Music has a profound way of expressing our hopes, fears, dreams, and even predictions about the future. It’s a universal language that provides a soundtrack to our lives and paints vivid pictures of what lies ahead.
Artists from various genres have explored the theme of the future in their music. They’ve crafted compelling narratives and catchy tunes that capture the essence of anticipation, uncertainty, and the thrill of the unknown.
In this article, we delve into 36 of the best songs about the future. If you’re ready to take a journey through time and tune in, read on!
1. “A Better Future” By David Bowie
What better way to start this list than with a song with “future” in the title? David Bowie‘s “A Better Future” is part of his 2002 album Heathen and is filled with anticipation and hope for the future.
The lyrics of “A Better Future” are potent, capturing the fear and uncertainty that often come with thinking about what lies ahead. Yet it’s not just a song of apprehension — there’s a demand for a more promising future.
“A Better Future” has also been interpreted by some as a conversation with God, where Bowie voices his hopes for a better world. This interpretation adds another layer of depth to the song.
2. “Tomorrow Never Knows” By The Beatles
The English rock band The Beatles gave us our next track: “Tomorrow Never Knows.” Primarily penned by John Lennon and credited to the Lennon-McCartney songwriting partnership, it served as the closing track on their 1966 album Revolver.
Lyrically, the song is a journey into the mind. The lines “Turn off your mind, relax and float downstream / It is not dying… / Lay down all thoughts, surrender to the void” encourage listeners to let go of the past and present and embrace the unknown — the future.
The song’s title further emphasizes this theme. “Tomorrow Never Knows” implies an acceptance of the uncertainty of the future. It acknowledges that we can never truly know what tomorrow will bring.
3. “Tomorrow” By John Legend And Florian Picasso Ft. Nas
In a captivating blend of musical talent, John Legend collaborated with Nas and Florian Picasso to bring us the song “Tomorrow.” This track, released in 2022, offers a unique fusion of styles that is both refreshing and exciting.
Legend’s soulful voice is unmistakable on this track. His lyrics are deeply meaningful and thought-provoking. The lines “I ask you what is your name, what do they call you? You said they call me tomorrow” introduce the concept of tomorrow as an entity that promises hope and new beginnings.
The chorus, “Hello to tomorrow,” welcomes the future with open arms. This line serves as a mantra for embracing change and looking forward to what lies ahead with optimism and anticipation.
4. “Year 3000” By Busted
Let’s take a playful and imaginative leap into the distant future with British pop rock band Busted‘s “Year 3000.” Released in 2003, the track quickly became a hit and remains one of the band’s most iconic songs.
The creative minds behind Busted used this song to paint a whimsical picture of what life might be like a millennium from now. The lyrics are filled with futuristic imagery and tongue-in-cheek predictions.
For instance, the band sings, “I’ve been to the year 3000 / Not much has changed, but they lived underwater.” While the band’s vision of the future might seem far-fetched, it’s this very audacity that makes the song so memorable.
5. “The Future” By Leonard Cohen
In the realm of music, Leonard Cohen is often regarded as a poet first. His song “The Future,” from his 1992 studio album of the same name, serves as a testament to that reputation.
“The Future” is a dark yet powerful prophecy about the trajectory of society. The lyrics are laced with biblical imagery and apocalyptic visions.
As the song progresses, Cohen paints a bleak picture of the future. In “Give me absolute control / Over every living soul,” he critiques the desire for power and control that often leads to societal downfall.
Despite the somber nature of the song, Cohen also leaves room for a glimmer of hope. The song suggests that love could be the saving grace in the midst of an apocalypse.
6. “My Next Thirty Years” By Tim McGraw
Up next is Tim McGraw‘s “My Next Thirty Years.” Written by Phil Vassar and released in July 2000, this song is a poignant reflection on life, age, and the passage of time.
“My Next Thirty Years” is a celebration of life and the future it brings. It beautifully captures the moment when one looks back at their past while also looking forward to what the future might hold.
McGraw’s heartfelt delivery of the lyrics lends an authenticity to the song that makes it deeply relatable. Lines such as “My next thirty years, I’m gonna… / Cry a little less, laugh a little more” exude a sense of contentment and optimism that is both uplifting and inspiring.
7. “Future Looks Good” By OneRepublic
When one is in love, one often looks forward to the future with their significant other. This is what OneRepublic‘s “Future Looks Good” is about.
Released as part of their 2016 album Oh My My, the song is a story about how the narrator discovered, through a dream, how his lover is his future. With this discovery, he mentions the “future is good,” and he promises to make her happy.
At its core, the song’s message is all about optimism and hope. It inspires listeners to keep looking forward and aiming for a better future.
8. “Mr. Roboto” By Styx
The rock band Styx emerged in an era where synthesizers were beginning to dominate the music scene. They embraced this new wave of technology and infused it into their rock roots. The result? “Mr. Roboto” – a track that dances between cultures and languages while painting a picture of a dystopian future.
“Mr. Roboto” was released as the lead single from Styx’s 11th studio album, Kilroy Was Here, in 1983. Combining both Japanese and English lyrics, it reflects the global influence of technology and the future. The term “Roboto” refers to a robot, indicating a futuristic theme.
The lyrics tell the story of a character named Kilroy who is imprisoned in a dystopian future where rock music is outlawed. To escape, Kilroy disguises himself as a robot. This narrative reflects anxieties about the future, especially the fear of human creativity being suppressed by technology and authoritarian regimes.
9. “Future People” By Alabama Shakes
Up next is a song with a unique blend of rock, blues, and soul. Alabama Shakes‘ “Future People” is a musical exploration of hope, self-discovery, and the promise of what lies ahead. The song was issued as the third single from the band’s second studio album, Sound & Color.
The lyrics of “Future People” delve into the concept of anticipating a better life in the future. While some wish to reconnect with those who have passed on, the song’s protagonist chooses to look forward, expressing a desire to meet their future self rather than dwell on the past.
The song not only touches on personal growth. It also encourages us to embrace the unknown and look forward to the potential of what we could become.
10. “Tomorrow’s Dream” By Black Sabbath
A track from Black Sabbath‘s fourth studio album, Vol. 4, “Tomorrow’s Dream,” is a captivating exploration of change, renewal, and the pursuit of a better future.
Released in 1972, the song tells a narrative of leaving everything behind to begin anew. This is depicted in lines such as “Well, I’m leaving tomorrow at daybreak… / Yes, I’m leaving this sorrow and heartaches.”
But “Tomorrow’s Dream” isn’t just about escape. It’s also about transformation. It captures the universal human desire to break away from past constraints and move toward a brighter future — a “tomorrow’s dream.”
11. “Hope For The Future” By Paul McCartney
Our next song immerses listeners in a soundscape that blends the familiar with the futuristic. Paul McCartney‘s “Hope for the Future” is a sonic exploration of what lies ahead. This tune was recorded as part of the soundtrack for the record-breaking video game Destiny.
The song’s title is a direct reflection of its theme. “Hope for the Future” sings about optimism, resilience, and the belief that better days lie ahead.
“Hope for the Future” was digitally released in 2014 and on vinyl in 2015. It’s worth noting that the song remained exclusively within the world of Destiny for a long time. This unique release strategy added an extra layer of intrigue to the song, making it a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by players of the game.
12. “Dear Future Husband” By Meghan Trainor
Imagine penning a letter to your yet-to-be-met soulmate, laying out all the expectations and dreams you have for your shared future. That’s precisely what Meghan Trainor accomplishes with her hit “Dear Future Husband.”
This song is all about the future — not just any future, but a future filled with love, respect, and mutual understanding. She lays it all out in an upbeat, catchy melody that’s as assertive as it is sweet.
Lyrically, Trainor uses the tune to provide a kind of blueprint for her future husband. The lines “Take me on a date / I deserve a break / And don’t forget the flowers every anniversary” set clear expectations for the type of love and respect she expects in her relationship.
13. “Next Year Baby” By Jamie Callum
Picture this: As the clock ticks closer to a new year, you find yourself reflecting on the past and optimistically planning for the future. You resolve to make changes to become a better version of yourself. This is the essence captured in Jamie Cullum‘s “Next Year Baby” from his Twentysomething album.
This song is a charmingly honest portrayal of our human tendency to make resolutions for the future. The lyrics are brimming with promises we often make to ourselves, some profound, others delightfully mundane.
The song is not just about making resolutions, though. It’s also about the determination to start fresh and to do better.
14. “Welcome To The Future” By Brad Paisley
A melodic journey through time, Brad Paisley‘s country hit “Welcome to the Future” is a celebration of progress. From his American Saturday Night album in 2009, it peaked at #2 on the Billboard Country chart.
The lyrics of this song are a thoughtful reflection on how far we’ve come as a society. The opening verse takes us back to Paisley’s childhood when he dreamt of owning a Pac-Man game at home. Now, in the future, he has the game on his phone.
This song with “future” in the lyrics states how “every day’s a revolution.” The song beautifully captures the spirit of optimism and progress, reminding us that the future is not something to fear but rather something to embrace.
15. “Future Proof” By Massive Attack
Immersing oneself in the hauntingly beautiful soundscape of “Future Proof” by Massive Attack is like stepping into a dystopian vision of what’s to come. This track, featuring the vocals of Robert Del Naja, was the first song produced for their 2003 album 100th Window.
The lyrics of “Future Proof” paint a foreboding picture. Phrases like “borderline case,” “reinforced glass,” and “absent friends” create an atmosphere of isolation and uncertainty.
The music is also captivating. With its eerie synth lines and driving rhythm, it creates a sense of unease that complements the song’s theme.
16. “Next Year” By Foo Fighters
There’s a sense of longing and nostalgia that permeates through “Next Year,” the last single from Foo Fighters‘ third album, There Is Nothing Left to Lose. This song is an anthem for dreamers, for those who are always looking ahead.
“Next Year” is filled with vivid imagery, painting a picture of a world filled with chaos and unrest. But amid this tumultuous landscape, there’s a beacon of hope: the promise of coming home “next year.”
The music video for “Next Year” also contributes to the song’s futuristic theme. The video is a remake of the Apollo 11 moon mission, complete with NASA stock footage. This depiction of one of humanity’s greatest achievements serves as a powerful metaphor for the song’s message about striving for a better future.
17. “Future” By Paramore
Up next is “Future” by Paramore, the closing track of their self-titled album in 2013. Written by Hayley Williams and Taylor York, it’s noted for its stark departure from the band’s signature sound.
The song begins with a soft melody accompanied by Williams’ haunting vocals. The lyrics are open to interpretation, but many fans believe they speak to the band’s struggles and the hope for a better future. This initial section of the song is filled with a sense of anticipation, as if something big is about to happen.
And indeed, around the three-minute mark, “Future” transforms into an entirely instrumental piece. The shift is abrupt yet seamless. The instrumental section is a cacophony of guitar riffs and drum beats, a raw and powerful expression of emotion that words alone can’t capture.
18. “Future Nostalgia” By Dua Lipa
Our next song, Dua Lipa‘s “Future Nostalgia,” serves as a beacon guiding listeners into a world where past and future seamlessly meld together.
Throughout the song, the future is mentioned several times. Yet, it has an underlying tone of nostalgia, hence the title. Some notable lines include “You want a timeless song, I wanna change the game” and “You want the recipe, but can’t handle my sound.” These hint at Lipa’s ambition to innovate and push boundaries in music while still acknowledging its rich history.
Upon release, “Future Nostalgia” was lauded by critics and fans alike for its unique sound and empowering message. It took the third spot on the Billboard Hot 100 while topping several charts across the globe.
19. “My Future” By Billie Eilish
The American singer-songwriter Billie Eilish is known for her haunting vocals. “My Future,” from her second studio album, Happier Than Ever, showcases this talent well.
“My Future” is a beautiful exploration of self-love and the anticipation of what lies ahead. The lyrics “I can’t seem to focus / And you don’t seem to notice I’m not here” reveal a struggle with identity and recognition.
In terms of sound, “My Future” is a departure from Eilish’s earlier, darker work. The production is lighter, with a dreamy, ethereal quality that complements the hopeful nature of the lyrics.
20. “Next 100 Years” By Bon Jovi
Up next is “Next 100 Years,” a lesser-known gem by the iconic rock band Bon Jovi. This song, like many of Bon Jovi’s tracks, showcases the band’s talent for creating thought-provoking lyrics wrapped in robust melodies.
The song starts with “Time ain’t nothing but time / It’s a verse with no rhyme / Man, it all comes down to you.” These lines can be interpreted as an acknowledgment of the relentless march of time and how our lives are shaped by the choices we make. It’s a sobering reminder of our responsibility in life.
“Next 100 Years” may not be as well-known as some of Bon Jovi’s biggest hits. But it’s a song that prompts reflection and introspection, reminding us of the power we hold over our own lives.
21. “Here Comes The Sun” By The Beatles
Many consider “Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles” as a beacon of hope, a promise of brighter days, and a testament to resilience. It is an enduring classic that continues to inspire listeners worldwide.
This timeless track is not just about the literal sun. It’s a metaphorical sunrise, signaling the arrival of better times after enduring life’s darker moments.
Penned by George Harrison, the lyrics evoke a sense of longing for relief from strife. The repeated phrase “Here comes the sun” is a reassurance that the future holds promise, no matter how challenging the present may be.
22. “In The Year 2525” By Zager & Evans
A chilling prophecy of technological advancement and its implications is what “In the Year 2525 (Exordium & Terminus)” is all about. Performed by the duo Zager & Evans, it captivates listeners with its dystopian view of the future and topped the charts in 1969.
The song’s lyrics take us on a journey through time. They begin in the year 2525 and move forward in thousand-year increments. Each verse presents a darker vision of humanity’s future, where natural human functions are gradually replaced by technology.
Composed by Rick Evans, the song was a significant departure from the popular music trends of the time. Its sobering lyrics set it apart from other chart-toppers.
23. “Future Games” By Fleetwood Mac
Released in 1971, “Future Games” is a fascinating track by the British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac. It is the title piece of their fifth studio album.
Written by Bob Welch, “Future Games” is a lyrical journey through time and its enigmatic nature. It discusses the concept of taking control of one’s destiny and encourages listeners to reflect on their actions and decisions.
“Future Games” signifies an important turning point for Fleetwood Mac. The band was transitioning from their blues roots toward a more progressive rock sound at this time. This song captures that evolution in its raw form.
24. “Future Lovers” By Madonna
In the realm of pop music, few artists have managed to consistently reinvent themselves and remain as relevant as Madonna. A testament to this is her track “Future Lovers,” from the 2005 album Confessions on a Dance Floor.
“Future Lovers” can be interpreted in many ways. One is that it is a siren call to take a chance as lovers in the future. It invites listeners to forget their current lives and problems and just dive into love.
Madonna has always been known for her evocative songwriting, and this track is no exception. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a futuristic vision of love, blending themes of love and fame.
25. “Ain’t No Future In Yo Frontin” By MC Breed & DFC
With a beat that’s as infectious as it is timeless, “Ain’t No Future In Yo Frontin” by MC Breed & DFC still resonates in the world of hip-hop. The song carved out its own niche when it was released and continues to be a symbol of its era.
The song’s title itself is a profound statement about authenticity and the future. The term “frontin'” is slang for pretending to be something you’re not. By saying there’s no future in frontin’, the song delivers a powerful message about the importance of staying true to oneself.
The group’s unique approach to this track is part of what makes it so memorable. Their blend of hard-hitting beats and thought-provoking lyrics creates a compelling narrative that challenges listeners to consider their actions and how they present themselves to the world.
26. “Years” By Stone Temple Pilots
Imagine taking a journey through time, witnessing the past, present, and future in one swoop. That’s the kind of trip you embark on when you listen to “Years” by the Stone Temple Pilots.
The lyrics suggest a contemplation of what’s to come, hinting at an inevitable progression of life. This theme is encapsulated in the lines “All alone, the years go by / Now they’re gone, I wonder why / Relive the lifetime only to say goodbye.” These suggest that the future is a culmination of our past and present experiences.
The song doesn’t just talk about the future. It also encourages listeners to think about their own future. It’s a gentle reminder that time is fleeting, and we should make the most of every moment.
27. “The Future Starts Slow” By The Kills
Unveiling a raw, edgy sound that’s quintessentially indie rock, The Kills have created a musical gem in “The Future Starts Slow.” This track was released as the second single from their fourth studio album, Blood Pressures, in 2011.
“The Future Starts Slow” is a poignant exploration of longing, with lyrics diving into the complexities of human relationships.
The narrator expresses his love, not wanting his significant other to leave him. In fact, his partner can wail and holler at him, but he’ll never let go. Because if he does, it will be difficult for him to start his life over again, as “the future starts slow.”
28. “One Hundred Years From Now” By The Byrds
Step back in time to 1968, where amidst the backdrop of a changing world, The Byrds released their groundbreaking album Sweetheart of the Rodeo. Among its lineup of tracks is “One Hundred Years from Now.”
Penned by Gram Parsons, the song offers a poignant meditation on how people are after some passage of time. The narrator wonders if people will still think and feel the same. At the same time, he says, “Nobody knows what kind of trouble there is,” suggesting that there’s no certainty in the future.
Despite being more than half a century old, “One Hundred Years from Now” still feels fresh and relevant. It’s a testament to The Byrds’ talent and vision that they were able to create a song that transcends time.
29. “When I’m 64” By The Beatles
Another tune that takes you on a whimsical journey into the future is “When I’m 64.” This charming number was by The Beatles in 1967 from the album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.
Penned by Paul McCartney when he was just 16, this song beautifully captures the innocence and optimism of youth. The song is essentially a young man’s vision of where he and his loved one are still together, even when they’re 64.
Interestingly, “When I’m 64” has a unique place in The Beatles’ discography. It’s one of their few songs that features a clarinet trio. This gives it a distinct, almost vaudevillian sound that sets it apart from their typical rock-and-roll style.
30. “Someday We’ll Be Together” By Diana Ross & The Supremes
During the late 1960s, Diana Ross and The Supremes were dominating the airwaves. One song of theirs that stands out is “Someday We’ll Be Together.”
The song is a poignant anthem of longing and hope. It speaks of separation but always with an underlying current of optimism, a belief in a future where love reigns supreme again.
This was the last single released by The Supremes featuring Diana Ross, marking the end of an era. But even as the group bid farewell, they did so with a song that looked ahead, symbolizing both an ending and a new beginning.
31. “Future Starts Now” By Kim Petras
Our next song, “Future Starts Now,” is a vibrant soundscape painted by German singer-songwriter Kim Petras. Released in 2021, this track carries an irresistible rhythm that invites listeners to dance their worries away and embrace the present moment.
“Future Starts Now” is more than just any song. It’s a powerful mantra that urges us to seize the day. The lyrics convey a message of empowerment and resilience, challenging listeners not to quit because the “future starts now.”
In essence, the song is a celebratory ode to life. Whether you’re a fan of Kim Petras or simply a lover of uplifting music, this song is sure to inspire you.
32. “Ghost Of Corporate Future” By Regina Spektor
From her album Soviet Kitsch in 2003, Regina Spektor released one of her remarkable tracks: “Ghost of Corporate Future.” This song weaves a vivid narrative that takes listeners on a journey through the seemingly mundane yet profoundly symbolic experiences of an everyday man.
It tells the story of a man who was visited by the Ghost of Corporate Future in a dream. The ghost encouraged him not to take everything so seriously because people wouldn’t really care what you do now or in the future.
The song provokes thoughts about societal pressures, conformity, and the importance of individuality. It’s also a call to reflect on our priorities and the societal structures we navigate daily.
33. “Future Reflections” By MGMT
Up next is MGMT‘s “Future Reflections.” It describes the poignant exploration of choices that boys on the street face as they grow older and transition into manhood.
It’s a unique perspective, offering a glimpse into the paths that these young people might choose. Interestingly, the tone of the song is not one of despair or fear but rather a reflection of the resilience and adaptability of youth.
At its core, this “Future Reflections” is a contemplation of time and the human experience. The song uses vivid imagery and metaphors to explore these themes and invites listeners to contemplate these in their own lives.
34. “Future Shock” By Curtis Mayfield
The renowned soul and funk artist Curtis Mayfield is the singer of our next song, “Future Shock.” It was part of his album Back to the World, which came out in 1973.
The term “future shock” pertains to a condition of distress or disorientation due to rapid societal or technological change. This concept was brought into the mainstream by Alvin Toffler’s book Future Shock. In his song, Mayfield adopts this idea to comment on the social issues of his time.
With lines like “We got to stop all men / From messing up the land,” the song is a powerful social commentary that mirrors the struggles and societal transitions of the period and, of course, the future.
35. “Give Me The Future” By Bastille
British indie pop band Bastille takes a deep dive into the realm of technology with their fourth studio album. It features the intriguing title track, “Give Me the Future,” released in 2022.
The song, like the rest of the album, is a tribute to tech times. It’s a musical journey that captures the essence of living in a world increasingly dominated by digital interfaces and virtual realities. The title itself seems to be an earnest request for the forward march of time.
The lyrics invite listeners to ponder over our evolving relationship with technology. The song encourages us to question how these advancements shape our lives and influence our perception of reality.
36. “Space Oddity” By David Bowie
We’re ending this list just as we started: with a David Bowie track — “Space Oddity.” This timeless masterpiece was released in 1969 and became Bowie’s breakthrough hit, and for good reason!
“Space Oddity” is essentially a tale of a fictional astronaut, Major Tom, lost in space. This narrative was so captivating that it spawned more songs and sequels about the character, including “Ashes to Ashes” and “Hallo Spaceboy.”
The song’s release date was no coincidence. It hit the airwaves just a few days before the moon landing, capturing the zeitgeist of that momentous event. It reflected the world’s collective anticipation about the future of space exploration.
Summing Up Our List Of Future Songs
Our journey through the best songs about the future has taken us across various genres and decades, showcasing the diverse ways artists have interpreted this theme.
Each one of these songs reflects not just our hopes and fears about what lies ahead but also the changing times in which they were created.
In the future, we will also endeavor to keep this post updated. So, if you have any song recommendations for this theme, let us know, and we’ll add them here!
