13 Songs About Silence And Being Quiet

As someone who has always found solace in moments of quiet, I’ve come to appreciate the power of silence in a world that never seems to stop buzzing. There’s something magical about those rare instances when the noise fades away, and we’re left with nothing but our thoughts and the gentle whisper of our surroundings. It’s in these moments that I’ve often turned to music – not to fill the void, but to celebrate and explore the beauty of stillness.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that many artists share this fascination with silence and quietude. They’ve crafted songs that capture the essence of these tranquil moments, exploring themes of introspection, peace, and the profound impact of simply being still. 

In this playlist, I’ll take you on a journey through 13 songs that beautifully encapsulate the experience of silence and being quiet.

1. “The Quiet One” by The Who

“The Quiet One” is a song by The Who from their 1981 album Face Dances. Written by bassist John Entwistle, the song addresses his reputation as the “quiet” member of the band. The lyrics emphasize that while others may perceive him as quiet, it is actually everyone else who is too loud. Entwistle conveys that he communicates effectively through his eyes rather than words, challenging the notion that being quiet equates to being insignificant. The chorus highlights the depth of his character with the phrase “still waters run deep,” suggesting that there is more to him than meets the eye.

2. “Funeral Blues” by Benjamin Britten

“Funeral Blues,” also known as “Stop All the Clocks,” is a poignant song composed by Benjamin Britten with lyrics by W.H. Auden. Originally written as a satirical piece for the play The Ascent of F6, it was later reworked into a more serious cabaret song. The lyrics express profound grief and a desire to halt the world in mourning for a lost loved one. The imagery of stopping clocks, silencing pianos, and dismantling the sun conveys the speaker’s overwhelming sense of loss and the futility of life without the deceased. The song captures the quietude and stillness that often accompanies deep sorrow.

3. “Enjoy The Silence” by Susanna and the Magical Orchestra

Susanna and the Magical Orchestra’s cover of “Enjoy The Silence” is a minimalist and ethereal rendition of the Depeche Mode classic. This version strips down the original’s synth-pop elements, focusing on a hauntingly quiet and introspective atmosphere. The lyrics, which discuss the power of words and the solace found in silence, are delivered with a delicate and almost whisper-like vocal performance. The minimalist arrangement enhances the theme of finding peace and meaning in silence, making it a fitting addition to a playlist centered on quietude and introspection.

4. “Quiet On Tha Set” by N.W.A.

“Quiet On Tha Set” is a track by N.W.A. from their groundbreaking album Straight Outta Compton. Unlike the other songs in this list, it uses the concept of silence in a different context. The song is a bold declaration of dominance and control, with “quiet on the set” serving as a command for attention and respect. The aggressive lyrics and assertive delivery by MC Ren emphasize the group’s authority and the demand for silence as a form of power. This track contrasts with the others by using silence not as a theme of peace or introspection, but as a tool for asserting dominance and control.

5. “Silence In Your Head” by String Cheese Incident

“Silence In Your Head” by String Cheese Incident is a reflective and introspective track that delves into the theme of inner peace and mental clarity. The song’s lyrics explore the idea of finding silence within oneself amidst the chaos of the external world. With a blend of acoustic and electric instrumentation, the song creates a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The band’s intricate musicianship and harmonious vocals further enhance the meditative quality of the track, making it a perfect addition to a playlist focused on quiet and introspection.

6. “Hush” by Deep Purple

“Hush” by Deep Purple is a classic rock anthem from their 1968 debut album Shades of Deep Purple. The song is known for its dynamic guitar riffs and powerful vocals. The lyrics tell the story of someone pleading for their lover to keep quiet about their relationship, as they know it may cause trouble. This theme of secrecy and hidden love adds a layer of tension and urgency to the song. Despite its energetic and upbeat rock sound, “Hush” captures the essence of keeping things quiet and under wraps, making it a unique take on the theme of silence.

7. “Our Lips Are Sealed” by The Go-Go’s

“Our Lips Are Sealed” by The Go-Go’s is a timeless pop-rock song that became a hit in the early 1980s. Written by Go-Go’s guitarist Jane Wiedlin and Terry Hall of The Specials, the song addresses the theme of secrecy and the power of silence in the face of gossip and rumors. The lyrics convey a message of resilience and solidarity, with the refrain “Our lips are sealed” serving as a declaration of keeping private matters confidential. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and playful energy contrast with its serious subject matter, creating a compelling and memorable track about the strength found in silence.

8. “Silence Kid” by Pavement

“Silence Kid,” the opening track from Pavement’s 1994 album Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain, delves into themes of urban isolation and the internal struggles of a “silent kid” navigating city life. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of disconnection and aimlessness, with the protagonist feeling lost and without guidance. The mention of a pawn shop symbolizes a transient existence, and the plea not to lose one’s “graceful tongue” suggests a fear of losing one’s voice or identity amidst the chaos. Musically, the song features abrupt shifts in tempo and tone, mirroring the unpredictable nature of urban life and the internal turmoil of the silent kid.

9. “Sons of the Silent Age” by David Bowie

“Sons of the Silent Age” is a track from David Bowie’s 1977 album “Heroes”. The song stands out on the album for its revivalist feel, drawing on Bowie’s earlier lyrical themes and obsessions. The lyrics describe a group of enigmatic figures, the “sons of the silent age,” who live in a state of suspended animation, detached from the world around them. The song’s verses are harmonically stable, while the chorus features a more dramatic and powerful melody. Bowie’s use of augmented chords and his Cockney vocal delivery add to the song’s eerie and cinematic quality. The track serves as a breather on the album, positioned between the epic title track and the intense “Blackout”.

10. “Silent Shout” by The Knife

“Silent Shout,” the title track from The Knife’s 2006 album, is a dark and haunting electronic piece that explores themes of stifled expression and hidden anxieties. The song features Karin Dreijer’s heavily pitch-shifted vocals, creating a sense of otherworldliness and obscured intent. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and the inability to express oneself fully, akin to the feeling of wanting to scream in a dream but being unable to. Musically, the track is characterized by its low, thrumming bass and delicate, meandering synth arpeggios, evoking a sinister and eerie atmosphere. The Knife’s use of electronic distortions and dark, trance-like rhythms contribute to the album’s overall theme of subversive pop and radical feminist politics.

11. “I Better Be Quiet Now” by Elliott Smith

“I Better Be Quiet Now” is a melancholic track from Elliott Smith’s 2000 album Figure 8. The song delves into themes of regret, loneliness, and the aftermath of a painful breakup. Smith’s introspective lyrics express a longing to hear from a lost lover and the realization that he must come to terms with the silence left in her absence. The refrain “I better be quiet now, I’m tired of wasting my breath” encapsulates his resignation and the futility he feels in trying to reach out. The acoustic arrangement and Smith’s delicate vocal delivery add to the song’s somber and reflective tone, making it a poignant exploration of silence and emotional solitude.

12. “A Quiet Place” by Garnet Mimms & The Enchanters

“A Quiet Place” by Garnet Mimms & The Enchanters is a soulful R&B track that captures the yearning for peace and tranquility amidst the chaos of urban life. The song’s lyrics describe the singer’s frustration with the constant noise of his surroundings, including loud neighbors, incessant arguments, and other disturbances that make it impossible to find rest. Mimms’ powerful vocal performance conveys a deep sense of longing for a serene and quiet place where he can find solace. The song’s rhythm and blues style, combined with its relatable theme, make it a heartfelt plea for silence and calm in a noisy world.

13. “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel

“The Sound of Silence” is one of Simon & Garfunkel’s most iconic songs, originally released in 1964. Written by Paul Simon, the song explores themes of isolation, communication breakdown, and societal apathy. The lyrics describe a vision of a world where people are disconnected from one another, “talking without speaking” and “hearing without listening.” The phrase “Hello darkness, my old friend” suggests a comfort found in solitude and silence, contrasting with the superficiality and noise of modern life. The haunting melody and poetic lyrics have made the song a timeless reflection on the human condition and the profound impact of silence in a world filled with empty chatter.

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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.