Classic Western songs about the sea: recommended popular tracks
The sea, so beloved that it’s often called the “mother ocean,” can at times be terrifying as well—it’s a vast presence in our lives.
From the cheerful image of summer vacations to the fierce waves that evoke the harshness of winter, the sea has long been a source of inspiration and a theme for many artists.
In this article, we’ve picked out famous hits, popular tracks, and hidden gems in Western music that center on the theme of the sea!
You’ll find not only songs that sing directly about the ocean, but also tracks about passionate seaside romances and songs that use the sea as a metaphor—we’ve researched from a wide range of angles, so you just might discover an unexpected classic.
Enjoy!
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Classic Western songs about the sea: Recommended popular tracks (51–60)
Tenerife SeaEd Sheeran
“Tenerife Sea,” which sings, “I fell in love with someone whose eyes are like the sea of Tenerife,” is a song released in 2014 by the British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran.
It’s included on the album X.
The track is centered on his rootsy style—singing with just an acoustic guitar.
His voice, where warmth and coolness seem to coexist, is utterly enchanting.
The Tenerife mentioned in the song is a small island off Spain, surrounded by the sea.
Its waters are a stunning shade of blue, and because Ed’s then-girlfriend, Beth, had eyes of the same color, he describes them as “electric blue.” It’s a lush, romantic song about sinking into those beautiful eyes and falling in love.
How Deep Is the OceanEric Clapton
Eric Clapton, a singer-songwriter whose exceptional guitar technique has earned him international popularity, is also beloved across generations in Japan.
While his name is widely known, many people might find it hard to recall songs of his that have the sea as their theme.
For those listeners, I recommend How Deep Is the Ocean.
It’s a famous jazz standard that has been covered by many artists, and Clapton’s rendition has a wonderfully mature, soulful vibe—so I’ve chosen to highlight it here!
OceansPearl Jam
It’s a love song written by frontman Eddie Vedder with surfing as its theme, inspired by his relationship with his then-wife Beth Liebling.
Bassist Jeff Ament has said it’s his favorite track from their album Ten.
I Don’t CareEd Sheeran & Justin Bieber
While candidly singing about anxiety and discomfort in social situations, this contemporary track portrays the feeling that all of that fades away when you’re with the one you love.
Created by Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber, the song was released in May 2019 as the lead single from the collaborative album No.6 Collaborations Project, setting a record with 16.24 million streams on Spotify on its first day.
Seamlessly blending elements of electropop and dancehall, its sound lightly captures both the introverted emotions many people experience and the sense of liberation that comes with love.
It’s a perfect song for anyone who finds parties and crowds challenging, yet feels the world transform when that special person is by their side.
Summer GirlHaim
A gem of a pop number that layers the warmth and hope of summer over the deep bonds between people.
Released in July 2019 by the Los Angeles–born sister trio Haim, the song portrays a story of love and support born from facing a partner’s illness.
Its saxophone line—inspired by a classic by Lou Reed—stands out, advancing beyond their usual guitar-centered sound into a jazzy finish.
The track was later included as a bonus track on the album Women in Music Pt.
III, which earned a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year.
It’s a song for lovers supporting each other through hard times—and one you’ll want to play at the start of summer.