A friend’s song in Western music

ArmyEllie Goulding

Ellie Goulding – Army (Official Video)

A track released as a digital download in 2016 by Ellie Goulding.

It was written for her best friend, Hannah, whom she met at university.

The black-and-white music video was directed by British photographer Conor McDonnell.

FriendsMeghan Trainor

Friends

Meghan Trainor, who made a worldwide breakthrough in 2014 with “All About That Bass.” This song, included on the deluxe edition of her second album Thank You, is a friendship anthem that celebrates the idea that time spent with friends is the greatest treasure.

Rather than romance, it honors the joy of being with trustworthy companions, carrying her signature messages of self-affirmation and empowerment.

With its up-tempo beat, handclaps, and chorus that evokes call-and-response, its sing-along structure is part of the charm.

Even after a breakup, this track reminds you that the bonds with irreplaceable friends never fade.

Let me stay your friend.Todd Rundgren

Todd Rundgren – Can We Still Be Friends? (Lyrics Below) (HQ)

A song released in 1978 by Todd Rundgren, who has been active as a multi-instrumentalist since the 1970s.

It features a beautifully contoured melody line and Todd’s wistful vocals that sound like he’s pleading for something.

It’s also highly regarded by other musicians and has been covered many times.

Best FriendsSophia Grace

Sophia Grace – “Best Friends” Official Music Video | Sophia Grace

Sophia Grace Brownlee gained attention at the age of eight when she performed Nicki Minaj’s “Super Bass” with her five-year-old cousin Rosie McClelland on the TV show The Ellen DeGeneres Show.

This track was released in 2015 and reached No.

87 on the U.S.

charts.

Show UpSamia

Samia – Show Up (Official Video)

Samia, a singer-songwriter gaining attention in New York’s indie scene.

Born into an acting family, her poetic and emotional style has captured the hearts of many music fans.

One track on her EP “Scout,” released in June 2021, is a hidden gem that digs into the core of friendship.

It rides an energetic, driving sound to sing about the kind of friend whose mere presence can save you—and the firm resolve that it’s your turn to rush to their side.

Made the year after her acclaimed album “The Baby,” this record showcases her deeply expressive vocals that resonate in your chest.

It’s the kind of song that will warm your heart when you miss a dear friend or on a sentimental night.

I’ve Got A FriendMaggie Rogers

Maggie Rogers – I’ve Got A Friend (Official Visualizer)

Maggie Rogers is a powerhouse singer-songwriter who blends folk and electronic sounds, and has even been nominated for a Grammy.

She has a moving song that she wrote as a “love song for a friend,” a heartfelt ode to friendship.

In it, she expresses straightforward, profound gratitude to a best friend who stood by her during the hardest time in her life.

The unadorned lyrics and her raw, emotionally charged vocals are deeply affecting.

The track appears on her second album, Surrender, released in July 2022.

It’s lovely to hear the warm atmosphere created by the participation of her real-life friends in the recording.

Why not give it a listen when you want to be reminded of how precious your close friends are?

Friend Song311

311 – Friend (Official Music Video)

311, a mixture rock band known for their unique style fusing reggae and funk.

This track is a gently heart-soothing number included on their album “Full Bloom,” released in October 2024.

Born from experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, the song delivers a straightforward message that friendship is more precious than anything, carried by a melancholic mood and a slow tempo.

Its hopeful assurance—that even in difficult times, you are never truly alone—wraps listeners in warmth.

The airy, floating guitar tones are also striking, making it perfect for those quiet moments when you want to immerse yourself in music while thinking of a dear friend.