Houston is more than just a city to me; it’s a vibrant symphony of cultures, rhythms, and stories that echo through its streets. Growing up here, I’ve experienced firsthand the rich tapestry of sounds that make Houston a musical powerhouse. From the soulful blues that seep through the walls of historic venues to the pulsating beats of hip-hop that define our neighborhoods, music is woven into the very fabric of this city.
In this playlist, I’ll take you on a journey through 10 songs that capture the essence of Houston. These tracks aren’t just melodies; they’re narratives that tell the story of our city’s diverse heritage and its ever-evolving musical landscape.
Contents
- 1. “Houston Solution” by Ronnie Milsap
- 2. “Houston #1” by Coldplay
- 3. “Houston (I’m Comin’ To See You)” by Glen Campbell
- 4. “Heaven, Hell, Or Houston” by ZZ Top
- 5. “Houston Is Hot Tonight” by Iggy Pop
- 6. “I Can Almost See Houston From Here” by Bobby Bare
- 7. “Houston” by Dean Martin
- 8. “Letter From Houston” by Rod Wave
- 9. “Bloody Mary Morning” by Willie Nelson
- 10. “H-Town” by Dizzee Rascal
- Submit Your Song to This Playlist
1. “Houston Solution” by Ronnie Milsap
“Houston Solution” is a country song by Ronnie Milsap, featured on his album The Very Best of Ronnie Milsap. The song narrates the story of a man seeking solace in Houston, where he has friends who understand him well. The protagonist finds comfort in the idea of escaping to Houston, where he can find a temporary reprieve from his troubles. The lyrics suggest that Houston offers a sense of belonging and relief, making it a “solution” to his problems.
2. “Houston #1” by Coldplay
“Houston #1” is a song by Coldplay, written in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. The song expresses a longing and hope for recovery and healing for the city of Houston. It reflects on the dreams of returning to a place that holds special significance, emphasizing the resilience and spirit of the city. Coldplay performed this song during a concert in Miami as a tribute to the victims of the hurricane, capturing the emotional connection and support for Houston during a challenging time.
3. “Houston (I’m Comin’ To See You)” by Glen Campbell
“Houston (I’m Comin’ To See You)” by Glen Campbell is a song that conveys anticipation and excitement about traveling to Houston. The lyrics describe the journey and the eagerness to reunite with someone special in the city. The song captures a sense of adventure and the personal significance of Houston as a destination. It reflects the themes of travel and reunion, highlighting the emotional ties to the city.
4. “Heaven, Hell, Or Houston” by ZZ Top
“Heaven, Hell, Or Houston” by ZZ Top is a rock song that explores the uncertainties and choices in life, using Houston as a metaphorical crossroads. The song’s lyrics suggest a journey through different experiences and the contemplation of where one’s path might lead. ZZ Top’s characteristic blues-rock style infuses the song with a sense of grit and reflection, portraying Houston as a pivotal point in the narrative. The song captures the band’s signature sound and storytelling approach, blending humor and introspection.
5. “Houston Is Hot Tonight” by Iggy Pop
Released in 1981 on the album Party, “Houston Is Hot Tonight” by Iggy Pop is a rock song that captures the vibrant and intense atmosphere of Houston. The lyrics paint a picture of a bustling city, filled with bright lights and wealth, symbolized by “Arabian sheiks and money up in the sky.” The song juxtaposes the heat and energy of Houston with the weariness of the protagonist, who is tired of the cold winds of Chicago. The repeated line “Houston is hot tonight” emphasizes the city’s lively and dynamic nature. The song also references space exploration with mentions of “Houston control” and “Project X,” nodding to the city’s association with NASA.
6. “I Can Almost See Houston From Here” by Bobby Bare
“I Can Almost See Houston From Here” by Bobby Bare is a country song that reflects a sense of longing and anticipation. Written by Ray Willis and first released by Katy Moffatt in 1975, Bobby Bare’s version captures the emotional journey of someone who is nearing Houston and is filled with hope and excitement about the reunion that awaits. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of nearing a significant destination, both physically and emotionally, highlighting Houston as a place of personal importance and connection.
7. “Houston” by Dean Martin
Dean Martin’s “Houston,” released in 1965, is a classic song that became a Billboard chart hit. The song features a catchy refrain, “Going back to Houston, Houston, Houston,” and is characterized by Martin’s smooth vocals and charming delivery. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is eager to return to Houston, a place that holds fond memories and promises of a better life. The song’s upbeat tempo and cheerful tone reflect the protagonist’s optimism and affection for the city. Dean Martin’s performance of “Houston” showcases his signature style and has remained a beloved track among fans of his music.
8. “Letter From Houston” by Rod Wave
“Letter From Houston” by Rod Wave is a heartfelt track from the deluxe edition of his album Pray 4 Love, released in 2020. The song delves into themes of love, longing, and devotion, portraying Rod Wave’s emotional vulnerability as he navigates the challenges of maintaining a relationship while on the road. The lyrics reveal his deep yearning for his partner, reminiscing about their past moments together and expressing his desire to reunite. The song starts with a phone conversation, setting an intimate tone, and continues with Rod Wave reflecting on their relationship, emphasizing how much he misses his partner while he’s away, specifically mentioning his time in Houston. The track highlights the emotional toll of fame and distance on personal relationships, making it a poignant addition to any playlist about Houston.
9. “Bloody Mary Morning” by Willie Nelson
“Bloody Mary Morning” is a song written and recorded by Willie Nelson, featured on his 1974 concept album Phases and Stages. The song was inspired by Nelson’s personal struggles and initially aimed to reflect his efforts to be a better parent. However, within the context of the album, it tells the story of a man who is left by his wife and decides to travel from Los Angeles to Houston to cope with the heartbreak. The song’s upbeat tempo and country-rock style contrast with its themes of loss and escape, making it a compelling narrative of seeking solace in Houston. The single peaked at number 17 on Billboard’s Country singles chart and has become a staple in Nelson’s live performances, showcasing his ability to blend personal experiences with broader storytelling.
10. “H-Town” by Dizzee Rascal
“H-Town” by Dizzee Rascal is a track from his 2013 album The Fifth. Featuring Bun B, the song pays homage to Houston’s vibrant hip-hop culture and its influence on Dizzee Rascal’s music. The lyrics celebrate the city’s unique style, its legendary hip-hop scene, and the camaraderie among artists. The collaboration with Bun B, a prominent figure in Houston’s rap community, adds authenticity and depth to the tribute. “H-Town” captures the essence of Houston’s musical landscape, blending Dizzee Rascal’s UK grime influences with the Southern hip-hop sound, making it a dynamic and energetic addition to any Houston-themed playlist.
Submit Your Song to This Playlist
Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.
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.