1. “22” by Taylor Swift
“22” by Taylor Swift, from her 2012 ‘Red’ album, is a vibrant pop anthem celebrating the carefree and adventurous spirit of being 22.
With catchy melodies and relatable lyrics, it embodies the fun, possibilities, and ups and downs of young adulthood.
Swift invites listeners to embrace the moment, dancing through life’s magical and miserable times.
A timeless ode to youth, “22” resonates with those living or reminiscing about their early twenties excitement.
2. “Hello Cold World” by Paramore
“Hello Cold World” by Paramore, from their 2011 “Singles Club” collection, explores the transition from youth to adulthood and the harsh realities that come with it.
Hayley Williams’ powerful vocals and the song’s guitar-driven sound underscore resilience amidst the disillusionment of the early 20s.
It mixes optimism with cynicism, offering a raw, honest look at growing up.
The track is a relatable anthem for those navigating the uncertain journey into a new life phase.
3. “22” by Bret Reilly
Bret Reilly’s “22” is a soulful, guitar-rich track that delves into the vibrant yet challenging phase of coming-of-age.
With hearty vocals and nostalgic melodies, it offers a reflective yet buoyant journey through the trials of youth and the quest for purpose.
A relatable anthem for those navigating their roaring twenties, “22” also appeals to anyone cherishing the formative moments of their lives.
4. “22 and Blue” by Foé
“22 and Blue” by Foé melds melancholic vibes with dynamic beats, narrating youthful vulnerability through evocative synths and captivating rhythms.
Foé’s unique vocal sincerity engages deeply, crafting a bittersweet symphony for indie souls and dreamers alike.
This track isn’t merely a song but an introspective journey that leaves a lasting, beautiful impression.
5. “The Man with the Axe” by Lorde
“The Man with the Axe” marks a contemplative shift in Lorde’s music, diverging from her vibrant hits to a deeper, reflective tune in her 2021 “Solar Power” album.
This track is a sorrowful tribute to a former love, woven with rich emotions and vivid imagery. Its minimalistic, acoustic arrangement enhances Lorde’s profound vocals, creating a haunting ballad.
The song poignantly narrates the intricate details of a cherished relationship, embodying the nostalgia and respect for a once profound connection, showcasing an honest and raw expression of enduring feelings.
6. “She’s 22” by Norah Jones
Norah Jones’ “She’s 22” from her album ‘Little Broken Hearts’ is a mellow, reflective piece on lost love and moving on.
Her jazz-infused vocals blend with a haunting melody to explore post-breakup vulnerability and hope.
The song’s minimalistic backdrop accentuates the deep emotions in the lyrics, highlighting heartache and resilience.
It’s a powerful example of how simplicity in music can profoundly stir the soul.
7. “22” by Giyaz
“22” by Giyaz is a deep introspection on life’s fragility, inspired by his survival in a car accident on May 22.
The song explores themes of survival, ambition, and resilience, as Giyaz reflects on the impact of nearly losing his life at 22.
Addressing personal struggles, betrayal, and the fight to stay true to oneself, the track is a testament to overcoming adversity.
With introspective lyrics and emotional delivery, Giyaz invites listeners to consider the value of second chances, making “22” an anthem for navigating life’s uncertainties with determination.
8. “Nothing New (feat. Phoebe Bridgers) (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
“Nothing New (feat. Phoebe Bridgers) (Taylor’s Version)” is a poignant collaboration from Taylor Swift’s 2021 “Red (Taylor’s Version)” album.
Initially written for her 2012 “Red” album but unreleased until her project to re-record her earlier music, the song features heartfelt harmonies with Phoebe Bridgers.
It delves into the fear of aging and the anxiety over being overshadowed by younger talent.
The track poetically addresses the impermanence of youth and success, connecting deeply with listeners facing the pressure to stay relevant in a constantly evolving world.
9. “22 (OVER S∞∞N)” by Bon Iver
“22 (OVER S∞∞N)” is the captivating opener of Bon Iver’s third album, “22, A Million” (2016), marking a bold departure from their folk origins through the extensive use of vocoders, samples, and disjointed melodies.
Justin Vernon articulates themes of uncertainty and existential angst with abstract lyrics, exploring the quest for identity amidst life’s turmoil.
The title reflects themes of elusive growth and delay. This track fuses complex electronic elements with Bon Iver’s signature haunting vocals, offering an immersive, introspective musical experience.
10. “Flight 22” by Kali Uchis
“Flight 22” by Kali Uchis, from her 2018 album “Isolation,” is a dreamy, soulful track that transports listeners back to the romantic era of air travel with its vintage, sultry soundscape.
Uchis’s velvet-smooth vocals over a slow, inviting beat, combined with the song’s glamorous, intimate ambiance, evoke the golden age of flight.
The love ballad uses the metaphor of a flight to depict the highs and fears of a deep romance.
“Flight 22” melds classic soul with a contemporary flair, offering a nostalgic yet modern escape into love and vulnerability.
11. “Class of 2013” by Mitski
“Class of 2013” by Mitski, from her 2013 album “Retired from Sad, New Career in Business,” is a raw, emotive track reflecting the post-graduation journey into adulthood.
With simple piano backing, Mitski’s vocals convey vulnerability and the quest for support during this life transition.
The song’s direct lyrics appeal for understanding from her mother as she navigates this uncertain phase.
It’s a poignant anthem for those experiencing the challenges and self-discovery of emerging adulthood, offering a voice to feelings of displacement and longing for stability.
12. “Twenty-Somethings” by Judah & The Lion
“Twenty-Somethings” by Judah & The Lion, from their 2014 album “Kids These Days,” is a stirring anthem addressing the existential challenges faced by young adults in their 20s.
Combining folk instrumentation with the energy of alternative rock, the song explores themes of growth, pressure, and the search for direction in a demanding world.
It features engaging banjo riffs and dynamic melodies that capture the restlessness of this life stage.
The honest lyrics and vibrant chorus resonate with a generation eager to establish their identity and purpose amidst life’s uncertainties.
13. “20 Something” by SZA
“20 Something” by SZA, from her 2017 album “Ctrl,” is a soulful reflection on the uncertainties and anxieties of young adulthood.
With introspective lyrics on self-doubt, fleeting relationships, and the quest for stability, SZA’s ethereal vocals and minimalist guitar melody underscore the intimacy and vulnerability of navigating life’s chaos in one’s twenties.
The song resonates deeply with listeners, offering a poignant narrative on friendship, the passage of time, and the formative experiences that define this critical decade of self-discovery and growth.
14. “Twenty Two and Some Change” by Stephen Day
“Twenty Two and Some Change” by Stephen Day is a poignant reflection on the nuances of early adulthood.
Through melodic storytelling, Day captures the bittersweet nature of this life stage, characterized by growth, uncertainty, and the constant ebb and flow of change.
The song’s introspective lyrics and Day’s emotive delivery invite listeners to ponder their journey through the intricacies of becoming and being 22, resonating with anyone navigating the complexities of young adulthood.
It’s a musical acknowledgment of the subtle shifts that define this pivotal age.
15. “22” by Lily Allen
“22” by Lily Allen, from her 2009 album ‘It’s Not Me, It’s You,’ delves into the societal pressures faced by women nearing thirty, questioning the value placed on youth and appearance.
The song combines pop and jazz elements, creating an upbeat yet introspective experience.
Though it received mixed reviews, some critics praised its sound and maturity, likening it to Fiona Apple’s work.
Directed by Jake Scott, its music video enhances the song’s reflective narrative.
Over time, “22” has gained recognition for its relevant message and engaging rhythm, continuing to resonate with listeners.
16. “1969” by The Stooges
“1969,” the opening track from The Stooges’ debut album, encapsulates the discontent and rebellious spirit of youth in its era with its hard rock sound and Iggy Pop’s intense vocals.
The lyrics reflect the year’s social and political unrest, showcasing the band’s raw power and setting the stage for punk music.
This seminal song highlights The Stooges’ unapologetic attitude and musical creativity, making a lasting impact on rock history.
17. “22” by Richard Buckner
Richard Buckner’s “22” is an introspective track that explores themes of loss, longing, and the complexities of young adulthood.
With its stripped-down acoustic sound, the song creates a deeply personal and emotional narrative.
Vivid imagery and Buckner’s compelling lyricism capture the essence of being 22, balancing hope and despair.
It resonates universally, inviting listeners to reflect on their own paths and the roads yet unexplored.
18. “When Yer Twenty Two” by The Flaming Lips
“When Yer Twenty Two” by The Flaming Lips, from their 1993 album “Transmissions from the Satellite Heart,” blends rock, dream pop, and experimental sounds.
The track captures the unsettled feeling of youth, battling against the system, and facing the impermanence of life.
Haunting refrains and psychedelic soundscapes, combined with Wayne Coyne’s distinctive vocals, create an otherworldly yet familiar experience.
It’s a contemplative anthem for those navigating the chaos of growing up, offering a sense of solace and connection.
19. Happy Birthday (22) – song and lyrics by Fernando Pey
“Happy Birthday (22)” by Fernando Pey, released in 2019 on Spotify, offers a modern twist on the traditional birthday tune for those turning 22.
While details on lyrics and style are scarce, Pey’s contemporary approach likely reflects the unique experiences and emotions of this age, appealing to a younger audience looking for a novel way to celebrate.
This song promises a memorable and exciting addition to the 22nd birthday festivities, capturing the spirit of entering a new year of life with freshness and enthusiasm.
20. “TWENITU” by Samson
“Twenty Two” by Samson is an energetic and inspiring song about self-discovery and empowerment.
Catchy melodies, powerful lyrics, and soulful vocals combine with vibrant instrumentation to uplift and motivate.
The song explores resilience, determination, and the importance of embracing one’s true self, making it a motivational anthem for anyone pursuing their dreams with passion.
A must-listen for an invigorating and uplifting musical experience.
21. “Happy 22nd Birthday (You Are Twenty-Two Years Old!)” by The Best Birthday Song Band Ever
“Happy 22nd Birthday (You Are Twenty-Two Years Old!)” by The Best Birthday Song Band Ever is a joyful celebration track from their 2013 album.
Tailored for those celebrating their 22nd, it encapsulates the vibrancy and hope of early adulthood.
Known for crafting birthday songs for all ages, the band infuses this track with catchy tunes and fresh excitement, enhancing traditional birthday festivities with a musical touch that resonates with the specific joys of turning 22.
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 epic tale. Keep the music playing, and let it guide you through the symphony of life.