21 Songs About California

As a native Californian, I’ve always been fascinated by how our Golden State has inspired countless musicians across genres and generations. From the sun-kissed beaches of Malibu to the gritty streets of Compton, California’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture have provided a rich tapestry for songwriters to weave their tales.

In this playlist, I’ve compiled 20 songs that capture the essence of California – its dreams, its paradoxes, and its undeniable allure. These tracks aren’t just about California; they’re love letters, critiques, and snapshots of life in a state that has long been synonymous with opportunity and reinvention.

1. “San Francisco (Be Sure To Wear Flowers In Your Hair)” By Scott McKenzie

Released on May 13, 1967, “San Francisco (Be Sure To Wear Flowers In Your Hair)” became an iconic anthem of the 1960s counterculture movement. Written by John Phillips of The Mamas & the Papas, the song was originally created to promote the Monterey International Pop Festival.

The song’s message encouraged young people to come to San Francisco peacefully, capturing the spirit of the Summer of Love. It quickly rose to prominence, reaching number 4 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts in several countries, including the UK and Germany.

Scott McKenzie’s rendition of the song became synonymous with the hippie movement, anti-Vietnam War sentiment, and flower power. Its impact extended beyond music, as it is credited with drawing thousands of young people to San Francisco during the late 1960s.

2. “Folsom Prison Blues” By Johnny Cash

“Folsom Prison Blues” is one of Johnny Cash’s most recognizable and influential songs. Written in 1953 and first recorded in 1955, the song combines elements of train songs and prison songs, two folk styles that became staples in Cash’s repertoire.

The inspiration for the song came to Cash while he was serving in the US Air Force in West Germany, after watching the film “Inside the Walls of Folsom Prison”. The song’s iconic line, “But I shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die,” was Cash’s attempt to create the worst reason a person could have for killing another.

While the original 1955 recording was successful, the song gained even more fame with Cash’s live performance at Folsom Prison in 1968. This live version, released as a single, topped the country charts and reached number 32 on the Hot 100. The performance won Cash a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male, in 1969.

3. “Going to California” By Led Zeppelin

“Going to California” is a folk-style ballad from Led Zeppelin’s untitled fourth album, released in 1971. The song features Robert Plant on vocals, Jimmy Page on acoustic guitar, and John Paul Jones on mandolin.

Originally conceived as a song about Californian earthquakes, the track evolved into a more personal narrative. The lyrics describe a journey to California in search of a new start and possibly a new love. There are strong indications that the song was inspired by Joni Mitchell, with references to her music and persona.

Robert Plant later reflected on the song, stating that while some of the lyrics might be “a bit embarrassing,” it captured a specific period in his life when he was 22 years old. The song’s acoustic arrangement and nostalgic tone have made it a favorite among fans and a staple of road trip playlists.

“Going to California” has been praised for its musicianship and emotive qualities. In 2012, Rolling Stone ranked it number 11 on their list of the 40 greatest Led Zeppelin songs of all time.

4. “California Stars” by Billy Bragg and Wilco

“California Stars” is a unique collaboration between Billy Bragg, Wilco, and the late Woody Guthrie. The song was released in 1998 as part of the Mermaid Avenue project, which set Guthrie’s unpublished lyrics to new music.

The song’s origins trace back to Woody Guthrie’s daughter, Nora, who discovered thousands of her father’s unrecorded lyrics and reached out to Billy Bragg and Wilco to bring them to life. The lyrics, likely written in the 1930s, showcase Guthrie’s poetic simplicity and evocative imagery.

Musically, “California Stars” features a gentle, folk-rock arrangement that complements the wistful lyrics. Jeff Tweedy’s vocals, accompanied by acoustic guitar, piano, and harmonica, create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. The song’s repetitive structure and simple melody contribute to its captivating nature, making it instantly memorable and singable.

Despite its simplicity, “California Stars” has become one of the most beloved tracks from the Mermaid Avenue sessions. Its enduring popularity stems from its ability to evoke a sense of longing and the romantic notion of California as a place of dreams and possibilities.

5. “California” by Joni Mitchell

Released in 1971 on Mitchell’s album “Blue,” “California” is a deeply personal song that reflects on her experiences traveling in Europe and her longing to return home to California. The song’s upbeat melody contrasts with its introspective lyrics, creating a complex emotional landscape.

Mitchell’s distinctive guitar work and playful vocal delivery give the song a lighthearted feel, belying the deeper themes of homesickness and self-discovery. The lyrics paint vivid pictures of her travels, from Greece to France, while always circling back to her desire to return to California.

The song’s structure is notable for its use of a bridge that repeats and builds in intensity, culminating in the poignant question, “Will you take me as I am?” This line reveals the underlying anxiety and vulnerability beneath the song’s sunny exterior.

“California” has become one of Mitchell’s most beloved songs, celebrated for its musical craftsmanship and its ability to capture the conflicting emotions of travel and homecoming.

6. “Californication” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

Released in 1999 as the title track of their seventh studio album, “Californication” marked a significant turning point for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The song and album signaled the return of guitarist John Frusciante and a shift towards a more melodic, introspective sound.

Lyrically, “Californication” offers a dark, satirical take on Hollywood and the California dream. Anthony Kiedis’s lyrics touch on themes of commercialization, plastic surgery, and the gap between fantasy and reality in the entertainment industry. The song’s title is a portmanteau of “California” and “fornication,” highlighting the perceived moral decay beneath the state’s glamorous surface.

Musically, the song features a memorable guitar riff and a driving rhythm section, balanced by more subdued verses and a soaring chorus. This dynamic arrangement reflects the song’s themes of contrast between surface appearances and underlying realities.

“Californication” became one of the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ most successful and enduring hits, helping to reestablish the band as a major force in alternative rock. Its critique of Hollywood culture and the dark side of the American dream resonated with audiences and continues to be relevant today.

7. “California” by Childish Gambino

“California” is a track from Childish Gambino’s 2014 EP “Kauai.” The song showcases Gambino’s versatility as an artist, blending elements of pop, R&B, and hip-hop. Its upbeat melody and catchy chorus contrast with lyrics that offer a more nuanced view of California life.

The song’s lyrics touch on themes of fame, wealth, and the superficiality often associated with California, particularly Los Angeles. Gambino’s clever wordplay and cultural references paint a picture of a place where appearances can be deceiving and success comes at a price.

While the song maintains a sunny, carefree vibe on the surface, it subtly critiques the California dream, highlighting the disconnect between expectations and reality for those seeking fame and fortune in the Golden State.

8. “California” by Wax

Wax’s “California” offers a more laid-back, nostalgic take on the state. Released in 2013, the song combines elements of hip-hop and acoustic guitar-driven pop to create a mellow, summery vibe that captures the essence of California living.

The lyrics focus on the positive aspects of California life, touching on themes of relaxation, beautiful weather, and a carefree lifestyle. Wax’s storytelling paints vivid pictures of beach days, palm trees, and the general sense of ease associated with the West Coast.

Unlike some more critical songs about California, Wax’s track serves as a love letter to the state, celebrating its natural beauty and the lifestyle it represents. The song’s easygoing rhythm and upbeat lyrics have made it a popular choice for summer playlists and road trips.

9. “Coming Into Los Angeles” by Arlo Guthrie

Released in 1968, “Coming Into Los Angeles” is a folk-rock song that became an anthem of the counterculture movement. The song gained widespread popularity after Arlo Guthrie’s performance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969.

The lyrics describe a flight from London to Los Angeles, with Guthrie smuggling drugs (“a couple of keys”) into the country. The song’s narrative is based on a real experience Guthrie had during a turbulent flight, though he admits to exaggerating the amount of contraband for dramatic effect.

Coming in from London from over the pole

Flying in a big airliner

Chickens flying everywhere around the plane

Could we ever feel much finer?

Despite its drug-related content, the song was initially banned from radio play due to a perceived sexual reference rather than its drug themes. The line about a passenger “thinking that he’s already made her” in reference to a “hip woman” was considered too risqué for airwaves at the time.

“Coming Into Los Angeles” has endured as a classic of its era, appearing in films like “The Omega Man” (1971) and continuing to resonate with audiences. Its legacy is such that even decades later, Guthrie recounted an encounter with federal agents at an airport who recognized him and jokingly referenced the song’s lyrics.

The song’s blend of storytelling, social commentary, and catchy melody exemplifies the folk-rock style of the late 1960s and captures the spirit of rebellion and cultural change that defined the era.

10. “California Gurls” by Katy Perry

“California Gurls” is a vibrant pop anthem released in 2010 as the lead single from Katy Perry’s album “Teenage Dream”. The song features rapper Snoop Dogg and was written as a response to Jay-Z and Alicia Keys’ “Empire State of Mind,” which celebrated New York. Perry, a California native, wanted to create a tribute to her home state and showcase the West Coast lifestyle.

The track blends disco-pop and funk-pop elements, incorporating a catchy chorus and upbeat production. Lyrically, it paints a picture of California as a sun-soaked paradise filled with beautiful women, beaches, and endless parties. The song’s imagery includes references to Daisy Dukes, bikinis, and “sun-kissed skin,” capturing the essence of the California dream.

“California Gurls” became a massive commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of five chart-toppers from Perry’s “Teenage Dream” album. The song’s popularity was further boosted by its colorful music video, which featured Perry in a candy-themed wonderland, defeating an army of gummy bears with whipped cream guns.

11. “California” by Blink-182

“California” is the title track from Blink-182’s seventh studio album, released in 2016. This album marked a significant change for the band, as it was their first without founding member Tom DeLonge and featured Matt Skiba as his replacement. The song, like the album itself, serves as a tribute to the band’s home state and explores themes of identity and change.

Lyrically, “California” reflects on the band members’ experiences growing up and living in the state. It touches on both the positive aspects of California life and the challenges faced by its residents. The song’s content is deeply personal, with bassist Mark Hoppus describing it as “giving credit to how lucky we are to have lived here and grown up” in California.

Musically, “California” showcases Blink-182’s signature pop-punk sound while incorporating elements that reflect the band’s evolution. The album’s production, helmed by John Feldmann, aimed to capture the essence of California’s culture and lifestyle, with Feldmann’s studio described as “indoor-outdoor with palm trees everywhere”.

12. “It Never Rains in Southern California” by Albert Hammond

Released in 1972, “It Never Rains in Southern California” is a soft rock classic written and performed by Albert Hammond. Despite its upbeat melody, the song tells a bittersweet story of a failed attempt to make it in the entertainment industry in Southern California.

The lyrics are narrated from the perspective of someone who moved to California with high hopes of success but ended up facing disappointment and hardship. The title itself is ironic, as it contrasts the sunny, optimistic image of Southern California with the harsh realities often faced by those chasing their dreams there.

Interestingly, the song’s setting in Southern California is fictional, as Hammond’s actual experience was based on his struggles in Spain. However, this change in location helped the song resonate with American audiences and contributed to its success. “It Never Rains in Southern California” became Hammond’s biggest hit as a recording artist, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song’s enduring popularity has led to numerous covers by various artists over the years, and it continues to be recognized as a poignant commentary on the pursuit of fame and the often-harsh realities behind the glamorous facade of show business.

13. “California Nights” by Sweet

“California Nights” is a lesser-known gem from the British glam rock band Sweet, released in 1979 as part of their album “Cut Above the Rest”. This track marked a departure from the band’s earlier glam rock sound, showcasing a more mature and melodic approach.

The song paints a vivid picture of California’s allure, focusing on the enchanting nights in the Golden State. Its lyrics evoke images of warm breezes, starlit skies, and the promise of romance and adventure that California represents to many. The track’s smooth harmonies and polished production reflect the softer rock sound that was gaining popularity in the late 1970s.

While not as commercially successful as some of Sweet’s earlier hits, “California Nights” demonstrates the band’s versatility and ability to evolve with changing musical trends. It captures the mystique and glamour associated with California, particularly its nightlife and entertainment scene.

14. “California Girls” by The Beach Boys

“California Girls” is an iconic song by The Beach Boys, released in 1965 as part of their album “Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!)”. Written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love, this track is widely regarded as one of the band’s signature songs and a quintessential representation of the California sound.

The song opens with a distinctive orchestral prelude, which was revolutionary for pop music at the time. This intro, with its layered harmonies and complex instrumentation, showcases Brian Wilson’s innovative production techniques and the band’s evolving sound beyond simple surf rock.

Lyrically, “California Girls” celebrates the beauty and appeal of women from various parts of the United States but ultimately concludes that California girls are the finest. This theme resonated strongly with the band’s image as ambassadors of California culture and lifestyle.

“California Girls” reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become one of The Beach Boys’ most recognizable and enduring hits. Its influence extends beyond its initial release, inspiring covers and references in popular culture for decades.

15. “Santa Monica” by Everclear

“Santa Monica” is a hit single by the alternative rock band Everclear, released in 1995 as part of their album “Sparkle and Fade”. Written by frontman Art Alexakis, the song is deeply personal and reflects on themes of escape, renewal, and the allure of California as a place for new beginnings.

The lyrics tell the story of someone leaving behind a troubled past and seeking a fresh start in Santa Monica, a beachside city in Los Angeles County. The chorus, with its memorable line “We can live beside the ocean, leave the fire behind,” encapsulates the desire to escape problems and find peace in a new environment.

Musically, “Santa Monica” features a driving rhythm and catchy guitar riffs characteristic of 1990s alternative rock. The song’s structure, with its quiet verses building to explosive choruses, effectively conveys the emotional journey described in the lyrics.

“Santa Monica” became Everclear’s breakthrough hit, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and helping to establish the band in the mainstream. Its success was bolstered by heavy rotation on MTV and radio stations across the United States.

The song’s enduring popularity stems from its universal themes of hope and renewal, as well as its vivid portrayal of Santa Monica as a symbol of California’s promise of a better life. It remains a staple of 1990s rock radio and continues to resonate with listeners seeking their own fresh starts.

16. “I Love L.A.” by Randy Newman

“I Love L.A.” is a satirical anthem written and performed by Randy Newman, released in 1983 as part of his album “Trouble in Paradise”. The song has become an unofficial theme for Los Angeles, often played at sporting events and in various media representations of the city.

Newman’s composition is a masterful blend of celebration and irony, capturing both the glamour and the grit of Los Angeles. The upbeat melody and catchy chorus contrast with lyrics that juxtapose the city’s beautiful aspects with its less savory elements. For instance, the song mentions iconic L.A. locations like the Santa Monica Boulevard alongside references to homelessness on Imperial Highway.

The track’s instrumentation features a driving rhythm, prominent synthesizers, and a memorable saxophone solo, all of which contribute to its ’80s pop sound. The chorus, with its repeated chant of “I love L.A.,” is particularly infectious and has helped cement the song’s place in popular culture.

Despite its satirical undertones, “I Love L.A.” has been embraced by many as a genuine tribute to the city. Its use in Los Angeles Lakers games and in tourism campaigns demonstrates how the song’s complex portrayal of the city resonates with both residents and visitors alike.

17. “Malibu” by Miley Cyrus

Released in 2017, “Malibu” marked a significant shift in Miley Cyrus’s musical style and public image. The song, which served as the lead single from her album “Younger Now,” is a breezy pop-rock ballad that pays homage to the coastal city of Malibu and reflects on Cyrus’s personal life and relationship.

Lyrically, “Malibu” presents a more mature and introspective Cyrus. The song explores themes of love, renewal, and finding peace, with Malibu serving as both a literal setting and a metaphor for a place of healing and transformation. Cyrus’s lyrics paint vivid images of the Malibu coastline, with references to the sun, ocean, and sky.

Musically, the track features a laid-back, acoustic-driven sound that departs from the electronic pop of Cyrus’s previous work. The production incorporates gentle guitar strums, subtle percussion, and Cyrus’s emotive vocals, creating a sound that mirrors the relaxed, beachy vibe of its namesake city.

“Malibu” was well-received by critics and audiences, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning praise for its sincerity and musical maturity. The song’s music video, featuring Cyrus on Malibu’s beaches and hills, further emphasized the connection between the artist, the song, and the California landscape.

18. “California Kids” by Weezer

“California Kids” is the opening track from Weezer’s 2016 self-titled album, also known as “The White Album”. This power-pop anthem serves as both an introduction to the album’s beach-themed concept and a nostalgic reflection on California youth culture.

The song’s lyrics paint a picture of carefree California life, referencing various aspects of the state’s culture and geography. From mentions of “the west side” to allusions to beach activities, the track captures the essence of growing up in California. The chorus, with its reassuring message “The California kids will throw you a lifeline,” suggests a sense of community and support among the state’s youth.

Musically, “California Kids” exemplifies Weezer’s signature sound, blending crunchy guitar riffs with melodic hooks and harmonies. The track’s dynamic shifts between quieter verses and explosive choruses create an engaging listening experience that mirrors the ebb and flow of ocean waves.

The song’s production, overseen by Jake Sinclair, aimed to capture the sound of Weezer’s earlier work while incorporating modern elements. This approach resulted in a track that feels both nostalgic and fresh, appealing to long-time fans and new listeners alike.

“California Kids” sets the tone for the rest of “The White Album,” which continues to explore themes of California life and culture. Its placement as the opening track underscores its importance in establishing the album’s sun-soaked, beachy atmosphere and thematic focus on the Golden State.

19. “Los Angeles” by X

“Los Angeles” is the title track from X’s debut album, released in 1980. This punk rock anthem captures the gritty essence of Los Angeles during a tumultuous period in the city’s history. X, formed in 1977, was at the forefront of the Los Angeles punk scene, and this song encapsulates their raw energy and unfiltered perspective on urban life.

The track’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of Los Angeles as a city of stark contrasts and hidden dangers. References to “she had to leave Los Angeles” and “she started to hate every nigger and Jew” reflect the racial tensions and social unrest prevalent in the city at the time. The song’s narrative follows a character’s descent into a world of drugs and violence, mirroring the darker aspects of life in LA.

Musically, “Los Angeles” is characterized by its driving rhythm, aggressive guitar riffs, and the distinctive vocal interplay between John Doe and Exene Cervenka. The song’s production, overseen by former Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek, maintains the band’s raw punk energy while adding a layer of polish that helped it reach a wider audience.

“Los Angeles” has become an enduring classic of the punk genre and a defining song of the LA punk scene. Its unflinching portrayal of the city’s underbelly continues to resonate with listeners and influence musicians decades after its release.

20. “California Love” by Tupac ft. Dr. Dre

Released in 1995, “California Love” is one of Tupac Shakur’s most iconic tracks and a defining anthem of West Coast hip-hop. Featuring Dr. Dre and Roger Troutman, the song celebrates California culture, particularly the vibrant hip-hop scene of the mid-1990s.

The track opens with a memorable vocoder-enhanced hook by Roger Troutman, proclaiming “California love!” This intro sets the tone for a song that’s both a party anthem and a proud declaration of West Coast supremacy in the hip-hop world. Tupac and Dr. Dre trade verses, name-checking various California cities and neighborhoods, from “Inglewood to the Bay” and “Watts to Compton.”

Musically, “California Love” is built on a foundation of funk and G-funk elements. The beat, produced by Dr. Dre, samples Joe Cocker’s “Woman to Woman” and incorporates the iconic drum pattern from Zapp’s “Dance Floor.” This blend of samples and original production creates a sound that’s quintessentially West Coast.

The song’s music video, directed by Hype Williams, features a post-apocalyptic theme inspired by the film “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.” This visual representation added another layer to the song’s impact and helped cement its place in pop culture history.

“California Love” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since become one of the most recognizable hip-hop tracks of all time. It serves as both a time capsule of mid-90s West Coast hip-hop and a timeless celebration of California culture.

21. “California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & The Papas

“California Dreamin'” is a folk-rock classic released by The Mamas & The Papas in 1965. Written by John and Michelle Phillips, the song captures the longing for the warmth and freedom of California from the perspective of someone enduring a cold winter elsewhere.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a grey winter day, with the narrator walking through a cold, leaf-less environment, dreaming of the sunny paradise of California. The line “I’d be safe and warm if I was in L.A.” encapsulates the song’s central theme of escapism and the allure of California as an idealized destination.

Musically, “California Dreamin'” is characterized by its haunting melody, intricate vocal harmonies, and the distinctive flute solo that serves as the song’s instrumental break. The track’s arrangement, which includes acoustic guitar, drums, and tambourine, creates a sound that bridges the gap between folk and rock, helping to define the emerging folk-rock genre.

The song’s production, overseen by Lou Adler, captures the group’s tight harmonies while maintaining a sense of melancholy that perfectly matches the lyrical content. The result is a track that feels both wistful and hopeful, mirroring the complex emotions of its narrative.

“California Dreamin'” became a hit upon its release, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100. Over the years, it has grown into a timeless classic, covered by numerous artists and frequently used in films and television to evoke the spirit of the 1960s and the enduring mystique of California. The song’s lasting popularity is a testament to its universal themes and the way it captures the California dream in musical form.

Serena Whitfield

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.