20 Songs About Florida

As a born-and-raised Floridian, I’ve always felt that our Sunshine State has a certain magic that’s hard to put into words. From the swaying palm trees and white sandy beaches to the vibrant nightlife of Miami and the wild mysteries of the Everglades, Florida is a place of endless inspiration. It’s no wonder that so many musicians have been moved to capture its essence in song.

In this playlist, I’m excited to share with you 20 songs that I believe truly capture the spirit of Florida. These tracks span various genres and decades, each offering a different perspective on the place I call home.

1. “All Signs Point To Lauderdale” by A Day To Remember

This pop-punk anthem, released in 2011, captures the frustration of feeling trapped in a small town. The song’s title comes from an inside joke between band members Jeremy McKinnon and Josh Woodard after a night out in Florida. The lyrics express a strong desire to escape and find a place to belong, with the chorus declaring “I hate this town, it’s so washed up / And all my friends don’t give a fuck.”

The song resonates with young people feeling stuck and yearning for change. It addresses themes of alienation, the struggle to fit in, and the determination to stand for something meaningful. The bridge emphasizes resilience and the refusal to let circumstances bring one down. Overall, “All Signs Point To Lauderdale” uses Fort Lauderdale as a symbol of escape and new beginnings for those feeling out of place in their current surroundings.

2. “Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out on Broadway)” by Billy Joel

Released in 1976, this song is a fictional account of New York City’s destruction, as told by a survivor who has relocated to Miami. Billy Joel wrote it during a time when New York was facing severe financial difficulties, racial tensions, and a potential economic collapse. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of iconic New York landmarks being destroyed or abandoned.

Despite its apocalyptic theme, the song has become an ode to New York’s resilience, particularly in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and Hurricane Sandy. The chorus, “I’ve seen the lights go out on Broadway,” serves as a metaphor for the city’s darkest times. The mention of Miami represents a safe haven for those who’ve fled the destruction, highlighting Florida’s role as a destination for transplants from the Northeast.

3. “Talk Me Out Of Tampa” by Joe Nichols

This country song, featured on Joe Nichols’ 2005 album “III,” tells the story of a man trying to resist the temptation of flying to Tampa to see an ex-lover. The narrator is speaking to an airline reservation agent, desperately seeking reasons not to book the flight. He asks about other destinations like New Orleans and Chicago, hoping for any excuse to avoid Tampa.

The lyrics humorously reference Florida’s unpredictable weather, suggesting, “Surely there’s a hurricane due to hit there any day.” The song captures the internal struggle of moving on from a past relationship, with Tampa symbolizing the allure of old memories and potential heartbreak. It paints a picture of Florida as a place of emotional significance and temptation.

4. “If I Could Do It Again” by Corey Smith

This nostalgic country rock song from Corey Smith’s 2005 album “The Good Life” recounts a wild spring break trip to Panama City Beach, Florida. The lyrics vividly describe the journey of best friends in a pickup truck, heading to the beach with a “trash bag full of clothes and a suitcase full of beer.”

The song celebrates youthful indiscretion and the carefree spirit of spring break in Florida. It touches on themes of friendship, first loves, and living life without regrets. The chorus emphatically states that if given the chance, the narrator would “do it all again,” embracing the memories of partying on the beach, casual encounters, and breaking rules.

“If I Could Do It Again” portrays Florida, particularly Panama City Beach, as a quintessential spring break destination where young people create lasting memories and experience personal growth through their adventures.

5. “The Everglades” by Waylon Jennings

“The Everglades” is a song from Waylon Jennings’ 1967 album Waylon Sings Ol’ Harlan. Written by Harlan Howard, the song tells the story of a man from Jacksonville, Florida, who escapes into the Everglades to avoid being wrongfully accused of a crime. The Everglades, a vast and mysterious wetland in Florida, serve as a refuge and a symbol of freedom and danger. The song’s narrative highlights themes of injustice, survival, and the untamed beauty of Florida’s natural landscape.

6. “Move To Miami” by Enrique Iglesias Ft. Pitbull

Released in 2018, “Move to Miami” is a Latin pop track by Enrique Iglesias featuring rapper Pitbull. The song is a high-energy ode to Miami’s vibrant nightlife, seductive atmosphere, and irresistible allure. The lyrics describe a woman who captivates with her dance moves and charm, making the protagonist consider relocating to Miami. The collaboration between Iglesias and Pitbull, both of whom have strong ties to Miami, adds authenticity to the song’s celebration of the city’s dynamic culture and party scene.

7. “Florida Kilos” by Lana Del Rey

“Florida Kilos,” from Lana Del Rey’s 2014 album Ultraviolence, delves into the darker side of Florida’s history with drug trafficking. Inspired by the documentary Cocaine Cowboys, which explores the cocaine trade in Miami during the 1970s and 1980s, the song features lyrics that reference drug use, criminal activity, and the hedonistic lifestyle associated with the era. The track’s sultry, laid-back vibe contrasts with its gritty subject matter, painting a picture of Florida as a place of both allure and danger.

8. “Florida Man” by Blue Öyster Cult

“Florida Man” is a track from Blue Öyster Cult’s 2020 album The Symbol Remains. The song humorously references the infamous “Florida Man” meme, which highlights bizarre and outrageous news stories involving Florida residents. The lyrics detail various eccentric and outlandish behaviors, such as making love to a concrete wall and finding Elvis in a loaf of bread. The song uses these anecdotes to underscore the unpredictable and often surreal nature of life in Florida, blending humor with a touch of the supernatural.

9. “Jacksonville” by Josh Turner

Released on Josh Turner’s debut album “Long Black Train” in 2003, “Jacksonville” is a country song that captures the spontaneous joy of visiting Florida’s largest city. The song tells the story of a man who unexpectedly extends his stay in Jacksonville after meeting someone special. Turner’s deep, resonant voice brings warmth to lyrics that paint a picture of falling in love against the backdrop of Jacksonville’s coastal charm.

The song’s origin is particularly interesting. Turner revealed that the idea came from a conversation with co-writer Pat McLaughlin, who was wearing shoes with Bob Marley’s name on them. When asked about them, McLaughlin said he got them “killing time in Jacksonville,” which inspired the song’s concept. The track celebrates the city’s ability to turn a simple visit into a memorable adventure, highlighting Jacksonville’s appeal as a destination for both romance and leisure.

10. “Don’t Let Me Die in Florida” by Patty Griffin

This song, from Patty Griffin’s 2013 album “American Kid,” stands out for its darkly humorous take on mortality. The track was inspired by a quote from Griffin’s father after he returned from burying his brother in Orlando. The chorus emphatically pleads, “Please don’t let me die in Florida / I don’t care about my name / If you catch me dying in Daytona / Roll my bed onto a train”.

Griffin’s powerful vocals and hard guitar-strumming give the song an old-world feel, adding depth to its exploration of death and remembrance. The lyrics humorously touch on the stereotype of Florida as a retirement destination while expressing a desire to be remembered elsewhere. This song showcases Griffin’s ability to blend humor with poignant reflections on life and death.

11. “Florida Blues” by Cruel Youth

“Florida Blues” by Cruel Youth presents a nuanced view of life in the Sunshine State. While specific details about the song are limited, the title suggests a juxtaposition of Florida’s sunny reputation with feelings of melancholy or hardship. This contrast is a common theme in songs about Florida, acknowledging both its allure as a vacation destination and the complex realities of everyday life there.

The song likely explores themes of emotional struggles set against Florida’s picturesque backdrop, creating a rich narrative that goes beyond surface-level perceptions of the state. Cruel Youth’s indie pop style probably infuses the track with a blend of catchy melodies and introspective lyrics, offering listeners a multifaceted musical portrait of Florida.

12. “Florida Time” by Bob Seger

“Florida Time” is a lesser-known track in Bob Seger’s extensive catalog, appearing on a compilation of his early work with The Last Heard from 1966-19676. The song likely embodies the youthful energy and rock ‘n’ roll spirit that characterized Seger’s early career. While specific lyrics aren’t readily available, the title suggests a celebration of the carefree, vacation-like atmosphere often associated with Florida.

Given Seger’s storytelling prowess, “Florida Time” probably paints a vivid picture of escapism, perhaps detailing road trips, beach adventures, or the general sense of freedom that comes with being on “Florida time.” The track would showcase Seger’s raw, energetic vocal style and the garage rock sound that defined his early years, offering listeners a nostalgic glimpse of both the artist’s beginnings and Florida’s allure in the mid-1960s.

13. “Swimming In Miami” by Owl City

“Swimming In Miami” is a track from Owl City’s debut EP, Of June, released in 2007. The song, crafted by Adam Young, features dreamy synths and reflective lyrics. It uses Miami as a metaphor for a serene, almost escapist state of mind. The lyrics convey a sense of finding peace and letting go of worries, with lines like “When you are swimming in Miami at night, I’m all around you in the traffic and city lights” and “Because the water doesn’t flood the stairwell. It could be raining but then you can never tell” suggesting a calm, meditative escape from anxiety. 

The song’s ethereal quality is enhanced by its synth-driven melody, making it a soothing and introspective piece that captures the allure of Miami’s night-time ambiance.

14. “Florida” by Modest Mouse

“Florida,” from Modest Mouse’s 2007 album We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank, explores themes of disillusionment and the struggle to escape one’s own mind. The song’s protagonist leaves Florida in search of a fresh start, only to find that physical distance isn’t enough to escape personal issues. The chorus, “Even as I left Florida, far enough, far enough, wasn’t far enough,” highlights this internal conflict. Florida serves as a metaphor for failed dreams and unfulfilled plans, with the state’s imagery woven into the narrative to underscore the protagonist’s sense of entrapment. The song’s blend of chaotic and calm elements mirrors the tumultuous journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

15. “Tallahassee Lassie” by Freddy Cannon

“Tallahassee Lassie,” released in 1959, is a rock and roll classic by Freddy Cannon. Written by Bob Crewe, Frank Slay, and Frederick Picariello, the song became a significant hit, reaching #6 on the U.S. pop chart and #13 on the U.S. R&B chart. The track is an energetic ode to a girl from Tallahassee, Florida, with catchy lyrics and a driving beat that captures the exuberance of the late 1950s rock scene. The song’s success was marked by its inclusion in Cannon’s 1960 album The Explosive! Freddy Cannon and its enduring popularity, leading to numerous covers by various artists over the decades. “Tallahassee Lassie” remains a vibrant tribute to the youthful spirit and charm of Florida’s capital city.

16. “Rhode Island” by The Front Bottoms

Although “Rhode Island” by The Front Bottoms isn’t explicitly about Florida, it includes a notable reference to the state. The song, from their 2013 album Talon of the Hawk, tells the story of a character planning a bike trip from Vermont to Florida, carrying only a backpack full of drugs. This narrative element highlights the character’s adventurous and reckless spirit, with Florida symbolizing a distant, almost mythical destination. The song’s lyrics, filled with vivid imagery and raw emotion, capture the essence of youthful exploration and the desire to escape mundane realities. The reference to Florida adds a layer of intrigue and wanderlust to the song, making it a fitting addition to a playlist themed around the state.

17. “Trying To Reason With Hurricane Season” by Jimmy Buffett

Released in 1974 on Buffett’s album “A1A,” this reflective ballad uses the metaphor of an approaching hurricane to explore the chaotic lifestyle of a touring musician. The song paints a vivid picture of Florida’s coastal life, mentioning Gulf Stream squalls and the iconic A1A highway. Buffett’s lyrics capture the struggle between the allure of a carefree party lifestyle and the need for rest and stability.

The song’s protagonist wakes up late, seeks a Bloody Mary, and contemplates the toll of his fast-paced life. The chorus acknowledges the insanity of this lifestyle but also its cathartic nature: “Yes it’s quite insane, I think it hurts my brain / But it cleans me out and then I can go on.” The final verses describe battening down for the approaching storm, symbolizing both literal hurricane preparation and a metaphorical retreat from the excesses of life on the road.

Despite being written early in Buffett’s career at age 27, the song shows surprising maturity and self-awareness, foreshadowing the balance he would strike between his party-loving persona and his successful business ventures in later years.

18. “FloriDada” by Animal Collective

Released in 2015 as the lead single from their album “Painting With,” “FloriDada” is Animal Collective’s psychedelic ode to Florida’s peculiar reputation. The song’s title is a play on “Florida” and “Dada,” the early 20th-century art movement known for its absurdist elements.

According to band member Avey Tare, the song was inspired by a radio segment mocking Florida residents. However, rather than joining in the mockery, the band chose to celebrate Florida’s weirdness as part of its charm. The lyrics are a rapid-fire stream of summery imagery, including “miniature heads that color the shore line” and “a continent molded from glass”.

Musically, the track features the band’s characteristic experimental sound, with pulsing synths and frenetic vocal interplay. The song’s upbeat tempo and sunny disposition reflect Florida’s reputation as a vacation destination while also hinting at the state’s more surreal aspects.

19. “Deep Down in Florida” by Muddy Waters

This blues classic, released on Muddy Waters’ 1977 album “Hard Again,” is a love letter to the Sunshine State. The song showcases Waters’ deep, powerful voice as he sings about his desire to return to Florida, particularly mentioning Gainesville and Newberry.

The lyrics paint a picture of Florida as a paradise where “the sun shines damn near every day.” Waters expresses his longing to take his woman to the beach, sit on the sand, and play. The song also mentions sitting under an old orange tree, evoking classic Florida imagery.

“Deep Down in Florida” captures the state’s allure as a place of warmth, relaxation, and escape. It’s a testament to Florida’s draw for visitors and transplants alike, especially those from colder climates. The song’s upbeat tempo and Waters’ enthusiastic delivery convey a genuine affection for the state.

20. “Celebration, Florida” by Chumbawamba

This song, from Chumbawamba’s 2000 album “WYSIWYG,” offers a satirical take on the master-planned community of Celebration, Florida, developed by The Walt Disney Company. The lyrics paint a picture of an artificially perfect town where “It’s July 4th forever” and “everyone’s always happy.”

The song critiques the concept of manufactured nostalgia and the attempt to create an idealized version of small-town America. Lines like “They’re buying up nostalgia / For a time they can’t remember” and “Even the dogs get facelifts” highlight the artificiality of the community.

Chumbawamba contrasts the idyllic image of Celebration with references to real-world problems: “There’s nation fighting nation / There’s kids with malnutrition / But not in Celebration, Florida.” This juxtaposition underscores the song’s criticism of attempts to create isolated pockets of perfection while ignoring larger societal issues.

The track’s upbeat, folksy melody contrasts with its satirical lyrics, mirroring the dissonance between Celebration’s cheerful facade and the underlying critique of such planned communities.

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