Turning 30 is a milestone that many of us approach with mixed emotions. On the one hand, it’s exciting to officially leave our twenties behind and enter a new decade with endless possibilities.
On the other hand, there may be some anxiety about leaving our youthful years and feeling pressure to have everything figured out by now.
So many musicians who have written songs about this pivotal age that we’ve curated a list of 14 songs about being 30.
1. “30 Something” by Jay-Z (2006)
Jay-Z released “30 Something” in 2006 as part of his album Kingdom Come. The song celebrates the maturity and success that comes with reaching the age of 30, contrasting it with the carefree attitude of youth.
Jay-Z wrote this track as he embraced the responsibilities and achievements of his 30s, reflecting on his journey from a young hustler to a successful businessman.
The song conveys that life doesn’t end at 30; instead, it marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with wisdom and stability. Through this track, Jay-Z asserts that growing older is something to be proud of, not feared.
2. “100 Years” by Five for Fighting (2003)
Released in 2003 by John Ondrasik, known as Five for Fighting, “100 Years” reflects the fleeting nature of time and the stages of life.
The lyrics capture the milestones of a man’s life, emphasizing the 30-year mark as a significant turning point. Ondrasik was inspired to write this song by his experiences of growing older and reflecting on the rapid passage of time.
The soft melody and contemplative lyrics make this song a poignant anthem for anyone grappling with the realities of adulthood. It serves as a reminder to cherish every moment, especially as we transition into different phases of life.
3. “Time Crisis” by Sammus (2016)
Released in 2016, “Time Crisis” by Sammus is a deeply personal reflection on the pressures and uncertainties associated with nearing the age of 30.
Sammus, an artist known for her introspective and socially conscious lyrics, uses this song to articulate the anxiety of not meeting societal expectations while balancing personal ambitions. The track delves into the internal conflict between youthful dreams and the reality of adult responsibilities.
Sammus composed this song during intense self-reflection, grappling with the expectations placed on her as she approached a significant life milestone. The raw and candid lyrics make “Time Crisis” resonate with anyone who has faced the existential dilemmas that often accompany turning 30.
Read more: Song About Being 19
4. “Thirty-Three” by The Smashing Pumpkins (1996)
Released in 1996, “Thirty-Three” by The Smashing Pumpkins was written by Billy Corgan during personal change and reflection.
Corgan composed the song as he was turning 30, a time when he was contemplating the direction of his life and career. The lyrics are poetic and abstract, conveying a sense of nostalgia and introspection.
The title of this song references the age Corgan was approaching, symbolizing the transition from youth to a more mature phase of life. The dreamy melody and contemplative lyrics capture the bittersweet emotions of growing older.
5. “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5 (1969)
“I Want You Back,” released in 1969 by The Jackson 5, is a song about regret, longing, and the desire to turn back time, themes that can be particularly poignant as one reflects on his life at 30.
Written by the Motown songwriting team The Corporation, the song expresses the youthful realization of a mistake and the yearning to correct it, capturing a universal feeling that resonates with those facing the realities of adult life.
Although not specifically about turning 30, the themes of growth and reflection are timeless and relevant at any age. The Jackson 5 recorded this song as they were on the brink of superstardom, infusing it with the energy and emotion of their early career. Its lasting appeal lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia and the hope for a second chance.
6. “29/31” by Garfunkel and Oates (2012)
Released in 2012, “29/31” by Garfunkel and Oates is a comedic yet insightful song that contrasts the carefree nature of being 29 with the sudden pressures and self-awareness that come with turning 31.
Written by the comedic duo Riki Lindhome and Kate Micucci, the song humorously explores how societal expectations and personal perceptions change with age. The lyrics reflect the humorous yet sometimes harsh reality of crossing the threshold into a new decade.
Garfunkel and Oates composed this song as part of their exploration of life’s awkward and relatable moments, using humor to tackle the often unspoken fears about aging. The lighthearted tone of the song belies the deeper truths it touches on about growing older.
Read more: Songs About Being 16
7. “Thirty” by The Weather Station (2017)
“The Weather Station,” led by Tamara Lindeman, released “Thirty” in 2017, a song that captures the complexities of life at this age. Lindeman wrote the song as she grappled with the emotions and experiences of being 30, reflecting on love, loss, and self-discovery.
The lyrics are personal and universal, resonating with anyone who has felt the weight of growing older. The track’s folk-inspired sound paired with Lindeman’s introspective lyrics creates a poignant narrative about the challenges and beauty of life at 30. It’s a song that acknowledges the struggles but also the strength that comes with this age.
8. “A Place In This World” by Taylor Swift (2006)
Released in 2006, “A Place In This World” by Taylor Swift is a song about the search for identity and belonging, themes that resonate strongly with those approaching 30.
Taylor Swift, who wrote the song as a teenager, captures the uncertainty and exploration that define the journey of self-discovery, which continues well into adulthood. The lyrics express the feeling of being lost and the desire to find one’s place in the world.
Swift composed this song early in her career, drawing from her personal experiences and her quest for purpose, which resonates with listeners of any age. The enduring relevance lies in the honest portrayal of the challenges of finding one’s path in life.
9. “My Next Thirty Years” by Tim McGraw (2000)
Released in 2000 by country artist Tim McGraw, “My Next Thirty Years” is a celebration of life as he looks forward to the future. McGraw wrote this song as he was approaching his 30th birthday, reflecting on the lessons learned and the excitement of what’s to come.
The lyrics express a sense of optimism and renewal, with McGraw vowing to live his next thirty years to the fullest. The song’s upbeat country melody and positive message make it a feel-good anthem for anyone entering this new decade of life. It’s a reminder that life is full of possibilities, no matter your age.
Read more: Songs About Being 34
10. “No More Drama” by Mary J. Blige (2001)
Mary J. Blige released “No More Drama” in 2001 as part of her album of the same name, capturing her resolve to leave the chaos of her 20s behind as she embraced her 30s.
Blige wrote this song as she was turning 30, reflecting on the emotional turmoil she had experienced and her desire for peace moving forward. The powerful lyrics and Blige’s soulful delivery convey a sense of strength and determination to create a better life.
The song became an anthem for those seeking to shed the drama of their past and embrace a more serene and stable future. It’s a declaration of self-love and resilience.
11. “Twenty Years and Two Husbands Ago” by Lee Ann Womack (2005)
Released in 2005 by Lee Ann Womack, “Twenty Years and Two Husbands Ago” is a country song that reflects on the life changes that come with age, particularly as one approaches 30.
Womack wrote this song as a reflection on the past, reminiscing about the dreams and plans she had when she was younger. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who has experienced love, loss, and the passage of time, coming to terms with where life has taken her.
The song’s nostalgic tone and Womack’s heartfelt delivery resonate with listeners who may be reflecting on their journeys. It’s a reminder that life is full of unexpected twists and turns.
12. “Baby Girl” by Sugarland (2004)
Released in 2004, “Baby Girl” by Sugarland is a song about dreams, ambition, and the journey to success, which are all significant themes as one approaches 30.
Written by Sugarland members Jennifer Nettles, Kristian Bush, and Kristen Hall, the song tells the story of a young woman pursuing her dreams, with hopes of making it big and making her family proud. The lyrics resonate with those who, at 30, might reflect on their dreams and how far they have come.
The song was composed during the early days of Sugarland’s career, capturing the optimism and determination that often characterize the pursuit of success. “Baby Girl” has become an anthem for those chasing their dreams, regardless of age.
13. “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac (1975)
“Landslide,” released in 1975 by Fleetwood Mac, is a deeply emotional ballad about change, self-reflection, and the passage of time, especially poignant as one turns 30.
Written by Stevie Nicks, the song was inspired by her introspection about life, relationships, and career as she faced uncertainty. The lyrics metaphorically compare life’s changes to a landslide, acknowledging the inevitability of growth and transformation.
Nicks composed the song during personal and professional uncertainty, imbuing it with a raw vulnerability that resonates with listeners. “Landslide” has become an enduring anthem for anyone navigating the transitions and challenges that come with aging.
14. “Vienna” by Billy Joel (1977)
Released in 1977 as part of his album The Stranger, “Vienna” was written by Billy Joel as a reflection on life’s journey and the pressures of growing older.
The song’s lyrics convey a message of patience and self-care, encouraging the listener not to rush through life and to embrace each stage, including turning 30. Joel was inspired to write “Vienna” after visiting the city and observing how the elderly were treated with respect and dignity, which contrasted with the youth-driven culture he was familiar with in the United States.
The song serves as a reminder to slow down and appreciate life, reassuring that everything will happen in its time. “Vienna” has become an anthem for those overwhelmed by life’s demands, particularly as they approach significant milestones like turning 30.
Conclusion
In celebrating the journey of turning 30, these 14 songs about being 30 encapsulate the complex blend of nostalgia, anticipation, and self-reflection that often accompanies this significant milestone.
Each song offers a unique perspective, whether it’s embracing new adventures, reminiscing, or confronting the pressures of adulthood.
As you navigate this decade, these tracks serve as a reminder that you’re not alone in your feelings, and music can provide comfort and inspiration during this transformative time.