Turning 26 is a milestone age – you’re no longer in your early 20s, but you’re not quite in your late 20s either.
It’s an interesting time filled with both nostalgia for your youth and excitement for what the future holds.
And one of the best ways to capture all those emotions is through music.
From feeling like you have it all figured out to questioning every decision you’ve made, there are songs about being 26 that perfectly encapsulate what it means to be 26 years old.
So whether you’re approaching this age or looking back on it fondly, join us as we take a musical journey through the ups and downs of being twenty-six.
1. “26 Years” by ReyMarie (2021) – Perfect Indie Song About Being 26
About this song:
- Album: 26 Years (Single)
- Released: 2021
- Artist: ReyMarie
- Genre: Alternative/Indie
- Key Lyric: “26 years, 26 years don’t count at all, I’m right here; Daddy.”
“26 Years” by ReyMarie was released in 2021 as an introspective pop single.
The song delves into themes of strained relationships and the emotional distance that can persist even after many years.
ReyMarie reflects on the impersonal nature of a 26-year relationship, likely with a parent, and the longing for a deeper connection.
The composition of this track was deeply personal, written as ReyMarie grappled with unresolved feelings and the desire for a more meaningful bond.
“26 Years” resonates with listeners who have experienced complex family dynamics, offering a poignant exploration of unmet expectations and emotional distance.
2. “Sixteen” by Night Winds & Nicholas Roberts (2019) – Best Rock Song About Being 26
About this song:
- Album: Sixteen
- Released: 2019
- Artist: Night Winds & Nicholas Roberts
- Genre: Indie Pop/Rock
- Key Lyric: “Oh the life I live at 26 is nothing like 16.”
“Sixteen” by Night Winds & Nicholas Roberts was released in 2019 on their album Sixteen.
Nicholas Roberts wrote the song as a nostalgic reflection on the carefree days of being sixteen, contrasted with the realities of being 26.
The lyrics highlight the longing for simpler times, capturing the bittersweet nature of growing older.
This indie pop/rock track uses gentle melodies and heartfelt vocals to evoke a sense of wistfulness and longing.
“Sixteen” resonates with listeners who yearn for the freedom and innocence of their youth, while navigating the complexities of adulthood.
3. “Was it 26” by Chris Stapleton (2015) – Recommended Country Song About Being 26
About this song:
- Album: Traveler
- Released: 2015
- Artist: Chris Stapleton
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “Thought I wouldn’t die at twenty-five or was it twenty-six?”
Chris Stapleton’s “Was it 26” is a poignant track from his 2015 album Traveler.
The song reflects on the blurred memories of his life in his mid-twenties, particularly the chaotic and tumultuous years around 25 and 26.
Stapleton wrote the lyrics during a time of deep personal reflection, pondering how those years shaped his journey and decisions.
The vivid imagery in the song, like “those two years run together like whiskey over ice,” captures the intensity and confusion of that period in his life.
“Was it 26” stands out for its introspective narrative, offering a raw and honest look at the complexities of youth, regret, and growth.
Read more: Songs About Being 20
4. “Loser (V in the Middle)” by Lil’ Trik (2020) – Awesome Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: Can’t Go Back
- Released: 2020
- Artist: Lil’ Trik
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “26 and I’m still a joke, loser on my stomach with a V in the middle.”
“Loser (V in the Middle)” by Lil’ Trik was released in 2020 as part of the album Can’t Go Back.
This track portrays the artist’s struggle with feelings of inadequacy and the harsh realities he faced at 26, including strained relationships and past mistakes.
Lil’ Trik’s lyrics reflect his frustration and disillusionment with life, as well as the sense of betrayal from those he once considered friends.
The song’s raw and introspective nature is highlighted by its melancholic beat, which complements the lyrical themes of loneliness and regret.
“Loser (V in the Middle)” resonates deeply with listeners who have experienced similar emotions, making it a powerful expression of the challenges faced in one’s mid-twenties.
5. “Twenty-Six” by LEX the Lexicon Artist (2020) – Remarkable Hip Hop Song About Being 26
About this song:
- Album: Lex and the City
- Released: 2020
- Artist: LEX the Lexicon Artist
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Even though I’m 26 inside my brain, just the thought of 26 is quite insane.”
In 2020, LEX the Lexicon Artist dropped “Twenty-Six” as part of her debut album Lex and the City.
The song delves into the mental and emotional challenges of being 26, where LEX candidly discusses the anxiety and self-doubt that often accompany this age.
Through clever wordplay and introspective lyrics, LEX navigates the confusion and pressure that comes with societal expectations, all while maintaining her unique voice.
The track was written during a time when LEX was reflecting on her life choices and the direction she was heading, encapsulating her struggle to reconcile her past with her future.
“Twenty-Six” resonates with listeners who are grappling with the complexities of adulthood, making it a relatable anthem for those navigating their mid-twenties.
6. “Boutta be 26” by ELT (2020) – Stunning Hip Hop Song
About this song:
- Album: Boutta Be 26
- Released: 2021
- Artist: EL-T
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Damn, I’m really boutta be 26 (twenty six). And I still ain’t shit, I’m just living at home with my mother.”
“Boutta be 26” was released in 2021 as part of the album Boutta Be 26 by EL-T.
The song captures the frustration and self-doubt that often accompany the age of 26, particularly focusing on unmet expectations and the pressure to succeed.
EL-T uses this track to vent his feelings of inadequacy, juxtaposing his academic achievements with the harsh reality of not meeting societal milestones.
The repetitive and raw lyrics reflect the ongoing internal struggle of feeling stuck, despite external markers of success like a good GPA or a degree.
“Boutta be 26” resonates with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of disillusionment in their mid-twenties, making it a relatable anthem for anyone grappling with these challenges.
Read more: Song About Being 21
7. “Turning 26” by Kenny Maye (2022) – Excellent Hip Hop Song About Being 26
About this song:
- Album: Turning 26 (Single)
- Released: 2022
- Artist: Kenny Maye
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Turning 26, milestones get harder, my wounds get deeper, more severe trauma.”
Released in 2022, “Turning 26” by Kenny Maye is a raw and powerful reflection on the challenges that come with reaching this pivotal age.
The song’s lyrics delve into the struggles of adulthood, with Maye candidly addressing the emotional weight and trauma he’s experienced.
Composed during a period of deep introspection, Maye uses this track to confront the harsh realities of life that have shaped him.
The intense delivery and gritty tone of the song mirror the seriousness of its themes, making it a compelling listen.
“Turning 26” resonates with those who have faced similar hardships, offering a voice to the often-unspoken struggles of growing older.
8. “Drinking in L.A.” by Bran Van 3000 (1997) – Wonderful Alternative Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: Glee
- Released: 1997
- Artist: Bran Van 3000
- Genre: Alternative Rock/Trip-Hop
- Key Lyric: “But we did nothing, absolutely nothing that day. And I say, what the hell am I doing drinking in L.A. at twenty-six?”
“Drinking in L.A.” is one of Bran Van 3000’s most memorable tracks, released as part of their 1997 album Glee.
The song captures the existential questioning of life choices that often hits around the age of 26, with the backdrop of Los Angeles amplifying these feelings of aimlessness.
Written during the band’s time in L.A., the song’s laid-back, eclectic mix of genres reflects the surreal and disjointed experiences they encountered.
The lyrics, infused with a mix of humor and melancholy, offer a snapshot of the confusion that many feel as they navigate their mid-twenties.
“Drinking in L.A.” continues to be an anthem for those wrestling with their sense of purpose, making it a timeless piece for listeners at any stage in life.
9. “26” by Jake Jansen (2022) – Ideal Punk Song About Being 26
About this song:
- Album: 26 (Single)
- Released: 2022
- Artist: Jake Jansen
- Genre: Punk
- Key Lyric: “‘Cause Taylor Swift has got you when you’re feeling 22, but people stop giving a shit when you turn 26.”
Jake Jansen’s “26,” released in 2022, captures the angst and disillusionment that can accompany this particular age.
The song highlights the stark contrast between the youthful optimism celebrated at 22 and the reality check that hits at 26.
Jansen’s lyrics express a blend of humor and frustration as he reflects on the societal expectations that no longer seem to matter as much.
The punk-infused sound of the track adds to its raw and rebellious tone, making it a relatable anthem for anyone grappling with the pressures of growing older.
“26” stands out for its witty commentary on the often overlooked struggles of mid-twenties life, offering a voice to those navigating this challenging phase.
Read more: Songs About Being 15
10. “26” by Catfish and the Bottlemen (2014) – Amazing Indie Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: The Balcony
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Catfish and the Bottlemen
- Genre: Alternative/Indie Rock
- Key Lyric: “I can’t believe you’re 26, without having a few in my fist.”
“26” by Catfish and the Bottlemen was released in 2014 on their debut album The Balcony.
The song deals with the frustrations of a turbulent relationship, where the narrator reflects on the complexities of being 26 and in love.
Ryan McCann, the band’s lead singer, and lyricist, captures the push and pull of emotions that come with trying to change someone you care about.
The track’s driving indie rock sound is layered with intense emotions, making it both a cathartic and relatable anthem for those struggling with love and frustration.
“26” is a powerful expression of the challenges that arise in relationships during the often confusing and transitional years of one’s mid-twenties.
11. “26” by Paramore (2017)
About this song:
- Album: After Laughter
- Released: 2017
- Artist: Paramore
- Genre: Alternative Rock
- Key Lyric: “Hold onto hope if you got it, don’t let it go for nobody.”
In 2017, Paramore released “26” as part of their album After Laughter, a track that combines melancholy with a message of resilience.
Hayley Williams, the band’s lead singer, uses the song to remind listeners that even in the darkest moments, holding onto hope is essential.
The acoustic arrangement and soft melody provide a soothing backdrop to the reflective lyrics, creating a song that is both comforting and bittersweet.
“26” resonates with those who feel weighed down by the realities of adulthood, yet still cling to the belief that things can get better.
This track is a beautiful exploration of the complexities of life at 26, offering a gentle reminder to persevere through life’s challenges.
Conclusion
Turning 26 brings a mix of reflection, uncertainty, and growth, all of which are captured through the diverse array of songs featured in this blog.
Each track of Songs about being 26, from different genres and perspectives, illustrates the emotions that often accompany this milestone.
Whether you’re dealing with the challenges of relationships, career, or self-discovery, these songs offer a relatable soundtrack for navigating the complexities of being 26.
Ultimately, these tracks remind us that while 26 can be a tumultuous time, it also holds the potential for meaningful growth and understanding.