20 Songs About Rain

Rain has always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, I remember the soothing sound of droplets tapping against my window, each rhythm evoking a sense of calm and introspection. There’s something magical about a rainy day—the way the world transforms, colors deepen, and the air feels fresh and alive. It’s a time for reflection, creativity, and sometimes, a little melancholy.

In this playlist, I want to share a collection of 20 songs about rain that resonate with my experiences. Each track captures the essence of what rain means to us—whether it’s a backdrop for love, a symbol of change, or a moment of solitude. 

1. “Red Rain” by Peter Gabriel

“Red Rain” is the opening track on Peter Gabriel’s fifth solo studio album So (1986). The song is known for its strong percussive elements, featuring Stewart Copeland of The Police on the hi-hat and Jerry Marotta on drums. Gabriel’s inspiration for the song came from a series of vivid dreams where he saw bottles shaped like people falling from cliffs and breaking open to release a red liquid, followed by a torrential downpour of the same red liquid. This imagery was intended to be part of a scrapped film project called Mozo, where red rain would symbolize punishment for sins.

The song’s lyrics and atmosphere reflect themes of emotional turmoil and existential dread, resonating with the anxieties of the 1980s, such as the AIDS crisis and nuclear fallout. Gabriel’s haunting vocals and the song’s brooding tone have made “Red Rain” a fan favorite, despite its initial moderate commercial success.

2. “Feels Like Rain” by Buddy Guy

“Feels Like Rain,” performed by blues legend Buddy Guy and featuring Bonnie Raitt, is a soulful ballad that uses weather metaphors to explore the themes of love and resilience. The song depicts a romantic scene where two lovers lie under the stars, feeling the intensity of their connection as a storm approaches. The rain symbolizes both cleansing and hardship, representing the unpredictable nature of love and the challenges couples face together.

The lyrics encourage lovers to hold onto each other and weather the storms that life throws at them, emphasizing the strength and beauty of enduring love. The song’s bluesy feel and heartfelt delivery make it a poignant addition to any playlist about rain.

3. “Kentucky Rain” by Elvis Presley

“Kentucky Rain” is a sentimental ballad by Elvis Presley, written by Eddie Rabbitt and Dick Heard. Released in 1970, the song tells the story of a man searching for his lost love through various towns in Kentucky, enduring relentless rain along the way. The rain in the song serves as a metaphor for the man’s emotional state and the persistent challenges he faces in his quest.

The narrative-driven lyrics paint a vivid picture of the man’s journey, highlighting his determination and the depth of his love. The song’s melancholic tone and Presley’s emotive performance have made it a classic in his repertoire, resonating with listeners who appreciate its storytelling and emotional depth.

4. “The Rain Song” by Led Zeppelin

“The Rain Song” is a track from Led Zeppelin’s 1973 album Houses of the Holy. Written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, the song is a lush, orchestral piece that uses the changing seasons as a metaphor for the evolving emotions in a relationship. The song starts with a gentle acoustic guitar and gradually builds in intensity, featuring John Bonham’s restrained drumming with brushes and Page’s intricate guitar work.

Robert Plant has expressed that “The Rain Song” is one of his best vocal performances, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion and nuance. The lyrics reflect on the cyclical nature of love, with lines like “These are the seasons of emotion, and like the wind, they rise and fall” capturing the essence of the song’s theme. The orchestral arrangement and poetic lyrics make “The Rain Song” a standout track that beautifully encapsulates the bittersweet nature of love and loss.

5. “It Will Rain” by Bruno Mars

Released on September 27, 2011, “It Will Rain” by Bruno Mars is a poignant pop and pop-soul ballad featured on The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 soundtrack. The song delves into the emotional turmoil and despair associated with the potential loss of a deeply loved partner. Mars wrote the song during his Hooligans in Wondaland Tour and completed it after viewing an early cut of the film, which inspired him to capture the darker side of love depicted in the Twilight series.

The lyrics express the agony of heartbreak, with Mars singing about the overwhelming sadness and emptiness he would feel if his lover left him. The chorus vividly describes how the absence of love would bring unending rain, symbolizing relentless emotional pain. The music video, directed by Phil Pinto and Mars, complements the song’s themes by showcasing the singer’s emotional journey through love and anger during a breakup.

6. “The Rain” by Oran “Juice” Jones

“The Rain” by Oran “Juice” Jones, released in September 1986, is a crossover hit that blends R&B, synthpop, and new jack swing. The song narrates a man’s confrontation with his lover over her infidelity, culminating in a dramatic spoken-word recitation at the end. This recitation, written by Vincent Bell, adds a unique and memorable element to the track.

The song was Jones’s biggest hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and number nine on the Billboard Hot 100. It also achieved significant success internationally, particularly in the UK. “The Rain” is often remembered for its distinctive narrative style and Jones’s impassioned delivery, making it a standout track about betrayal and heartbreak5.

7. “Blame It on the Rain” by Milli Vanilli

“Blame It on the Rain” is a dance-pop song by Milli Vanilli, written by Diane Warren and released in July 1989. The song was part of their North American debut album Girl You Know It’s True. It advises the listener to attribute the end of a relationship to external factors like the rain and stars, rather than personal faults.

The song became Milli Vanilli’s third number one single on the Billboard Hot 100 and enjoyed international success, reaching the top 10 in several countries. Despite the group’s later scandal involving lip-syncing, “Blame It on the Rain” remains a catchy and memorable track from the late 1980s, characterized by its upbeat tempo and relatable lyrics about regret and loss7.

8. “I Wish It Would Rain” by The Temptations

“I Wish It Would Rain” by The Temptations, released in 1967, is a soulful ballad that captures the deep sorrow of a man whose partner has left him. Written by Motown staff writer Roger Penzabene, the song reflects his personal anguish after discovering his wife’s infidelity. Tragically, Penzabene committed suicide shortly after the song’s release, adding a layer of poignancy to its heartfelt lyrics.

David Ruffin’s impassioned lead vocals convey the intense emotional pain of the protagonist, who wishes for rain to hide his tears. The song reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the R&B chart. Its melancholic melody and powerful lyrics have made it a timeless classic, covered by numerous artists over the years.

9. “Rain on Me” by Lady Gaga ft. Ariana Grande

“Rain on Me,” released on May 22, 2020, is an empowering dance-pop and house track from Lady Gaga’s album Chromatica. The song features Ariana Grande and explores themes of resilience, healing, and finding strength amidst hardship. Both artists have publicly shared their personal struggles, with Gaga dealing with PTSD and fibromyalgia, and Grande coping with the aftermath of the Manchester bombing and the death of her ex-boyfriend Mac Miller.

The lyrics use rain as a metaphor for tears and emotional pain, but also for cleansing and renewal. The chorus, “I’d rather be dry, but at least I’m alive,” underscores the idea of enduring and surviving through tough times. The song’s upbeat tempo and disco influences, combined with the powerful vocals of Gaga and Grande, create an anthem of perseverance and self-empowerment. The accompanying music video, directed by Robert Rodriguez, features the duo dancing in a rainstorm, symbolizing their triumph over adversity.

10. “Rainy Days and Mondays” by The Carpenters

“Rainy Days and Mondays,” released in 1971, is a melancholic ballad by The Carpenters from their self-titled third album. Written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, the song captures the feelings of sadness and loneliness that often accompany rainy days and the start of the workweek. Karen Carpenter’s emotive vocals, combined with the song’s poignant lyrics, convey a deep sense of melancholy and introspection.

The song’s arrangement is notable for its use of harmonica and saxophone, adding to its wistful tone. Despite its somber theme, the song was a commercial success, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Adult Contemporary chart. The Carpenters’ ability to evoke such strong emotions through their music has made “Rainy Days and Mondays” a timeless classic.

11. “Let It Rain” by Eric Clapton

“Let It Rain,” a track from Eric Clapton’s 1970 self-titled debut solo album, is a heartfelt ballad that explores themes of love, longing, and personal transformation. The lyrics describe a narrator who has been surrounded by sorrow but finds solace and happiness through the metaphorical rain of love. The song’s chorus, “Let it rain, let it rain, let your love rain down on me,” emphasizes the healing power of love.

The song features a bright, happy guitar riff and showcases Clapton’s signature blues-rock style. The rain in the song symbolizes emotional cleansing and renewal, highlighting the transformative power of love in overcoming sadness and finding fulfillment. “Let It Rain” remains one of Clapton’s enduring hits, celebrated for its emotional depth and musical craftsmanship.

12. “Only Happy When It Rains” by Garbage

“Only Happy When It Rains,” released in 1995, is an alternative rock song by Garbage from their self-titled debut album. The song delves into the complex relationship between sadness and happiness, with lead vocalist Shirley Manson expressing a preference for the darker, more melancholic aspects of life. The chorus, “I’m only happy when it rains,” serves as a metaphor for finding comfort in what others might consider dreary or depressing.

The song’s lyrics suggest a deeper emotional connection to sadness, with lines like “I feel good when things are going wrong” and “I only listen to the sad, sad songs.” This embrace of melancholy was reflective of the 90s grunge era’s fascination with angst and emotional authenticity. “Only Happy When It Rains” received critical acclaim for its catchy, high-energy production and Manson’s alluring vocals, becoming one of Garbage’s signature songs.

13. “Crying in the Rain” by The Everly Brothers

“Crying in the Rain” is a poignant ballad by The Everly Brothers, released in January 1962. Written by Carole King and Howard Greenfield, this song is their only collaboration. The song reached number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 and has been covered by various artists over the years.

The lyrics tell the story of a heartbroken man who hides his tears by crying in the rain, using the weather as a metaphor for concealing his sorrow. The Everly Brothers’ harmonies add a layer of emotional depth to the song, making it a classic example of their ability to convey complex emotions through music. The song’s theme of masking pain and the evocative imagery of rain make it a timeless addition to any playlist about rain.

14. “Rain” by The Beatles

“Rain,” released in 1966 as the B-side to “Paperback Writer,” is a psychedelic rock song by The Beatles. Written primarily by John Lennon, the song explores themes of reality and illusion, influenced by the band’s experiences with LSD. The lyrics suggest that rain and shine are just states of mind, reflecting a detached, almost philosophical view of the world.

The recording of “Rain” is notable for its innovative use of studio techniques. The Beatles recorded the rhythm track at a fast tempo and then slowed it down, giving the song a unique, droning quality. Additionally, the track features one of the earliest uses of backward vocals in popular music, adding to its surreal atmosphere. Ringo Starr’s drumming is particularly celebrated, with Starr himself considering it one of his best performances. The song’s experimental nature and its exploration of altered states of consciousness make it a fascinating piece in The Beatles’ catalog.

15. “Here Comes the Rain Again” by Eurythmics

“Here Comes the Rain Again,” released in January 1984, is a melancholic synth-pop song by British duo Eurythmics, from their third studio album Touch. Written by Annie Lennox and David A. Stewart, the song uses rain as a metaphor for emotional turmoil and depression. The lyrics capture a sense of longing and introspection, with Lennox’s sultry vocals adding to the song’s haunting mood.

The song’s arrangement features a blend of minor-key compositions, pizzicato strings, and chiming guitar chords, creating a lush, atmospheric soundscape. It became a commercial success, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and number eight on the UK Singles Chart. The accompanying music video, directed by Stewart, Jonathan Gershfield, and Jon Roseman, visually complements the song’s themes with its moody, overcast settings. “Here Comes the Rain Again” remains one of Eurythmics’ most enduring and evocative tracks.

16. “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” by B.J. Thomas

“Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head,” released in October 1969, is an iconic pop song performed by B.J. Thomas, written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David for the film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The song’s uplifting lyrics describe a person who remains optimistic despite life’s troubles, symbolized by the falling raindrops.

The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks in January 1970 and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Its cheerful melody and positive message have made it a timeless classic, often used in films and commercials to evoke a sense of carefree resilience. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its simple yet profound message of maintaining a positive outlook in the face of adversity.

17. “November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses

“November Rain,” released in February 1992, is a power ballad by Guns N’ Roses from their album Use Your Illusion I. Written by lead vocalist Axl Rose, the song is known for its elaborate orchestration, emotional depth, and a memorable guitar solo by Slash. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love and loss, suggesting that romantic relationships are impermanent and constantly changing. The metaphor of “November rain” evokes a sense of melancholy and inevitable sorrow, reflecting the transient nature of happiness in love.

The music video, directed by Andy Morahan, is one of the most iconic in rock history, featuring a lavish wedding and a dramatic funeral, which visually underscores the song’s themes of love and loss. The video is based on the short story “Without You” by Del James, which details the tumultuous relationship of a rock star, mirroring Rose’s own experiences5. The song’s grandiose production and poignant lyrics have made it a timeless classic in the rock genre.

18. “Rhythm of the Rain” by The Cascades

“Rhythm of the Rain,” released in 1962, is a classic pop song by The Cascades. Written by the band’s lead singer John Gummoe, the song became a major hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the US Easy Listening chart. The song’s gentle melody and soothing rhythm mimic the sound of falling rain, creating a calming and reflective atmosphere.

The lyrics tell the story of a heartbroken man who listens to the rain as it falls, using it as a metaphor for his tears and sorrow over a lost love. The rain serves as a constant reminder of his heartache, and he pleads with it to stop, hoping that his pain will end. The song’s simple yet evocative lyrics, combined with its memorable melody, have ensured its enduring popularity over the decades.

19. “I Can’t Stand the Rain” by Ann Peebles

“I Can’t Stand the Rain,” released in 1973, is a soulful track by Ann Peebles from her album of the same name. Co-written by Peebles, Don Bryant, and Bernard “Bernie” Miller, the song became one of Peebles’ biggest hits, reaching number six on the Billboard R&B chart. The song’s distinctive sound is characterized by its use of a Hi Rhythm Section and a haunting electric timbale, which mimics the sound of raindrops.

The lyrics express the pain of seeing the rain fall on the window, which reminds the narrator of happier times with a former lover. The rain symbolizes the emotional turmoil and loneliness she feels in the absence of her partner. Peebles’ powerful and emotive vocal delivery, combined with the song’s innovative production, has made “I Can’t Stand the Rain” a staple in the soul and R&B genres.

20. “Can You Stand the Rain” by New Edition

“Can You Stand the Rain,” released in 1988, is an R&B ballad by New Edition from their album Heart Break. Written and produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, the song explores the theme of enduring love through difficult times. The lyrics challenge the listener to consider whether their love can withstand the metaphorical storms and hardships that life inevitably brings.

The song’s smooth melody and harmonized vocals create a poignant and heartfelt atmosphere. The chorus, “Can you stand the rain?” serves as a powerful metaphor for the trials and tribulations that test the strength of a relationship. The song became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and solidifying New Edition’s status as one of the leading R&B groups of the era.

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.