Music is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures. One of its most fascinating aspects is the diverse range of song titles. Have you ever noticed how many songs begin with the letter “I”?
In this article, we will be checking out some interesting tracks with titles that begin with “I” — from indie pop to classic rock and timeless ballads to catchy dance tunes.
So, are you ready to immerse yourself in the world of “I” songs? We’ve compiled a list of 25 of the best songs that start with the letter “I.”
1. “In The End” By Linkin Park
Our first song, whose title starts with the letter “I,” is Linkin Park’s “In the End.” From their debut album, Hybrid Theory, the song encapsulates the band’s signature style — a blend of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music.
The lyrics paint a picture of a person grappling with the harsh realities of life. He struggles to make sense of his efforts when everything seems to be falling apart. His frustration is clear in the lines “I tried so hard / and got so far / but in the end / it doesn’t even matter.”
Released in 2001, “In the End” received great praise. It landed at #1 on the UK’s Rock & Metal and US’s Alternative Airplay charts. It was also named the best Linkin Park song by Billboard.
2. “It’s My Life” By Bon Jovi
Up next is a rock anthem by Bon Jovi. “It’s My Life,” from their album Crush, was a massive commercial success when it was released in 2000. It reached the top 10 in multiple countries and became one of Bon Jovi’s most well-known hits.
The song’s success can likely be attributed to its lyrics. They convey a message of empowerment and seizing control of one’s fate.
The protagonist asserts their independence and determination to follow their dreams, even in the face of adversity. The chorus, with its iconic line “It’s my life, it’s now or never / I ain’t gonna live forever,” encapsulates this sentiment of living in the moment and taking charge of one’s destiny.
3. “Into You” By Ariana Grande
Released as the second single from her Dangerous Woman album, Ariana Grande presents to us “Into You.” The song features a pulsating club beat that is designed to get listeners moving.
“Into You” delves into themes of desire and anticipation. It’s a flirtatious track about wanting someone to express their feelings more openly.
In the song, Grande sings about her longing for her partner to demonstrate their affection. It captures the excitement and tension that comes with a burgeoning romance.
Lines like “A little less conversation, and a little more touch my body” convey the singer’s desire for physical intimacy while also hinting at the deeper emotional connection she craves.
4. “IDGAF” By Dua Lipa
With over 1 billion views on YouTube, we can’t not have Dua Lipa‘s “IDGAF” on this list. The song’s title is an abbreviation for “I Don’t Give a Fuck.” The lyrics convey a message of empowerment and self-assurance following a breakup.
In “IDGAF,” Dua Lipa addresses a former lover who is trying to win her back after treating her poorly. The lyrics express her resolve to move on and assert her independence despite any attempts to reconcile.
“IDGAF” received widespread acclaim for its empowering lyrics, catchy melody, and Dua Lipa’s strong vocal performance. Its message of self-assurance and independence resonated with audiences, particularly young women, who embraced it as an anthem for confidence and resilience.
5. “It Must Have Been Love” By Roxette
Let the heartaches begin with “It Must Have Been Love” by the Swedish pop duo Roxette. It was originally released in 1987 and then re-released in 1990 for the film Pretty Woman.
Its lyrics capture the pain of a romance that has ended. Lines such as “It must have been love / but it’s over now / It was all that I wanted / now I’m living without” express the longing and regret of the narrator.
The song’s first release was only in Sweden, which reached #4 on their music chart. The 1990 release is more popular. It topped Billboard‘s Hot 100 as well as many other charts worldwide.
6. “If I Were A Boy” By Beyoncé
Up next is from Queen Bey — Beyoncé, that is. “If I Were a Boy” is from the singer’s album I Am… Sasha Fierce. The track presents a hypothetical scenario in which Beyoncé imagines herself in the shoes of a man.
She contemplates how different her life and relationship dynamics would be if she were perceived and treated as a man. The song explores the double standards and expectations placed on men and women in relationships. It highlights the disparities in behavior and treatment based on gender.
Throughout the song, Beyoncé expresses a desire for empathy and understanding from her partner. She wishes for the opportunity to see things from his perspective. At the same time, she acknowledges her feelings of frustration and longing for a more equitable relationship.
7. “It’s Time” By Imagine Dragons
In 2012, the pop rock band Imagine Dragons debuted with a hit called “It’s Time.” Its universal message of embracing oneself and going on a journey has made it an anthem of self-affirmation and change.
The lyrics are filled with metaphors that speak to this theme. For example, the repeated line “It’s time to begin, isn’t it?” serves as a rhetorical question, suggesting that a change is inevitable. The line “I’m just the same as I was” suggests that despite the changes, the speaker remains true to their identity.
Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics helped the song climb up to #15 on Billboard‘s Hot 100 chart. It was also covered by the cast of the TV drama Glee and used in various commercials and shows.
8. “I Want To Break Free” By Queen
With their legendary status, it’s not surprising that Queen has a song that starts with “I.” If you haven’t guessed yet, it is “I Want to Break Free,” written by the band’s bass guitarist John Deacon. It is known for its catchy melody and lyrics and memorable music video.
The song’s protagonist expresses a desire to break free from the restrictions and expectations imposed by others. This theme of personal liberation resonates strongly with audiences, making the song an anthem for those seeking independence and self-expression.
Its music video is as iconic as the song. It features the band members dressed in drag, parodying characters from the British soap opera Coronation Street.
The video caused controversy upon its release, particularly in the United States. However, it eventually gained cult status and is now regarded as one of the most memorable music videos of the 1980s.
9. “Ice Ice Baby” By Vanilla Ice
Released in 1990, Vanilla Ice’s hip-hop track “Ice Ice Baby” took the airwaves by storm. With its “Under Pressure” bassline sample, it became the rapper’s most popular work.
The title is a play on the artist’s name and serves as an unforgettable chant throughout the song. The lyrics are filled with references to the rapper’s Miami upbringing, describing his life and experiences.
“Ice Ice Baby” was released in a period when hip-hop was beginning to gain mainstream recognition. The late ’80s and early ’90s saw the genre break out of its niche origins and into popular culture. “Ice Ice Baby,” the first hip-hop song to top the Billboard Hot 100, played a pivotal role in this transition.
10. “Iris” By Goo Goo Dolls
For the soundtrack of the film City of Angels in 1998, the rock band Goo Goo Dolls made “Iris.” As their most popular track, it is considered their signature song.
In this ballad, the protagonist expresses a deep desire to be seen and understood by someone else. He wants to be truly known and accepted for who they are.
“Iris” achieved widespread acclaim upon its release. It topped the US Adult Top 40, Alternative Airplay, and Mainstream Top 40 charts, as well as charts in Australia and Canada. It also received a Grammy nod for Pop Performance by a Duo or Group and Record of the Year.
11. “If I Ain’t Got You” By Alicia Keys
Up next is a soulful ballad by Alicia Keys. “If I Ain’t Got You,” from her 2003 album The Diary of Alicia Keys, explores love’s paramount importance over material possessions.
Keys communicates this message through the lines, “Some people want it all / but I don’t want nothing at all / if it ain’t you baby.” These lyrics emphasize that genuine love and human connection are more valuable than any worldly riches.
“If I Ain’t Got You” is one of Keys’s popular songs. It took the top spot on Billboard‘s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It also received a Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and a Billboard Music Award for R&B/Hip-Hop Single of the Year.
12. “Immortals” By Fall Out Boy
Disney is known to have great soundtracks for their films, and the 2014 Big Hero 6 is no exception. For this animated movie, Fall Out Boy made “Immortals,” a song about overcoming adversity and rising above challenges.
The song is about leaving a lasting legacy and being remembered for one’s accomplishments. It resonates with the film’s storyline, which centers on a group of young heroes striving to make a difference.
“Immortals” received positive reviews from critics and listeners alike. Its success was further bolstered by its use in promotional material for Big Hero 6 and various other media projects, like ESPN’s coverage of the 2023 NHL All-Star Game.
13. “Imagine” By John Lennon
We have John Lennon‘s “Imagine” next. This song, recognized worldwide as an anthem for peace and unity, was released in 1971. It remains one of the most impactful pieces of music in popular culture.
Its lyrics invite listeners to envision a world without divisions. That means no countries, no religion, and no possessions. This utopian vision challenges societal norms and encourages listeners to ponder a world where peace reigns supreme.
“Imagine” is more than just a song. It’s a powerful call to action for peace and unity, delivered through simple lyrics and a poignant musical arrangement.
14. “I Kissed A Girl” By Katy Perry
From Katy Perry‘s One of the Boys album comes “I Kissed a Girl.” This track is a smash-hit song for our list of songs beginning with “I.” The song’s protagonist describes a moment of spontaneity and curiosity, where she kisses another girl and experiences a rush of excitement and desire.
The release of “I Kissed a Girl” was met with both acclaim and controversy. The song was praised for its catchy melody and bold lyrical content. However, it also sparked debate and criticism due to its portrayal of same-sex attraction and its potential for perpetuating stereotypes.
Some LGBTQ+ advocates argued that the song trivialized bisexuality and fetishized queer experiences. Others defended it as a celebration of sexual freedom and exploration.
Despite the controversy, “I Kissed a Girl” became a commercial success. It topped the charts in multiple countries and earned Perry her first #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
15. “Immortality” By Céline Dion Ft. Bee Gees
The renowned band Bee Gees and Céline Dion worked in a unique collaboration in 1998. “Immortality” was written by the Bee Gees, who also provided backing vocals for the track.
“Immortality” is a touching tribute to the timeless nature of love and the human desire to leave lasting memories. It captivated many hearts with Dion’s powerful vocals and the Bee Gees’ distinctive harmonies.
The song was well-received and reached #5 in the official UK charts upon its release. Today, “Immortality” remains popular with audiences worldwide and serves as a reminder of the timeless nature of love.
16. “In My Place” By Coldplay
Since 1997, Coldplay has released nine chart-topping albums and many hit singles in between. “In My Place” is one of the popular tracks from their 2002 album, A Rush of Blood to the Head.
The lyrics touch on themes of regret and longing. The speaker reflects on their mistakes and expresses a desire for redemption. This sentiment is encapsulated in the lines “In my place were lines that I couldn’t change / I was lost.”
The song’s universal theme and engaging melodies helped it stand out in Coldplay’s discography. It reached the top of Billboard‘s Adult Alternative Songs chart and won a Grammy for Best Rock Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocal.
17. “Ironic” By Alanis Morrisette
In 1995, singer-songwriter Alanis Morissette broke through the mainstream with the album Jagged Little Pill. It contains “Ironic,” considered one of her signature tracks, which helped propel her to fame.
The song explores the concept of irony in everyday life. The narrator’s wry observations highlight the unpredictability of the human experience.
The situations described in the song range from mundane annoyances to profound contradictions. For instance, the narrator mentions “rain on your wedding day” or “a free ride when you’ve already paid.”
Upon its release, “Ironic” received widespread acclaim and became a commercial success. It reached the top five on the charts in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. It also earned Morissette several accolades, including Grammy nominations.
18. “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” By The Rolling Stones
Rock fans are probably familiar with our next song: the classic “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones. Released in 1965, the song is a product of the songwriting partnership between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.
The lyrics express the narrator’s frustration and search for authenticity in an increasingly commercialized world. The title and repeated phrase, “I can’t get no satisfaction,” underscore this discontent and desire for genuine experiences.
The song quickly rose to prominence. It topped the charts in the United States and many other countries. To this day, it remains a cornerstone of The Rolling Stones’ discography and legacy.
19. “If I Never See Your Face Again” By Maroon 5 Ft. Rihanna
In 2008, a collaboration between Maroon 5 and Rihanna resulted in a track that can get your body moving. “If I Never See Your Face Again” is featured in Maroon 5’s album It Won’t Be Soon Before Long and Rihanna’s Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded.
The song combines pop, rock, and R&B. It blends Maroon 5’s signature funk-infused sound with Rihanna’s soulful vocals. Its catchy guitar riff and driving beat create a dynamic and infectious groove that propels the song forward.
Lyrically, the narrator laments the come-and-go dynamic of her relationship. She wishes her partner would stay permanently with her. At the same time, if she never sees his face again, she won’t mind, suggesting she’s frustrated with the situation.
20. “I” By Kendrick Lamar Ft. Ronald Isley
Diving into the realm of hip-hop, we have “I” by the rapper Kendrick Lamar, featuring Ronald Isley of The Isley Brothers. It was released in 2014 from Lamar’s third studio album To Pimp a Butterfly.
The song addresses serious issues such as depression, self-hatred, and violence in the African American community. Nevertheless, the singer highlights the importance of loving yourself no matter the situation.
“I” received widespread acclaim upon its release. It also won two Grammy Awards: Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance. Its success lies in its potent combination of an empowering message, innovative musical style, and Lamar’s compelling delivery.
21. “In My Life” By The Beatles
We move on to a classic track next with The Beatle‘s “In My Life.” From their 1965 album Rubber Soul, it is widely regarded as one of the band’s greatest and most beloved compositions.
Lennon penned the lyrics, drawing inspiration from his own experiences and relationships. It’s a nostalgic reflection on the passage of time and the people who have left an indelible mark on the songwriter’s life.
“In My Life” is one of The Beatles’ most enduring and beloved songs. In fact, it was hailed as a masterpiece of songcraft and emotional resonance. It was featured in countless films, television shows, and commercials. In addition, numerous artists have made their own renditions, including Bette Midler and Johnny Cash.
22. “It’s The End Of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” By R.E.M.
The alternative rock band R.E.M. is next with their song “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine).” The track is part of their album Document, released in 1987.
The lyrics are a rapid-fire, stream-of-consciousness list referencing various cultural, political, and historical figures and events. Despite the chaotic nature of the lyrics and the title’s ominous implications, the chorus reassures listeners with the phrase, “and I feel fine,” suggesting a sense of acceptance.
The song has been interpreted in many ways. Some see it as a commentary on information overload in modern society. Others view it as a reflection of anxiety and uncertainty. Nevertheless, the song’s enduring popularity suggests that its themes continue to resonate with listeners.
23. “I Did Something Bad” By Taylor Swift
As one of the world’s best-selling music artists, Taylor Swift surely has a song for our list. This one is “I Did Something Bad.” With its dark, edgy sound, the song is a departure from Swift’s usual musical style.
Swift explores the consequences of her actions and embraces her flaws, showcasing a more assertive and unapologetic persona. The lyrics suggest a sense of liberation and empowerment as Swift takes ownership of her mistakes and refuses to be defined by them.
Lines like “If a man talks shit, then I owe him nothing” and “They say I did something bad / then why’s it feel so good?” highlight the defiance and confidence in Swift’s delivery.
24. “Instant Karma!” By John Lennon
Following his departure from The Beatles, John Lennon started a solo career and released several hits. “Instant Karma!” is one of them.
The song’s lyrics focus on the concept of karma — the idea that what goes around comes around. The lines “Instant Karma’s gonna get you / gonna knock you right on the head” reflect immediate cosmic justice. This aligns with Lennon’s advocacy for peace and love, suggesting that negative actions will have swift consequences.
Despite being a solo project, “Instant Karma!” echoes the energy and appeal of Lennon’s work with The Beatles. It became the first solo single by a former Beatle to sell a million copies in America.
25. “It’s A Long Way To The Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘N’ Roll) By AC/DC
Let’s rock it out with the last song on this list, “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” by AC/DC. Released in 1975 from their album T.N.T., the song has become one of the band’s signature tracks and a staple of their live performances.
The lyrics describe the struggles of a young musician as he navigates the highs and lows of the music industry. This includes facing long hours, financial instability, and the constant pressure to succeed.
Despite the hardships, the protagonist remains determined to pursue his passion for rock ‘n’ roll. He embraces the journey and the camaraderie of fellow musicians along the way.
Summing Up Our List Of Letter I-Starting Songs
The songs above offer a diverse range of themes and emotions, from introspective ballads like Céline Dion’s “Immortality” to empowering anthems like Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life.”
These songs have left a lasting impact on music lovers around the world. However, there are countless other songs that may not have been mentioned here.
Do you have a favorite song beginning with “I” that wasn’t on our list? Feel free to share it with us. We’re always eager to discover new tunes!
