20 Songs About Mountains

As I stand atop this rugged peak, gazing out at the endless sea of jagged summits stretching to the horizon, I’m reminded of why mountains have captivated the human imagination for millennia. There’s something undeniably powerful about these towering giants of rock and ice – their sheer majesty, the challenge they present, and the perspective they offer on our own small place in the world.

In this playlist, I’ll take you on a journey through 20 songs that capture the essence of mountains – from their daunting heights to their serene beauty.

1. “Ask The Mountains” by Vangelis

“Ask The Mountains” is a haunting and atmospheric track released in 1995 by the Greek electronic composer Vangelis, featuring vocals by Swedish singer Stina Nordenstam. The song is part of Vangelis’ album “Voices” and was also released as a single.

The lyrics personify mountains as wise, ancient entities that hold answers to life’s profound questions. The song’s ethereal quality is enhanced by Nordenstam’s delicate vocals, which blend seamlessly with Vangelis’ signature synthesizer soundscapes. The recurring phrase “Ask the mountains, springs and fountains” emphasizes the idea of nature as a source of wisdom and solace.

Thematically, the song explores themes of departure, loss, and seeking answers in nature. Lines like “Please don’t follow me along / When you read this I’ll be gone” suggest a farewell, while the questions “Why couldn’t this go on? / Couldn’t our happiness go on?” reflect on the transient nature of human experiences.

2. “My Tennessee Mountain Home” by Dolly Parton

Released in 1973, “My Tennessee Mountain Home” is a nostalgic country ballad written and performed by Dolly Parton. The song serves as the title track for her eleventh studio album and reached #15 on the Billboard Country Singles chart.

Parton’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of her childhood in rural Tennessee, evoking imagery of simple pleasures and pastoral scenes. The song describes sitting on the front porch, watching children play, and enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains. Parton’s heartfelt delivery conveys a deep longing for the peace and simplicity of her mountain upbringing.

The chorus, “In my Tennessee mountain home / Life is as peaceful as a baby’s sigh,” encapsulates the song’s central theme of finding tranquility in one’s roots. This deeply personal composition has become one of Parton’s signature songs, reflecting her enduring connection to her Appalachian heritage.

3. “Moving Mountains” by Usher

“Moving Mountains” is an R&B ballad released by Usher in 2008 as the third single from his fifth studio album, “Here I Stand”. The song was written by Usher, Christopher “Tricky” Stewart, Kuk Harrell, and The-Dream, with production handled by Stewart and The-Dream.

Unlike the other songs in this playlist, “Moving Mountains” uses the concept of mountains metaphorically rather than literally. The lyrics describe the struggle to overcome obstacles in a relationship, comparing the effort to the seemingly impossible task of moving mountains.

The song’s slow tempo and emotional delivery highlight the sense of struggle and determination in the lyrics. While it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Usher’s other singles, peaking at #67 on the Billboard Hot 100, it showcases his vocal range and ability to convey complex emotions through his music.

4. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver

“Take Me Home, Country Roads” is a classic country-folk song co-written and performed by John Denver. Released in 1971, it became one of Denver’s signature songs and has endured as a beloved anthem celebrating the natural beauty of West Virginia.

The song’s instantly recognizable opening lines, “Almost heaven, West Virginia / Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River,” set the tone for a heartfelt tribute to the state’s landscape. Despite initial slow progress on the charts, the song eventually reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since become a cultural touchstone.

Interestingly, neither Denver nor his co-writers (Bill Danoff and Taffy Nivert) had ever been to West Virginia when they wrote the song. The lyrics were inspired by postcards sent to Danoff by a relative and the writers’ desire to capture the essence of rural America.

The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its continued sales and cultural impact. It has sold over 1.6 million digital copies in the United States and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998. In 2014, it was officially adopted as one of the four state anthems of West Virginia, cementing its place in American musical history.

5. “Mountain Music” by Alabama

“Mountain Music” is a quintessential Southern rock and country song by the American band Alabama, released in January 1982. Written by lead singer Randy Owen, the song is a nostalgic ode to the band’s upbringing in the Appalachian region, particularly Sand Mountain in Alabama. It blends elements of Southern rock, bluegrass, and country, creating a sound that became a hallmark of Alabama’s music.

The lyrics reflect Owen’s childhood experiences, such as swimming across the river to prove his manhood and using chert rocks as makeshift baseballs. The song’s vivid imagery and autobiographical nature resonate with listeners who appreciate the simplicity and challenges of rural life. “Mountain Music” became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and solidifying Alabama’s place in country music history.

6. “Blue Ridge Cabin Home” by Bluegrass Album Band

“Blue Ridge Cabin Home” is a classic bluegrass song first recorded by Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs and The Foggy Mountain Boys in 1955 and released in 1957. Written by Louise Certain and Gladys Stacey, the song has been covered by numerous artists, including the Bluegrass Album Band in 1981.

The song’s lyrics evoke a deep sense of longing and nostalgia for a simple, rustic life in a cabin nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It speaks to the universal desire for a place to call home and the peace that comes with returning to one’s roots. The Bluegrass Album Band’s rendition captures the traditional bluegrass sound with tight harmonies and masterful instrumentation, making it a beloved standard in the genre.

7. “Mountains” by LSD

“Mountains” is an electropop song by the supergroup LSD, consisting of Labrinth, Sia, and Diplo. Released on November 1, 2018, the song is part of their debut album “LSD”. The track features powerful vocals from Labrinth and Sia, set against a backdrop of lush electronic production.

The lyrics of “Mountains” use the metaphor of moving mountains to express the lengths one would go for love and the strength derived from a deep emotional connection. The chorus, “I move mountains, I’d do anything for you,” emphasizes the song’s theme of unwavering commitment and resilience. The song received positive reviews for its catchy melody and uplifting message, further establishing LSD’s unique sound in the pop music landscape.

8. “Sugar Mountain” by Neil Young

“Sugar Mountain” is a folk rock song by Canadian singer-songwriter Neil Young. Written on his 19th birthday in 1964, the song reflects Young’s bittersweet memories of his youth in Winnipeg, Manitoba. It was first recorded in 1965 and later released as a B-side to several singles before appearing on the compilation album “Decade” in 1977.

The lyrics of “Sugar Mountain” capture the nostalgia and melancholy of leaving behind the innocence of childhood. The song’s title refers to an idyllic place where one can remain young forever, a concept Young contrasts with the inevitable passage of time. The song’s simple acoustic arrangement and heartfelt delivery have made it a beloved classic in Young’s extensive catalog.

9. “Sing To The Mountain” by Elephant Revival

“Sing To The Mountain” is a song by the American folk band Elephant Revival, known for their eclectic blend of gypsy, Celtic, Americana, and folk influences. The song is a call to embrace and celebrate one’s own voice, power, and connection to the world around them.

The lyrics encourage the listener to let go of inhibitions and express themselves freely. The opening lines, “Let the fires burn tonight, let the jugs of wine get drunk, let the truth be known tonight, don’t go let yourself hide,” set a tone of liberation and passion. The repeated refrain, “Go and sing to the mountain, go and sing to the moon, go and sing to just about everything, cuz everything is you,” suggests a deep connection with nature and a sense of unity with the world. The song promotes empowerment through self-expression and finding solace in the natural world.

10. “Thunder On The Mountain” by Bob Dylan

“Thunder On The Mountain” is the opening track on Bob Dylan’s 2006 album Modern Times. The song blends elements of folk rock, rockabilly, and rock and roll, with Dylan’s lyrics juxtaposing themes of religion and romance. The song’s upbeat sound contrasts with its apocalyptic imagery, creating a unique and engaging listening experience.

The lyrics feature vivid imagery and references to contemporary figures like Alicia Keys, adding a modern twist to Dylan’s classic storytelling style. Lines like “Thunder on the mountain, rolling like a drum” and “Gonna raise me an army, some tough sons of bitches” evoke a sense of urgency and determination. The song has been praised for its lyrical complexity and energetic musical arrangement, making it a standout track in Dylan’s later career.

11. “You Gave Me A Mountain” by Elvis Presley

“You Gave Me A Mountain” is a powerful ballad performed by Elvis Presley, originally written by country singer-songwriter Marty Robbins. Elvis’s version was recorded for his 1973 live album Aloha from Hawaii: Via Satellite. The song’s lyrics detail a series of personal struggles and challenges, likening them to climbing a mountain.

The song begins with the singer recounting his hardships, including the death of his mother and the loss of his family. The chorus, “Ooh, this time, Lord you gave me a mountain / A mountain I may never climb,” captures the essence of despair and the feeling of being overwhelmed by life’s relentless challenges. Elvis’s emotional delivery and the song’s poignant lyrics make it a moving and memorable piece.

12. “Mountain Top” by Built To Spill

“Mountain Top” is a song by the indie rock band Built To Spill, released in 2020. The song is part of their tribute album Built to Spill Plays the Songs of Daniel Johnston. It features introspective lyrics and a reflective tone, capturing the perspective of standing on a mountaintop and contemplating life.

The lyrics, “On top of a mountain top / I stood and thought one day / I really could see a lot / And if I had my way,” convey a sense of clarity and insight gained from the elevated vantage point. The song’s simple yet profound message, combined with Built To Spill’s signature sound, makes it a fitting addition to a playlist celebrating mountains and their symbolic significance.

13. “Rocky Mountain High” by John Denver

“Rocky Mountain High” is a folk rock song written by John Denver and Mike Taylor, released in 1972. It is one of Colorado’s two official state songs and is a tribute to the beauty and majesty of the Rocky Mountains. Denver was inspired to write the song after moving to Aspen, Colorado, and experiencing the natural splendor of the region, particularly during the Perseid meteor shower.

The song’s lyrics capture Denver’s profound connection to nature and the sense of peace and elation he found in the Rockies. Lines like “I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky” and “Friends around the campfire and everybody’s high” convey the awe-inspiring experiences he had while camping and hiking in the mountains. Despite some initial controversy over the word “high,” which some interpreted as a reference to drug use, Denver clarified that it referred to the natural high of being in the mountains. The song reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a timeless anthem for the Mountain West.

14. “Misty Mountains” by Peter Hollens Ft. Tim Foust

“Misty Mountains” is a haunting a cappella rendition by Peter Hollens featuring Tim Foust, released in 2016. The song is a cover of “Misty Mountains” from the soundtrack of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, originally composed by Howard Shore with lyrics by J.R.R. Tolkien. This version captures the mystical and adventurous spirit of Tolkien’s Middle-earth.

The lyrics describe a journey over the Misty Mountains, filled with imagery of roaring pines, moaning winds, and blazing fires. The song conveys a sense of ancient mystery and the quest for long-forgotten gold. Hollens and Foust’s vocal harmonies create a rich, atmospheric sound that transports listeners to the world of dwarves and dragons. The song is part of Hollens’ album Misty Mountains: Songs Inspired by The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings.

15. “Fire On The Mountain” by The Marshall Tucker Band

“Fire On The Mountain” is a Southern rock song by The Marshall Tucker Band, written by George McCorkle and released in 1975. The song is set during the California Gold Rush and tells the story of a family’s journey from South Carolina to California in search of fortune. However, their dreams are shattered when the protagonist is killed, leaving his widow with a worthless claim.

The lyrics vividly depict the hardships and dangers of the gold rush era, with lines like “We were digging and sifting from five to five / Selling everything we found just to stay alive.” The song features a distinctive steel guitar played by Toy Caldwell, adding to its melancholic tone. “Fire On The Mountain” became the band’s first Top 40 hit, peaking at No. 38 on the Billboard Hot 100, and remains one of their most popular songs.

16. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus

“The Climb” is a power ballad by Miley Cyrus, released in 2009 as part of the soundtrack for Hannah Montana: The Movie. Written by Jessi Alexander and Jon Mabe, the song describes life as a challenging but rewarding journey, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and resilience. It was Cyrus’ first solo song to be released to country radio and became a significant hit.

The lyrics, “There’s always gonna be another mountain / I’m always gonna wanna make it move,” highlight the ongoing struggles and obstacles one faces in life. The song’s message is that the journey itself, with its ups and downs, is what truly matters. “The Climb” was praised for its inspirational lyrics and Cyrus’ emotive delivery, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning triple platinum certification from the RIAA. It has since become an anthem of motivation and determination.

17. “The Mountains Win Again” by Blues Traveler

“The Mountains Win Again” is a song by Blues Traveler, featured on their 1994 album Four. Written by the band’s bassist Bobby Sheehan, the song is a poignant reflection on loss and emotional pain. The lyrics describe the struggle of dealing with heartbreak and the inevitability of feeling defeated by life’s challenges, symbolized by the mountains.

Lines like “I pick up my smile, put it in my pocket / Hold it for a while, try not to have to drop it” and “The mountains win again” convey a sense of resignation and the recurring nature of emotional struggles. The song’s melancholic tone is complemented by John Popper’s soulful harmonica playing, adding depth to the theme of enduring pain and finding solace in the acceptance of life’s hardships.

18. “Mountains” by Biffy Clyro

“Mountains” is a powerful rock anthem by the Scottish band Biffy Clyro, released in 2008. The song became a significant hit, marking the band’s first Top 10 single in the UK. Written by frontman Simon Neil, the song explores themes of resilience, self-empowerment, and the unshakable nature of one’s identity.

The chorus, “I am the mountain / I am the sea / You can’t take that away from me,” emphasizes the idea of inner strength and the permanence of one’s core self, regardless of external circumstances. The song’s dramatic and uplifting melody, combined with its empowering lyrics, has made it a fan favorite and a staple in the band’s live performances.

19. “Mountain at My Gates” by Foals

“Mountain at My Gates” is a song by the British rock band Foals, released as the second single from their 2015 album What Went Down. The song achieved commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Alternative Songs chart. It features a driving indie rock sound with post-punk revival influences.

The lyrics describe a sense of confrontation and overcoming obstacles, with the mountain serving as a metaphor for challenges and personal growth. Lines like “I see a mountain at my gates / I see it more and more each day” reflect the persistent nature of life’s difficulties and the determination to face them head-on. The song’s energetic rhythm and compelling lyrics have made it a standout track in Foals’ discography.

20. “High On A Mountain Top” by Loretta Lynn

“High On A Mountain Top” is a song by country music legend Loretta Lynn, featured on her 2004 album Van Lear Rose. Produced by Jack White, the song celebrates the simple, joyful life of mountain folk. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of rural life, emphasizing the values of love, community, and contentment.

The chorus, “High on a mountain top / We live, we love, and we laugh a lot,” captures the essence of finding happiness in simplicity and the beauty of nature. The song also touches on the hardworking nature of mountain people, with verses describing coal mining and the strong sense of family and tradition. Lynn’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s upbeat tempo make it a charming and uplifting addition to her repertoire.

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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.