20 Songs About Royalty, Kings And Queens

When I think of royalty, images of grand palaces, majestic crowns, and the intricate dance of power and grace come to mind. As someone who has always been fascinated by the allure and mystique of kings and queens, I find that music offers a unique lens through which to explore these regal themes. 

Songs about royalty capture the essence of leadership, the weight of a crown, and the timeless allure of a throne. Whether it’s the celebration of a queen’s strength or the introspection of a king’s solitude, these melodies resonate with the grandeur and complexity of royal life. 

In this playlist, I invite you to join me on a musical journey through 20 songs that beautifully encapsulate the spirit of royalty, kings, and queens.

1. “Royals” by Lorde

“Royals” by Lorde is a critically acclaimed song that critiques the lavish lifestyles often glorified in pop culture. Released in 2013, the song became an anthem for those disenchanted with materialism and wealth. Lorde, whose real name is Ella Yelich-O’Connor, wrote the song as a response to the unrealistic portrayals of luxury in mainstream music. She was inspired partly by a photograph of baseball legend George Brett, which led her to think about the concept of royalty and its modern-day implications.

The song’s lyrics highlight the disparity between the opulent lifestyles depicted in media and the more modest realities of most people’s lives. Lines like “I’ve never seen a diamond in the flesh” and “We don’t care, we’re driving Cadillacs in our dreams” underscore this contrast. Lorde’s minimalist production and haunting vocals further emphasize the song’s message, making it a powerful critique of consumer culture.

2. “Queen of Hearts” by Juice Newton

“Queen of Hearts” is a country-pop song by Juice Newton, released in 1981. The song, written by Hank DeVito, became one of Newton’s biggest hits, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The lyrics use the metaphor of a card game to describe a tumultuous romantic relationship. The “Queen of Hearts” represents a woman who is both alluring and dangerous, playing with the singer’s emotions much like a high-stakes game.

The upbeat tempo and catchy melody contrast with the song’s underlying theme of love and betrayal. Newton’s energetic performance and the song’s memorable chorus have made it a timeless classic in the country-pop genre.

3. “Queen of My Heart” by Westlife

“Queen of My Heart” is a ballad by the Irish boy band Westlife, released in 2001. The song is a heartfelt declaration of love and devotion, with the lyrics expressing deep affection and commitment. It was written by John McLaughlin, Wayne Hector, and Steve Robson, and it became one of Westlife’s signature songs, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart.

The song’s orchestral arrangement and emotive vocals highlight its romantic theme. Lines like “So I say a little prayer, and hope my dreams will take me there” and “You’re the queen of my heart” convey a sense of longing and admiration, making it a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions.

4. “Prince Johnny” by St. Vincent

“Prince Johnny” is a song by St. Vincent, the stage name of musician Annie Clark, from her 2014 self-titled album. The song is a complex and introspective exploration of identity, friendship, and self-destruction. It tells the story of a character named Prince Johnny, who embodies both vulnerability and excess.

The lyrics are rich with imagery and metaphor, describing Prince Johnny as someone who “tried to be a saint” but “ended up a father.” The song addresses themes of acceptance and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. St. Vincent’s intricate guitar work and layered production add depth to the song, making it a standout track on the album.

5. “Prince Ali” by Robin Williams / Will Smith

“Prince Ali” is a vibrant and theatrical song from Disney’s Aladdin, originally performed by Robin Williams as the Genie in the 1992 animated film and later by Will Smith in the 2019 live-action remake. The song, composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman, introduces Prince Ali Ababwa, Aladdin’s royal alter ego, to the people of Agrabah. The Genie, with his magical abilities, creates an extravagant parade to showcase Prince Ali’s supposed wealth and power, complete with elephants, dancers, and a multitude of attendants.

The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo and flamboyant style, reflecting the Genie’s larger-than-life personality. It incorporates various pop culture references and humorous asides, making it a standout number in the film. In the 2019 version, Will Smith’s rendition includes hip-hop elements and updated lyrics to suit his performance style, while still maintaining the original’s exuberant spirit.

6. “Queens Don’t” by RaeLynn

“Queens Don’t” is a powerful anthem by country singer RaeLynn, released in 2018. The song, co-written by RaeLynn, Corey Crowder, and J. Hart, serves as a message of female empowerment and self-worth. RaeLynn describes it as a song for anyone striving to achieve their dreams and stay true to themselves, regardless of their background or circumstances.

The lyrics emphasize the strength and dignity of women, portraying them as queens who hold their heads high and never settle for less than they deserve. With lines like “Queens don’t hate, queens don’t fight, queens don’t stay unless their king treats her right,” the song encourages self-respect and resilience. RaeLynn’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s uplifting melody make it an inspiring track for listeners.

7. “King of Wishful Thinking” by Go West

“King of Wishful Thinking” is a pop song by the British duo Go West, released in 1990. Written by Peter Cox, Richard Drummie, and Martin Page, the song gained widespread recognition as part of the Pretty Woman soundtrack. It later appeared on Go West’s album Indian Summer.

The song’s lyrics deal with the theme of denial and moving on after a breakup. The protagonist insists that he will be fine without his former lover, despite his lingering feelings. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, “I’ll get over you, I know I will,” contrast with the underlying sadness of the lyrics, creating a memorable and relatable tune. The music video, known for its quirky and surreal elements, further cemented the song’s popularity.

8. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA

“Dancing Queen” is one of ABBA’s most iconic songs, released in 1976 as the lead single from their album Arrival. Written by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Stig Anderson, the song captures the joy and freedom of dancing at a discotheque. With its infectious melody and lush production, “Dancing Queen” quickly became a global hit, topping charts in multiple countries, including the United States.

The lyrics celebrate the euphoria of being young and carefree, with the famous chorus, “You are the dancing queen, young and sweet, only seventeen.” The song’s universal appeal and timeless quality have made it a staple at parties and events worldwide. Its legacy continues through various covers and its prominent inclusion in the Mamma Mia! musical and films.

9. “The King of Sunset Town” by Marillion

“The King of Sunset Town” is the opening track from Marillion’s 1989 album Seasons End. The song marks a significant transition for the band as it was the first album to feature new lead singer Steve Hogarth, following the departure of original frontman Fish. The lyrics, initially inspired by a work of G.K. Chesterton, were later influenced by the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989. The song paints a vivid picture of a once-glorious ruler now overseeing a town in decline, symbolizing the fall from grace and the impact of political upheaval.

Musically, the track features Marillion’s signature progressive rock sound, with intricate guitar work, atmospheric keyboards, and Hogarth’s emotive vocals. The song’s themes of loss and change are underscored by its dynamic arrangement, making it a powerful opener for the album.

10. “Baby Queen” by Gorillaz

“Baby Queen” by Gorillaz, from their 2023 album Cracker Island, is a song inspired by a real-life encounter Damon Albarn had with the Princess of Thailand in 1997. During a Blur concert, the young princess was given a throne to sit on, and she famously stage-dived into the crowd during the performance. Albarn later had a dream about this princess, imagining her grown up, which inspired the song.

The lyrics reflect on this surreal experience and the passage of time, with Albarn reminiscing about the princess’s youthful exuberance and imagining her transformation into a queen. The song blends Gorillaz’s characteristic electronic and alternative rock elements, creating a dreamy and nostalgic atmosphere.

11. “Caribbean Queen” by Billy Ocean

“Caribbean Queen (No More Love on the Run)” is a 1984 hit by Trinidadian-British singer Billy Ocean. The song was originally released as “European Queen” but was re-titled and re-recorded for different markets, with the “Caribbean Queen” version becoming the most successful. It topped the US Billboard Hot 100 and earned Ocean a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.

The song tells the story of a passionate but fleeting romance with a glamorous woman, referred to as the “Caribbean Queen.” Its infectious dance beat, catchy melody, and Ocean’s smooth vocals made it a staple of 1980s pop music. The saxophone solo by Vernon Jeffrey Smith adds a distinctive touch to the track, enhancing its appeal.

12. “King of Sorrow” by Sade

“King of Sorrow” is a soulful ballad by English band Sade, from their 2000 album Lovers Rock. Released as the album’s second single, the song explores themes of heartache and emotional burden. Sade Adu’s poignant lyrics and haunting voice convey a deep sense of melancholy, as she sings about the overwhelming weight of sorrow that no one can alleviate.

The music video, directed by Sophie Muller, complements the song’s narrative by depicting a single mother struggling to balance her responsibilities and her dreams. The video was filmed in Puerto Rico and draws inspiration from the 1960 film Two Women, starring Sophia Loren. The song’s blend of R&B, soul, and soft rock elements, along with its introspective lyrics, make it a standout track in Sade’s discography.

13. “Princess of China” by Coldplay ft. Rihanna

“Princess of China” is a duet by British rock band Coldplay and Barbadian singer Rihanna, featured on Coldplay’s fifth studio album, Mylo Xyloto (2011). The song explores themes of love and betrayal using the metaphor of a fairytale gone wrong. The narrative revolves around a prince and a princess whose relationship deteriorates, symbolizing the pain of separation and the shattering of what once seemed like a perfect union. The lyrics, “Once upon a time, we fell apart / You’re holding in your hands the two halves of my heart,” capture the essence of a love story that has turned tragic.

Musically, “Princess of China” blends electronic rock, electropop, and R&B elements, creating a lush, atmospheric soundscape. The song received mixed reviews from critics but was praised for the collaboration between Chris Martin and Rihanna. The accompanying music video, directed by Adria Petty and Alan Bibby, features striking visuals inspired by Asian themes, including a sword fight and scenes of Rihanna imitating a multi-armed goddess, adding to the song’s dramatic narrative.

14. “King of Pain” by The Police

“King of Pain” is a song by The Police from their 1983 album Synchronicity. Written by lead vocalist and bassist Sting, the song delves into themes of empathy, suffering, and existential angst. The lyrics describe various symbols of pain and sorrow, such as “There’s a little black spot on the sun today” and “There’s a skeleton choking on a crust of bread,” which reflect Sting’s feelings of personal turmoil and heartbreak following his divorce.

The song’s haunting melody and melancholic tone are complemented by its intricate arrangement, featuring Andy Summers’ distinctive guitar work and Stewart Copeland’s dynamic drumming. “King of Pain” has been interpreted as a meditation on the inevitability of suffering and the human condition, making it one of The Police’s most introspective and enduring tracks.

15. “Candle in the Wind 1997” by Elton John

“Candle in the Wind 1997,” also known as “Goodbye England’s Rose,” is a re-written version of Elton John’s 1973 hit “Candle in the Wind.” This version was released as a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales, following her tragic death in 1997. The song’s lyrics, adapted by Bernie Taupin, honor Diana’s humanitarian efforts and her impact on the world, with lines like “Goodbye England’s rose / May you ever grow in our hearts” and “You were the grace that placed itself where lives were torn apart”.

The song was performed by Elton John at Princess Diana’s funeral and became a global phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. The emotional depth and sincerity of the tribute resonated with millions, making it a poignant farewell to the beloved princess.

16. “Princess” by Big Bad Bosses

“Princess” is a song by Big Bad Bosses, a comedy pop group that parodies late 90s to early 2000s boy bands and features characters based on famous video game villains. The group consists of Jirard Khalil (Big-Bow), Alex Faciane (Ronik), Satchell Drakes (G-Cash), and Nathan Sharp (Sephy), with music composed by Jake Kaufman. The song “Princess” humorously explores the romantic entanglements of these villainous characters, particularly focusing on G-Cash’s (Ganondorf’s) infatuation with Princess Zelda.

The lyrics playfully address the complexities of their relationship, blending humor and villainy with lines like “Got it going on, got that brain that won’t quit / I feel so guilty, people think I’m hitting it.” The song is part of the album Power Overwhelming, which features various tracks that parody the boy band genre while celebrating the iconic villains of video games.

17. “Temple of the King” by Rainbow

“Temple of the King” is a song by the British rock band Rainbow, featured on their 1975 debut album Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow. Written by lead singer Ronnie James Dio and guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, the song tells a mystical story of a spiritual journey. The lyrics describe a young man’s quest to reach the “Temple of the King,” symbolizing a search for wisdom and enlightenment. The narrative is steeped in medieval and fantasy imagery, reflecting Blackmore’s fascination with renaissance and mystical themes.

Musically, the song combines elements of rock with a folk-inspired melody, creating a haunting and atmospheric sound. The storytelling nature of the lyrics and Dio’s powerful vocals have made “Temple of the King” a beloved track among fans of classic rock and fantasy-themed music.

18. “God Save the Queen” by Sex Pistols

“God Save the Queen” is a punk rock anthem by the Sex Pistols, released in 1977. The song was written by the band as a critique of the British monarchy and the socio-political conditions in the UK during the late 1970s. The lyrics compare the monarchy to a fascist regime and express disillusionment with the establishment, capturing the frustration and anger of the working class.

The release of “God Save the Queen” coincided with Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee, which added to its controversy and impact. Despite being banned by the BBC, the song became a symbol of rebellion and is considered one of the defining tracks of the punk rock movement. Its provocative lyrics and aggressive sound challenged the status quo and left a lasting legacy in music history.

19. “Prince Charming” by Adam and the Ants

“Prince Charming” is a song by the British band Adam and the Ants, released in 1981 as the title track of their album Prince Charming. Written by Adam Ant and Marco Pirroni, the song became a number-one hit in the UK. It features a catchy new wave sound and an extravagant music video that portrays Adam Ant in a male Cinderella role.

The lyrics of “Prince Charming” convey a message of self-confidence and individuality, encouraging listeners to embrace their uniqueness. The song’s memorable chorus and dance routine contributed to its popularity, and it remains one of Adam and the Ants’ most iconic tracks. The song’s playful yet empowering theme resonates with the idea of redefining traditional notions of royalty and charm.

20. “Killer Queen” by Queen

“Killer Queen” is a song by the British rock band Queen, written by lead singer Freddie Mercury. Released in 1974 on their album Sheer Heart Attack, the song became Queen’s first major hit in the US and reached number two on the UK Singles Chart. “Killer Queen” is about a high-class call girl and is characterized by its sophisticated lyrics, piano-led melody, and elaborate vocal harmonies.

Mercury’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the titular character, who is both glamorous and dangerous. The song’s intricate arrangement and Brian May’s distinctive guitar work showcase Queen’s signature style. “Killer Queen” marked a turning point for the band, establishing them as a major force in rock music and highlighting Mercury’s flair for theatrical storytelling.

Submit Your Song to This Playlist

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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.