inspired by her own experiences of growing up too fast.
The song’s catchy melody and introspective lyrics encourage listeners to cherish their teenage years before they slip away.
17. “17” by Kings of Leon (2008)
About this song:
- Album: Only by the Night
- Released: 2008
- Artist: Kings of Leon
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “She’s only seventeen, but she’s my queen.”
Kings of Leon’s “17,” released in 2008, is a rock track that explores the allure and mystery of youth.
Written during the band’s rise to fame, the song reflects their fascination with the freedom and unpredictability of being young.
Its catchy hooks and introspective lyrics make it a standout track for anyone captivated by the magic of 17.
18. “My Generation” by The Who (1965)
About this song:
- Album: My Generation
- Released: 1965
- Artist: The Who
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Hope I die before I get old.”
The Who’s “My Generation,” released in 1965, is a rock anthem that captures the rebellious spirit of youth.
While not specifically about being 17, the song discusses the desire for independence and self-expression.
Composed during the rise of counterculture, this track remains an enduring symbol of youthful defiance.
19. “Seventeen” by Tim McGraw (1990)
About this song:
- Album: Tim McGraw
- Released: 1990
- Artist: Tim McGraw
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “Seventeen only comes once in a lifetime.”
Tim McGraw’s “Seventeen,” released in 1999, is a country ballad that reflects on the simplicity and beauty of teenage years.
McGraw wrote this song as a tribute to his own youth and the small-town life he grew up in.
Its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody make it a touching reminder of the innocence of being 17.
20. “Carmen” by Lana Del Rey (2012)
About this song:
- Album: Born to Die
- Released: 2012
- Artist: Lana Del Rey
- Genre: Indie Pop
- Key Lyric: “She says, ‘You don’t want to be like me, don’t want to see all the things I’ve seen.’”
Lana Del Rey’s “Carmen,” released in 2012, tells the story of a troubled young girl navigating the complexities of adolescence.
While not directly about being 17, the song captures the struggle and allure of youthful rebellion.
Del Rey wrote this song as part of her exploration of dark and glamorous themes, making it both haunting and captivating.
21. “Seventeen Years” by Ratatat (2004)
About this song:
- Album: Ratatat
- Released: 2004
- Artist: Ratatat
- Genre: Electronic
- Key Lyric: “I’ve been rapping for about seventeen years, okay?”
Ratatat’s “Seventeen Years,” released in 2004, is an instrumental track that captures the intensity and creativity of youth.
The song was inspired by the band’s own experiences of making music as teenagers.
Its innovative sound and dynamic energy make it a unique addition to any playlist.
22. “Seventeen Forever” by Metro Station (2007)
About this song:
- Album: Metro Station
- Released: 2007
- Artist: Metro Station
- Genre: Pop Punk
- Key Lyric: “You’ll be seventeen forever, and we can get away with this tonight.”
Released in 2007, Metro Station’s “Seventeen Forever” is a pop-punk anthem about wanting to hold onto youth.
Written during the band’s teenage years, the song reflects their desire to stay young and carefree.
Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a perfect track for those who wish they could be 17 forever.
23. “Seventeen” by Winger (1988)
About this song:
- Album: Winger
- Released: 1988
- Artist: Winger
- Genre: Glam Metal
- Key Lyric: “She’s only seventeen, daddy says she’s too young, but she’s old enough for me.”
Winger’s 1988 rock anthem “Seventeen” is a high-energy track about the excitement of young love.
Written during the height of the glam metal era, the song reflects the band’s wild and carefree lifestyle.
Its driving guitar riffs and bold lyrics make it a classic for anyone who loves rock and roll.
24. “17” by Avril Lavigne (2013)
About this song:
- Album: Avril Lavigne
- Released: 2013
- Artist: Avril Lavigne
- Genre: Pop Rock
- Key Lyric: “Those were the days, we were crazy, back when we were seventeen.”
Avril Lavigne’s “17,” released in 2013, is a nostalgic look back at the carefree days of being a teenager.
Lavigne wrote this song to capture the essence of her own teenage years, filled with adventure and rebellion.
The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics make it a favorite for anyone reminiscing about their youth.
25. “Seventeen” by Ladytron (2002)
About this song:
- Album: Light & Magic
- Released: 2002
- Artist: Ladytron
- Genre: Synthpop
- Key Lyric: “They only want you when you’re seventeen, when you’re twenty-one, you’re no fun.”
Ladytron’s “Seventeen,” released in 2002, explores the fleeting nature of beauty and youth in the modern world.
The song was inspired by the pressures and expectations placed on young women.
With its electronic beats and haunting vocals, “Seventeen” serves as a critique of society’s obsession with youth and a reminder of its transient nature.
Conclusion
This playlist of 25 songs about being 17 offers a diverse range of genres and emotions, capturing the essence of youth in various ways.
From the rebellious spirit of rock to the nostalgic reflections of country and the carefree vibes of pop, these tracks resonate with both teenagers and those reminiscing about their formative years.
Music has the power to evoke memories and emotions, and these songs are a testament to the universal experiences of being 17.
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