Ah, 22—a year of youthful exuberance, boundless freedom, and the sweet taste of adulthood that’s still fresh on the palate.
It’s a time when the world feels like it’s at your fingertips, and the possibilities seem as limitless as the stars in the night sky.
Songs about being 22 capture this whirlwind of emotions, from the dizzying highs of newfound independence to the sobering realization that life is a journey with its own set of roadmaps.
In this blog post, we’re going to explore the anthems of being 22, the soundtracks to those carefree days and wild nights.
Whether you’re living through these exhilarating times or looking back with a fond smile, these tunes are a celebration of life’s beautifully messy chapter at 22.
Let’s reminisce and revel in the music that speaks to the heart of this unforgettable age.
1. “22” by Taylor Swift
“22” by Taylor Swift is an exuberant pop anthem that captures the carefree spirit and spontaneous joy of being 22 years old. Released as part of her album ‘Red’ in 2012, the track quickly became a youthful emblem due to its catchy melody and relatable lyrics.
It reverberates with the energy and enthusiasm of young adulthood, where life is a blend of endless possibilities and fun-loving adventures with friends.
Swift’s lyrics celebrate the freedom of the early twenties, embracing both the ups and downs with a spirited defiance that resonates with listeners.
The song invites everyone to let go of their worries for a moment and just dance like “it’s miserable and magical.”
Its unabashed ode to the quirks of young age makes “22” a timeless track for anyone looking to remember or relish in the excitement of their early twenties.
2. “Hello Cold World” by Paramore
“Hello Cold World” by Paramore is a track that delves into the complexities of young adulthood, contrasting the innocence of youth with the stark realities of growing up.
Part of their “Singles Club” release in 2011, this song finds frontwoman Hayley Williams grappling with the challenges of emerging adulthood and the coldness that reality can sometimes present.
With its guitar-driven sound and powerful vocals, the song conjures a sense of resilience in the face of disillusionment that often accompanies one’s early 20s.
The lyrics encapsulate a mixture of optimism and cynicism, delivering a raw, honest perspective that many find relatable.
Paramore has a knack for blending upbeat music with contemplative messages, and “Hello Cold World” stands as an anthem for those facing the uncertainty of transitioning into a new phase of life.
3. “The Man with the Axe” by Lorde
Lorde’s song “The Man with the Axe” is a profound and introspective track from her 2021 album “Solar Power.”
It’s a departure from the energetic pop anthems she is known for, showcasing a more reflective and mature side of her artistry.
The lyrics are rich with personal emotion and vivid imagery, creating a beautiful, sorrowful ode to a past lover.
The song’s instrumental arrangement is minimalistic and haunting, featuring acoustic elements that complement Lorde’s deep and resonant vocals.
“The Man with the Axe” stands out as a poignant ballad focused on the intimate details of a significant relationship and the bittersweet nostalgia of lost love.
It is a raw and honest portrayal of the feelings that resonate through time and change, encapsulating a sense of longing and deep respect for a powerful connection once had.
4. “Nothing New (feat. Phoebe Bridgers) (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
“Nothing New (feat. Phoebe Bridgers) (Taylor’s Version)” is a heart-wrenching ballad from Taylor Swift’s re-recorded album “Red (Taylor’s Version)” released in 2021.
Originally written during the creation of her 2012 “Red” album, the song was shelved until Swift’s decision to re-record her earlier works.
Featuring indie folk artist Phoebe Bridgers, the collaboration infuses the song with a stirring blend of harmonies that underscore the poignancy of its lyrics.
The track explores the fear of aging and the anxieties of being replaced by younger talent, reflecting on the fleeting nature of youth, success, and the novelty that the world often demands from women.
Its introspective lyrics are both specific and universal, creating a deep emotional resonance with those who understand the weight of trying to remain relevant in an ever-changing landscape.
5. “22 (OVER S∞∞N)” by Bon Iver
“22 (OVER S∞∞N)” is the mesmerizing opening track from Bon Iver’s experimental third album, “22, A Million,” released in 2016.
This song represents a transformative moment in the band’s musical journey, characterized by its striking use of vocoders, samples, and fragmented melodies that diverge from the folk roots of their earlier work.
Justin Vernon, the primary creative force behind Bon Iver, weaves together abstract lyrics that explore themes of uncertainty, existential angst, and the search for self-understanding within the chaos of life.
The song’s title suggests a feeling of something being just out of reach or endlessly delayed, which mirrors the traversing of personal and emotional growth.
“22 (OVER S∞∞N)” serves as an audacious leap into sonic complexity, combining rich, electronic textures with the emotive, haunting vocals that the band is celebrated for, thus creating an ethereal musical tapestry that invites listeners into a space of contemplation and introspection.
6. “Flight 22” by Kali Uchis
“Flight 22” is a soulful and dreamy song by Colombian-American artist Kali Uchis, featured on her debut studio album “Isolation,” released in 2018.
The track lures listeners into a vintage, sultry soundscape that feels like a trip through time, reminiscent of the golden age of romantic air travel.
Uchis’s rich, velvet-smooth vocals glide over a slow, seductive beat, and the ambiance evokes the glamour and intimacy of a bygone era.
In this love ballad, she metaphorically illustrates a relationship as a flight, expressing the highs and fears that come with a deep, all-consuming romance.
“Flight 22” carries Kali Uchis’s signature blend of classic soul music with a modern twist, and its nostalgic tone is both comforting and wistful, offering an escape to a place of love and vulnerability above the clouds.
7. “Class of 2013” by Mitski
“Class of 2013” is a raw, stripped-down track by Japanese-American indie rock musician Mitski, from her 2013 album “Retired from Sad, New Career in Business.”
The song is a poignant reflection on the period after graduation, capturing the vulnerability and uncertainty that accompany the transition from the structured world of academia into the unpredictable realities of adulthood.
Mitski’s emotive vocals paired with a simple piano arrangement create a haunting and heartfelt ballad.
The lyrics deliver a powerful and direct message—a plea for support and understanding from her mother as she faces the daunting task of forging her path.
This song resonates deeply with young adults, encapsulating the feelings of displacement and yearning for a sense of home or stability in a time of immense change and self-discovery.
It’s a deeply personal anthem for the transitional phase of life known as emerging adulthood.
8. “Twenty-Somethings” by Judah & The Lion
“Twenty-Somethings” is an evocative track by the American alternative band Judah & The Lion, featured on their 2014 album “Kids These Days.”
This song is an anthem that encapsulates the quintessential existential dilemmas faced by young adults navigating through their 20s.
It melds together the band’s unique blend of folk instrumentation with the vibrant energy of modern alt-rock.
The lyrics confront the challenges of growing up, the pressure to succeed, and the fear of being lost or directionless in a world brimming with expectations.
The compelling banjo riffs and driving melodies underscore a sense of urgency and restlessness that defines the twenty-something experience.
With compelling honesty and a rousing chorus, “Twenty-Somethings” speaks to the heart of a generation striving to find their place, purpose, and identity amidst life’s tumultuous journey.
9. “20 Something” by SZA
“20 Something” is a contemplative and soulful track by American R&B artist SZA, featured as the closing song on her critically acclaimed 2017 album “Ctrl.”
This song captures the essence of the uncertainties and anxieties that define the lives of young adults in their twenties.
SZA’s lyrics are introspective, reflecting on themes of self-doubt, fleeting relationships, and the search for stability in a chaotic phase of life.
Her smooth, ethereal vocals float over a minimalist guitar-driven melody, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.
“20 Something” resonates with listeners through its relatable narrative of trying to navigate the challenges of adulthood, holding onto friendships, and facing the inevitable passage of time.
It’s a heartfelt ode to the formative decade of the twenties, where every experience, setback, and triumph shapes the journey to self-discovery and growth.
10. “Twenty Two and Some Change” by Stephen Day
Conclusion
As we bring the curtains down on this musical escapade, it’s clear that the songs about being 22 are more than just catchy melodies—they’re time capsules of a year that often define us.
They resonate with the spirit of adventure and the bittersweet tang of growth, echoing the laughter, the tears, and the dreams of a unique age.
Whether these tunes take you on a trip down memory lane or become the anthems of your current chapter, they hold a universal message: embrace the moment, live passionately, and dance to the rhythm of life.
So, cherish these songs, for they are the companions to your stories at 22, urging you to seize the day and write your own epic tale. Keep the music playing, and let it guide you through the symphony of life.