18 Songs About Clouds In The Sky

As someone who has always been fascinated by the ever-changing canvas of the sky, I’ve found that clouds hold a special place in both nature and human imagination. There’s something magical about gazing upward and watching billowing white formations drift by, taking on fantastical shapes and hinting at weather to come. It’s no wonder that clouds have inspired countless artists and musicians over the years.

In my exploration of music, I’ve discovered that clouds serve as powerful metaphors in songwriting, representing everything from dreams and aspirations to obstacles and emotional states. Whether fluffy and light or dark and brooding, clouds provide rich imagery for artists to convey complex feelings and ideas.

This playlist celebrates, contemplates, or uses clouds as central themes. From folk ballads to pop anthems, these tracks showcase how this simple meteorological phenomenon has captured the creativity of musicians across genres and generations. 

1. “Behind The Clouds” by Brad Paisley

This song is from the soundtrack of the animated film “Cars” and was released in 2006. It’s a country ballad that uses clouds as a metaphor for overcoming obstacles and maintaining optimism. The song has gained popularity over time, with over 12,000 listeners on Last.fm. Its uplifting message resonates with many fans of Paisley’s music.

2. “King Of The Clouds” by Panic! At The Disco

Released in 2018 as part of the album “Pray for the Wicked,” this song explores themes of escapism and altered states of consciousness. Brendon Urie, the lead vocalist, has stated that the song was inspired by discussions about metaphysics and multiverse theory, particularly referencing Carl Sagan. The track features a unique 6/8 time signature and ethereal vocal harmonies, creating a dreamy atmosphere that complements its lyrical themes.

3. “Black Cloud” by Morrissey

This rockabilly-influenced track appears on Morrissey’s 2009 album “Years of Refusal.” The song features guitar work by Jeff Beck, adding a distinctive sound to Morrissey’s signature style. While the title references a “black cloud,” the song itself is about unrequited love, using the cloud as a metaphor for emotional turmoil.

4. “Little Fluffy Clouds” by The Orb

Released in 1990, this ambient house track became one of The Orb’s most iconic songs. It features samples from various sources, including an interview with Rickie Lee Jones describing the skies of her youth in Arizona. The song’s production involved Alex Paterson and Youth (Martin Glover), with later mixing by Kris Weston. “Little Fluffy Clouds” has been critically acclaimed, ranking on NME’s list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time and Pitchfork’s Top 200 Tracks of the 1990s. The track’s innovative use of sampling and ambient textures helped define the genre of ambient house music.

5. “Clouds” by Zach Sobiech

“Clouds” is a poignant and inspirational song written by Zach Sobiech, a young musician who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer, at the age of 14. Released on December 14, 2012, it became Sobiech’s debut and only single as a solo artist. The song’s lyrics reflect Sobiech’s journey with cancer and his positive outlook on life despite his terminal diagnosis.

The track gained significant attention, becoming a viral hit on YouTube and selling over 156,000 copies. It charted in several countries, including the US, UK, Canada, France, and Belgium. The song’s success led to numerous tributes, including a star-studded lip-sync video featuring celebrities like Bryan Cranston, Ashley Tisdale, and Jason Mraz.

“Clouds” has left a lasting legacy. In 2020, Disney+ released a movie titled “Clouds” based on Sobiech’s life, which led to the song topping the iTunes chart for a second time, seven years after Sobiech’s passing. The song continues to raise funds for the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Fund, supporting research into childhood cancers.

6. “Just A Cloud Away” by Pharrell Williams

Originally released in 2013 as part of the “Despicable Me 2” soundtrack, “Just A Cloud Away” by Pharrell Williams gained renewed popularity in 2022 after becoming a viral hit on TikTok. The song was officially re-released as a single on March 24, 2022, eight years after its initial release.

The track is characterized by its uplifting melody and optimistic lyrics. Williams uses cloud imagery to convey a message of hope and resilience, encouraging listeners to keep pushing forward even when faced with challenges. The chorus, “The sun’s gonna come out and it won’t be long/ Just a cloud away from where you belong,” emphasizes the temporary nature of difficulties and the promise of better times ahead.

Critics have praised the song for its positive message and catchy composition. It has been described as a “worthy addition to a respectable catalogue” and a “rare TikTok sound that’s first and foremost a song, rather than a vehicle for a trend”. Following its resurgence, the song charted in several countries, including Canada, France, Ireland, and the UK.

7. “Cloudy Day” by Tones And I

Released on June 10, 2021, “Cloudy Day” is a single from Tones And I’s debut album “Welcome To The Madhouse”. The Australian singer-songwriter, known for her breakout hit “Dance Monkey,” wrote this song as a tribute to a friend who had passed away.

The track features a touching anthem with a powerful chorus that could be likened to a gospel sing-along. Tones And I’s distinctive vocals are complemented by a grand production featuring a choir and widescreen piano, creating a sound that’s both intimate and expansive.

Lyrically, “Cloudy Day” draws inspiration from a saying shared by a friend: “on a cloudy day, look up into the sky and find the sun”. This metaphor forms the heart of the song, encouraging listeners to find hope and positivity even in difficult times. The song’s message aligns with the overall theme of Tones And I’s album, which reflects on the whirlwind changes in her life following her rapid rise to fame.

8. “Get Off My Cloud” by The Rolling Stones

This 1965 hit was written as a follow-up to the Stones’ breakthrough single “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”. The song features a driving beat, jangly guitars, and Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, it expresses frustration with the pressures of sudden fame and intrusions on the band’s privacy.

The title and chorus use the cloud metaphor to represent the band’s personal space or state of mind, telling others to “get off of my cloud”. It’s seen as a rebellious anthem pushing back against societal expectations and demands. The song quickly became another major hit for the Rolling Stones, topping charts in multiple countries.

9. “Clouds” by NF

Released in 2021 as part of his mixtape “CLOUDS (THE MIXTAPE)”, this track showcases NF’s signature introspective and raw lyrical style. The song serves as both an introduction to the mixtape and a statement of NF’s artistic identity.

In “Clouds”, NF addresses his personal growth and the expectations placed upon him by others. He uses cloud imagery metaphorically to represent his evolving state of mind and artistic development. The chorus, “Head in the clouds, feet on the ground” encapsulates his approach to success – staying grounded while pursuing his ambitions.

The track features NF’s characteristic rapid-fire delivery and intense, orchestral production. Lyrically, he touches on themes of authenticity, resisting conformity to industry standards, and his commitment to his craft. NF explicitly states his refusal to “go Hollywood”, emphasizing his dedication to maintaining his artistic integrity.

“Clouds” received positive reception for its energetic delivery and NF’s continued exploration of personal struggles and mental health issues, topics that have become hallmarks of his work.

10. “Heavy Cloud No Rain” by Sting

This song, released in 1993 as part of Sting’s album “Ten Summoner’s Tales”, uses the metaphor of a heavy cloud without rain to describe unfulfilled promises or expectations. The track features Sting’s characteristic blend of rock and jazz influences, with a catchy, upbeat melody that contrasts with its somewhat melancholic lyrics.

In the song, Sting explores themes of disappointment and frustration. The “heavy cloud no rain” represents situations or relationships that promise much but deliver little. It could be interpreted as a commentary on personal relationships, societal issues, or even the music industry itself.

The song’s upbeat tempo and memorable chorus make it more radio-friendly than some of Sting’s more complex compositions, while still maintaining his trademark lyrical depth and musical sophistication.

11. “Cloud Nine” by Evanescence

“Cloud Nine” is a track from Evanescence’s 2006 album “The Open Door”. The song was inspired by lead singer Amy Lee’s personal experiences with a difficult relationship.

Lee has stated that she wrote the song while “struggling with a relationship and felt like a waste of space.” The lyrics use the metaphor of being on “cloud nine” – typically associated with extreme happiness – in an ironic way to describe a state of detachment or escapism from a painful reality.

Musically, the song incorporates Evanescence’s signature blend of gothic metal and alternative rock, featuring heavy guitar riffs, orchestral elements, and Lee’s powerful vocals. The use of strings in the arrangement adds to the emotional intensity of the track.

12. “Clouds” by BØRNS

Børns’ “Clouds” takes a different approach, using cloud imagery to depict a state of intense infatuation. The song portrays the experience of being so consumed by thoughts of someone that everything else fades into the background.

The lyrics describe forgetting dreams, names, time, and space, while being unable to stop thinking about the subject’s face. This creates a dreamy, ethereal atmosphere that matches the song’s title.

Musically, “Clouds” features a minimalist, ethereal soundscape that complements its lyrical themes. The song’s gentle melody and Børns’ vocals contribute to its dreamlike quality, reinforcing the idea of being lost in thoughts of love.

13. “Clouds” by Prince ft. Lianne La Havas

Released in 2014 as part of Prince’s album “Art Official Age,” “Clouds” is a collaboration between Prince and British singer-songwriter Lianne La Havas. The song showcases Prince’s innovative approach to music and his ability to blend different styles.

Musically, “Clouds” features a “sick body-poppin’ bassline” and incorporates elements of funk and R&B. The track is notable for its unique production, blending Prince’s signature sound with La Havas’ “honeyed, ever-so-English tones”.

Lyrically, the song explores themes of seduction and intimacy, with some unconventional imagery. Prince uses cloud metaphors creatively, suggesting unusual romantic gestures:

“Every time you hear her singing in the shower You should go and get a flower No matter what the hour And rub it on her back”

The song also touches on themes of human interaction in the digital age, questioning how we engage with each other “when life’s a stage in this brand new age”. This reflects Prince’s concerns about the impact of the internet on human connections.

“Clouds” was part of Prince’s return to Warner Bros. and marked a creative resurgence for the artist. The collaboration with La Havas was particularly fruitful, leading to further performances together, including a memorable eight-minute medley on Saturday Night Live.

14. “Cloud Nine” by The Temptations

Released in 1968, “Cloud Nine” marked a significant shift in The Temptations’ sound and style. It was their first single to feature Dennis Edwards as lead vocalist, replacing David Ruffin, and introduced producer Norman Whitfield’s “psychedelic soul” sound.

The song is characterized by its use of wah-wah guitars, a driving beat, and innovative production techniques that were influenced by the work of Sly & the Family Stone. It features all five Temptations trading lead vocals, creating a dynamic and energetic performance.

Lyrically, “Cloud Nine” addresses social issues, particularly the struggles of living in poverty. The protagonist in the song claims to escape his problems by “riding high on ‘cloud nine'”. This led to some controversy, with Motown head Berry Gordy interpreting it as a reference to drug use, although the group and songwriters denied this intention.

“Cloud Nine” was a commercial and critical success, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the R&B chart. It also won Motown its first Grammy Award in 1969 for Best Rhythm & Blues Group Performance, Vocal or Instrumental.

The song’s success paved the way for The Temptations to explore more socially conscious and psychedelic themes in their subsequent work, marking a new era for the group and for Motown as a whole.

15. “Feet In The Clouds” by Paul McCartney

“Feet In The Clouds” is the tenth track on Paul McCartney’s 2007 album “Memory Almost Full”. The song is part of a medley that reflects on McCartney’s past, particularly his school days.

Lyrically, the song contrasts with some of McCartney’s more nostalgic work. While he wrote about “golden summers” in other songs, “Feet In The Clouds” presents a darker view of his school experiences. McCartney describes his teachers at the Liverpool Institute High School for Boys as “a real motley bunch” and “complete maniacs”. He characterizes the school environment as “very dark and gloomy,” influenced by the age of the building (built in 1825) and the attitudes of the teachers.

McCartney has described the song as “like a therapy session,” suggesting that it allowed him to process and express some of his less positive childhood memories.

Musically, the song is notable for its innovative production techniques. While it was initially recorded with McCartney’s band, most of the instrumental tracks were later replaced by McCartney himself. The vocals were heavily processed using Celemony’s Melodyne Studio software, with producer David Kahne noting that they used about 36 tracks of vocals, selectively flattening out vibrato and adjusting pitch.

This song demonstrates McCartney’s willingness to experiment with new technologies and production techniques, even while exploring deeply personal and retrospective themes in his songwriting.

16. “Cloudbusting” by Kate Bush

Released in 1985 as the second single from her album “Hounds of Love,” “Cloudbusting” is one of Kate Bush’s most iconic and beloved tracks. The song is inspired by Peter Reich’s memoir “A Book of Dreams,” which recounts his relationship with his father, the controversial psychoanalyst Wilhelm Reich.

The lyrics are written from young Peter’s perspective, describing his memories of time spent with his father at their family farm, Orgonon. The song revolves around Reich’s cloudbuster, a device he believed could manipulate weather patterns. Bush captures the childlike wonder and deep bond between father and son, as well as the pain of loss when Reich is arrested and imprisoned.

Musically, “Cloudbusting” features a distinctive string arrangement and a driving rhythm that builds throughout the song. The chorus, “Every time it rains, you’re here in my head, like the sun coming out,” is particularly poignant, evoking the lasting impact of loved ones even after they’re gone.

The song’s music video, directed by Julian Doyle, stars Kate Bush alongside actor Donald Sutherland as Wilhelm Reich. It features a cinematic narrative that brings the song’s story to life, with Sutherland and Bush operating a steampunk-inspired cloudbuster machine.

“Cloudbusting” has been praised for its emotional depth, innovative production, and Bush’s ability to transform a complex, personal story into a universally resonant piece of music.

17. “Cloudy” by Simon & Garfunkel

“Cloudy” is a track from Simon & Garfunkel’s 1966 album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme.” The song showcases the duo’s signature harmonies and Paul Simon’s poetic lyricism.

The lyrics use clouds as a metaphor for the songwriter’s state of mind, describing a sense of aimlessness and introspection. The narrator observes the clouds, seeing shapes and forms that reflect his own thoughts and emotions. This whimsical approach to songwriting is characteristic of Simon’s style during this period.

Musically, “Cloudy” features a gentle, folk-inspired arrangement with acoustic guitar and subtle percussion. The melody is simple yet memorable, allowing the harmonies and lyrics to take center stage. The song’s dreamy quality perfectly complements its cloud-focused theme.

18. “Thunderclouds” by LSD ft. Sia, Diplo, and Labrinth

“Thunderclouds” is a collaborative effort by the supergroup LSD, consisting of Sia, Diplo, and Labrinth. Released in 2018, the song blends elements of pop, electronic, and R&B music.

The track uses the metaphor of thunderclouds to represent the turbulent nature of a relationship. The lyrics describe a couple navigating through difficult times, with lines like “All we need is love to take us up above the thunderclouds” suggesting that love can help overcome obstacles.

Musically, “Thunderclouds” features a catchy, upbeat production typical of Diplo’s work, combined with Sia’s powerful vocals and Labrinth’s soulful contributions. The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with a soaring melody that complements the uplifting message.

The music video for “Thunderclouds” features dancer Maddie Ziegler, who has appeared in several of Sia’s videos, performing choreography on a flying bus. The whimsical, dreamlike quality of the video matches the song’s ethereal production and lyrical themes.

“Thunderclouds” showcases the unique talents of each artist involved in the LSD project, resulting in a pop song that uses cloud imagery to explore themes of love and resilience.

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.