Since the dawn of humankind, we have been obsessed with stars. These twinkling lights in the night sky have captivated us and inspired mythologies, religions, and scientists alike for centuries. But they have also inspired musicians and songwriters who have countless times used stars as metaphors within their lyrics.
In this list, we take a peak into the vast amount of songs about stars and present you with a specially curated collection of excellent tunes. Whether they speak of love or the concept of stardom, each song is a masterstroke and worth your attention.
“All of the Stars” by Ed Sheeran
Album: The Fault in Our Stars (Music from the Motion Picture)
Genre: Pop
Released: 2014
English megastar Ed Sheeran has dominated the charts over the last decade with multiple amazing albums and singles. This song leans into his entire skill set: excellent lyrics, fantastic musical composition, and slick singing.
The song was part of the soundtrack for the movie The Fault In Out Stars, which is a powerful exploration of love and death. Ed has encapsulated those rich emotions into a fantastic song that sold 1 million copies in the United States. Easily one of the best songs with stars in the lyrics.
Similar Playlist: Songs About Cold
“Starboy” by The Weeknd Feat. Daft Punk
Album: Starboy
Genre: R&B / Electropop
Released: 2016
From an emotionally charged song, we switch to this massive hit that has clocked up over 2 billion views on YouTube. The Canadian star teamed up with French mega duo Daft Punk and the result is one of the hardest-hitting songs ever to top the charts.
The deep grinding bassline combines wonderfully with The Weeknd’s slick vocal delivery. It’s an insightful song that looks at the trappings of stardom and is one of the best songs about being a star. The song topped the charts across several countries worldwide and sold 11 million copies in the USA alone.
Similar Playlist: Sunset Songs
“Shooting Stars” by Bag Raiders
Album: Bag Raiders
Genre: Dance-Pop
Released: 2009
Many people might be familiar with this song from its prevalence in internet meme culture, with it appearing in multiple memes in 2016 and 2017. But it was initially released back in 2009.
While it might have become a popular meme song, that is not all this song has to offer. On its own, it’s a superb song with plenty of uplifting energy and a perfect party vibe. Plus, as a fellow Aussie, I always love to see some local talent make a splash internationally.
Similar Playlist: Songs About Cloudy Days
“A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay
Album: Ghost Stories
Genre: Alternative Rock / Progressive House
Released: 2014
Without this popular song from the British rock band Coldplay, no list of the best songs about stars would be complete. It perfectly showcases how to use stars as a metaphor within lyrics and how a rock band can explore different genres.
The lads teamed up with Avicii, and the result was a blending of styles that resonated with fans worldwide. It climbed into the top 10 in multiple countries and sold 4 million copies in the United States.
Similar Playlist: Songs For Spring
“Stars” by Simply Red
Album: Stars
Genre: Soul / Pop
Released: 1991
After strolling through some fantastic songs from the last couple of decades, let’s take a step back into the 90s with this song from Simply Red. It’s the second single from their fourth album and, in my opinion, the best song from their epic career.
It charted well for the group, with top 10 appearances in the UK, Italy, and Denmark. The song utilizes stars within the lyrical hook to represent love and nails it perfectly. Add a whimsical musical composition on top, and there is no denying it is among the best songs about stars.
Similar Playlist: Songs With Sky In The Lyrics
“All the Stars” by Kendrick Lamar
Album: Black Panther: The Album
Genre: Pop-Rap
Released: 2017
Next on our list of the best songs about stars is this masterpiece from American rapper Kendrick Lamar and singer SZA. It was also the leading single from the soundtrack album for the spectacular Black Panther movie.
It offers a beautiful showcase of the rap skills of Kendrick Lamar, the vocal prowess of SZA, and the detailed and engaging musical composition of the entire team behind this song. It was a huge hit and sold 2 million copies in the United States and a further 1.2 million in the UK.
“Waiting for a Star to Fall” by Boy Meets Girl
Album: Reel Life
Genre: Pop
Released: 1988
Nothing screams the 80s more than an epic saxophone, piano, and some synths thrown in for good measure. This song from the pop music duo Boy Meets Girl doesn’t shy away from using all of them to great effect.
Like many songs on this list, the song uses stars as a representation and a lyrical hook for love. It was a massive hit for the group, reaching number 5 on the US Billboard charts and the top 10 in Canada and the UK.
“Stars” by VIZE Feat. Laniia
Album: Single Release Only
Genre: Dance / Electronic
Released: 2019
EDM duo VIZE makes the list with this punchy and bouncy song that features the vocal talents of fellow German Laniia. For a modern EDM song, it’s more restrained than other releases. It could comfortably squeeze into a pop playlist without causing too much attention.
The lyrics are simple yet effective, and Laniia’s voice is perfect for this song. The excellent use of echo effects and the bouncy bassline give this song a big-time festival vibe that is sure to get people dancing.
“Falling Like The Stars” by James Arthur
Album: You
Genre: Electropop
Released: 2019
James Arthur burst onto the music scene after winning the British reality TV music competition The X-Factor. And when you hear his fantastic voice, it is no surprise he won the competition.
This song comes from his third studio album and shows his maturity as a singer and songwriter. It’s honest, insightful, and full of emotion. It reached number 25 on the UK charts and as high as number 7 in Scotland and New Zealand. A fantastic song that uses stars as a lyrical hook.
“Chasing Stars” by Alesso, Marshmello Feat. James Bay
Album: Single Release Only
Genre: Pop
Released: 2021
This song is what happens when you get two ultra-talented producers into the same space to create a new Pop smash. Italian Alesso and American Marshmello have a bunch of hits to both of their names, but there is something special about this collaboration.
Working with the equally talented English singer James Bay they crafted a song that blends pop and electronic music influences in an original and captivating way. Plus, how can you resist a song from a guy that wears a marshmallow-themed helmet?
“Counting Stars” by OneRepublic
Album: Native
Genre: Folk-Pop / Pop Rock / Dance-Pop
Released: 2013
The last song on this list of songs about stars is this smash hit from OneRepublic with a staggering 3.8 billion, that’s right, BILLION views on YouTube and a massive 41 million copies sold worldwide.
This song could have easily topped this list, but I think it has got more than enough attention since its release in 2013. But even I’ll admit its blend of genres and catchy lyrics is undeniably awesome. One of the best songs about stars and a worthy addition to the list.
10 Bonus Songs About Stars
“City of Stars” by Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone
“We Are All Made of Stars” by Moby
“Another Star” by Stevie Wonder
“Starlight” by Taylor Swift
“Written In The Stars” by Tinie Tempah Feat. Eric Turner
“Lucky Star” by Madonna
“Rewrite The Stars” by Zac Efron And Zendaya
“Stars In The Sky” by Kid Cudi
“Shining Star” by Earth, Wind & Fire
“Shooting Star” by Elton John
Watch The Full Playlist
The full playlist with every song in this post can be watched via the video below or directly on our YouTube channel.
