Top Songs About California: Iconic Tunes of the Golden State

#1 “Hotel California” by The Eagles (Rock, 1976)

This haunting rock classic is about a mysterious, luxurious hotel in California that guests can never leave. The song explores themes of excess and entrapment with its evocative lyrics and memorable guitar solos that create a timeless and atmospheric musical journey. More by The Eagles here.

#2 “California Love” by 2Pac ft. Dr. Dre (Hip Hop, 1996)

The iconic hip hop anthem by two of hip hop’s greatest rappers is one of the most popular songs about California. “California Love” blends G-funk and West Coast rap with its infectious beat and catchy hook to create an enduring tribute to California’s dynamic and influential music scene.

#3 “Paradise City” by Guns N’ Roses (Hard Rock, 1987)

A hard rock anthem that sings of a paradise city where the “grass is green and the girls are pretty,” reminiscent of the Golden State. The song features powerful vocals and energetic guitar riffs that capture the band’s rebellious spirit and longing for escape.

#4 “Going to California” by Led Zeppelin (Rock, Folk, 1971)

This song references a journey to California, driven by the pursuit of new beginnings and personal transformation. The lyrics mention searching for a woman with “love in her eyes and flowers in her hair,” which captures the essence of California’s hippie culture and its reputation as a place for self-discovery.

#5 “California Gurls” by Katy Perry ft Snoop Dogg (Pop, Funk, 2010)

This fun, upbeat pop hit celebrates California girls’ carefree, sun-kissed lifestyle. The song features a catchy chorus with summertime joy and beach party vibes. This ode to the state of California, where Perry and Snoop Dogg were born and raised, is a fusion of disco and funk-pop and hints of new wave.

#6 “California Sun” by Ramones (Rock, 1977)

This high-energy punk rock cover of the 1960s surf hit celebrates the fun and excitement of California’s sunny beaches. The song emphasizes the appeal of California’s coast, the beauty of California girls, and the frisky, carefree vibe of cities like San Francisco.

#7 “Say Goodbye to Hollywood” by Billy Joel (Pop Rock, 1976)

Billy Joel’s nostalgic rock ballad reflects on leaving behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, California. Joel wrote the song after moving back to New York City in 1975. The song was inspired by Ronnie Spector’s style and captures the bittersweet emotions of departure through its heartfelt lyrics and catchy, soulful melody.

#8 “Hollywood Nights” by Bob Seger (Rock, 1978)

In “Hollywood Nights,” Bob Seger tells the story of a Midwestern boy who finds himself swept up in the allure and excitement of Hollywood. The song highlights the intoxicating yet ephemeral nature of Hollywood, where the glitz and glamour can both thrill and isolate.

#9 “California” by Joni Mitchell (Folk, 1971)

This folk song depicts Mitchell’s longing to return to California after experiencing various adventures abroad. In the song, she finds herself in different locations, like Paris and a Grecian isle, but none offer the comfort and familiarity she associates with California.

#10 “Californication” by Red Hot Chili Peppers (Alternative, 1999)

This rock song criticizes the darker side of California’s culture, including fame, superficiality, and corruption. It suggests that the pursuit of fame and fortune can lead to a loss.

#11 “California King Bed” by Rihanna (Pop, R&B, 2010)

This soulful ballad explores themes of emotional distance and longing within a relationship, using California as a symbolic backdrop. Despite physical closeness, the couple feels a significant emotional gap between them, illustrated by the repeated imagery of a “California king bed” and the notion of being “ten thousand miles apart.”

#12 “L.A. Woman” by The Doors (Rock, Blues, 1971)

The lyrics of “L.A. Woman” by The Doors, sung by Jim Morrison, offer a gritty and evocative portrayal of Los Angeles, capturing both its appeal and darker underbelly. Morrison’s repeated reference to L.A. as the “City of Night” suggests a place of darkness and mystery alongside its sunny, glamorous facade.

#13 “Hollywood” by Madonna (Pop, 2003)

This pop song highlights the universal appeal of Hollywood and how people are drawn to it and captivated by its glamour. The repetition of “Everybody comes to Hollywood” emphasizes its magnetic pull as a place where the sun always shines, and driving with the top down feels liberating and exhilarating.

#14 “To Live and Die in L.A.” by Wang Chung (Pop, 1985)

This synth-pop song conveys a sense of existential questioning and entrapment in Los Angeles. The chorus repeatedly questions the reasons for living alone and spending nights together in L.A., painting a vivid picture of emotional and psychological struggle amidst the backdrop of the city.

#15 “California Stars” by Billy Bragg and Wilco ( Alternative/Indie, 2001)

“California Stars” is based on Woody Guthrie’s lyrics and paints a vivid and poetic picture of longing for rest, peace, and connection. The song proposes the idea of dreaming troubles away and starting fresh each day, suggesting that California offers not just physical rest but also emotional rejuvenation.

#16 “California Soul” by Marlena Shaw (Classic Soul, 1969)

“California Soul” celebrates the vibrant and infectious spirit of California. The song describes the state’s pervasive and unforgettable atmosphere, where the sun, wind, and surf create a unique melody that captivates everyone. It highlights how California inspires joy, movement, and a fresh mindset for a perfect blend of music and love.

#17 “Dani California” by Red Hot Chili Peppers (Alternative/Indie, 2006)

“Dani California” tells the story of a rebellious woman named Dani who leads a tumultuous life across various states before ultimately finding herself in California. The chorus emphasizes California as a final resting place and a significant part of Dani’s journey, symbolizing both an end and a spiritual connection. See Red Hot Chili Peppers live on tour.

#18  “California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & The Papas (Folk Rock, 1965)

“California Dreamin'” expresses a deep yearning for the warmth and comfort of California during a cold winter day. The song captures the contrast between the bleak winter surroundings and the idyllic dream of California. It emphasizes the state’s appeal as a refuge from harsh weather and a symbol of idealized comfort and freedom.

#19 “Straight Outta Compton” by NWA (Hip Hop, 1988)

This powerful anthem, by iconic hip-hop group NWA, is one of the most iconic songs about California. The lyrics highlight the group members’ tough, rebellious attitudes and experiences, emphasizing themes of violence, defiance against authority, and the struggles of living in a harsh urban environment.

#20 “California Sun” by The Rivieras (Rock, 1964)

“California Sun” expresses a desire to head west to California, where life seems carefree and enjoyable. The song’s upbeat tempo and energetic instrumentation capture the essence of the warm, vibrant California sun. The Rivieras lyrics highlight the iconic imagery of California, with references to the coast, sunny weather, and a lively atmosphere.