As someone who has felt the icy breath of Alaska’s winters and basked in the glow of its midnight sun, I can tell you that the Last Frontier is more than just a place—it’s a state of mind. It’s a land that has inspired countless artists to put pen to paper and fingers to strings, capturing its raw beauty and untamed spirit in song.
From the rugged coastlines to the towering peaks of Denali, Alaska’s landscapes have a way of seeping into your soul, leaving an indelible mark that begs to be expressed through music. It’s no wonder that so many musicians, whether they’ve set foot on Alaskan soil or simply dreamed of its vast wilderness, have been moved to create songs that celebrate this remarkable corner of the world.
In this playlist about Alaska, we’ll journey through a diverse musical landscape as varied as the state itself. These tracks span genres and decades, each offering a unique perspective on what makes Alaska so captivating. Whether you’re a seasoned sourdough or a cheechako just beginning to discover Alaska’s allure, these songs will transport you to a place where the northern lights dance across the sky and the call of the wild echoes in every heart.
Contents
- 1. “American Child” by John Denver
- 2. “Caroline Says II” by Lou Reed
- 3. “Alaska and Me” by John Denver
- 4. “Alaska” by Dr. Dog
- 5. “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash
- 6. “Alaska” by Little Hurt
- 7. “Road to Alaska” by the Bee Gees
- 8. “When It’s Springtime In Alaska (It’s Forty Below)” by Johnny Horton
- 9. “Fairbanks, Alaska” by The Front Bottoms
- 10. “Alaska” by Maggie Rogers
1. “American Child” by John Denver
“American Child” is a poignant song by John Denver that captures the allure of Alaska’s wilderness. The song paints a vivid picture of the state’s natural beauty, mentioning iconic Alaskan features such as the midnight sun, whales, and polar bears. Denver’s lyrics evoke a sense of wanderlust and adventure, describing Alaska as a land that calls to the American spirit. The song’s imagery of icy blue seas and misty dreams creates a mystical atmosphere, reflecting the state’s reputation as a last frontier.
2. “Caroline Says II” by Lou Reed
While not explicitly about Alaska, “Caroline Says II” by Lou Reed makes a powerful metaphorical reference to the state. The song is part of Reed’s concept album “Berlin,” which tells a tragic story of a doomed couple. In the context of the song, Alaska is used as a nickname for the character Caroline, symbolizing her resilience and perhaps her emotional isolation. The lyrics hint at Caroline’s struggles with loneliness and suicidal thoughts, using Alaska as a metaphor for a place between worlds – cold, distant, and somewhat dangerous. This portrayal aligns with the perception of Alaska as a place of both escape and potential peril.
3. “Alaska and Me” by John Denver
John Denver’s “Alaska and Me” is a heartfelt tribute to the state and its people. The song reflects Denver’s deep connection to Alaska, describing it as his “chosen country”. The lyrics paint a picture of Alaska as a land of freedom and wildness, celebrating both its natural beauty and the spirit of its inhabitants. Denver’s personal attachment to the state is evident as he sings about flying over mountains and glaciers, and living near slow-running rivers. The chorus, which toasts to Alaska, its people, and its wild and free nature, encapsulates the sense of belonging and admiration that Denver felt for the state.
4. “Alaska” by Dr. Dog
Dr. Dog’s “Alaska” uses the state as a powerful metaphor for escape and renewal. The song’s soulful harmonies and folk-rock style create a nostalgic atmosphere, inviting listeners to envision Alaska as a place of clarity and peace. The lyrics portray Alaska not just as a physical destination, but as an emotional retreat where one can find solitude and rediscover their purpose. Dr. Dog conveys the idea of reconnecting with oneself amid Alaska’s vast, unspoiled landscapes, emphasizing nature’s ability to ground and refresh the soul.
5. “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash
While not exclusively about Alaska, Johnny Cash’s rendition of “I’ve Been Everywhere” includes the state in its whirlwind tour of North American locations. This upbeat, rhythmic song showcases Cash’s distinctive voice as he rapidly lists numerous places he’s visited, including Alaska. The song’s structure, with verses separated by quick choruses, creates a sense of constant motion that mirrors the life of a well-traveled musician or, interestingly, a military family frequently relocating. Alaska’s inclusion in the lyrics highlights its significance as a notable and perhaps exotic destination within North America.
6. “Alaska” by Little Hurt
Little Hurt’s “Alaska” is a pop-rock track that explores the concept of escaping life’s troubles by heading to a remote place like Alaska. The song’s upbeat rhythm contrasts with lyrics reflecting a desire for solitude and clarity away from daily struggles. Colin Dieden, the artist behind Little Hurt, describes the song as something that “just spills out” during the writing process, indicating its authenticity and personal significance. The chorus captures the essence of the song:
“I think I’ll dye my hair and I’ll move to Alaska / Grab all of my money, guitar, and a jacket / Drivin’ outta of town maybe wave if I pass ya / Sorry I had to move to Alaska”
This portrayal of Alaska as a mental haven represents hope, resilience, and the universal desire for a fresh start. The song resonates with anyone seeking to escape their current circumstances and find themselves anew in a distant, pristine environment.
7. “Road to Alaska” by the Bee Gees
The Bee Gees’ “Road to Alaska” is a playful and energetic song that captures the excitement of embarking on a journey to the Last Frontier. With its upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics, the song portrays Alaska as the ultimate destination for adventure and escape. The Bee Gees use their signature harmonies to create a sense of anticipation and wonder about the journey northward.
The lyrics, “I’m on the road to Alaska, nowhere near Nebraska. But I’m sure if I asked her, she’ll know,” suggest a carefree and spontaneous road trip. This song presents Alaska not just as a physical place, but as a state of mind – a symbol of freedom and new beginnings. It invites listeners to join in on the adventure, emphasizing the thrill of the unknown that Alaska represents in the American imagination.
8. “When It’s Springtime In Alaska (It’s Forty Below)” by Johnny Horton
Johnny Horton’s “When It’s Springtime In Alaska (It’s Forty Below)” is a country ballad that paints a vivid picture of life in Alaska’s harsh climate. Released in 1959, it became Horton’s first number one hit on the country charts. The song tells a dramatic story set in Fairbanks, Alaska, during the spring, when temperatures can still be extremely low.
The narrative follows a prospector who visits a saloon after two years in the wilderness. He dances with a woman named “redheaded Lil,” unaware that she’s engaged to a man named Big Ed. The song’s refrain, referring to the extreme cold, serves as a stark backdrop to the unfolding drama. The story ends tragically when Big Ed discovers them dancing and throws a knife at the narrator.
Horton’s song captures the rugged, frontier spirit of Alaska, blending the harsh realities of its climate with the wild, unpredictable nature of life in a remote outpost. It’s a classic example of how Alaska is often portrayed in popular culture – as a place of extreme conditions and high-stakes encounters.
9. “Fairbanks, Alaska” by The Front Bottoms
“Fairbanks, Alaska” by The Front Bottoms is a modern indie rock love letter to the northern city. Released in 2020, the song was inspired by the band’s tour through Alaska in 2015, which left a lasting impression on them. The lyrics reflect a sense of escape and wonder, with lines like “I haven’t checked my time / I haven’t checked my mind / Since I saw the Northern Lights / Fairbanks, Alaska.”
The song’s music video, shot on location in Alaska, showcases the natural beauty that captivated the band. Unlike their typically pessimistic style, “Fairbanks, Alaska” offers a surprisingly hopeful tone. It captures the transformative power of travel and the way a place can impact one’s perspective, with Alaska serving as a symbol of freedom from everyday concerns.
10. “Alaska” by Maggie Rogers
Maggie Rogers’ “Alaska” is a breakthrough hit that blends folk, electronic, and pop elements to create a unique sound inspired by the singer’s experiences in Alaska. Released in 2016, the song gained widespread attention after Rogers played it for Pharrell Williams during a master class at her school, with his reaction going viral.
Rogers describes the song as reflecting the “meditative quality” she gets from hiking and dancing, two seemingly opposite activities that she connects through their grounding, primal nature. The song’s rhythm incorporates natural sounds, including Rogers patting a rhythm on her jeans and samples of birds and other wilderness noises collected during her time in Alaska.
Lyrically, “Alaska” uses the state as a metaphor for personal growth and transformation. The song’s popularity stems from its innovative sound and Rogers’ ability to translate her profound experiences in nature into a catchy, introspective pop track.
Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.