17 Songs About The Color White

The color white has always held a special place in my heart. Its purity and simplicity evoke a sense of calm and clarity that resonates deeply with me. Whether it’s the crisp, fresh snow blanketing a winter landscape or the clean, minimalist aesthetic of a modern design, white embodies a unique blend of elegance and tranquility. In music, the color white often symbolizes new beginnings, peace, and introspection. 

As someone who appreciates the multifaceted nature of this color, I’ve curated a list of 17 songs that celebrate and explore the various dimensions of white. 

These tracks capture its essence, from its serene beauty to its powerful symbolism, offering a melodic journey through the shades of white that inspire and move us.

1. “White Flag” by Dido

“White Flag” is a poignant ballad by English singer-songwriter Dido, released as the lead single from her second studio album, Life for Rent (2003). The song explores themes of unyielding love and resilience in the face of a breakup. The central metaphor of a “white flag” traditionally symbolizes surrender, but Dido subverts this meaning, declaring her refusal to give up on her love despite the relationship’s end. The lyrics emphasize her determination to “go down with this ship” and not “put [her] hands up and surrender,” signifying her enduring commitment and the lasting nature of true love.

The song was a commercial success, peaking at number one in several countries, including Australia, Germany, and Italy, and reaching number two in the UK. The music video, directed by Joseph Kahn, features actor David Boreanaz as Dido’s love interest, further illustrating the song’s themes of love and loss.

2. “A Whiter Shade of Pale” by Procol Harum

“A Whiter Shade of Pale” is a classic 1967 hit by British rock band Procol Harum. The song is renowned for its haunting melody, driven by a classical organ part derived from Bach, and its enigmatic lyrics written by Keith Reid. The lyrics are often interpreted as a snapshot of a drunken sexual escapade gone awry, filled with surreal and evocative imagery such as “skipped the light fandango” and “the miller told his tale.” Despite its elusive meaning, the song conjures a mood of melancholy and has become one of the most enduring tracks of the 1960s.

The song’s success was immediate, reaching number one in the UK and number five in the US. It remains a staple of the psychedelic era, with its evocative lyrics and mournful music leaving a lasting impact on listeners.

3. “White Lines (Don’t Do It)” by Grandmaster Flash and Melle Mel

“White Lines (Don’t Do It)” is a 1983 song by American hip hop artist Melle Mel, often credited to Grandmaster Flash and Melle Mel. The song addresses the dangers of cocaine use, blending an ironic celebration of the drug-fueled party lifestyle with a cautionary “don’t do it” message. The lyrics reference real-life events, such as the arrest of car manufacturer John DeLorean, and the song’s bassline borrows from Liquid Liquid’s “Cavern,” leading to a notable lawsuit.

The song was a commercial success in the UK, reaching number seven on the UK Singles Chart, and has been heavily sampled in hip hop music. It remains a significant track in the genre, highlighting the social issues related to drug use.

4. “White Horse” by Taylor Swift

“White Horse” is a song by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, released as the second single from her 2008 album Fearless. The song is an understated country pop ballad that uses fairy-tale imagery to tell the story of a narrator who realizes her boyfriend is not the ideal figure she once thought. The lyrics depict her heartbreak and decision to leave her town in search of someone more worthy.

Critically acclaimed for its somber production and portrayal of universal feelings of heartbreak, “White Horse” won Best Country Song and Best Female Country Vocal Performance at the 2010 Grammy Awards. The song was a commercial success, peaking at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving double platinum certification in the US.

5. “White Shadows” by Coldplay

“White Shadows” is a song by British rock band Coldplay, featured on their 2005 album X&Y. The song delves into themes of existential reflection and the search for meaning within the vastness of the universe. The lyrics, penned by frontman Chris Martin, explore the idea of human insignificance in the grand scheme of things, referring to “little white shadows” as metaphorical representations of fleeting moments and ephemeral connections. Musically, the track is characterized by its atmospheric soundscapes, with layers of reverb-drenched guitars and electronic beats creating a sense of depth and introspection. The song’s haunting piano melody and Martin’s soaring vocals contribute to its emotional resonance, making it a standout track on the album.

6. “White Bird” by It’s A Beautiful Day

“White Bird” is a 1969 song by the San Francisco rock group It’s A Beautiful Day, written by band members David and Linda LaFlamme. The song emerged from the band’s difficult living conditions during a rainy Seattle winter, where they felt trapped and isolated. This sense of confinement is reflected in the lyrics, which liken their situation to that of a “white bird” that must fly or die. The song features a distinctive arrangement with multiple violin parts overdubbed by David LaFlamme, contributing to its psychedelic rock genre. “White Bird” became the band’s signature tune and a staple of FM album-oriented rock radio, despite its limited national chart success. The song’s melancholic yet hopeful message, combined with its unique musical style, has ensured its enduring popularity.

7. “White Liar” by Miranda Lambert

“White Liar” is a song by American country music artist Miranda Lambert, released in 2009 as the second single from her album Revolution. Co-written by Lambert and Natalie Hemby, the song is a mid-tempo country track that addresses themes of deception and betrayal. The narrator confronts her unfaithful partner, whom she refers to as a “white liar” for his deceitful actions. The song’s production features prominent steel guitar, adding to its traditional country sound. “White Liar” was well-received by critics and became Lambert’s second Top 10 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, peaking at number 2. The accompanying music video, directed by Chris Hicky, depicts Lambert at a wedding where she exposes her groom’s infidelities, ultimately running off with the best man. The song’s success and critical acclaim solidified Lambert’s reputation as a leading voice in contemporary country music.

8. “White Wedding” by Billy Idol

“White Wedding” is a song by British rock musician Billy Idol, released in 1982 as the second single from his self-titled debut album. The song is a cynical take on the concept of a traditional white wedding, using it as a backdrop to explore themes of unrequited love and societal expectations. Despite its title, the song’s lyrics and accompanying music video, directed by David Mallet, present a darker, more subversive view of marriage. The video features gothic imagery, including a mock wedding with Idol’s real-life girlfriend Perri Lister as the bride, and scenes of barbed wire and leather-clad dancers. “White Wedding” became one of Idol’s most recognizable hits, reaching number 36 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and number 6 on the UK Singles Chart upon its re-release. The song’s blend of post-punk and new wave elements, along with its provocative visuals, have made it a lasting anthem of 1980s rock.

9. “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby

“White Christmas” is a timeless holiday classic written by Irving Berlin and famously performed by Bing Crosby. The song was first introduced in the 1942 film Holiday Inn, where Crosby’s character sings it as he dreams of a nostalgic, snow-covered Christmas. The song’s wistful lyrics and Crosby’s mellow crooning struck a chord with listeners, especially during World War II, when many soldiers and their families longed for the comforts of home. The song quickly became a massive hit, topping the Billboard charts for 11 weeks in 1942 and returning to the number one position in subsequent years.

Bing Crosby’s version of “White Christmas” is the best-selling single of all time, with over 50 million copies sold worldwide. The song’s enduring popularity has led to countless covers by artists across various genres, but Crosby’s rendition remains the definitive version. The song’s melancholic yet hopeful tone, combined with its simple, singable melody, has made it a perennial favorite during the holiday season.

10. “White Room” by Cream

“White Room” is a 1968 song by British rock band Cream, featured on their album Wheels of Fire. Written by bassist Jack Bruce and poet Pete Brown, the song is known for its distinctive, dramatic opening with a haunting guitar riff by Eric Clapton and Ginger Baker’s powerful drumming. The lyrics describe a sense of isolation and existential angst, using the metaphor of a “white room” to convey feelings of emptiness and disconnection.

The song’s complex structure, featuring shifts in tempo and mood, showcases the band’s virtuosity and innovative approach to rock music. “White Room” was a commercial success, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its evocative imagery and compelling musical arrangement have made it one of Cream’s most iconic tracks, often cited as a highlight of the psychedelic rock era.

11. “Single White Female” by Chely Wright

“Single White Female” is a 1999 country song by American artist Chely Wright, serving as the title track and lead single from her fourth studio album. The song, written by Carolyn Dawn Johnson and Shaye Smith, tells the story of a woman placing a personal ad in hopes of finding love. The lyrics playfully describe her ideal partner and her desire for a meaningful connection, using the phrase “single white female” as a humorous nod to personal ads.

The song was a significant hit for Wright, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and Wright’s engaging performance helped it become a favorite among country music fans. “Single White Female” remains one of Chely Wright’s most successful and well-known songs, highlighting her talent for blending humor and heartfelt storytelling in her music.

12. “White Noise” by Disclosure ft. AlunaGeorge

“White Noise” is a 2013 single by British electronic music duo Disclosure, featuring vocals from AlunaGeorge. The song is part of Disclosure’s debut album Settle and showcases the duo’s signature blend of house and UK garage influences. The track features a pulsating bassline, intricate beats, and Aluna Francis’ ethereal vocals, which oscillate between vulnerability and defiance. The lyrics explore themes of emotional detachment and the complexities of modern relationships, with Francis singing about the repetitive and numbing nature of unresolved conflicts.

The song received widespread critical acclaim, with Pitchfork naming it “Best New Music” and Billboard ranking it as the eighth greatest song of 2013. Commercially, “White Noise” was a significant success, peaking at number two on the UK Singles Chart. The accompanying music video, set in Detroit, follows a security guard patrolling abandoned buildings, adding a visual layer of isolation and introspection to the song’s themes.

13. “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane

“White Rabbit” is a 1967 psychedelic rock song by Jefferson Airplane, written by Grace Slick. Featured on the album Surrealistic Pillow, the song is heavily inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass. Slick wrote the song during an acid trip, and its lyrics are filled with references to the surreal and mind-altering experiences described in Carroll’s works. Lines like “One pill makes you larger, and one pill makes you small” allude to the use of psychedelic drugs, which were prevalent in the 1960s counterculture.

Musically, “White Rabbit” is characterized by its bolero rhythm, haunting guitar riffs, and Slick’s powerful, defiant vocals. The song became an anthem for the Summer of Love and is considered one of the defining tracks of the psychedelic rock era. Despite its relatively short length, “White Rabbit” packs a significant punch, urging listeners to “feed your head” and expand their minds through both education and psychedelics.

14. “White America” by Eminem

“White America” is a track from Eminem’s 2002 album The Eminem Show. The song is a scathing critique of American society, particularly focusing on issues of race, censorship, and the double standards faced by artists. Eminem addresses the controversies surrounding his music, pointing out how his race has both helped and hindered his career. He criticizes the hypocrisy of those who condemn his lyrics while ignoring similar content from black artists, and he explores the societal impact of his success as a white rapper in a predominantly black genre.

The song’s aggressive tone and provocative lyrics make it one of Eminem’s most politically charged tracks. He calls out the media, parents, and the government for their attempts to censor his music, while also acknowledging the privilege that comes with his skin color. “White America” is both a personal reflection and a broader commentary on the cultural and racial dynamics in the United States, making it a powerful addition to any playlist exploring themes related to the color white.

15. “White Sandy Beach” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

“White Sandy Beach” is a serene and nostalgic song by Hawaiian musician Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, often known as “IZ.” Featured on his 1993 album Facing Future, the song captures the tranquil beauty of Hawaii’s beaches and the peaceful moments spent there. The lyrics reflect a longing for simpler times and the comfort found in nature, with lines like “I saw you in my dreams, we were walking hand in hand on a white sandy beach of Hawaii.”

IZ’s gentle ukulele playing and soothing vocals create a calming atmosphere, making the song a beloved classic among fans of Hawaiian music. The song’s simplicity and heartfelt delivery resonate with listeners, evoking a sense of peace and connection to the natural world. “White Sandy Beach” remains one of IZ’s most cherished songs, celebrated for its ability to transport listeners to the idyllic shores of Hawaii.

16. “Black or White” by Michael Jackson

“Black or White” is a powerful anthem by Michael Jackson, released in 1991 as the lead single from his album Dangerous. The song addresses themes of racial harmony and unity, promoting the message that love and friendship transcend racial boundaries. Jackson’s lyrics emphasize the irrelevance of skin color in defining human relationships, with lines like “It don’t matter if you’re black or white.”

Musically, the song blends rock, pop, and dance elements, featuring a memorable guitar riff and an infectious beat. The accompanying music video, directed by John Landis, was groundbreaking for its use of morphing technology and its global reach, premiering simultaneously in 27 countries. The video features diverse cultural dances and a cameo by Macaulay Culkin, reinforcing the song’s message of inclusivity.

“Black or White” was a commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries and becoming one of Jackson’s most iconic songs. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal message of equality and its ability to bring people together through music.

17. “White Flag Warrior” by Flobots ft. Tim McIlrath

“White Flag Warrior” is a 2010 song by the alternative hip hop band Flobots, featuring Tim McIlrath of Rise Against. The song is the lead single from their album Survival Story and addresses themes of peace, resistance, and the rejection of violence. The lyrics advocate for nonviolent protest and the courage to stand up against oppression, with lines like “We’d rather make our children martyrs than murderers.”

The song’s powerful message is complemented by its dynamic musical arrangement, blending hip hop with rock elements. Tim McIlrath’s guest vocals add an additional layer of intensity and urgency to the track. The music video further emphasizes the song’s themes, depicting scenes of peaceful protest and resistance against authoritarian forces.

“White Flag Warrior” received critical acclaim for its socially conscious lyrics and its call to action for listeners to engage in meaningful change. The song’s blend of activism and music makes it a compelling addition to any playlist focused on themes of peace and resistance.

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.