18 Songs About Los Angeles

As someone who’s called Los Angeles home for over two decades, I’ve experienced firsthand the kaleidoscope of emotions this sprawling metropolis can evoke. From the sun-kissed beaches of Santa Monica to the star-studded streets of Hollywood, LA is a city that has inspired countless artists to put pen to paper and melody to chord. It’s a place where dreams are born, shattered, and reborn – often in the same breath.

In this playlist, I’m excited to share with you 18 songs that, to me, embody the spirit of Los Angeles. These tracks aren’t just about the glamour and glitz; they delve into the gritty underbelly, the bittersweet struggles, and the unbreakable hope that defines this city.

1. “Straight Outta Compton” by N.W.A.

“Straight Outta Compton” is a seminal track by the hip-hop group N.W.A., released on July 10, 1988, as the lead single from their debut album of the same name. The song is a raw and unfiltered depiction of life in Compton, California, and is credited with putting West Coast hip-hop on the map. The track features verses by Ice Cube, MC Ren, and Eazy-E, with Dr. Dre handling the intro and transitions. The production, handled by Dr. Dre and DJ Yella, includes samples from James Brown’s “Funky Drummer,” Funkadelic’s “You’ll Like It Too,” and Ronnie Hudson’s “West Coast Poplock,” among others.

The lyrics are a gritty portrayal of the struggles and violence faced by young African Americans in Compton, with themes of police brutality, gang violence, and systemic racism. The song’s aggressive tone and unapologetic delivery made it a controversial yet influential piece, resonating with many who experienced similar hardships. The accompanying music video further emphasizes these themes, showing the group navigating the streets of Compton while being pursued by police.

2. “Santa Monica” by Everclear

“Santa Monica” is a song by American rock band Everclear, from their 1995 album Sparkle and Fade. Written by the band’s lead singer, Art Alexakis, the song reflects his personal struggles with depression and the aftermath of his girlfriend’s suicide during his teenage years. The song was released as a single on December 5, 1995, and became one of the band’s most successful tracks, reaching number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart and topping the Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart for three weeks in 1996.

The lyrics of “Santa Monica” convey a sense of yearning for escape and renewal, using the coastal city as a metaphor for a safe haven and a fresh start. The chorus, “We could live beside the ocean, leave the fire behind, swim out past the breakers, watch the world die,” captures the desire to leave behind past traumas and find peace. The song’s upbeat grunge sound contrasts with its darker lyrical themes, creating a powerful and emotive listening experience.

3. “Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang” by Dr. Dre

“Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang” is a classic hip-hop track by Dr. Dre, featuring Snoop Dogg, from Dre’s debut solo album The Chronic (1992). Released as the album’s first single on January 19, 1993, the song reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart. It was also a significant hit in the UK, peaking at number 31.

The song is known for its smooth, laid-back production, which samples Leon Haywood’s “I Want’a Do Something Freaky to You.” The lyrics celebrate the West Coast lifestyle, with Dre and Snoop Dogg rapping about their experiences and the culture of Los Angeles. The music video, directed by Dr. Dre, depicts a typical day in Long Beach, California, featuring a block party, barbecue, and volleyball game, capturing the essence of Southern California’s hip-hop scene.

4. “Hollywood Freaks” by Beck

“Hollywood Freaks” is a track from Beck’s 1999 album Midnite Vultures. The song is a satirical take on the excesses and absurdities of Hollywood life, blending elements of funk, hip-hop, and electronic music. The lyrics are filled with humorous and surreal imagery, referencing various aspects of the Los Angeles lifestyle, such as “champagne and ripple,” “dance floors and talk shows,” and “Hollywood freaks on the Hollywood scene”.

The song’s quirky and eclectic production, handled by Beck and the Dust Brothers, complements its playful and irreverent lyrics. “Hollywood Freaks” captures the eccentric and often superficial nature of Hollywood, making it a fitting addition to a playlist about Los Angeles.

5. “LA” by Elliott Smith

“LA” is a track from Elliott Smith’s 2004 album From a Basement on the Hill. The song captures Smith’s complex relationship with Los Angeles, a city he moved to in the early 2000s. The lyrics reflect his ambivalence towards the city, highlighting both its allure and its darker, more isolating aspects. Smith’s poignant lyricism is evident as he sings about the superficiality and loneliness he experienced in LA. The song’s arrangement features a blend of acoustic and electric guitars, creating a haunting yet melodic soundscape that complements the introspective lyrics. Smith’s raw, vulnerable delivery adds depth to the song, making it a powerful commentary on his time in Los Angeles.

6. “Back in LA” by B.B. King

“Back in LA” is a song from B.B. King’s 1991 album There Is Always One More Time. The track is a soulful blues number that reflects King’s experiences and observations of life in Los Angeles. The lyrics delve into themes of love and betrayal, set against the backdrop of the city’s vibrant yet challenging environment. King’s expressive guitar work and emotive vocals bring the song to life, capturing the essence of his connection to LA. The song’s production features a rich blend of blues instrumentation, including King’s signature guitar solos, which add a layer of authenticity and depth to the track.

7. “Going Back to Cali” by LL Cool J

“Going Back to Cali” is a 1988 single by LL Cool J, featured on the soundtrack for the film Less Than Zero and later included on his third album Walking with a Panther. The song, produced by Rick Rubin, showcases LL Cool J’s vacillation about moving to California. The chorus, “I’m going back to Cali… I don’t think so,” reflects his mixed feelings about the city. The verses describe his experiences in Los Angeles, including encounters with women and the city’s unique culture. The track’s production features a distinctive blend of slower and faster beats, creating a unique funk sound. The black-and-white music video, directed by Ric Menello, was filmed at iconic LA locations like Venice Beach and Griffith Observatory, further emphasizing the song’s connection to the city.

8. “99 Miles From LA” by Art Garfunkel

“99 Miles From LA” is a song originally written by Albert Hammond and Hal David, and performed by Art Garfunkel on his 1975 album Breakaway. The song is a soft rock ballad that conveys a sense of longing and anticipation as the narrator approaches Los Angeles. The lyrics describe the emotional journey of driving towards the city, with vivid imagery that captures the narrator’s hopes and memories. Garfunkel’s gentle, emotive vocals enhance the song’s introspective mood, making it a poignant reflection on love and distance. The melody is soothing, with a rich orchestral arrangement that complements the lyrical content, creating a timeless piece that resonates with listeners.

9. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty

Released in 1989 as part of Tom Petty’s solo album “Full Moon Fever,” “Free Fallin'” is a quintessential Los Angeles anthem. The song paints a vivid picture of life in the San Fernando Valley, name-dropping iconic locations like Ventura Boulevard and Reseda. Petty’s lyrics capture the essence of LA culture, from “good girls” to “bad boys,” and the freedom associated with the city’s sprawling landscape.

The song’s narrative follows a “bad boy” who leaves his “good girl” behind, possibly regretting his decision. This personal story is set against the backdrop of LA’s suburban dream, with references to vampires in the valley and palm trees lining the streets. The chorus, with its memorable “free fallin'” refrain, can be interpreted as both a celebration of freedom and a lament for lost love.

“Free Fallin'” became one of Petty’s most beloved tracks, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning widespread critical acclaim. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the complex emotions associated with life in Los Angeles.

10. “Los Angeles Is Burning” by Bad Religion

Released in 2004 as part of the album “The Empire Strikes First,” “Los Angeles Is Burning” is a punk rock commentary on the city’s struggles. The song uses the metaphor of wildfires, a common occurrence in the region, to address broader social and environmental issues facing Los Angeles.

Bad Religion’s lyrics critique media sensationalism, with the chorus declaring “Los Angeles is burning / It’s people are turning to the streets.” The song’s music video further emphasizes this theme, featuring men with television cameras for heads shooting flames into an animated Los Angeles landscape.

While inspired by actual wildfires like the 2003 Cedar Fire, the band makes it clear that the song uses fire as a metaphor for the city’s various challenges. “Los Angeles Is Burning” peaked at number 40 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, showcasing Bad Religion’s ability to blend social commentary with catchy punk rock melodies.

11. “All I Wanna Do” by Sheryl Crow

Released in 1994 as part of Sheryl Crow’s debut album “Tuesday Night Music Club,” “All I Wanna Do” is a lighthearted ode to carefree living in Los Angeles. The song’s lyrics were inspired by a poem titled “Fun” by Wyn Cooper, which Crow discovered in a book of poetry.

The track paints a vivid picture of a laid-back day in LA, starting with the memorable line “This ain’t no disco / It ain’t no country club either / This is LA!” The narrative follows a chance encounter in a bar on Santa Monica Boulevard, capturing the city’s diverse characters and relaxed atmosphere.

“All I Wanna Do” became Crow’s breakthrough hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning Record of the Year at the 1995 Grammy Awards. Its success is largely attributed to its catchy melody and relatable depiction of everyday life in Los Angeles.

12. “Born in East L.A.” by Cheech Marin

Originally released as a parody song by Cheech & Chong in 1985, “Born in East L.A.” gained further popularity when it was adapted into a film of the same name in 1987, written, directed, and starred by Cheech Marin. The song and film humorously address issues of immigration and cultural identity in Los Angeles.

The narrative follows Rudy Robles, a Mexican-American from East Los Angeles who is mistakenly deported to Mexico. Through comedy, the song and film explore themes of cultural displacement, identity, and the complexities of life as a Latino in Los Angeles.

While the song itself is a parody of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.,” it became an anthem in its own right, resonating with the Latino community in Los Angeles and beyond. The film’s success further cemented the song’s place in LA’s cultural landscape, offering a unique perspective on the city’s diverse population and the challenges faced by its immigrant communities.

13. “Hollywood Nights” by Bob Seger

“Hollywood Nights” is a song written and recorded by Bob Seger, released in 1978 as the second single from his album Stranger in Town. The song was inspired by Seger’s experiences living in the Hollywood Hills and his observations of the city’s vibrant yet often overwhelming lifestyle. The chorus famously came to Seger while he was driving through the hills, and he quickly developed the narrative of a Midwestern boy who gets caught up in the allure and heartbreak of Hollywood.

The song’s lyrics tell the story of this young man who meets a glamorous woman and is swept into the fast-paced, dazzling world of Hollywood. However, the romance ends abruptly, leaving him feeling lost and homesick. The energetic rock beat, driven by powerful guitar riffs and dynamic drum patterns, complements the song’s themes of excitement and disillusionment. “Hollywood Nights” peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been praised for its compelling storytelling and robust rock sound.

14. “Los Angeles Blues” by Peggy Lee

“Los Angeles Blues” is a song by the legendary jazz and pop singer Peggy Lee. Known for her sultry voice and emotive delivery, Lee captures the melancholy and nostalgia often associated with Los Angeles. The song reflects the emotional landscape of someone who has experienced the highs and lows of life in the city.

The lyrics of “Los Angeles Blues” delve into themes of loneliness and longing, painting a picture of a city that, despite its glamour, can be isolating. Lee’s performance is marked by her signature vocal style, which combines a sense of intimacy with a deep emotional resonance. 

The arrangement features a blend of jazz and blues elements, creating a moody atmosphere that underscores the song’s reflective tone. Although not as commercially prominent as some of her other hits, “Los Angeles Blues” showcases Lee’s ability to convey complex emotions through her music.

15. “L.A. Woman” by The Doors

“L.A. Woman” is the title track from The Doors’ 1971 album and is considered one of the band’s most iconic songs. Written by Jim Morrison, the song is a love letter to Los Angeles, capturing the city’s essence through vivid imagery and dynamic musical composition. The track blends rock, blues, and psychedelic elements, creating a soundscape that mirrors the diverse and often chaotic nature of LA.

The lyrics of “L.A. Woman” explore various facets of the city, from its freeways and nightlife to its darker, more mysterious side. Morrison’s vocal performance, marked by his distinctive baritone and poetic phrasing, adds depth to the song’s narrative. The chorus features the famous anagram “Mr. Mojo Risin’,” which is a rearrangement of Morrison’s name, adding a personal touch to the track.

The song’s structure includes extended instrumental sections, showcasing the band’s musical prowess, particularly Ray Manzarek’s keyboard work and Robby Krieger’s guitar riffs. “L.A. Woman” is often interpreted as Morrison’s farewell to the city, as he moved to Paris shortly after the album’s release and died a few months later. The track has since become a staple of classic rock radio and a definitive anthem of Los Angeles.

16. “California Stars” by Wilco

“California Stars” is a song that originated from a collaboration between the American rock band Wilco, British singer-songwriter Billy Bragg, and the legacy of folk legend Woody Guthrie. The song was released as part of the 1998 album Mermaid Avenue, which features previously unrecorded lyrics by Guthrie set to new music by Wilco and Bragg.

The lyrics of “California Stars” reflect Guthrie’s poetic longing for the peace and beauty of California’s night skies. The song’s gentle, folk-rock arrangement complements the wistful and serene imagery, creating a soothing and reflective atmosphere. Jeff Tweedy’s heartfelt vocals and the band’s melodic instrumentation bring Guthrie’s words to life, making “California Stars” a beloved track for many fans.

The song has become one of Wilco’s most popular tracks, often performed live and celebrated for its timeless appeal. It captures the essence of California’s natural beauty and the sense of tranquility that comes from gazing at the stars, making it a fitting addition to any playlist about Los Angeles.

17. “Valley Girl” by Frank Zappa

“Valley Girl” is a satirical track by Frank Zappa, released in 1982 as part of his album Ship Arriving Too Late to Save a Drowning Witch. The song features vocals by Zappa’s then-teenage daughter, Moon Unit Zappa, who delivers a humorous and exaggerated portrayal of a stereotypical “Valley Girl” from the San Fernando Valley in Southern California.

The song’s lyrics are filled with “Valspeak,” the distinctive slang of Valley teens, with phrases like “gag me with a spoon” and “totally bitchin’.” The track pokes fun at the superficial and materialistic aspects of Valley culture, set to an energetic and catchy 4/4 beat. Despite its satirical intent, “Valley Girl” became a cultural phenomenon, popularizing the “Valley Girl” archetype and its associated slang across the United States.

“Valley Girl” reached No. 32 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. Frank Zappa’s deadpan delivery and Moon Unit’s spirited performance make the song a memorable and iconic commentary on Southern California teen culture.

18. “It Was a Good Day” by Ice Cube

“It Was a Good Day” is a song by American rapper Ice Cube, released on February 23, 1993, as the second single from his third solo album, The Predator. The song, produced by DJ Pooh, is built around a sample from the Isley Brothers’ “Footsteps in the Dark” and describes a rare, perfect day in Ice Cube’s life, free from the violence and tension that characterized much of his experience in South Central Los Angeles.

The lyrics detail a series of positive events, from a good breakfast and a successful basketball game to a peaceful encounter with the police and a romantic evening. The recurring refrain, “Today was a good day,” underscores the rarity and preciousness of such moments in a challenging environment. The song’s laid-back groove and reflective tone contrast with the more aggressive tracks on The Predator, offering a glimpse of hope and normalcy amidst turmoil.

“It Was a Good Day” peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been praised for its storytelling and relatability. The accompanying music video, directed by F. Gary Gray, visually captures the narrative of the song, further cementing its status as a classic in Ice Cube’s discography and a poignant reflection on life in Los Angeles.

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

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.