Fame often attracts attention and admiration from others, which can enhance a person’s self-esteem and sense of self-worth.
When people become famous, they are often celebrated for their talents, achievements, or unique qualities, which can be very fulfilling.
Many songs and lyrics delve into the concept of fame, its allure, its challenges, and its impact.
Musicians frequently use their songs to reflect on their own experiences with fame or to comment on the wider culture of celebrity.
In this playlist, we’ve put together a list of 20 songs about being famous.
Contents
- 20 Songs About Being Famous
- 1. “Hall of Fame” by The Script
- 2. “Everybody Wants to Be Famous” by Superorganism
- 3. “The Fame” by Lady Gaga
- 4. “Celebrity” by Brad Paisley
- 5. “Next Best Superstar” by Melanie C
- 6. “Fame Will Eat the Soul” by Van Morrison
- 7. “Fame” by David Bowie
- 8. “Fame and Fortune” by Elvis Presley
- 9. “Famous” by Charli XCX
- 10. “Fame (The Game)” by Donna Summer
- 11. “Holy Grail” by Jay-Z
- 12. “Famous” by Puddle of Mudd
- 13. “Glamorous” by Fergie
- 14. “Piece of Me” by Britney Spears
- 15. “Rockstar” by Nickelback
- 16. “Big Star” by Kenny Chesney
- 17. “Think About That” by Jessie J
- 18. “Junkies For Fame” by Shinedown
- 19. “The Lucky One” by Taylor Swift
- 20. “Peanuts” by The Police
- Submit Your Song to This Playlist
- Listen on Other Music Streaming Platforms
20 Songs About Being Famous
1. “Hall of Fame” by The Script
“Hall of Fame” is an inspiring song by the Irish pop rock band The Script, featuring will.i.am of The Black Eyed Peas.
Released as the lead single from their album “#3,” it’s a powerful anthem about achieving fame and making a lasting impact on the world. The lyrics encourage you to strive for greatness, whether it’s conquering challenges, achieving your dreams, or leaving a legacy.
The song’s opening lines set the tone, “Yeah, you could be the greatest, you can be the best, You can be like King Kong, banging on your chest.” These lyrics reflect the belief in one’s potential to rise above obstacles and become a symbol of excellence.
2. “Everybody Wants to Be Famous” by Superorganism
“Everybody Wants to Be Famous” by Superorganism is a catchy and thought-provoking song about the desire for fame. It was the fourth single from the band and got noticed when it premiered on BBC Radio 1.
The song tells the story of a band’s journey to stardom, how they rise to fame, and then fall as they compromise their true selves for commercial success.
With lines like “Feeling like a boss,” the song radiates confidence and ambition, showing the appeal of fame.
But it also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of chasing fame at any cost, with phrases like “Everybody wants and nobody’s ashamed, Everybody wants you to know their name.”
3. “The Fame” by Lady Gaga
“The Fame” is a song that explores celebrity culture and the desire for fame. It is the title track from Lady Gaga’s debut studio album, released in 2008.
In this song, Gaga delves into the allure of the glamorous life, reflecting on society’s obsession with materialism and fame. She sings about being addicted to the materialistic lifestyle and being opposed to the ordinary.
In the lines “Fame, doin’ it for the fame/’Cause we wanna live the life of the rich and famous/’Cause we gotta taste for champagne and endless fortune,” the singer expresses a yearning for the extravagant life of the rich and famous, filled with luxury, champagne, and endless fortune.
4. “Celebrity” by Brad Paisley
“Celebrity” by Brad Paisley is a song that delves into the comical and sometimes absurd aspects of fame. Released in 2003 as part of his album “Mud on the Tires,” the song takes a satirical look at the allure of celebrity status in today’s world, driven by reality television. It humorously suggests that fame is attainable even without talent, as the lyrics playfully declare, “Someday I’ll be famous, though I don’t have talent, it’s true, These days, thanks to reality shows, talent isn’t what you need to do.”
Paisley’s lyrics touch on the eccentric behaviors of celebrities, from tantrums over coffee to blaming fame for personal issues. The chorus reinforces the idea that celebrity status often leads to a disconnect from reality, with lines like, “Because when you’re a celebrity, Goodbye, reality, You can act like a fool, People think you’re cool, Just because you’re on TV.”
“Celebrity” serves as both a humorous critique of the celebrity culture and a catchy country song that resonates with the fascination and pitfalls of fame in the modern world.
5. “Next Best Superstar” by Melanie C
“Next Best Superstar” is a poignant song by English singer Melanie C, featured on her 2005 album, “Beautiful Intentions.” This track delves into the complexities of fame and the music industry, shedding light on the relentless pursuit of stardom.
The lines “And you know you can sing/And you’ll do anything to be/The next best superstar” reflect the relentless drive to achieve fame. However, the pursuit of stardom often comes at the expense of one’s integrity.
The song portrays the notion of selling one’s life and soul to attain recognition in the fickle world of entertainment. Melanie C sings, “Sell your life; sell your soul telling everyone you know/You’re living your dream.”
6. “Fame Will Eat the Soul” by Van Morrison
“Fame Will Eat the Soul” explores the toll of fame on the human spirit. This track, featuring the expressive voices of Van Morrison and Bill Medley from The Righteous Brothers, is a raw and soulful exploration of the price of celebrity.
The lyrics resonate with the theme of fame’s destructive nature: “Fame will eat the soul, and you just can’t fake it. Your heart will break, and your spirit will struggle under the relentless pressure of public scrutiny.”
The song portrays the struggles of trying to maintain authenticity in the face of celebrity. It highlights the inner conflict and challenges that come with being in the spotlight.
7. “Fame” by David Bowie
“Fame” is a song by David Bowie from his 1975 album “Young Americans.” It was also released as a single in June 1975. The song was written by Bowie, Carlos Alomar, and John Lennon and was recorded at Electric Lady Studios in New York City in January 1975.
The lyrics of “Fame” talk about the complexities of fame and stardom. Bowie sings about how fame can take control of a person, make them lose themselves, and put them in a superficial world where things feel hollow. He sings, “Fame (fame) makes a man take things over/Fame (fame) lets him loose, hard to swallow/Fame (fame) puts you there where things are hollow.”
The song also touches on the idea that with fame, you might get temporary luxuries like riding in a limousine, but there may not be a tomorrow, and you might have to borrow what you truly need. Bowie uses the line “Fame, ‘Nein, it’s mine'” to emphasize the possessiveness and the way fame can consume a person’s time and even lead them to commit wrongdoings
8. “Fame and Fortune” by Elvis Presley
“Fame and Fortune” is a song performed by Elvis Presley in 1960. The lyrics were written by Fred Wise, with music composed by Ben Weisman, and it was published by Presley’s company Gladys Music, Inc. Elvis recorded the song on March 21, 1960, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee.
The lyrics of “Fame and Fortune” express the idea that fame and wealth can be empty and fleeting. Instead, the singer finds true happiness and fulfillment in the embrace of his loved one. He sings, “Fame and fortune/How empty they can be/But when I hold you in my arms/That’s heaven to me.”
The lyrics convey the sentiment that love is a precious treasure, more significant than silver or gold, not to mention fame. The singer acknowledges that without the love of their partner, he would have nothing.
9. “Famous” by Charli XCX
“Famous” is a song by English singer Charli XCX, released as the fourth and final single from her second studio album, “Sucker,” in 2014. The song’s music video was released on March 23, 2015.
The lyrics of “Famous” describe a desire for excitement and adventure on a Friday night. The singer yearns for a thrilling experience, symbolized by neon lights and the feeling of being electrified.
The song emphasizes the idea of crashing a party, even if they weren’t invited, and feeling outrageous, just like they’re famous. Charli sings, “Got one night, and we’re gonna come and get it started/Now we’re falling down the stairs/We act so shameless/Just like we’re famous.”
10. “Fame (The Game)” by Donna Summer
“Fame (The Game)” is the fourth and final single from Donna Summer’s 2008 studio album “Crayons.” The song was written by Donna Summer and Toby Gad, and it was produced by Toby Gad. It was released on November 19, 2008, by Burgundy and reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.
The lyrics of “Fame (The Game)” touch upon the theme of fame and the challenges and consequences that come with it. The song suggests that fame can make a fool out of anyone, take them back to their childhood memories, and make them think they’re having fun.
Donna Summer sings, “Fame makes a fool out of anyone/Fame takes you back to the golden childhood/Fame makes you think that you’re having fun/Fame the game.”
11. “Holy Grail” by Jay-Z
“Holy Grail” is a song by American rapper Jay-Z from his twelfth studio album, “Magna Carta Holy Grail.” It features vocals from American singer Justin Timberlake and serves as the album’s lead single.
In the song, there are references to the price of fame, including the loss of privacy, the constant scrutiny of the media, and the impact on personal lives. Jay-Z sings, “Curtains all in my window/This fame hurt but this chain worse/I think back you asked the same person/Camera snapping, my eyes hurt.”
Jay-Z also mentions how the pursuit of fame and wealth can change people, using examples like MC Hammer and Mike Tyson to illustrate how success can lead to downfall.
12. “Famous” by Puddle of Mudd
“Famous” is the title track and the first single from the third studio album by post-grunge band Puddle of Mudd. Released in 2007, the song revolves around the desire for fame and the allure it holds, portraying the lifestyle that comes with it. Lead singer Wes Scantlin expresses a longing to be famous, relishing the perks and extravagance associated with celebrity status.
The lyrics of “Famous” evoke a hedonistic lifestyle, with references to Hollywood Hills, sleepless nights, and living it up until the end. The song is reminiscent of Nickelback’s “Rockstar,” as both songs delve into the desire for fame.
In the lines “‘Cause I just wanna be famous, be so fuckin’ jaded/’Cause all the Playboy bunnies take my money from me/Show up at the Oscars, smoke out Dennis Hopper/The money is for nothin’ and the chicks are for free,” the song captures the aspiration for fame and the desire to experience the high life.
13. “Glamorous” by Fergie
“Glamorous” is a song by American singer Fergie, featuring rapper Ludacris, from her album “The Dutchess” released in 2006. The track serves as an anthem to success and staying grounded despite fame and fortune.
The lyrics reflect a sense of opulence and extravagance, with references to first-class flights, champagne, and expensive possessions. Fergie sings, “Lifestyle so rich and famous, Robin Leach’ll get jealous/Half a million for the stones/Takin’ trips from here to Rome/We flyin’ first class, up in the sky/Poppin’ champagne.”
However, they also highlight Fergie’s down-to-earth attitude and resilience. She mentions still going to Taco Bell, reminiscing about simpler times, and staying true to herself.
14. “Piece of Me” by Britney Spears
“Piece of Me” by Britney Spears, from her album “Blackout” (2007), is a defiant response to the media scrutiny and sensationalism surrounding the singer’s private life. Written and produced by Swedish producers Bloodshy & Avant and Klas Åhlund, the song serves as Britney’s manifesto, addressing her experiences and the constant attention from the media.
The lyrics narrate a story of a girl who has been in the spotlight since a young age and has faced relentless media coverage. Throughout the song, Britney Spears expresses her frustration, referencing her American Dream since the age of seventeen and how her life has been dissected in the public eye.
In the lines, “I’m Mrs. Lifestyles of the rich and famous/(You want a piece of me)/I’m Mrs. Oh my God that Britney’s Shameless,” she is challenging those who want to criticize or invade her personal life. Despite the constant scrutiny, she remains resilient and unapologetic.
15. “Rockstar” by Nickelback
“Rockstar” by Nickelback, from their album “All the Right Reasons” (2005), is a song that embodies the desires and fantasies of someone yearning to live the life of a rockstar. The lyrics are filled with aspirations for fame, fortune, and the glamorous lifestyle associated with the music industry.
The song emphatically declares the desire to be a “big rockstar” living in opulence, surrounded by fans, and enjoying the excesses that fame can bring. Nickelback sings, “I’m gonna trade this life for fortune and fame/I’d even cut my hair and changed my name/’Cause we all just wanna be big rockstars/And live in hilltop houses, driving 15 cars.”
16. “Big Star” by Kenny Chesney
“Big Star” by Kenny Chesney is a song that tells the story of a small-town girl who aspires to be a famous singer. Despite her insecurities, she takes the stage at Banana Joe’s bar, a local karaoke spot, with the hope of being discovered someday. As she sings her heart out, her talent shines through, and she captures the attention of the audience.
In the lines, “She was a big star at Banana Joe’s bar/Where she sang karaoke every night/She said, “If you work hard to get where you are/It feels good in the hot spotlight,” the song describes how her performances at the bar lead to local fame, appearances on cable shows, and the adoration of fans.
In the end, she becomes a big star in her own right, signing autographs and enjoying the attention that comes with her newfound success.
17. “Think About That” by Jessie J
“Think About That” by Jessie J is a thought-provoking song that delves into the darker side of fame and the toll it can take on a person’s life. Released as the second single from her fourth studio album, “R.O.S.E.,” the song serves as a reflection on the challenges and sacrifices that come with celebrity status.
In the lyrics, Jessie J candidly addresses the emotional strain of a troubled relationship, where her partner’s actions and deceit have left her feeling betrayed and hurt. The lines “All you disturb is my work and my patience, Years of grinding, you took it and broke it, All ’cause you’re faking, You wanna be famous” reveal the theme of fame-seeking and the sacrifices made for it.
“Think About That” is a raw and introspective track that showcases the singer’s resilience and determination to break free from the negative influences in her life. It serves as a reminder that fame comes at a cost, and sometimes, the pursuit of it can lead to personal turmoil and heartache.
18. “Junkies For Fame” by Shinedown
“Junkies for Fame” by Shinedown is a powerful song that explores the theme of fame and its addictive allure. Released as downloadable content for the video game Rock Band, the lyrics delve into the fascination and obsession with achieving fame at any cost.
The song describes the intoxicating appeal of the spotlight, with references to the desire for attention, riches, and a life filled with excitement. Lines like “Bow down, bow down, the sinners have the floor, are we just junkies for fame?” question whether the pursuit of fame has become an insatiable addiction.
The repetition of the question “Why are we just junkies for fame?” highlights the inner conflict and the constant craving for recognition and adoration. The song serves as a reflection on the lengths people will go to in order to achieve fame and the price they are willing to pay for it.
19. “The Lucky One” by Taylor Swift
“The Lucky One” by Taylor Swift is a poignant song that delves into the complexities of fame and its consequences. It tells the story of a young woman who arrives in a city, seeking fortune and fame, and quickly becomes a sensation. The camera flashes and glamour make her seem like she’s living the dream.
Taylor sings, “New to town with a made-up name/In the angel’s city, chasing fortune and fame/And the camera flashes make it look like a dream.”
However, as the song progresses, it becomes clear that the price of fame is high. The protagonist’s secrets are exposed to the world, leading to a loss of privacy and a feeling of being used. Despite being told she’s the “lucky one,” she doesn’t feel that way.
20. “Peanuts” by The Police
“Peanuts” by The Police, written by Sting and Stewart Copeland, is a song that reflects on the price of fame and the disillusionment that can come with it. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and disappointment with the trappings of celebrity and the behaviors associated with it.
The Police begins by acknowledging the superficial nature of fame, singing, “It’s all a game/You’re not the same/Your famous name/The price of fame.” The reference to a “famous name” suggests that fame has altered the person’s identity.
Throughout the song, the repeated refrain of “oh no, try to liberate me” and “oh no, just a fallen hero” suggests a yearning for freedom from the constraints and expectations that come with fame.
Submit Your Song to This Playlist
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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.