20 Songs About Wishes

Wishes are a universal human experience. We all have dreams, aspirations, and desires that we hope will one day come true. Whether it’s wishing for success, love, happiness, or simply a change in our circumstances, the act of wishing is a powerful and often deeply personal expression of our innermost thoughts and feelings.

As someone who has experienced the power of wishes firsthand, I can attest to their transformative potential. Wishes have the ability to inspire us, motivate us, and even shape the course of our lives. They are a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future.

In this playlist, I have compiled a list of 20 songs that capture the essence of wishes in all their complexity and beauty. From the hopeful and uplifting to the melancholic and bittersweet, these songs speak to the universal language of wishes and the profound impact they can have on our lives.

1. “Blown A Wish” by My Bloody Valentine

“Blown A Wish” is a track from My Bloody Valentine’s critically acclaimed album Loveless, released in 1991. The song features ethereal vocals by Bilinda Butcher, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that complements the shoegaze genre’s signature wall of sound. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and fantasy, with lines such as “Midnight wish, blow me a kiss” and “Trying to pretend it’s true” suggesting a desire for an unattainable or idealized love. The song’s layered guitars and reverb-heavy production contribute to its hypnotic quality, making it a standout track in the band’s discography.

2. “Three Wishes” by The Pierces

“Three Wishes” is a song by The Pierces from their third studio album, Thirteen Tales of Love and Revenge, released in 2007. The track explores themes of vulnerability and emotional resilience, using the metaphor of wishes to express a longing for strength and protection. The lyrics, “We’d be so less fragile if we’re made from metal,” highlight the fragility of human emotions and the desire for an unbreakable heart. The song’s haunting melody and introspective lyrics create a poignant reflection on the human condition. “Three Wishes” gained additional recognition after being featured in the television series Gossip Girl.

3. “Wish I Didn’t Miss You” by Angie Stone

Angie Stone’s “Wish I Didn’t Miss You” is a soulful ballad from her 2001 album Mahogany Soul. The song delves into the heartache and longing that follows a breakup, with Stone lamenting the persistent emotional ties to her former lover. The chorus, “I wish I didn’t miss you anymore,” captures the essence of the song’s theme—an intense desire to move on and be free from the pain of missing someone. Stone’s powerful vocals and the song’s emotive lyrics convey a deep sense of regret and yearning, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced the lingering effects of a lost love.

4. “When You Wish Upon A Star” by Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett’s rendition of “When You Wish Upon a Star” brings a classic touch to this timeless song originally from Disney’s Pinocchio. The song, written by Leigh Harline and Ned Washington, is an ode to the power of dreams and wishes. The lyrics, “When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are,” emphasize the universal nature of hope and aspiration. Bennett’s smooth and heartfelt performance adds a layer of warmth and sincerity to the song, making it a beloved version that resonates with listeners of all ages. The song’s message that dreams can come true if you believe in them continues to inspire and uplift.

5. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd

“Wish You Were Here” is the title track from Pink Floyd’s 1975 album Wish You Were Here. The song is a poignant reflection on absence and longing, particularly addressing the band’s former frontman, Syd Barrett, who had to leave the band due to mental health issues exacerbated by heavy drug use. The lyrics, written by Roger Waters, express a deep sense of loss and disconnection, both personally and within the music industry. The acoustic guitar opening, accompanied by the sound of a radio tuning in, sets a melancholic tone that resonates throughout the song. The lines “We’re just two lost souls swimming in a fish bowl, year after year” encapsulate the feeling of being trapped in a monotonous cycle, yearning for a lost connection.

6. “My Wish Came True” by Elvis Presley

“My Wish Came True” is a song written by Ivory Joe Hunter and recorded by Elvis Presley, released in 1959. The song features backing vocals by The Jordanaires and reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. The lyrics of “My Wish Came True” revolve around the fulfillment of a romantic longing, where the protagonist expresses joy and gratitude for having their wish for love granted. The song’s pop sensibility, combined with Presley’s heartfelt delivery, makes it a touching ode to realized dreams and romantic fulfillment.

7. “I Wish You Well” by Bill Withers

“I Wish You Well” by Bill Withers is a song that conveys a message of goodwill and positive wishes. The lyrics are filled with warm sentiments, such as “I wish you flowers, sunshine and smiles” and “I wish you children that grow to make you proud.” The song reflects Withers’ characteristic blend of soul and sincerity, offering a heartfelt farewell or blessing to someone who is moving on to a new phase in their life. The gentle melody and soothing vocals enhance the song’s comforting and uplifting message, making it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners seeking solace and positivity.

8. “I Hope” by Gabby Barrett

“I Hope” is a debut single by Gabby Barrett, released in 2019 from her album Goldmine. The song, co-written by Barrett, Jon Nite, and Zach Kale, is a country breakup anthem with a twist. Initially presenting as a typical wish for an ex’s happiness, the song takes a turn as Barrett reveals a more vengeful hope that her ex’s new relationship will end in betrayal, just as hers did. The chorus, “I hope she cheats like you did on me,” captures the raw emotion and bitterness of a scorned lover. The song’s powerful lyrics and Barrett’s emotive delivery have made it a massive hit, earning multiple platinum certifications and topping various charts. A remix featuring Charlie Puth further propelled its popularity, making it a significant crossover success.

9. “I Wish You Were There” by REO Speedwagon

“I Wish You Were There” is a track from REO Speedwagon’s highly successful 1980 album Hi Infidelity. Written by lead vocalist Kevin Cronin, the song captures a sense of longing and desire for the presence of a loved one. The lyrics, “I’ve got the time, and I’ve got the place, I just wish you were there,” reflect a yearning for companionship and connection, whether in moments of joy or sorrow. The song’s rock ballad style, characterized by heartfelt vocals and melodic instrumentation, resonates with listeners who have experienced the ache of missing someone special. The track is a testament to the band’s ability to blend emotional depth with rock sensibilities, contributing to the album’s massive success.

10. “I Wish” by Cher Lloyd

“I Wish” by Cher Lloyd, featuring rapper T.I., is a pop song released in 2013. The song finds Cher Lloyd wishing for various attributes to capture the attention of her crush, using the metaphor of asking a magic genie to grant her wishes. The lyrics, “I wish I was tall, I wish I was fast, wish I could shop with a bag full of cash,” highlight her insecurities and desire to be noticed. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, combined with Lloyd’s playful delivery, make the song a fun and relatable anthem about self-improvement and unrequited love. The collaboration with T.I. adds a dynamic element to the track, blending pop and hip-hop influences.

11. “I Wish I Had A Girl” by Henry Lee Summer

“I Wish I Had A Girl” is a rock song by Henry Lee Summer, released as a single in 1988 from his self-titled album. The song became a significant hit, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The lyrics express a straightforward and earnest desire for a romantic relationship, with the chorus, “I wish I had a girl who walked like that,” inspired by a real-life encounter with women outside a club. The song’s energetic rock vibe, catchy melody, and Summer’s enthusiastic performance contributed to its popularity. It remains one of Summer’s most well-known tracks, celebrated for its relatable theme and infectious energy.

12. “Wish You The Best” by Lewis Capaldi

“Wish You The Best” is a heartfelt ballad by Lewis Capaldi, released in April 2023. The song delves into the emotional complexity of wishing an ex-partner well despite the pain of seeing them move on. Capaldi’s poignant lyrics, “It’s a song about what we don’t say to those people,” reflect the struggle between wanting the best for someone and dealing with personal heartbreak. The song’s powerful vocals and emotive piano accompaniment create a deeply moving listening experience. The music video, featuring actors David Bradley and Tom Lewis, adds a visual narrative of loss and new beginnings, enhancing the song’s emotional impact. Capaldi’s ability to convey raw emotion has made “Wish You The Best” a standout track in his discography.

13. “I Wish It Would Rain” by The Temptations

“I Wish It Would Rain” is a soulful ballad by The Temptations, released in 1967 and featured on their 1968 album The Temptations Wish It Would Rain. The song, penned by Roger Penzabene, Barrett Strong, and Norman Whitfield, delves into the heartache of a man devastated by his partner’s infidelity. David Ruffin’s emotive lead vocals convey a deep sense of sorrow and desperation, as he wishes for rain to hide his tears. The poignant lyrics, “Sunshine, blue skies, please go away / My girl has found another and gone away,” highlight the raw emotional pain of the protagonist. The song’s production, characterized by understated strings and a melancholic piano intro, complements Ruffin’s heartfelt performance, making it a standout track in The Temptations’ discography. Tragically, Penzabene’s own heartbreak over a similar situation led to his suicide shortly after the song’s release, adding a layer of real-life sorrow to the track’s narrative.

14. “Wish You Would” by Justin Bieber Ft. Quavo

“Wish You Would” is a collaboration between Justin Bieber and Quavo, featured on the Triple Chucks Deluxe version of Bieber’s 2021 album Justice. The song captures the frustration and longing in a relationship where one partner is not fully committed. Bieber’s lyrics, “Some wanna hold it down / Ooh, girl, I wish you would,” express a desire for his partner to be more present and invested in the relationship. The track blends pop and hip-hop elements, with Quavo’s verse adding a dynamic layer to the song’s narrative. The production features a catchy beat and smooth vocals, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced unfulfilled expectations in a relationship.

15. “Airplanes” by B.o.B Ft. Hayley Williams

“Airplanes” is a 2010 hit single by B.o.B featuring Hayley Williams of Paramore, from B.o.B’s debut album B.o.B Presents: The Adventures of Bobby Ray. The song explores the theme of wishing for a return to simpler times and the power of dreams. The chorus, sung by Williams, “Can we pretend that airplanes in the night sky are like shooting stars? / I could really use a wish right now,” uses the metaphor of airplanes as shooting stars to express a longing for change and escape. B.o.B’s verses reflect on the struggles and pressures of fame, adding depth to the song’s message. The track’s blend of pop and rap, along with its introspective lyrics, resonated with a wide audience, making it a commercial success and earning multiple chart-topping positions worldwide.

16. “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts

“My Wish” is a heartfelt country song by Rascal Flatts, released in 2006 as the third single from their album Me and My Gang. Written by Jeffrey Steele and Steve Robson, the song is a touching expression of hopes and dreams for a loved one’s future. The lyrics, “My wish for you is that this life becomes all that you want it to,” convey a message of unconditional support and love. Inspired by Steele’s daughter, the song captures the essence of parental aspirations for their children’s happiness and success. The song’s uplifting melody, combined with Gary LeVox’s emotive vocals, has made it a popular choice for significant life events, such as graduations and weddings. “My Wish” achieved significant commercial success, topping the U.S. country charts and becoming a crossover hit on various other charts.

17. “I Wish I Could Break Your Heart” by Cassadee Pope

“I Wish I Could Break Your Heart” is a song by Cassadee Pope, released in 2014 as part of her debut solo album Frame by Frame. Written by Gordie Sampson, Ashley Monroe, and Jon Green, the song explores the emotional complexity of vulnerability in a relationship. It presents the idea of wishing to have the power to break someone’s heart, not out of malice, but as a reflection of the depth of one’s own feelings and the fear of being hurt. The song is characterized by its pop rock and country pop influences, with a catchy, mid-tempo melody. Cassadee Pope’s expressive vocals convey a mix of playfulness and sincerity, capturing the essence of the song’s theme.

18. “I Wish I Were A Princess” by Peggy March

“I Wish I Were A Princess” is a pop song by Peggy March, released in 1963. The song is a whimsical and romantic fantasy where the narrator dreams of being a princess to win the love of her prince. The lyrics, “I wish I were a princess / And if I were a princess / I’d make you my prince,” convey a fairy-tale desire for love and happiness. With its catchy melody and light-hearted tone, the song captures the innocence and idealism of young love. Peggy March’s charming performance adds to the song’s nostalgic appeal, making it a delightful listen for those who enjoy classic pop tunes.

19. “I Wish” by Stevie Wonder

“I Wish” is a classic hit by Stevie Wonder, released in 1976 as the lead single from his album Songs in the Key of Life. The song is a nostalgic reflection on Wonder’s childhood, expressing a longing to relive those carefree days. The upbeat, funky rhythm and catchy chorus, “I wish those days would come back once more,” highlight the joy and innocence of youth. Stevie Wonder’s masterful composition and vibrant performance earned the song widespread acclaim, including a number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100. “I Wish” remains a beloved track for its infectious energy and relatable themes of nostalgia and longing.

20. “Wish You Were Here” by Incubus

“Wish You Were Here” is a rock song by Incubus, released in 2001 as the lead single from their album Morning View. The song captures a moment of contentment and the desire to share it with someone special. Lead singer Brandon Boyd described it as a simple acknowledgment of a beautiful moment and wishing for someone to share it with. The lyrics, combined with the song’s melodic rock sound, convey a sense of presence and appreciation for life’s fleeting moments. “Wish You Were Here” achieved commercial success, reaching high positions on various rock charts, and remains a staple in Incubus’s live performances.

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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.