20 Songs About Talking

As someone who understands the power of communication, I’ve always been fascinated by how music can capture the essence of our conversations, both spoken and unspoken. Talking is such a fundamental part of our daily lives, yet it’s often the source of our greatest joys and deepest frustrations. That’s why I’ve put together this playlist about talking – each one offering a unique perspective on the art of communication.

From the whispered secrets we share in the dark to the heated arguments that leave us speechless, these songs explore every facet of how we interact with one another. They remind us of the weight our words carry and the impact of those left unsaid. Whether you’re a chatterbox who can’t stop talking or someone who struggles to find the right words, I’m sure you’ll find something on this list that resonates with your own experiences.

1. “Now That We Don’t Talk” by Taylor Swift

“Now That We Don’t Talk” is a poignant track from Taylor Swift’s re-recorded album “1989 (Taylor’s Version)”. The song explores the aftermath of a breakup and the complexities of no longer communicating with someone who was once an integral part of your life. Swift’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of hearing about an ex-partner through gossip and realizing how much they’ve changed since the relationship ended.

The song is believed by many fans to be about Swift’s brief relationship with Harry Styles. Swift describes seeing her ex at a party, parting the crowd “like the Red Sea,” and noticing changes in his appearance and lifestyle. She grapples with the loss of their connection, admitting that she misses “the old ways” but acknowledges that she no longer has a say in his life. The chorus emphasizes the emotional toll of the situation, with Swift calling her mother for support and reminding herself that she’s better off without the relationship.

Swift’s songwriting shines in its specificity and emotional honesty. She touches on the challenges of maintaining a friendship after a romantic relationship and the process of reclaiming one’s dignity post-breakup. The song’s production, crafted with longtime collaborator Jack Antonoff, complements the wistful yet resolute tone of the lyrics.

2. “Talk Too Much” by COIN

“Talk Too Much” by COIN is an upbeat indie pop track that addresses the tendency to overthink and overanalyze conversations. The song encourages listeners to let go of self-doubt and allow conversations to flow naturally. COIN’s lyrics highlight the desire for genuine connections in an era dominated by social media and superficial interactions.

The track’s catchy melody and energetic instrumentation create a contrast with its introspective lyrics. COIN explores the anxiety that can arise from trying to say the right thing in social situations, ultimately advocating for authenticity and being present in the moment. The song serves as a reminder to trust in oneself and embrace the natural flow of conversation.

3. “Talk Dirty” by Jason Derulo ft. 2 Chainz

“Talk Dirty” is a provocative pop-rap collaboration between Jason Derulo and 2 Chainz. The song employs an extended metaphor that equates international travel with sexual encounters. Derulo’s lyrics focus on overcoming language barriers through physical attraction and non-verbal communication.

The track features a prominent saxophone riff sampled from “Hermetico” by Balkan Beat Box, giving it a distinct sound that sets it apart from typical pop songs. Derulo’s vocals are complemented by 2 Chainz’s rap verse, adding an extra layer of swagger to the song.

“Talk Dirty” received mixed critical reception, with some praising its catchy production and others criticizing its lyrics for cultural insensitivity. Despite the controversy, the song became a commercial success, reaching high positions on charts worldwide and earning multiple platinum certifications.

4. “Talking In Your Sleep” by The Romantics

“Talking In Your Sleep” is a classic new wave hit released by The Romantics in 1983. The song became one of the band’s signature tracks, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its catchy synth-driven melody and memorable chorus made it an instant radio favorite.

The lyrics of “Talking In Your Sleep” explore the theme of unconscious revelation during sleep. The narrator discovers that his partner is revealing secrets while sleeping, possibly about another lover or hidden desires. This creates a sense of intrigue and tension, as the listener wonders what truths are being uncovered.

The song’s structure is straightforward yet effective, with a repeating chorus that emphasizes the central concept:

“You’re talking in your sleep

You’re holding secrets you can’t keep

You’re talking in your sleep

You’re telling me things you don’t want me to know”

The Romantics’ use of synthesizers and guitar riffs perfectly captures the 1980s new wave sound, making “Talking In Your Sleep” a quintessential track of its era. The song’s popularity has endured, often featured in ’80s-themed playlists and retro compilations.

5. “Talk Me Down” by Troye Sivan

“Talk Me Down” is a poignant ballad from Troye Sivan’s debut studio album “Blue Neighbourhood,” released in 2015. The song showcases Sivan’s ability to craft emotionally resonant lyrics and melodies, dealing with themes of love, longing, and mental health.

The track’s narrative focuses on a person seeking comfort and stability from a loved one during a difficult time. Sivan’s lyrics paint a picture of vulnerability and the need for emotional support:

“I wanna sleep next to you

But that’s all I wanna do right now

So come over now and talk me down”

The song’s production builds gradually, starting with a simple piano accompaniment and growing to include subtle electronic elements and layered vocals. This progression mirrors the emotional intensity of the lyrics, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience.

“Talk Me Down” is particularly notable for its honest portrayal of same-sex relationships, contributing to Sivan’s reputation as an important voice in LGBTQ+ representation in pop music. The song’s music video forms part of a trilogy that tells a coming-of-age story, further emphasizing its themes of identity and acceptance.

6. “Small Talk” by Katy Perry

Released in 2019, “Small Talk” is a pop song by Katy Perry that explores the awkwardness of encountering an ex-partner after a breakup. The track combines Perry’s signature catchy melodies with clever, relatable lyrics about the discomfort of forced politeness in social situations.

The song’s verses detail the history of a passionate relationship, contrasting it with the current state of awkward, superficial interactions:

“Isn’t it weird

That you’ve seen me naked

We had conversations about forever

Now it’s about the weather, okay”

Perry’s lyrics capture the surreal nature of reverting to casual acquaintances with someone who was once intimately close. The chorus emphasizes this disconnect:

“Small talk, yeah

What you been up to?

Small talk, yeah

Used to know you so well”

Produced by Charlie Puth and Jacob Kasher Hindlin, “Small Talk” features a bouncy, upbeat instrumental that contrasts with its somewhat melancholic subject matter. This juxtaposition is characteristic of Perry’s style, blending fun pop production with more complex emotional themes.

The song received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its relatable lyrics and catchy melody. While it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Perry’s earlier hits, “Small Talk” demonstrated her continued ability to craft engaging pop songs with a personal touch.

7. “Talk You Down” by The Script

“Talk You Down” is a powerful ballad from The Script’s self-titled debut album, released in 2008. The song explores themes of emotional support and the struggle to help someone through a difficult time. The Irish band, known for their emotive lyrics and rock-infused pop sound, delivers a heartfelt performance in this track.

The song’s narrative focuses on a person trying to calm and reassure someone who is going through an emotional crisis. The lyrics metaphorically describe the act of talking someone down from a ledge, both literally and figuratively. This imagery effectively conveys the intensity of the situation and the speaker’s desperate desire to help.

Musically, “Talk You Down” features The Script’s characteristic blend of piano-driven melodies, strong vocals, and a building instrumental arrangement. The song starts softly and gradually intensifies, mirroring the emotional journey described in the lyrics. Danny O’Donoghue’s passionate vocals carry the emotional weight of the song, conveying both urgency and compassion.

The track resonated with many listeners due to its relatable theme of supporting loved ones through mental health struggles. It showcases The Script’s ability to tackle serious subjects while maintaining their accessible pop-rock sound.

8. “We Don’t Talk Anymore” by Charlie Puth ft. Selena Gomez

Released in 2016, “We Don’t Talk Anymore” is a collaborative effort between Charlie Puth and Selena Gomez. The song addresses the aftermath of a breakup and the strange feeling of disconnection from someone who was once a significant part of one’s life.

The track features a catchy, tropical house-influenced beat that contrasts with its melancholic lyrical content. This juxtaposition of upbeat production and emotional lyrics is a hallmark of modern pop music, making the song both radio-friendly and emotionally resonant.

Puth and Gomez’s vocals complement each other well, with their parts representing two sides of a failed relationship. The duet structure allows them to tell the story from both perspectives, adding depth to the narrative. The song explores themes of regret, curiosity about an ex-partner’s new life, and the difficulty of moving on.

“We Don’t Talk Anymore” became a commercial success, reaching high positions on charts worldwide. Its popularity was boosted by the star power of both artists and its relatable theme. The song’s music video, which interestingly doesn’t feature Gomez, further emphasizes the concept of disconnection portrayed in the lyrics.

9. “Walls Could Talk” by Halsey

“Walls Could Talk” is a track from Halsey’s second studio album, “Hopeless Fountain Kingdom,” released in 2017. The song showcases Halsey’s signature blend of pop and alternative influences, with a production that features electronic elements and a driving beat.

Lyrically, “Walls Could Talk” explores themes of secrets, hidden truths, and the things left unsaid in relationships. The title is a play on the common phrase “if these walls could talk,” suggesting that the physical spaces we inhabit hold the memories of our experiences and conversations.

Halsey’s vocals in this track are both powerful and intimate, conveying a sense of vulnerability and defiance. The song’s structure builds tension throughout, with the production becoming more intense as the narrative unfolds.

“Walls Could Talk” is notable for its vivid imagery and metaphorical language. Halsey uses the concept of talking walls as a device to discuss the hidden aspects of relationships and the truths that often go unspoken. This approach adds depth to the song, inviting listeners to interpret the lyrics in relation to their own experiences.

The track fits well within the overall narrative of “Hopeless Fountain Kingdom,” an album that loosely follows a Romeo and Juliet-inspired story. “Walls Could Talk” contributes to this narrative by exploring the complexities and hidden aspects of relationships.

10. “She Talks To Rainbows” by Ramones

“She Talks To Rainbows” is a departure from the Ramones’ typical punk rock style, showcasing a softer, more melodic side of the band. Released in 1995 as part of their fourteenth and final studio album “¡Adios Amigos!”, this song was written by Dee Dee Ramone and Daniel Rey.

The track features a gentle, almost psychedelic sound that contrasts sharply with the band’s usual fast-paced, aggressive approach. Joey Ramone’s distinctive vocals are particularly emotive in this piece, delivering the lyrics with a sense of wonder and melancholy.

Lyrically, “She Talks To Rainbows” paints a portrait of a unique, possibly troubled individual who sees the world differently from others. The song’s subject is depicted as someone who communicates with nature in ways others can’t understand, suggesting themes of isolation, mental health, and the beauty found in perceived eccentricity.

The song’s dreamy quality and introspective lyrics make it stand out in the Ramones’ catalog. It demonstrates the band’s versatility and ability to craft more nuanced, reflective pieces alongside their punk anthems. “She Talks To Rainbows” has since become a fan favorite, appreciated for its emotional depth and musical complexity.

11. “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” by Carolina Gaitán & The Encanto Cast

“We Don’t Talk About Bruno” is a standout ensemble number from Disney’s 2021 animated film “Encanto”. Composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the song became a surprise hit, surpassing the popularity of many Disney songs and reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song is a lively, Latin-influenced piece that combines elements of salsa, guajira, and Broadway musical styles. It features multiple characters from the film, each contributing their perspective on the mysterious Bruno, a family member who’s not discussed due to his unsettling gift of prophecy.

Structurally, the song is complex, with different melodies and rhythms for each character’s part, culminating in a harmonious and chaotic finale where all the voices overlap. This musical complexity mirrors the conflicting opinions and stories about Bruno, creating a rich tapestry of sound and narrative.

Lyrically, the song is filled with clever wordplay and vivid descriptions, painting a picture of Bruno and his impact on the family without ever showing him. The repeated refrain of “We don’t talk about Bruno” serves as both a narrative device and a catchy hook.

The song’s popularity can be attributed to its catchy melody, intricate composition, and the way it advances the plot while providing insight into multiple characters. It has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring numerous covers, remixes, and social media trends.

12. “Talk Is Overrated” by Jeremy Zucker ft. Blackbear

Released in 2017, “Talk Is Overrated” is a collaboration between singer-songwriters Jeremy Zucker and Blackbear. The song blends elements of indie pop and R&B, featuring a minimalist production style that emphasizes the vocals and lyrics.

The track explores themes of modern relationships, communication (or lack thereof), and the preference for physical intimacy over emotional connection. The title itself is a statement on the value placed on verbal communication in relationships, suggesting that actions speak louder than words.

Zucker and Blackbear’s vocals complement each other well, with Zucker’s more melodic style contrasting with Blackbear’s rap-influenced delivery. This vocal interplay adds depth to the song, representing different perspectives or perhaps different aspects of the same character.

Musically, “Talk Is Overrated” features a stripped-back production with a prominent bass line, subtle electronic elements, and a steady beat. This minimalist approach allows the lyrics and vocals to take center stage, emphasizing the song’s message.

The song resonated with younger audiences, particularly for its frank discussion of casual relationships and the complexities of modern dating. Its success helped to further establish both Zucker and Blackbear in the indie pop and R&B scenes.

“Talk Is Overrated” exemplifies a trend in contemporary pop music towards more introspective, lyrically focused songs that blend genre boundaries and tackle relatable themes with honesty and directness.

13. “Talking Body” by Tove Lo

“Talking Body” is a provocative electropop song by Swedish singer-songwriter Tove Lo, released in 2015 as the second single from her debut album “Queen of the Clouds”. The track showcases Tove Lo’s signature blend of candid lyrics and catchy melodies, exploring themes of lust and physical attraction.

Musically, “Talking Body” features elements of trip hop, synthpop, and indie pop, with a driving beat and infectious hooks. The production, handled by The Struts and Shellback, creates a pulsating backdrop for Tove Lo’s sultry vocals. The song is set in the key of E minor with a tempo of 120 beats per minute, giving it an energetic and danceable quality.

Lyrically, the song is unapologetically sexual, focusing on the desire for physical intimacy. Tove Lo’s frank approach to discussing sexuality in her music has become one of her trademarks, and “Talking Body” is a prime example of this openness. The chorus, with its memorable hook, encapsulates the song’s theme of physical attraction and the power of body language.

“Talking Body” achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning multiple platinum certifications in several countries. The song’s music video, released in January 2015, further emphasized its sensual themes and contributed to its popularity.

14. “Everybody Talks” by Neon Trees

“Everybody Talks” is the lead single from Neon Trees’ second studio album, “Picture Show”, released in 2011. This catchy rock song blends elements of pop and alternative rock, showcasing the band’s ability to create radio-friendly hits with a distinctive edge.

The track was inspired by early 1960s pop music, with lead singer Tyler Glenn citing Roy Orbison and Motown as influences. This retro influence is evident in the song’s structure and melody, which features a memorable “ooh-ooh” hook that harks back to classic pop tunes.

Lyrically, “Everybody Talks” explores themes of gossip and rumors, with Glenn later revealing that he wrote the song while closeted, addressing an ex-girlfriend who had spread rumors about his sexuality. This personal connection adds depth to the seemingly straightforward lyrics about the pervasiveness of gossip.

The song’s music video, released in March 2012, features a 1950s drive-in movie theme, further emphasizing the retro influences on the track. The video’s narrative, which includes zombies and vampires, adds a playful and slightly surreal element to the song’s presentation.

“Everybody Talks” became Neon Trees’ highest-charting single, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning triple-platinum certification in the United States. Its success helped establish Neon Trees as a prominent force in the alternative rock scene of the early 2010s.

15. “The Adults Are Talking” by The Strokes

“The Adults Are Talking” is the opening track from The Strokes’ sixth studio album, “The New Abnormal”, released in 2020. This indie rock song showcases The Strokes’ ability to evolve their sound while maintaining their distinctive style.

Musically, the track blends elements of new wave, post-punk, and indie rock. It features intricate guitar work, a driving rhythm section, and Julian Casablancas’ signature vocals, which alternate between crooning and falsetto. The song’s production, handled by Rick Rubin, gives it a polished yet raw feel that has become characteristic of The Strokes’ later work.

Lyrically, “The Adults Are Talking” is somewhat cryptic, leaving room for interpretation. The song seems to touch on themes of communication breakdown, societal expectations, and the challenges of navigating adulthood. The title itself suggests a disconnect between generations or perhaps between those in power and the rest of society.

The track received critical acclaim upon release, with many praising it as a return to form for The Strokes. It was ranked as the 19th best song of 2020 by The New York Times and has been cited as one of the band’s best songs by various publications.

“The Adults Are Talking” showcases The Strokes’ ability to create compelling, thought-provoking music more than two decades into their career. Its combination of nostalgic elements and contemporary themes resonated with both long-time fans and new listeners, helping to cement The Strokes’ place in the modern rock landscape.

16. “Talking To The Moon” by Bruno Mars

“Talking To The Moon” is a poignant ballad from Bruno Mars’ debut studio album “Doo-Wops & Hooligans,” released in 2010. The song showcases Mars’ emotive vocals and his ability to craft heartfelt, introspective lyrics.

Musically, the track features a simple yet effective arrangement, with piano and strings providing a melancholic backdrop to Mars’ vocals. The production builds gradually, adding layers of instrumentation to mirror the emotional intensity of the lyrics. The song’s melody is haunting and memorable, perfectly complementing its theme of longing and isolation.

Lyrically, “Talking To The Moon” explores themes of loss, separation, and the desperate attempt to connect with someone who’s no longer there. The moon serves as a metaphor for the distant, unreachable person the narrator is trying to communicate with. Mars’ delivery conveys a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion, making the song deeply relatable to anyone who has experienced the pain of separation.

While not released as a single in most markets, “Talking To The Moon” gained popularity through word of mouth and streaming platforms. It has since become a fan favorite, often cited as one of Mars’ most emotionally powerful songs. The track’s enduring appeal led to a resurgence in popularity in 2021 due to social media trends, demonstrating its timeless quality.

17. “Late Night Talking” by Harry Styles

“Late Night Talking” is an upbeat, funk-inspired pop song from Harry Styles’ third studio album “Harry’s House,” released in 2022. The track showcases Styles’ evolution as an artist, blending retro influences with contemporary pop sensibilities.

Musically, the song features a groovy bassline, bright horns, and a disco-influenced beat that creates an irresistibly danceable rhythm. The production, handled by Tyler Johnson and Kid Harpoon, gives the track a polished yet organic feel, with live instrumentation adding warmth and depth to the sound.

Lyrically, “Late Night Talking” explores themes of infatuation and the early stages of a relationship. Styles sings about staying up late to talk with someone, highlighting the excitement and connection felt during these intimate conversations. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, reflecting the lighthearted nature of the music.

The song was released as the second single from “Harry’s House” and quickly became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in numerous countries. Its music video, featuring Styles in various beds around London, added to its popularity and sparked numerous social media trends.

“Late Night Talking” exemplifies Styles’ ability to create catchy, feel-good pop music while maintaining his artistic integrity. The song’s blend of retro and modern elements has made it a favorite among fans and critics alike, further cementing Styles’ position as one of the leading pop artists of his generation.

18. “Talk Shows On Mute” by Incubus

“Talk Shows On Mute” is a thought-provoking rock song from Incubus’ fifth studio album “A Crow Left of the Murder…,” released in 2004. The track showcases the band’s ability to blend hard-hitting rock with introspective lyrics and experimental sound elements.

Musically, the song features a driving rhythm section, intricate guitar work, and electronic elements that create a layered, atmospheric sound. The production, handled by Brendan O’Brien, gives the track a polished yet raw feel that became characteristic of Incubus’ sound during this period. The song’s structure is dynamic, with quieter verses building to explosive choruses.

Lyrically, “Talk Shows On Mute” offers a critique of media manipulation and the passive consumption of information. The title itself is a metaphor for tuning out the constant barrage of information and opinions presented by media outlets. Lead singer Brandon Boyd’s lyrics encourage listeners to think critically and form their own opinions rather than blindly accepting what they’re told.

The song’s music video, directed by Brett Simon, further emphasizes its themes. Set in a dystopian future, it depicts a world where people are literally fed information through tubes, unable to communicate or think for themselves. This visual representation powerfully reinforces the song’s message about the dangers of media control and the importance of independent thought.

While not as commercially successful as some of Incubus’ other singles, “Talk Shows On Mute” has become a fan favorite and is often praised for its thought-provoking lyrics and innovative sound. The song exemplifies Incubus’ ability to create music that is both intellectually engaging and sonically compelling, solidifying their place as one of the most respected alternative rock bands of the early 2000s.

19. “Talkin’ ‘Bout A Revolution” by Tracy Chapman

“Talkin’ ‘Bout A Revolution” is a powerful folk-rock anthem from Tracy Chapman’s self-titled debut album, released in 1988. The song is known for its simple yet impactful lyrics and Chapman’s distinctive voice, which carries the weight of the song’s message.

Musically, the track features a straightforward acoustic guitar-driven arrangement, characteristic of Chapman’s folk style. The production is minimal, allowing Chapman’s vocals and the song’s message to take center stage. The melody is catchy and memorable, with a chorus that invites listeners to sing along.

Lyrically, “Talkin’ ‘Bout A Revolution” addresses themes of social and economic inequality, calling for change and empowerment of the marginalized. Chapman’s words paint a picture of people quietly waiting for a revolution, suggesting that significant change is imminent. The song’s message is one of hope and determination, encouraging listeners to believe in the possibility of positive social change.

The track became one of Chapman’s signature songs and a staple of protest movements worldwide. Its enduring relevance has led to its use in various social and political contexts over the decades since its release. “Talkin’ ‘Bout A Revolution” exemplifies Chapman’s ability to craft socially conscious music that resonates deeply with listeners.

20. “Talk” by Hozier

“Talk” is a soulful, blues-influenced track from Hozier’s second studio album “Wasteland, Baby!”, released in 2019. The song showcases Hozier’s powerful vocals and his ability to blend various musical genres into his distinctive style.

Musically, “Talk” features a groovy bassline, bluesy guitar riffs, and a gospel-inspired chorus. The production, handled by Hozier and Rob Kirwan, creates a rich, layered sound that combines elements of blues, soul, and rock. The song’s structure builds gradually, with each verse adding intensity until it reaches a powerful, cathartic chorus.

Lyrically, “Talk” explores themes of desire, communication, and the power of words. Hozier uses religious imagery and metaphors to describe the act of talking as something sacred and transformative. The lyrics are poetic and intricate, with multiple layers of meaning that invite repeated listening and interpretation.

The song’s music video, directed by Anthony Byrne, features Hozier performing in a dimly lit room, interspersed with scenes of people engaged in intimate conversations. This visual representation emphasizes the song’s themes of connection and communication.

While not released as a single, “Talk” has become a fan favorite from “Wasteland, Baby!”, praised for its musical complexity and lyrical depth. The song exemplifies Hozier’s growth as an artist and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

21. “Talking To Myself” by Linkin Park

“Talking To Myself” is a rock song from Linkin Park’s seventh studio album “One More Light,” released in 2017. The track represents a departure from the band’s earlier nu-metal sound, showcasing their evolution towards a more mainstream rock style.

Musically, “Talking To Myself” features driving guitar riffs, electronic elements, and a catchy chorus that’s reminiscent of classic rock anthems. The production, handled by the band along with several other producers, creates a polished, radio-friendly sound while maintaining Linkin Park’s signature energy. Chester Bennington’s powerful vocals are at the forefront, delivering both melodic verses and intense choruses.

Lyrically, the song explores themes of communication breakdown in a relationship. The narrator expresses frustration at feeling unheard and disconnected from their partner, likening the experience to talking to themselves. The lyrics convey a sense of desperation and the desire to break through emotional barriers.

“Talking To Myself” was released as the third single from “One More Light” and received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, while others felt it strayed too far from Linkin Park’s original sound. Tragically, the song took on additional poignancy following Chester Bennington’s death shortly after the album’s release.

The track serves as an example of Linkin Park’s willingness to experiment with their sound and push the boundaries of their musical style. While it may not have the raw aggression of their earlier work, “Talking To Myself” demonstrates the band’s ability to create emotionally resonant rock music that speaks to universal experiences of struggle and connection.

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.