15 Songs About Swimming

As a swimmer myself, I know there’s something magical about gliding through the water, feeling the cool embrace of the pool or ocean around you. It’s no wonder that this exhilarating experience has inspired countless musicians to create songs about swimming. Whether it’s the freedom of movement, the tranquility of being submerged, or the sheer joy of splashing around, swimming has found its way into the lyrics and melodies of various artists across different genres.

Here, I’ve compiled a list of 15 songs that capture the essence of swimming in their own unique ways. From pop hits to indie gems, these tracks dive into the depths of aquatic inspiration. 

1. “Under The Sea” by Samuel E. Wright

“Under The Sea” is a lively calypso-style song from Disney’s 1989 animated film The Little Mermaid. Composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman, this upbeat track is performed by Samuel E. Wright as the character Sebastian the Crab. The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1989 and the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media in 1991.

The song is a persuasive plea from Sebastian to Ariel, urging her to appreciate the underwater world and avoid the human realm. Sebastian highlights the carefree and vibrant life under the sea compared to the challenges and hardships of human life. Despite his efforts, Ariel remains determined to pursue her dreams on land. The song’s catchy melody and joyful rhythm have made it a timeless favorite, often featured in Disney parks and productions.

2. “Cold Water” by Major Lazer ft. Justin Bieber and MØ

“Cold Water” is a 2016 hit song by Major Lazer featuring Justin Bieber and MØ. The song blends electronic dance music with acoustic elements and carries a message of support and companionship. Bieber’s lyrics describe being a lifeline for someone going through tough times, using the metaphor of jumping into cold water to save them.

The song emphasizes themes of empathy and enduring commitment, with Bieber singing about being there for someone in distress and offering comfort and stability. MØ’s bridge adds a perspective of seeking help and companionship, further reinforcing the song’s message of mutual support. “Cold Water” was well-received for its uplifting lyrics and catchy production, becoming a popular anthem for resilience and friendship.

3. “My Friend Has A Swimming Pool” by Mausi

“My Friend Has A Swimming Pool” by Mausi is an upbeat electro-pop song that captures the essence of a carefree summer party. Released as a single, the track is known for its infectious energy and danceable beats, making it a must-have for summer playlists.

The song narrates a fun-filled night of swimming, drinking, and dancing at a friend’s pool. The lyrics set a lively tone right from the start, with lines like “When the sun starts sinking, we’ve already been drinking,” emphasizing the spontaneous and joyous nature of the gathering. It’s a celebration of friendship, summer, and the simple pleasures of life, perfectly encapsulating the vibe of a poolside party.

4. “Swimming Pool Blues” by Miniature Tigers

“Swimming Pool Blues” by Miniature Tigers is a melancholic yet breezy pop song from their 2014 album Cruel Runnings. The song reflects on the sorrow and confusion following the loss of a significant relationship. The singer reminisces about happier times spent swimming and expresses a sense of loss and longing.

The lyrics convey the emotional weight of the breakup, with lines like “Haven’t been swimming all summer” symbolizing the singer’s inability to enjoy activities they once loved. The swimming pool serves as a metaphor for the emotional depths the singer is navigating, feeling “lost and confused” without their partner. Despite the sadness, the song maintains a light, summery feel, blending introspection with catchy melodies.

5. “Wild Swimming” by Martha Tilston

“Wild Swimming” by Martha Tilston is a folk song that celebrates the exhilaration and freedom of swimming in natural bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and oceans. The song captures the sensory overload and joy that comes from immersing oneself in the natural world. Tilston uses swimming as a metaphor for a passionate and adventurous love, willing to take risks and embrace the unknown for the thrill it brings. The lyrics convey a sense of liberation and connection to nature, making it an ode to the simple yet profound pleasures of wild swimming.

6. “Nightswimming” by R.E.M.

“Nightswimming” by R.E.M. is a nostalgic ballad from their 1992 album Automatic for the People. The song reflects on the innocence and freedom of youth, reminiscing about late-night swims with friends. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing for simpler times, with the singer recalling specific memories triggered by a photograph. The song’s gentle piano melody and reflective tone create a poignant atmosphere, emphasizing the contrast between past carefree nights and the responsibilities of adult life. “Nightswimming” is celebrated for its emotional depth and evocative storytelling.

7. “Swimming Lesson” by Eels

“Swimming Lesson” by Eels, from their 2010 album Tomorrow Morning, uses swimming as a metaphor for navigating life’s challenges. The song’s lyrics discuss the struggles and obstacles one faces, comparing them to the difficulty of learning to swim. The recurring theme is resilience and the necessity to keep trying despite setbacks. The song’s tone is both gritty and hopeful, reflecting the band’s signature blend of raw emotion and introspective lyrics. It encourages listeners to persevere and find strength in the face of adversity.

8. “I Go Swimming” by Peter Gabriel

“I Go Swimming” by Peter Gabriel is an energetic and rhythmic song that celebrates the physical act of swimming. Originally an undercooked studio outtake from the early 1980s, it gained popularity through live performances and was included in the soundtrack of the 1984 film Hard to Hold. The song features a funky groove with slap bass and playful lyrics that repeat the joy of swimming in various bodies of water. Gabriel’s performance, both in studio and live, captures a sense of fun and liberation, making it one of his breeziest and most enjoyable tracks.

9. “Swimming In Miami” by Owl City

“Swimming In Miami” by Owl City, from the 2007 album Of June, is a dreamy synth-pop track that evokes a sense of escapism and tranquility. The song’s lyrics, written by Adam Young, are abstract and open to interpretation, often reflecting his experiences with insomnia. Thematically, the song is about finding a safe and serene place, both physically and emotionally. Young sings about being “alone above the atmosphere” and describes a peaceful, almost meditative state while swimming in Miami at night. The song’s soothing synths and ambient sounds enhance the feeling of floating away from worries and stress, creating a calming auditory experience.

10. “Santa Monica” by Everclear

“Santa Monica” by Everclear, from their 1995 album Sparkle and Fade, is a rock song that explores themes of escape and starting anew. Written by lead vocalist Art Alexakis, the song reflects his personal struggles with depression and the aftermath of a painful breakup. The lyrics describe a desire to leave behind a troubled past and find solace by the ocean in Santa Monica. The chorus, “We could live beside the ocean, leave the fire behind, swim out past the breakers, watch the world die,” captures the yearning for a fresh start and the healing power of the sea. The song’s energetic guitar riffs and anthemic quality make it a powerful expression of resilience and hope.

11. “Swimming Pools (Drank)” by Kendrick Lamar

“Swimming Pools (Drank)” by Kendrick Lamar, from his 2012 album good kid, m.A.A.d city, uses the metaphor of a swimming pool to discuss the dangers of alcohol abuse. The song delves into Lamar’s personal experiences and observations of excessive drinking within his family and community. The repetitive chorus, “Pour up (drank), head shot (drank), sit down (drank), stand up (drank),” highlights the cycle of consumption and its consequences. Through vivid storytelling and introspective lyrics, Lamar addresses the pressures to conform to drinking culture and the internal conflict it creates. The song’s haunting production and poignant message have made it a critical and commercial success.

12. “Underwater” by Mika

“Underwater” by Mika, from his 2012 album The Origin of Love, is a pop ballad that explores the transformative power of love. The song uses water as a metaphor for the emotional depths and challenges one can face. Mika sings about feeling overwhelmed by life’s struggles but finding solace and strength in a loving relationship. The lyrics, “All I need is the love you breathe, put your lips on me and I can live underwater,” express how love provides the resilience needed to endure difficult times. The song’s lush production and Mika’s emotive vocals create a sense of immersion, making the listener feel as though they are floating through the turbulent yet beautiful waters of love.

13. “Night Swimmers” by Foals

“Night Swimmers” by Foals, from their 2015 album What Went Down, is an evocative track that captures the essence of a secret, nocturnal adventure. The song’s lyrics describe a hot summer day transitioning into a cool night, where the protagonists find solace in a hidden lagoon. The imagery of “night swimmers” conveys a sense of freedom and escape, as the characters immerse themselves in the water under the cover of darkness. The song’s atmospheric instrumentals and rhythmic beats enhance the feeling of an intimate and liberating experience, making it a standout track that resonates with themes of youth and escapism.

14. “Swimming Pool Summer” by Capital Cities

“Swimming Pool Summer” by Capital Cities, released in 2017 as part of their EP Swimming Pool Summer, is a vibrant and catchy pop song that perfectly encapsulates the carefree vibe of a summer pool party. The lyrics paint a picture of a luxurious and hedonistic gathering at a château, where the protagonist is captivated by a mysterious and alluring woman. The chorus, “Swimming pool summer, gimme your number, under your cover, I wanna take the heat,” highlights the playful and flirtatious nature of the encounter. The song’s upbeat tempo, infectious melody, and playful lyrics make it an ideal anthem for summer fun and relaxation.

15. “Into The Ocean” by Blue October

“Into The Ocean” by Blue October, from their 2006 album Foiled, is a poignant alt-rock song that delves into themes of depression, loss, and the desire for escape. Written by lead singer Justin Furstenfeld, the song narrates the story of a boy who falls overboard and contemplates his life as he struggles to stay afloat. The lyrics, “I want to swim away but don’t know how, sometimes it feels just like I’m falling in the ocean,” reflect the protagonist’s feelings of helplessness and despair. The song contrasts its upbeat rhythm and light melodies with deeply introspective and melancholic lyrics, creating a powerful emotional impact. “Into The Ocean” has resonated with many listeners, offering a raw and honest portrayal of mental health struggles.

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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.