“Songs About Being 22” reflect the blend of excitement and uncertainty that accompanies early adulthood, exploring themes of love, friendship, and the quest for identity during this pivotal year of self-discovery.
Turning 22 is a special milestone. For many, it’s a time of self-discovery, new adventures, and the excitement of the unknown.
Music has a unique way of capturing these emotions and experiences, and countless artists have penned songs that resonate with what it’s like to be 22.
This blog post is dedicated to exploring some of the best Songs About Being 22 — classics that have become anthems for this pivotal age.
Whether you’re currently 22 or just reminiscing, these tracks will take you on a nostalgic trip through the highs and lows of early adulthood.
1. “22” by Taylor Swift (2012) – Perfect Country Song About Being 22
About this song:
- Album: Red
- Released: 2012
- Artist: Taylor Swift
- Genre: Disco, Bubblegum music, Dance-pop, Pop, Rock, Country
- Key Lyric: “I don’t know about you. But I’m feeling twenty-two. Everything will be alright if. You keep me next to you.”
Released in 2012, Taylor Swift’s hit song “22” epitomizes the carefree and fun-loving spirit of being 22.
Swift wrote this song as an anthem for young adults who are navigating the thrilling yet confusing period of early adulthood.
The song was inspired by Swift’s own experiences and the feeling of freedom that comes with this age.
With its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “22” quickly became a favorite among fans, capturing the essence of youth and friendship.
2. “When You’re Young” by The Jam (1979) – Best Power Pop Song About Being 22
About this song:
- Album: Snap!
- Released: 1979
- Artist: The Jam
- Genre: Mod revival, power pop
- Key Lyric: “Life is timeless, days are long when you’re young.”
Released in 1979, “When You’re Young” by The Jam explores the idealism and struggles of youth.
Written by Paul Weller, the song reflects on the challenges faced by young people trying to find their place in the world.
The upbeat tempo and reflective lyrics make it a timeless anthem for those in their early twenties.
The Jam composed this track during a time of social and political change in the UK, adding depth to its message.
3. “What’s My Age Again?” by Blink-182 (1999) – Recommended Pop Punk Song About Being 22
About this song:
- Album: Enema of the State
- Released: 1999
- Artist: Blink-182
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Pop punk
- Key Lyric: “And that’s about the time she walked away from me. Nobody likes you when you’re twenty-three.”
Blink-182 released “What’s My Age Again?” in 1999, a song that humorously addresses the confusion and irresponsibility often associated with youth.
Written by Mark Hoppus, the song captures the essence of feeling caught between adolescence and adulthood.
The circumstances of its composition reflect the band’s own experiences, resonating with listeners who feel similarly lost at 22.
Its infectious chorus and playful lyrics make it a memorable track for young adults.
Read more: Song About Being 19
4. “Young Blood” by The Naked and Famous (2010) – Awesome Indie Song
About this song:
- Album: Passive Me, Aggressive You
- Released: 2010
- Artist: The Naked and Famous
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, French Indie, Pop, Synth-pop, Rock
- Key Lyric: “The bittersweet between my teeth. Trying to find the in-betweens. Fall back in love eventually.”
“Young Blood” by The Naked and Famous came out in 2010, encapsulating the exuberance and recklessness of youth.
Written by Thom Powers and Alisa Xayalith, the song captures the excitement and uncertainty of young adulthood.
The band’s own experiences and the desire to seize the moment influenced the song’s composition.
Its energetic beat and anthemic quality make it a perfect soundtrack for those wild, youthful nights.
5. “22” by Lily Allen (2009) – Remarkable Jazz-pop Song About Being 22
About this song:
- Album: It’s Not Me, It’s You
- Released: 2009
- Artist: Lily Allen
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, French Indie, Pop, Jazz-pop, UK R&B
- Key Lyric: “When she was 22, the future looked bright. But she’s nearly 30 now and she’s out every night.”
In 2009, Lily Allen released “22,” a song that offers a more somber perspective on turning 22.
Written by Allen herself, the track discusses the societal pressures and anxieties faced by young women as they approach their mid-twenties.
The song was composed during a time when Allen was reflecting on her own life and the expectations placed on her.
Its honest lyrics and catchy rhythm make it a thought-provoking listen for anyone struggling with the realities of growing up.
6. “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield (2004) – Stunning R&B Song
About this song:
- Album: Unwritten
- Released: 2004
- Artist: Natasha Bedingfield
- Genre: R&B, Pop, Dance Pop, Adult Contemporary
- Key Lyric: “Today is where your book begins. The rest is still unwritten.”
Natasha Bedingfield’s “Unwritten,” released in 2004, is an empowering anthem that encourages young adults to take control of their future.
Written by Bedingfield, Danielle Brisebois, and Wayne Rodrigues, the song’s message is about the endless possibilities that come with being 22.
The upbeat melody and inspiring lyrics were inspired by Bedingfield’s own experiences of self-discovery and dreams.
It remains a motivational track for those stepping into the unknown.
Read more: Songs About Being 27
7. “Forever Young” by Alphaville (1984) – Excellent Synth-pop Song About Being 22
About this song:
- Album: Forever Young
- Released: 1984
- Artist: Alphaville
- Genre: Synth-pop, New wave, Rock
- Key Lyric: “Forever young, I want to be forever young.”
Alphaville’s “Forever Young,” released in 1984, is a timeless classic that speaks to the desire to stay youthful and invincible.
Written by Marian Gold, Bernhard Lloyd, and Frank Mertens, the song reflects on the fleeting nature of youth.
The band composed this track during a time of global uncertainty, which adds to its poignant message.
Its melancholic yet hopeful tone continues to resonate with listeners facing the realities of growing older.
8. “We Are Young” by Fun. ft. Janelle Monáe (2011) – Wonderful Indie Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: Some Nights
- Released: 2011
- Artist: Fun., Janelle Monáe
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Arena rock, Indie rock, Indie pop
- Key Lyric: “We are young. So let’s set the world on fire. We can burn brighter than the sun.”
Released in 2011, “We Are Young” by Fun. featuring Janelle Monáe quickly became an anthem for a generation.
Written by Nate Ruess, Andrew Dost, Jack Antonoff, and Jeff Bhasker, the song captures the exhilaration and defiance of youth.
The band drew inspiration from their own experiences of late-night adventures and the bonds of friendship.
Its powerful chorus and relatable lyrics make it a favorite for those celebrating their youth.
9. “Burn This City” by Cartel (2005) – Ideal Punk Song About Being 22
About this song:
- Album: Chroma
- Released: 2005
- Artist: Cartel
- Genre: Punk
- Key Lyric: “Cause our days were numbered by nights on too many rooftops. They said we’d burn so bright. We burn this city and go.”
Cartel released “Burn This City” in 2005, a song that embodies the rebellious spirit of young adulthood.
Written by Will Pugh, Joseph Pepper, and Kevin Sanders, the track is about seizing opportunities and making the most of one’s youth.
The band’s own experiences and desire to challenge the status quo influenced the song’s composition.
Its energetic vibe and empowering message make it a go-to for those looking to break free from constraints.
Read more: Songs About Being 18
10. “22 (OVER S∞∞N)” by Bon Iver (2016) – Amazing Alternative/Indie Song
About this song:
- Album: 22, A Million
- Released: 2016
- Artist: Bon Iver
- Genre: Alternative/Indie
- Key Lyric: “(All these years). There I find you marked in constellation (two, two).”
Bon Iver released “22” in 2016, a contemplative song about the passage of time and the experiences of youth.
Written by Justin Vernon, the track explores the complexities of growing older while holding onto youthful dreams.
The band’s own reflections on life and change influenced the song’s creation.
Its atmospheric sound and deep lyrics offer a meditative experience for listeners.
11. “Dancing On My Own” by Robyn (2010)
About this song:
- Album: Body Talk Pt. 1
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Robyn
- Genre: Electropop, Synth-pop, Acoustic
- Key Lyric: “I keep dancing on my own.”
Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own,” released in 2010, is a dance-pop anthem about independence and resilience.
Written by Robyn and Patrik Berger, the song captures the mix of loneliness and empowerment that comes with being 22.
Robyn’s own experiences of heartache and self-discovery influenced the track’s composition.
Its infectious beat and relatable message make it a favorite for those finding their own path.
12. “21 and Invincible” by Something Corporate (2003)
About this song:
- Album: North
- Released: 2003
- Artist: Something Corporate
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Pop, Rock
- Key Lyric: “And woah, we’re twenty-one and invincible. I’m in power for the hour. I guess today’s gonna blow us away.”
Something Corporate released “21 and Invincible” in 2003, a song that celebrates the recklessness and invincibility felt in your early twenties.
Written by Andrew McMahon, the track is about living life to the fullest without fear.
The band’s youthful experiences and desire to capture the essence of this age influenced the song’s creation.
Its catchy melody and spirited lyrics make it an anthem for those who feel unstoppable.
13. “Lost In My Mind” by The Head and the Heart (2011)
About this song:
- Album: The Head and the Heart
- Released: 2011
- Artist: The Head and the Heart
- Genre: Alternative/Indie
- Key Lyric: “I am lost in my mind. I get lost in my mind.”
Released in 2011, “Lost In My Mind” by The Head and the Heart is a reflective song about the uncertainties of young adulthood.
Written by Josiah Johnson and Jonathan Russell, the track discusses the internal struggles faced by those in their early twenties.
The band’s own experiences of self-doubt and growth influenced the song’s composition.
Its introspective lyrics and soothing melody provide comfort to those in a similar phase of life.
14. “Ribs” by Lorde (2013)
About this song:
- Album: Pure Heroine
- Released: 2013
- Artist: Lorde
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Pop, Electronica, Indietronica, Electropop
- Key Lyric: “My mum and dad let me stay home. It drives you crazy, getting old.”
Lorde’s “Ribs,” released in 2013, is a hauntingly beautiful song about the fear of growing up.
Written by Lorde and Joel Little, the track captures the vulnerability and nostalgia felt at 22.
The song was composed during a time when Lorde was reflecting on her own anxieties about adulthood.
Its ethereal sound and poignant lyrics resonate with listeners facing the same fears.
15. “Here’s To Never Growing Up” by Avril Lavigne (2013)
About this song:
- Album: Avril Lavigne
- Released: 2013
- Artist: Avril Lavigne
- Genre: Dance Pop, Pop rock, Punk
- Key Lyric: “When the sun’s going down, we’ll be raisin’ our cups. Singing, ‘Here’s to never growing up’.”
Released in 2013, Avril Lavigne’s “Here’s To Never Growing Up” is a rebellious anthem celebrating the spirit of youth.
Written by Lavigne, David Hodges, Chad Kroeger, Jacob Kasher, and Martin Johnson, the track is about holding onto the carefree moments of being young.
The song was inspired by Lavigne’s own desire to stay youthful and free.
Its energetic beat and defiant lyrics make it a go-to for those refusing to grow up.
16. “Piece Of My Heart” by Janis Joplin (1968)
About this song:
- Album: Cheap Thrills
- Released: 1968
- Artist: Janis Joplin
- Genre: Rock, Psychedelic rock, Blues rock
- Key Lyric: “Take another little piece of my heart now, baby. Oh, oh, break it. Break another little bit of my heart now, darling.”
Janis Joplin’s “Piece Of My Heart,” released in 1968, is a powerful rock anthem about love and heartache.
Written by Jerry Ragovoy and Bert Berns, the song captures the raw emotions experienced in one’s early twenties.
Joplin’s own tumultuous relationships and passionate performances influenced the track’s composition.
Its iconic vocals and soulful message continue to resonate with listeners.
17. “22” by Gavin James (2014)
About this song:
- Album: Live at Whelans
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Gavin James
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “When I was dreaming that I was 22.”
Gavin James released “22” in 2014, a heartfelt song about the bittersweet moments of young adulthood.
Written by James himself, the track reflects on the joys and pains of being 22.
The song was composed during a time when James was reminiscing about his own experiences of love and loss.
Its tender lyrics and melodic sound provide a comforting listen for those navigating similar emotions.
18. “Perfect Places” by Lorde (2017)
About this song:
- Album: Melodrama
- Released: 2017
- Artist: Lorde
- Genre: Pop, Synth-pop, Electropop
- Key Lyric: “All of our heroes fading. Now I can’t stand to be alone. Let’s go to perfect places.”
Released in 2017, “Perfect Places” by Lorde is an anthem for those searching for meaning and belonging.
Written by Lorde and Jack Antonoff, the song captures the restless energy and longing felt at 22.
The track was inspired by Lorde’s own adventures and the quest for the perfect moment.
Its upbeat tempo and introspective lyrics make it a relatable song for young adults.
Conclusion
Being 22 is a unique and transformative experience, filled with moments of joy, confusion, and self-discovery.
The songs about being 22 listed above beautifully capture the essence of this age, providing a soundtrack for those navigating their early twenties.
Whether you’re currently 22 or looking back on your own experiences, these tracks offer a sense of connection and understanding.
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