20 Songs About Point of View

As someone who constantly finds joy in shifting perspectives, I’ve always been fascinated by how music can capture the essence of different points of view.

Songs have a unique way of transporting us into the minds and hearts of others, offering glimpses into experiences and emotions that may be far removed from our own. Whether it’s the introspective musings of a solitary thinker or the collective voice of a generation, music has the power to broaden our understanding and empathy.

In this playlist, I invite you to join me on a journey through 20 songs that beautifully explore the concept of point of view, each offering a fresh lens through which to see the world.

1. “A Whole New World” from Aladdin

“A Whole New World” is a duet from Disney’s 1992 animated film Aladdin, performed by Aladdin and Jasmine as they explore the world on a magic carpet ride.

The song embodies themes of discovery and freedom, depicting a transformative journey from the constraints of their previous lives to a realm of endless possibilities. Aladdin, disguised as a prince, introduces Jasmine to a world where societal restrictions do not exist, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. Jasmine, in turn, experiences a sense of liberation from her sheltered palace life, realizing the potential for a life filled with adventure and love.

The song’s dual perspectives highlight the characters’ shared vision of a future unbound by their past limitations.

2. “Don’t Look Back in Anger” by Oasis

“Don’t Look Back in Anger” by Oasis is a song about reflection and acceptance. Written by Noel Gallagher, it tells the story of a woman named Sally who looks back on her life without regret. The song uses imagery and references to evoke themes of defiance and resilience. It gained additional significance following the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, becoming an anthem of solidarity and hope.

The lyrics encourage letting go of past grievances and embracing a forward-looking perspective, symbolizing personal growth and emotional maturity.

3. “Cat’s in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin

“Cat’s in the Cradle” is a poignant narrative about the evolving relationship between a father and son. Inspired by a poem written by Chapin’s wife, the song explores themes of time, neglect, and the cyclical nature of familial relationships. It tells the story of a father who is too busy to spend time with his son, only to find that his son has adopted the same priorities in adulthood.

The song serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of prioritizing career over family, highlighting the importance of being present in loved ones’ lives. Its message resonates with listeners as a reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the impact of parental influence.

4. “You” by Earth, Wind & Fire

“You” by Earth, Wind & Fire is a soulful ballad that explores themes of love and connection. Released in 1980, the song features lush strings and smooth production, characteristic of the band’s style. It emphasizes the beauty and strength found in relationships, even amidst adversity. The lyrics suggest a journey of finding solace and understanding in a partner, celebrating the transformative power of love.

The song’s romantic tone and emotional depth make it a standout track on the album Faces, illustrating the band’s ability to convey profound emotions through music.

5. “New Dress” by Depeche Mode

“New Dress” by Depeche Mode is a critique of media and societal priorities. The song juxtaposes trivial celebrity news, such as Princess Diana’s new dress, with serious global issues like violence, famine, and natural disasters. This contrast highlights how media often focuses on superficial stories rather than addressing significant world problems.

The lyrics suggest that by changing the way we view and discuss these issues, we can influence public opinion and potentially effect change. The song reflects Depeche Mode’s broader commentary on social and political topics, emphasizing the power of perspective in shaping societal priorities.

6. “A Different Point of View” by Pet Shop Boys

This song by Pet Shop Boys explores the theme of miscommunication and differing perspectives within a relationship. The lyrics describe a couple who struggle to understand each other, with the narrator’s expressions of love being met with skepticism and contradiction.

The recurring refrain emphasizes the disconnect between the partners, illustrating how even simple statements can be interpreted differently. This song captures the frustration and heartache of feeling misunderstood, highlighting the challenges of bridging the gap between differing perspectives in relationships.

Musically, it combines upbeat synth-pop melodies with introspective lyrics, creating a contrast that underscores the emotional tension in the narrative.

7. “Ooh La La” by Faces

“Ooh La La” by Faces is a reflective song framed as advice from a grandfather to his grandson about love and life. The grandfather shares his experiences, warning about the potential heartache love can bring, and advises caution in showing kindness.

Despite its seemingly cynical message, the song is delivered with a sense of acceptance and nostalgia, acknowledging that wisdom often comes from personal experience.

The song’s gentle instrumentation and Ronnie Wood’s charming vocals lend it a warm, reflective tone. It serves as a slice of life, capturing the bittersweet nature of learning from past experiences and passing that wisdom to the next generation.

8. “The Grouch” by Green Day

“The Grouch” by Green Day portrays a character who has become bitter and resentful over time. The narrator reflects on a life filled with regret and unfulfilled dreams, expressing frustration with their own negativity and the realization that they are becoming like their father. This song captures the theme of self-awareness and the struggle with personal dissatisfaction.

The lyrics depict a person who feels trapped in their own cynicism, highlighting the impact of unaddressed grievances and the difficulty of breaking free from a negative mindset.

The song’s punk rock energy underscores the intensity of the narrator’s emotions and the raw honesty of their self-reflection.

9. “Little Freak” by Harry Styles

“Little Freak” by Harry Styles is a reflective ballad that delves into the complexities of a past relationship. The song is characterized by its nostalgic tone, as Styles reminisces about a connection that was never fully realized.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of youthful experiences, such as shared moments at parties and playful interactions, which evoke a sense of innocence and longing. The song’s title, “Little Freak,” is used affectionately to describe someone who left a lasting impression on the singer.

Throughout the song, Styles expresses regret for how things ended, acknowledging his own mistakes and the impact they had on the relationship. This introspective piece highlights the delicate balance between attraction and respect, and the enduring impact of first loves.

10. “pov” by Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande’s “pov” is a heartfelt ballad that explores themes of self-acceptance and love through the lens of another person’s perspective. The song expresses a desire to see oneself as a partner does, capturing the transformative power of unconditional love.

Grande’s lyrics convey a yearning to embrace her own flaws and strengths with the same compassion that her partner shows her. This perspective invites listeners to consider how love can change one’s self-view, encouraging a journey towards self-love and acceptance.

The emotional depth of the song is enhanced by Grande’s powerful vocal performance, which adds sincerity and vulnerability to the narrative.

11. “Glory Days” by Bruce Springsteen

“Glory Days” by Bruce Springsteen is a nostalgic rock song that reflects on the fleeting nature of youth and the tendency to reminisce about the past.

The song tells stories of encounters with old friends and acquaintances, each reminiscing about their “glory days” in high school. Springsteen captures the bittersweet reality that these moments, while cherished, are gone and cannot be recaptured.

The song’s upbeat tempo contrasts with its poignant message, serving as a reminder to appreciate the present while acknowledging the passage of time. It resonates with listeners who have experienced the longing for past times and the realization that life moves forward.

12. “Slip Slidin’ Away” by Paul Simon

Paul Simon’s “Slip Slidin’ Away” is a contemplative song that explores the theme of life’s impermanence and the elusive nature of goals and dreams.

The lyrics tell stories of various individuals, each grappling with their own fears and regrets as they realize that their aspirations may not lead to fulfillment. The chorus emphasizes the idea that the closer one gets to their destination, the more they feel like they are slipping away from it.

Simon’s gentle vocals and the song’s soothing melody provide a contrast to its introspective and somewhat pessimistic message. “Slip Slidin’ Away” encourages listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the importance of living in the moment.

13. “Do You Realize??” by The Flaming Lips

“Do You Realize??” by The Flaming Lips is a song that encourages listeners to live in the present moment and appreciate the beauty of life. The lyrics convey a profound message about the inevitability of death and the importance of cherishing each moment.

The song’s imagery, such as the line “you realize the sun doesn’t go down, it’s just an illusion caused by the world spinning round,” emphasizes the idea that life continues despite challenges. This perspective invites listeners to find hope and joy in the present, even when faced with the impermanence of life.

The song’s emotional depth and philosophical themes have made it one of the band’s most popular tracks, resonating with audiences as an anthem of existential awareness and appreciation.

14. “In My Life” by The Beatles

“In My Life” by The Beatles is a reflective song that looks back on the people and places that have shaped the narrator’s life. Written primarily by John Lennon, with contributions from Paul McCartney and George Martin, the song is often seen as a nostalgic remembrance of past relationships and experiences.

However, it also emphasizes the enduring significance of current love, as the narrator acknowledges that despite the memories, nothing compares to the present connection with a loved one. This dual perspective of past and present highlights the complexity of human relationships and the continuous impact of past experiences on one’s current life.

The song’s timeless appeal lies in its universal themes of love, memory, and personal growth.

15. “Push” by Madonna

“Push” by Madonna is a song that expresses gratitude towards someone who has been a source of motivation and strength. The lyrics convey the idea of being pushed to achieve one’s potential and the positive impact of having someone who believes in you. This perspective of appreciation and empowerment highlights the importance of supportive relationships in personal development.

The song’s energetic beat and uplifting message reflect Madonna’s ability to blend introspective themes with danceable music, encouraging listeners to embrace challenges and strive for self-improvement.

16. “A Stranger’s Point of View” by Conway Twitty

“A Stranger’s Point of View” by Conway Twitty explores themes of empathy and understanding through the lens of an outsider’s perspective.

The song narrates a situation where the protagonist reflects on a relationship, realizing that they may have overlooked the emotions of their partner. This perspective shift highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the feelings of others, even when they are not immediately apparent.

Twitty’s storytelling captures the complexity of human relationships and the need for empathy, urging listeners to consider how different viewpoints can offer valuable insights into their own lives.

17. “Which Side of the Glass” by George Strait

“Which Side of the Glass” by George Strait delves into themes of heartbreak, regret, and the complexities of human relationships. The song portrays a narrative where the protagonist reflects on a past relationship, observing the woman from a distance as she reminisces about better days.

The title itself suggests a metaphorical divide between the two individuals, highlighting their emotional separation and differing perspectives on their shared history.

The song captures the bittersweet nature of looking back on lost love, emphasizing the emotional distance that can develop between people who once shared a close connection.

18. “I Made It Through the Rain” by Barry Manilow

Barry Manilow’s “I Made It Through the Rain” is an anthem of resilience and perseverance. Originally about a struggling musician, Manilow revised the song to speak to the everyday person’s struggles, making it more universally relatable.

The lyrics convey a message of overcoming adversity and finding strength in difficult times. The song’s uplifting tone and Manilow’s powerful vocal performance emphasize the triumph of enduring life’s challenges and emerging stronger. It resonates with listeners as a reminder of the human capacity for resilience and the importance of hope and determination in the face of obstacles.

19. “Simple Twist of Fate” by Bob Dylan

“Simple Twist of Fate” by Bob Dylan is a poignant narrative about love and chance. The song tells the story of a brief romantic encounter that leaves a lasting impact on the narrator.

Through vivid imagery and storytelling, Dylan explores themes of fate, regret, and the unpredictability of life. The narrator reflects on the relationship and the missed opportunities, ultimately attributing the outcome to a “simple twist of fate.” This perspective highlights the role of chance in shaping personal experiences and the bittersweet realization that some connections are fleeting.

The song’s introspective nature and emotional depth make it a standout track on Dylan’s Blood on the Tracks album.

20. “Perspective” by Peter Gabriel

“Perspective” by Peter Gabriel is an early environmental song that critiques humanity’s impact on the Earth. The lyrics express a need for a broader viewpoint to understand the consequences of industrialization and environmental degradation.

Gabriel uses the metaphor of needing “perspective” to emphasize the importance of seeing the bigger picture and recognizing the interconnectedness of human actions and the natural world.

The song’s call for awareness and change reflects Gabriel’s broader themes of social and environmental responsibility, urging listeners to reconsider their relationship with the planet and each other.

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.