10 Songs About Tomorrow

When I think about tomorrow, I’m reminded of the endless possibilities that lie just beyond today. It’s a concept that evokes both hope and uncertainty, a canvas waiting to be painted with our dreams and aspirations. Over the years, I’ve found solace and inspiration in music that captures this duality. Songs about tomorrow resonate deeply with me, reflecting not only my personal journey but also the universal experiences we all share as we navigate the unknown.

In this playlist, I’ll explore 10 songs that encapsulate the essence of tomorrow—each track serving as a reminder that while the future can be daunting, it is also filled with promise.

1. “Tomorrow Comes Today” by Gorillaz

“Tomorrow Comes Today” is a track from Gorillaz’s debut album, characterized by its melancholic and introspective tone. The song explores themes of disconnection and the pervasive influence of technology on personal identity. Lyrics such as “Everybody’s here with me, got no camera to see” suggest a commentary on the illusion of companionship provided by digital platforms, highlighting an underlying sense of isolation. The chorus, “I’ll pay when tomorrow, tomorrow comes today,” reflects on the immediacy of the digital world and the feeling of being unprepared for rapid changes brought about by technology. Musically, the song blends downtempo beats with a melancholic melodica melody, embodying the reflective mood typical of Gorillaz’s style.

2. “Tomorrow’s Dust” by Tame Impala

“Tomorrow’s Dust,” from Tame Impala’s album The Slow Rush, delves into the theme of time’s passage and the fleeting nature of life. The song suggests that the air of today becomes tomorrow’s dust, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment and being present. Kevin Parker, the band’s frontman, uses the song to explore the concept of embracing the future while acknowledging the past. The track features ambient noise and a voice recording of Parker’s wife, adding a personal touch and illustrating the struggle of grappling with one’s past. This song captures the essence of time’s relentless march and the need to appreciate the present.

3. “Tomorrow” by MIKA

MIKA’s “Tomorrow” is a vibrant, synth-pop anthem celebrating spontaneity and the joy of living in the moment. The song’s lyrics focus on two individuals who choose to savor their time together without worrying about future consequences, encapsulated in the refrain, “Oh, who gives a sh*t about tomorrow?”. The narrative unfolds in a nostalgic setting, symbolizing a carefree escape from reality. MIKA’s theatrical musical style, with its upbeat tempo and catchy melody, enhances the song’s theme of seizing the present and enjoying life’s fleeting moments.

4. “Funeral” by Phoebe Bridgers

“Funeral” by Phoebe Bridgers is a deeply introspective song that deals with themes of grief, depression, and existentialism. The song is inspired by Bridgers’s experience singing at the funeral of a friend who died of a heroin overdose. Through poignant storytelling, Bridgers conveys the overwhelming nature of grief and the struggle to find meaning amidst loss. Lyrics like “I’m singin’ at a funeral tomorrow, for a kid a year older than me” highlight the universal nature of mortality and the fragility of life. The song’s acoustic arrangement and Bridgers’s gentle vocals create a haunting atmosphere, making it a powerful reflection on the complexities of human emotions and the impact of loss.

5. “Tomorrow” by Silverchair

“Tomorrow” is a grunge rock song by the Australian band Silverchair, released in 1994 on their debut extended play and later on their album Frogstomp. The song’s lyrics critique the complacency and ignorance of the wealthy, encapsulated in the chorus “You wait till tomorrow.” It tells the story of a rich man who is forced to experience the hardships of the less fortunate, highlighting the disparity between social classes. The narrative suggests that the wealthy individual, accustomed to luxury, cannot fathom living without his privileges, as evidenced by lines like “You say that money isn’t everything, but I’d like to see you live without it” and “The water out of the tap is very hard to drink” . Musically, the song features the heavy guitar riffs and angst-ridden vocals characteristic of 90s grunge, contributing to its widespread acclaim and commercial success.

6. “Tomorrow’s Dream” by Black Sabbath

“Tomorrow’s Dream” is a track from Black Sabbath’s 1972 album Vol. 4. The song explores themes of heartbreak and moving on from a painful relationship. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s decision to leave behind sorrow and heartache, symbolized by the lines “Well, I’m leaving tomorrow at daybreak, catch the fastest train that I find” and “When sadness fills my days, it’s time to turn away” . The song conveys a sense of determination to overcome emotional turmoil and embrace a hopeful future, as reflected in the bridge, “And then tomorrow’s dreams become reality to me.” The heavy guitar riffs and powerful drumming, typical of Black Sabbath’s style, underscore the song’s emotional intensity and resolve.

7. “If Tomorrow Never Comes” by Garth Brooks

“If Tomorrow Never Comes” is a poignant country ballad by Garth Brooks, released in 1989. The song emphasizes the importance of expressing love and appreciation to those we care about while we still have the chance. The lyrics are a heartfelt reflection on mortality and the uncertainty of life, asking whether the love given will be enough if tomorrow never comes. The chorus encapsulates this sentiment: “If tomorrow never comes, will she know how much I loved her? Did I try in every way to show her every day that she’s my only one?” . The song’s emotional depth and universal message have made it a timeless classic, resonating with listeners and earning it a significant place in country music history. It was also the song that secured Brooks his first record deal and became his first No. 1 single.

8. “Tomorrow” by John Legend and Florian Picasso ft. Nas

“Tomorrow” is a collaborative track featuring John Legend, Florian Picasso, and Nas, released in 2022. The song is an uplifting anthem that embraces the promise and potential of the future. John Legend’s lyrics, such as “You’re the new wave forming, you’re the new day dawning,” highlight the idea of tomorrow as a fresh start and a new opportunity. Nas’s verses add depth by reflecting on personal growth and resilience, emphasizing the importance of learning from past experiences and moving forward. The chorus, “Hello to tomorrow, can’t wait to get started,” captures the excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead. Musically, the song blends Legend’s soulful vocals with Picasso’s production and Nas’s thoughtful rap, creating a dynamic and inspirational piece.

9. “Tomorrow” by Chris Young

Chris Young’s “Tomorrow,” released in 2011, is a country ballad that deals with the emotional turmoil of ending a troubled relationship. The song’s protagonist struggles with the decision to leave, yearning for one last night together before parting ways. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and inevitability, as seen in lines like “We both know it’s over, but we ain’t really done.” The song explores themes of love, regret, and the difficulty of letting go. Young’s powerful vocal delivery, combined with the song’s traditional country instrumentation, underscores the emotional weight of the narrative. “Tomorrow” became a commercial success, reaching number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

10. “Tomorrow” by Avril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne’s “Tomorrow,” from her debut album Let Go, is a reflective song about uncertainty and the hope for change. The lyrics express skepticism and hesitation, with Lavigne questioning the promises of a better future while acknowledging her doubts. The recurring theme of “tomorrow” symbolizes the unknown and the potential for transformation, as captured in the refrain “Tomorrow is a different day.” The song conveys a mix of hope and doubt, reflecting the struggle to balance optimism with the reality of current emotions. Lavigne’s raw and relatable lyrics, along with her emotive vocal performance, resonate with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of uncertainty and desire for self-determination.

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.