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 (71–80)
CarusoLucio Dalla
Not only in Italy but around the world, the masterpiece “Caruso” has received extraordinarily high acclaim.
Composed in 1986 by Italian pop singer Lucio Dalla, the song tells the life story of the great tenor Enrico Caruso—hence the title “Caruso.” It portrays the romance of Caruso’s final years, depicting him, afflicted by illness, gazing out over the sea of Sorrento as he reflects on his life.
Both the melody and the lyrics are so accomplished that it’s no exaggeration to call them perfect.
For the record, I’ve listened to thousands of songs from more than 50 countries, and this is the one I find most sublime and magnificent.
Be sure to give it a listen!
Remember (Walking in the Sand)The Shangri- Las
This song, which sings about young love, became The Shangri-Las’ first national hit single.
Aerosmith covered the song in 1979 together with The Shangri-Las’ lead singer, Mary Weiss.
On The BeachChris Rea
The song received heavy rotation on VH1 in 1986 and became Chris Rea’s biggest hit in the United States.
It reached No.
57 on the UK chart in 1986, but was re-released two years later under the title “On the Beach (Summer ’88)” and peaked at No.
12.
The SeaHAEVN
Haevn is a Dutch ambient band.
Their song “The Sea” is included on their 2018 album Eyes Closed.
In the first half of the track, life is likened to a raging sea and the sea at night.
Hearing only that part, you might think it depicts the hardships of life.
However, in the latter half, life is compared to a calm sea and the sea at dawn.
This suggests that life also has its good moments.
It’s also recommended as a track where you can enjoy the mystical atmosphere of ambient music.
CalypsoJohn Denver
A song written as a tribute to Jacques-Yves Cousteau and his research vessel, the Calypso.
He was the first person to conduct studies on pollution and its effects on the ocean.
It was produced over the course of several months by John Denver.