As someone who has wandered the charming streets of Paris countless times, I can attest that there’s something truly magical about the City of Light. From the iconic silhouette of the Eiffel Tower to the romantic banks of the Seine, Paris has a way of captivating hearts and inspiring artists for centuries. It’s no wonder that so many incredible songs have been written about this enchanting city.
In my years of exploring Paris, I’ve found myself humming tunes that perfectly capture the essence of its cobblestone alleys, cozy cafés, and breathtaking architecture. Whether you’re planning your first visit or longing to return, these 19 songs about Paris will transport you straight to the heart of the French capital.
Contents
- 1. “Paris” by New West
- 2. “Summertime In Paris” by Jaden Smith Ft. WILLOW
- 3. “Paris, Or Wherever We Are” by Emily Hearn
- 4. “Give Paris One More Chance” by Jonathan Richman
- 5. “Paris In The Rain” by Lauv
- 6. “Paris” by Sabrina Carpenter
- 7. “Paris” by Indigo
- 8. “Postcard From Paris” by The Band Perry
- 9. “Lost In Paris” by Tom Misch Ft. GoldLink
- 10. “Paris” by Samia
- 11. “Paris” by Magic Man
- 12. “Dreaming About Paris” by MISY
- 13. “I Love Paris” by Dean Martin
- 14. “Paris” by The Chainsmokers
- 15. “Paris” by Ben Rector
- 16. “Wake Me Up In Paris” by Anthony Keyrouz and Paradigm
- 17. “April In Paris” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
- 18. “Paris” by The 1975
- 19. “Paris” by Taylor Swift
- Submit Your Song to This Playlist
1. “Paris” by New West
“Paris” by New West is a romantic and whimsical song that captures the essence of falling in love in the City of Lights. The lyrics paint vivid scenes of a passionate and carefree romance. The song opens with the lines:
“Let’s fall in love and sing French songs in the rain / Smoke cigarettes and get drunk on champagne” .
These lines set the tone for a dreamy and hedonistic experience in Paris. The song continues to describe various romantic escapades, such as getting high at the Louvre, talking through the night, and scratching their names on church walls. The chorus, which repeats “Qui tombe, qui tombe, oh, my love,” emphasizes the singer’s deepening affection. The song combines a sense of youthful rebellion with the timeless allure of Paris, making it a perfect addition to any playlist celebrating the city.
2. “Summertime In Paris” by Jaden Smith Ft. WILLOW
“Summertime In Paris” by Jaden Smith featuring WILLOW is a song that encapsulates the feeling of a youthful, carefree summer romance. The central theme of the song is captured in the repeated line:
“Summertime is meant to fall in love” .
Jaden’s verses express a deep affection and a longing for connection, while Willow’s vocals add a layer of vulnerability and longing. The lyrics convey a sense of optimism and the desire to capture the fleeting moments of summer love. The song also touches on the idea that love can be both a refuge and a source of excitement, as seen in the lines:
“Yeah, you make my heart race, yeah / Keep me from my dark place, yeah” .
The production features laid-back beats and dreamy soundscapes, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and hopeful, much like the memory of a perfect summer love.
3. “Paris, Or Wherever We Are” by Emily Hearn
“Paris, Or Wherever We Are” by Emily Hearn is a heartfelt song that explores the idea of finding joy and contentment in love, regardless of the location. The lyrics describe a romantic trip to Paris, where the couple finds a small apartment and enjoys the city’s magic:
“You said, ‘Paris, love. I’m taking you there.’ / So we hopped a plane and found a small apartment” .
The song emphasizes that the true beauty of the experience comes from being together, rather than the specific place. This sentiment is encapsulated in the chorus:
“With you by my side / There’s nothing else I want / The view is alright / In Paris, or wherever we are”.
The song’s gentle melody and sincere lyrics make it a touching ode to the power of love and companionship.
4. “Give Paris One More Chance” by Jonathan Richman
“Give Paris One More Chance” by Jonathan Richman is a charming and persuasive song that encourages listeners to reconsider their feelings about Paris. Richman highlights the city’s romantic allure and cultural significance, referencing iconic figures like Edith Piaf and Charles Aznavour:
“The home of Piaf and Chevalier / Must have done something right to get passion this way” .
The song acknowledges that Paris might not appeal to everyone at first, but it insists that the city deserves another chance to reveal its magic. Richman’s playful lyrics and upbeat melody convey a sense of optimism and affection for Paris, making it a delightful addition to any playlist celebrating the city. The repeated plea, “If you don’t think Paris was made for love / Give Paris one more chance,” serves as a gentle reminder of the city’s enduring romantic charm .
5. “Paris In The Rain” by Lauv
“Paris In The Rain” by Lauv is a romantic and dreamy song that emphasizes the idea that being with a loved one can make any place feel magical, much like Paris in the rain. The lyrics convey a sense of intimacy and connection, with lines like:
“Anywhere with you feels right / Anywhere with you feels like / Paris in the rain” .
The song’s production features a mellow, synth-pop sound that complements its romantic theme. Lauv’s lyrics highlight the simplicity of love, suggesting that the presence of a loved one can transform even the most mundane moments into something extraordinary. The song was inspired by the movie Midnight in Paris, and its music video, interestingly, was shot in Paris, Texas, further emphasizing the theme that the feeling of Paris can be found anywhere with the right person.
6. “Paris” by Sabrina Carpenter
“Paris” by Sabrina Carpenter is an R&B-infused pop song from her album Singular: Act I. The song explores the theme of self-discovery and the realization that love and happiness might already be present in one’s life, even when seeking it elsewhere. The lyrics reflect this journey:
“It’s so romantic in Paris / Won’t even try to compare it” .
Carpenter sings about the allure of Paris and how it symbolizes romance and adventure, but she ultimately realizes that the love she seeks is already with her in Los Angeles. The song’s steady guitar riff, cinematic percussion, and pulsating synths create a sultry and atmospheric backdrop that enhances its introspective lyrics.
7. “Paris” by Indigo
“Paris” by Indigo is a melancholic song that tells a story of unfulfilled love and missed opportunities. The lyrics are poetic and reflective, describing a future encounter in Paris that brings back past emotions and regrets:
“But you may see her in Paris / In fifteen years / On a star-covered terrace” .
The song’s narrative revolves around the idea of seeing a past lover in Paris years later, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing. The repetitive chorus and somber tone underscore the emotional weight of the lyrics, making it a poignant addition to any playlist about Paris.
8. “Postcard From Paris” by The Band Perry
“Postcard From Paris” by The Band Perry is a country-pop song that uses Paris as a metaphor for something unattainable and idealized. The protagonist reflects on a past love that was intense and unforgettable, comparing it to a postcard from Paris:
“Like a postcard from Paris when I’ve seen the real thing” .
The song describes the moment when the protagonist realizes that their current relationship pales in comparison to the passion they once felt for someone else. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and emotional depth, capturing the bittersweet nature of reminiscing about a lost love. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody contrast with its reflective and somewhat sorrowful lyrics, creating a compelling dynamic.
9. “Lost In Paris” by Tom Misch Ft. GoldLink
“Lost In Paris” by Tom Misch featuring GoldLink is a soulful and groovy track that tells a unique story. Contrary to what one might expect, the song is not about a romantic relationship but rather about a hard drive that Tom Misch lost in Paris, which contained valuable music files. The chorus reflects the sense of loss and nostalgia:
“I know that I need you now / The key that I won’t forget / You’re lost in Paris” .
Despite the unconventional subject matter, the song uses Paris as a backdrop to convey feelings of loss and longing. GoldLink’s rap verse adds depth to the track, complementing Misch’s smooth vocals and jazzy instrumentation. The song’s blend of funk, jazz, and hip-hop elements creates a captivating and memorable listening experience.
10. “Paris” by Samia
“Paris” by Samia is a poignant folk ballad about the end of a relationship that culminates after a trip to Paris. The song captures the bittersweet emotions of leaving a lover and the memories tied to the city. Samia described this track as her lyrical best, reflecting on the complexity of love and separation:
“I left my heart in Paris / And I don’t know how to get it back” .
The song’s gentle acoustic arrangement and Samia’s heartfelt delivery create an intimate atmosphere, making it a deeply emotional and relatable piece. The lyrics explore themes of longing, regret, and the passage of time, making it a powerful addition to any playlist about Paris.
11. “Paris” by Magic Man
“Paris” by Magic Man is an uplifting, synth-heavy track from their debut album Before the Waves. The song is about letting go of the past and moving forward, with Paris symbolizing a place of both beauty and emotional significance. The chorus captures the essence of this journey:
“Paris, you know I held on too much / I left you at the station / I put you in my past” .
The energetic production and catchy melody make it an addictive listen, while the lyrics convey a sense of liberation and self-discovery. The song’s upbeat tempo contrasts with its introspective themes, creating a dynamic and engaging track that resonates with listeners on multiple levels.
12. “Dreaming About Paris” by MISY
“Dreaming About Paris” by MISY is a dreamy and evocative song that paints a vivid picture of Paris through the eyes of someone who has never been there. The lyrics describe the city’s iconic elements, such as cobblestone streets, the Eiffel Tower, and French cafes:
“Cobblestone streets and the Eiffel Tower / Coffee and croissant, let’s take a picture” .
MISY’s longing and imagination bring the city to life, capturing the romantic and enchanting allure of Paris. The song’s relaxing melody and gentle vocals create a soothing atmosphere, making it a perfect track for those who dream of visiting the City of Love. The song reflects a sense of wonder and anticipation, making it a heartfelt ode to Paris.
13. “I Love Paris” by Dean Martin
“I Love Paris” is a classic song written by Cole Porter in 1953 for the musical Can-Can. Dean Martin’s rendition of this timeless tune captures the essence of Paris through its evocative lyrics and romantic melody. The song expresses a deep affection for the city, celebrating its beauty in every season:
“I love Paris in the springtime / I love Paris in the fall / I love Paris in the winter when it drizzles / I love Paris in the summer when it sizzles” .
Dean Martin’s smooth, crooning voice adds a layer of charm and nostalgia to the song, making it a quintessential piece for any Paris-themed playlist. The lyrics convey a sense of timeless love for Paris, highlighting its allure regardless of the weather or time of year.
14. “Paris” by The Chainsmokers
“Paris” by The Chainsmokers is a pop song that blends electronic beats with reflective lyrics. Released in 2017, the song tells the story of a couple escaping their troubles and finding solace in each other, with Paris symbolizing a place of freedom and romance:
“We were staying in Paris / To get away from your parents / And I thought, ‘Wow, if I could take this in a shot right now / I don’t think that we could work this out'” .
The song captures the feeling of youthful rebellion and the desire to escape reality, using Paris as a metaphor for an idealized, carefree existence. The Chainsmokers’ signature production style, featuring catchy hooks and a driving beat, makes this track both introspective and danceable, perfect for a modern playlist celebrating Paris.
15. “Paris” by Ben Rector
“Paris” by Ben Rector is a heartfelt pop song that reminisces about a past love and the memories tied to the city of Paris. The lyrics reflect on a time when everything seemed perfect and full of promise:
“I haven’t seen Paris, and I haven’t seen Rome / But I can see why some fall in love with those places / And others fall in love with the faces they know” .
Rector’s warm vocals and the song’s gentle melody create a nostalgic atmosphere, making it a touching ode to both the city and the emotions it evokes. The song emphasizes the idea that the magic of Paris is not just in its landmarks but in the experiences and relationships that happen there.
16. “Wake Me Up In Paris” by Anthony Keyrouz and Paradigm
“Wake Me Up In Paris” is an upbeat electronic dance music (EDM) track released in 2020. The song blends elements of pop and house music, creating a catchy and energetic atmosphere. Its lyrics paint a picture of wanderlust and adventure, with Paris serving as a romantic backdrop for the song’s narrative.
The chorus repeats the titular phrase “Wake me up in Paris,” interspersed with mentions of other locations like Dallas and Rio. This creates a sense of global exploration and excitement.
The lyrics also touch on themes of dreaming, faith, and redemption, with lines like “When we wake up, don’t stop dreaming / Keep your faith, don’t stop believing / All our sins will be forgiven”.
The song’s upbeat tempo and electronic production make it a perfect addition to a modern, high-energy playlist celebrating Paris as a symbol of romance and adventure.
17. “April In Paris” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
“April In Paris” is a classic jazz standard, originally composed by Vernon Duke with lyrics by E.Y. Harburg in 1932. The version by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, released in 1956, is particularly renowned and features on their album “Ella and Louis”.
This timeless duet showcases the incredible vocal talents of both Fitzgerald and Armstrong. The song paints a romantic picture of Paris in springtime, with poetic lyrics like “April in Paris, chestnuts in blossom / Holiday tables under the trees”. The melody is sophisticated, with sudden key changes that add to its charm and complexity.
Fitzgerald and Armstrong’s rendition is notable for its warm, intimate feel and the beautiful interplay between their voices. Their version helped cement “April In Paris” as one of the most beloved entries in the Great American Songbook, perfect for adding a touch of classic jazz elegance to your Paris-themed playlist.
18. “Paris” by The 1975
“Paris” by The 1975 is a synth-pop track from their 2016 album “I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It.” The song is a masterclass in observational songwriting, focusing on complex characters and relationships.
Lyrically, “Paris” tells the story of a troubled relationship, using the city as a metaphor for an idealized state that the couple never reaches. The song’s opening lines, “She said ‘Hello,’ she was letting me know / We share friends in Soho,” immediately set the scene of a complicated social dynamic.
Throughout the song, frontman Matty Healy touches on themes of drug use, infidelity, and emotional disconnection. The chorus, “Oh, how I’d love to go to Paris again,” represents a longing to return to a better time in the relationship.
The 1975’s “Paris” offers a more melancholic and introspective take on the city, making it a great contrast to more romantic Paris-themed songs in your playlist.
19. “Paris” by Taylor Swift
“Paris” by Taylor Swift is the 16th track on her 2022 album “Midnights (3am Edition).” The song uses Paris as a metaphor for a blissful, private world shared by two lovers.
Swift’s lyrics paint a picture of a couple so in love that they’re oblivious to the outside world. Lines like “Your ex-friend’s sister met someone at a club and he kissed her” show the trivial gossip that the couple is ignoring. The repeated refrain “I wanna brainwash you into loving me forever” emphasizes the all-consuming nature of their love.
The production features Swift’s signature pop sound with dreamy synths that create an ethereal atmosphere. This musical backdrop perfectly complements the lyrics’ theme of being lost in love.
“Paris” peaked at #32 on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing its popularity. Its modern pop sound and romantic lyrics make it a perfect addition to a contemporary playlist about Paris, representing the city as a timeless symbol of love and romance.
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.