Sunsets have an extraordinary impact that inspires so many emotions, but most often, they bring with them a feeling of tranquility and wonder. The vibrant colors are captivating and the perfect backdrop to a chilled summer party.
With so many in-built emotional connections, it is no surprise that sunsets have featured in a wide range of songs throughout history. In this list, we look at some of the best songs that feature sunsets in the lyrics and title. So kick back, grab a good drink, and watch a beautiful sunset with awesome music to serve as the soundtrack to the setting sun.
“Sun Goes Down” by Robin Schulz
Album: Prayer
Genre: Tropical House
Released: 2014
The first song on our list of songs about sunsets is this excellent tropical house track from German DJ and producer Robin Schulz and vocals provided by Jasmine Thompson. Released in 2014, it hit the top 10 in Germany, Poland, Australia, and many more countries.
Its summery vibes and lighthearted combination of piano and saxophone make it an ideal background track for your latest Instagram story. When you add in the infectious beat, it’s also a perfect start to a sunset pool party.
Similar Playlist: Songs About Winter
“Sunset” by Kid Ink
Album: Kid Ink (Hits Japan Tour Edition)
Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
Released: 2016
Speaking of ideal songs for a sunset party, this groovy song from multi-talented American rapper Kid Ink should also be on your playlist. Its laid-back melody and rich bassline hit the right spot to ensure a relaxing vibe for your party.
The music video features the relaxed vibe you would expect, with many beach shots and car cruising. Kid Ink’s lyrical style is also superb, with an excellent combination of rap verses and singing. Great stuff!
Similar Playlist: Star Songs
“Sunset Lover” by Petit Biscuit
Album: Presence
Genre: Tropical House
Released: 2015
Let’s keep those summer party vibes rolling with another superb tropical house track, this time from the talented French DJ and producer Petit Biscuit. Initially released in 2015 as a free download, it later saw a full release on his debut EP and album.
It was a hit in France but also broke into the top 100 across several European countries. It also went as high as number 13 on the US Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart. A super chill track that perfectly embodies the laid-back vibe of a summer sunset.
Similar Playlist: Cloud Songs
“Sunsets” by Powderfinger
Album: Vulture Street
Genre: Alternative Rock
Released: 2004
Let’s switch it up a bit with this fantastic song from Australian rock band Powderfinger which were a staple of the Aussie rock scene for two decades with countless awards to their name.
This song was from their fifth studio album, and it reached 11 on the Australian Singles Charts. As an Australian, I’ve heard this song countless times at the local pub, but for the rest of the world, you’ll likely be unfamiliar with it, but it is worth a listen if you like alternative rock.
Similar Playlist: Songs About Springtime
“Sunset” by Caroline Polachek
Album: Desire, I Want to Turn Into You
Genre: Alternative Pop
Released: 2023
My first encounter with American singer-songwriter Caroline Polachek was via her collaboration with Flume on the hauntingly strange song Sirens. From that moment, I dug deeper into her catalog to discover a treasure trove of fantastic music.
One of my favorite songs from that discovery path was this enchanting song from her fourth studio album. It showcases her talents as a songwriter and, more importantly, her captivating voice.
Similar Playlist: Sky Songs
“Early Sunsets Over Monroeville” by My Chemical Romance
Album: I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love
Genre: Punk Rock
Released: 2002
American rock band My Chemical Romance hit the scene with their debut album in 2002. By offering some of their songs for free on social networks, they rapidly grew a following of dedicated fans.
This initial album featured this melancholic song that highlights their skill at invoking emotion via insightful lyrics, emo-charged musical composition, and the brooding vocal delivery of Gerad Way. A fantastic start to what became a career filled with multiple excellent songs.
“Sundown” by Gordon Lightfoot
Album: Sundown
Genre: Country Rock
Released: 1974
Let’s switch it up from edgy emo rock and tropical house with this classic country rock song from Gordon Lightfoot. The Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist has a career that began in 1958 and continues to this day.
His most successful album was Sundown which featured this song of the same name. The song topped the US Billboard charts and the Canadian Top Singles chart. It was also a successful single in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. A classic with an engaging folk-rock vibe that is perfect for a laid-back evening watching the sunset.
“Sunset” by The Midnight
Album: Endless Summer
Genre: Synthwave
Released: 2016
As a child of the 80s, there is a massive soft spot in my musical tastes for music from that era. The Midnight encapsulates the era in a modern way with their superb synthwave releases that instantly inspire nostalgia for a time gone by.
This song comes from their opening release and perfectly represents their style: synths, epic guitar riffs, and powerful lyrics. Picture yourself sipping on a cocktail as the sun sets with this incredible song in the background. Perfection.
“Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset” by Luke Bryan
Album: What Makes You Country
Genre: Country
Released: 2018
Speaking of nostalgia, this song from Luke Bryan is another song that hits the heartstrings of reminiscing about fun times in summer when things were more simple. The song topped the US Country Airplay charts and sold 1 million copies.
It has all the hallmarks of a classic country jam. A lyrical story talking about a summer filled with fun, parties, and of course, summer love. Add an ultra-catchy chorus to the mix, and it’s no wonder it was a success.
“Sunset” by Tim Henson Feat. Cory Wong & Plini
Album: Single Release Only
Genre: Jazz Fusion
Released: 2022
As a DJ, I deeply appreciate the power of instrumental compositions to invoke emotions without the need for vocals. This song from the uber-talented guitarist Tim Henson is a perfect example of just that.
Teaming up with fellow guitarists Cory Wong and Plini, this laidback tune perfectly expresses the relaxed vibe of a sunset. If you want to hear some masterful guitar work, you have to listen to this song.
“My Sunset” by Feint
Album: Feint EP2
Genre: Drum ‘n’ Bass
Released: 2011
Liquid drum and bass, or liquid funk, merged in the early 2000s as an offshoot of electronic music’s popular drum and bass genre. It emphasizes creating an emotionally rich soundscape with influences from funk, soul, and jazz.
While the genre is popular, it is not as broad as other EDM genres, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth your attention. This song from Fient stands out in the genre with its delectably emotional and nostalgic piano components and rich drum and bass vibe.
“Rendezvous At Sunset” by Kylie Minogue
Album: Fever
Genre: Dance Pop
Released: 2001
The last song on our list of songs about sunsets is this hidden gem from international superstar Kylie Minogue. It was the B-Side to the super popular Can’t Get You Out of My Head, but it saw a very limited release.
It follows the same style as the rest of the album, which features heavy Disco-Pop and Dance-Pop influences. It’s a groovy number that never made the main album release and was only found on the Asian bonus AVCD disc version. As a result, it isn’t as well known, but in my mind is a must-listen for any Kylie Minogue or Disco-Pop fan.
14 Bonus Songs About Sunsets
“Setting Sun” by The Chemical Brothers
“Two Suns In The Sunset” by Pink Floyd
“California Sunset” by Neil Young
“Into The Sunset” by Bonnie Tyler And Mike Batt
“Waterloo Sunset” by The Kinks
“Sunset Superman” by Dio
“The Sunset Curse” by Dagoba
“Sunset Grill” by Don Henley
“Wasted Sunsets” by Deep Purple
“What Makes The Sunset?” by Frank Sinatra
“Red Sails in the Sunset” by Nat King Cole
“Sunset BB” by Pose Retals
“Sunsets for Somebody Else” by Jack Johnson
“Sunset Boulevard” by John Barrowman
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.
