Nearly at the end of the alphabet, we have the letter “Y.” This letter has served as the starting point of many great songs over the years.
From the classics of the 1950s to modern pop hits — and everything in between — there are different stories to be told within these songs. Each one has captivated listeners and changed the face of music in its own way.
In this post, we’ll check out 25 of the best songs that start with the letter “Y.” Read on, and who knows? Maybe you’ll encounter a new favorite or two or more!
1. “You’re Welcome” By Lin-Manuel Miranda
Surprisingly, the first song on our list is from a Disney soundtrack. Fans of the 2016 film Moana are probably familiar with Dwayne Johnson’s “You’re Welcome.” Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, it is the song Maui (voiced by Johnson) regales Moana with the first time they meet.
With its upbeat tempo and memorable lyrics, the song details everything the demi-God has done for the people: “I could explain every natural phenomenon / The tide, the grass, the ground / oh, that was Maui just messing around.”
The song’s popularity has extended beyond the film. Johnson’s live performances of it received enthusiastic responses from audiences. Its official video on YouTube has already garnered over 1.5 billion views!
2. “You Belong With Me” By Taylor Swift
From Taylor Swift‘s album Fearless comes “You Belong with Me.” This sonic phenomenon has wowed listeners, helping it gain more than one billion YouTube views.
Unrequited love is its theme, with the narrator pining for the affection of a friend who is already in a relationship. She laments, “If you could see that I’m the one who understands you / Been here all along, so why can’t you see / you belong with me.”
Like many of Swift’s songs, “You Belong with Me” was a success, reaching #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. It received three Grammy nominations and won Song of the Year at the 2010 BMI Country Awards.
3. “You Are The Reason” By Calum Scott
Let your heart be captured by the raw and heart-tugging message of Calum Scott‘s 2017 song “You Are the Reason.” This piano-driven ballad was released from the singer’s debut album, Only Human.
In the song, the narrator regrets letting his beloved slip from his fingers. He pleads for her return, stating he’d “climb every mountain / and swim any ocean / just to be with [her],” because she is the reason he’s still breathing.
A year later, Scott released a duet version with Leona Lewis. Overall, “You Are the Reason” reminds us of the power that a beautifully crafted song has in touching hearts and evoking strong emotions.
4. “Yeah!” By Usher Ft. Lil Jon And Ludacris
Next, let’s dance to the beat of “Yeah!” Released by Usher and featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, this track helped define the early 2000s R&B and hip-hop landscape.
The artists’ performances in “Yeah!” exude confidence and charm, as they sing about club scenes, flirting, and having a good time.
Released in 2004, the song was met with universal acclaim, quickly ascending the charts to become a global phenomenon. It dominated the Billboard Hot 100 and international charts.
This marked a cultural moment as it brought the sounds of Southern hip-hop into the limelight and influenced the direction of R&B and hip-hop for years to come.
5. “You’re Beautiful” By James Blunt
Another Billboard Hot 100–dominating song is next. “You’re Beautiful,” released by James Blunt in 2005, is a raw and heartfelt expression of unrequited love.
The narrative revolves around the fleeting moment shared between the narrator and a woman he sees on a subway accompanied by another man. The lyrics capture the essence of recognizing beauty and connection in this brief encounter and the pain of knowing it can never be pursued.
The simple acoustic guitar arrangement complements Blunt’s distinct vocal delivery. It brings the song’s poignant lyrics to life and makes the listener feel every word.
“You’re Beautiful” was also award-winning. In 2006, it received an Ivor Novello Award for Most Performed Work. The following year, it was nominated for three Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year.
6. “Yeah 3x” By Chris Brown
Start moving that body because Chris Brown‘s “Yeah 3x” is next. Released as the lead single from his fourth studio album, F.A.M.E., the song showcases an uptempo blend of dance-pop, Europop, and electro-house, reminiscent of video game music.
“Yeah 3x” is an invitation to let go of worries and enjoy life. The chorus, catchy and easy to sing along to, captures the song’s celebratory mood, encouraging everyone to dance and have a good time.
Its success is not without controversy, however. Scottish DJ Calvin Harris claimed the song plagiarized his 2009 work, “I’m Not Alone.” If one compares the two, there are some similarities. Brown and Harris have since amicably settled this issue.
7. “Y.M.C.A.” By The Village People
Up next is a song crafted by the disco group Village People. “Y.M.C.A.” is a cultural touchstone that has woven itself into the fabric of global pop culture since its release in 1978.
The song is most notable for its dance moves, where participants use their arms to spell out Y-M-C-A. This and the song’s infectious melody transformed it from a disco track into a universally recognized anthem.
“Y.M.C.A.” stands as an exuberant celebration of the facilities provided by the Young Men’s Christian Association, which offers young men affordable accommodations. It promoted the YMCA as a welcoming place for youth to find community and support: “You can get yourself clean, you can have a good meal / You can do whatever you feel … / they can help you today.”
8. “You’re Still The One” By Shania Twain
Love finds its way again in our “Y”-starting songs. “You’re Still the One” by Shania Twain is a celebration of love that has lasted many years and overcame challenges.
Released in 1998 as part of Twain’s third studio album, Come On Over, the song was inspired by her relationship with her then-husband and producer, Mutt Lange. They were faced with skepticism from the public about the longevity of their relationship. “You’re Still the One” served as a powerful rebuttal to the doubters.
“You’re Still the One” charted highly in multiple countries upon release. It also received several Grammy nominations and won two: Best Country Song and Best Female Country Vocal Performance.
9. “(You Drive Me) Crazy” By Britney Spears
The Princess of Pop’s debut album …Baby One More Time features so many great songs from the singer. “(You Drive Me) Crazy,” released in 1999, is one of those early hits that helped propel Britney Spears to fame.
The song captures the exhilaration and intensity of youthful infatuation. The lyrics convey a mix of excitement and obsession that love can bring. Its catchy chorus, “You drive me crazy / I just can’t sleep … / crazy, but it feels alright / Baby, thinking of you keeps me up all night,” captures the whirlwind of emotions the narrator feels after falling head over heels for someone.
“(You Drive Me) Crazy” was a commercial success for the singer, charting in the top 10 across the globe. Over the years, it has remained a beloved classic in her discography.
10. “Yellow Submarine” By The Beatles
Close your eyes and imagine a whimsical song from The Beatles. What comes to mind? For our list, “Yellow Submarine” is the one, from their 1966 album Revolver.
“Yellow Submarine” was primarily written by Paul McCartney for Ringo Starr. It is a vivid, humourous tale that invites listeners into a colorful underwater world living in a yellow submarine. The song diverts from the band’s other works with its playful tone and storybook-like lyrics.
Upon its release, “Yellow Submarine” received widespread acclaim. It resonated with audiences for its simplicity, catchiness, and imaginative appeal. The song’s success was further amplified by the 1968 animated film, which also became a critical and commercial hit.
11. “Yakety Yak” By The Coasters
Released in 1958, The Coasters‘ “Yakety Yak” is one of the most memorable hits of the late 1950s. It encapsulated the spirit and energy of rock-and-roll’s golden era.
The song is distinguished by its humorous lyrics. It narrates a story of a teenager being reprimanded by their parents for not completing chores. The famous refrain “Don’t talk back” punctuates the verses.
This playful take on teenage rebellion and parental expectations resonated widely, making it an anthem of sorts for the youth of the era. Over the years, not only has “Yakety Yak” been covered by various artists. It has also been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials.
12. “You Can Call Me Al” By Paul Simon
From his album Graceland, renowned singer-songwriter Paul Simon released “You Can Call Me Al” in 1986. This is a unique track narrating a man’s midlife crisis.
He laments many things, like being “soft in the middle” and having a “short little span of attention.” Despite the existential themes, the song’s lively instrumentation, including a memorable bass solo and a cheerful pennywhistle bridge, lends a contrasting sense of joy and energy.
Musically, the song’s fusion of African musical elements with Western pop structure was innovative for its time. Today, it remains an enduring symbol of Simon’s artistry and his willingness to experiment with diverse musical styles.
13. “Young Turks” By Rod Stewart
Released in 1981 as part of Rod Stewart‘s album Tonight I’m Yours, “Young Turks” stands as a vibrant testament to the spirit of youth and freedom.
The term “Young Turks” refers to rebellious youth who are determined to go against the norms and expectations set by society. The lyrics weave a tale of two young lovers, Billy and Patti, who took that one shot in life to pursue their dreams, despite the opposition they faced.
Not only was “Young Turks” a commercial success, climbing to #5 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also marked Stewart’s departure from his rock roots toward a more synthpop and new wave sound that was gaining popularity at the time.
14. “(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)” By The Beastie Boys
Our next “Y”-starting song, “(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)” by the Beastie Boys, emerged as a defining anthem of the 1980s. It encapsulated the era’s rebellious spirit and youthful exuberance.
Released from their debut album Licensed to Ill, the song quickly soared in popularity, becoming one of the group’s most iconic tracks. Its raucous energy and catchy chorus captured the imagination of a generation, making it an enduring symbol of teenage defiance and the desire for freedom.
Despite the party-anthem status, the song was originally conceived as a parody. The Beastie Boys wrote it as a tongue-in-cheek critique of the very lifestyle it seemed to celebrate.
The track aimed to satirize the glorification of hedonistic revelry prevalent in much of the music scene. This layer of irony, however, was lost on many listeners. They embraced the song as a straightforward celebration of party culture.
15. “Young Girls” By Bruno Mars
Capturing the essence of youthful desire, Bruno Mars delivers a poignant narrative in one of his standout tracks. “Young Girls” delves into the struggles and temptations of love and the allure of young romances.
Lyrically, the narrator confesses to being drawn to the brightness and vivacity of young women, who keep him “up ’til the break of dawn.” However, he acknowledges the recklessness of this in the chorus: “All you young wild girls, you make a mess of me / Yeah, you young wild girls, you’ll be the death of me.”
The song was not as successful as the other tracks in Unorthodox Jukebox. However, it gained notable attention for its heartfelt performance and the depth of its storytelling. It reminds us that love, especially in its youthful form, can be both beautiful and destructive.
16. “Young” By The Chainsmokers
You know that song about being young and reckless, in love and thinking nothing in the world can touch you? That’s all here in The Chainsmokers‘ 2017 song “Young.”
Its lyrics remind us of the carefree and rebellious days of youth. It’s a time when love feels all-encompassing, and the world seems wide open with possibilities.
The line “We were so young when we thought that we knew how to love” is particularly notable. It highlights the naivety and boldness of young love. It’s often filled with passion but also fraught with challenges and misunderstandings.
“Young” has found its place among The Chainsmokers’ discography as a track that moves beyond the confines of the electronic dance music they are known for. Its themes of love, loss, and maturation reached a broad audience eager to connect with tunes that mirror their own life experiences.
17. “You’re The Inspiration” By Chicago
Fall in love next with a timeless ballad from the rock band Chicago. “You’re the Inspiration,” from their album Chicago 17, has transcended generations with its beautiful message and soulful melody.
The song’s lyrics articulate the eternal devotion the narrator has for another. It shows the profound impact love has had on his life. Everywhere he goes, his beloved is always in his mind, heart, and soul, because she is his inspiration.
This heartfelt message has cemented “You’re the Inspiration” as a staple in the repertoire of love songs since its release. It remains a beloved classic, cherished by fans across different eras.
18. “Yesterday” By The Beatles
In 1965, the world was introduced to “Yesterday” by The Beatles, and it quickly became a classic. It’s a melancholic song that delves into loss and nostalgia.
The lyrics and minimalist instrumentation — a contrast to the more complex, psychedelic sounds the band would later explore — resonated deeply with listeners. The narrative revolves around the narrator’s past relationship and his desire to return to that simpler time.
Over the years, “Yesterday” has been covered by countless artists, from Elvis Presley to Boyz II Men. The song remains a cornerstone of The Beatles’ legacy and continues to inspire new generations of artists and listeners.
19. “Young Forever” By JAY-Z Ft. Mr Hudson
From JAY-Z‘s album The Blueprint 3 comes “Young Forever,” which features Mr Hudson. It captures the essence of longing for eternal youth and the timeless moments that define our lives.
The track reworks the 1984 song “Forever Young” by Alphaville, adding a hip-hop and soulful twist. Its chorus echoes the sentiment of wanting to live forever but also evokes reflection: “Forever young, I wanna be forever young / Do you really want to live forever, forever, and ever?”
The song’s message about the pursuit of eternal youth, in the metaphorical sense of living on through one’s actions and legacies, strikes a chord with a wide audience. This landed the song at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and UK Singles Charts.
20. “Young Lust” By Pink Floyd
In 1979, Pink Floyd released The Wall, an album that became a monumental classic in rock music. It tells a story about feeling isolated and the emotional barriers we create. One of its songs, “Young Lust,” is a rock tune that critiques the pursuit of pleasure often seen in the rock star world.
This song highlights a turning point in the album’s story. It shows the main character indulging in shallow pleasures to cope with the loneliness that comes with fame.
The inclusion of a phone call at the end of the song uncovers a betrayal, adding depth to its story. This moment in The Wall not only moves the plot forward but also underlines the themes of disconnection and the consequences of a life without real human connection.
21. “Year Of The Cat” By Al Stewart
In the mid-1970s, Al Stewart emerged with a song that would define his career and enchant listeners for generations. “Year of the Cat” is a masterful blend of folk-rock and soft-rock elements. It is wrapped in vivid storytelling and lush musical arrangements.
The song transports listeners to a world of unexpected, romantic encounters in an exotic locale. The protagonist’s chance meeting with a mysterious woman unfolds against a backdrop that evokes the timeless allure of classic cinema.
“Year of the Cat” was a success for Stewart. It climbed to #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on Canada’s RPM Top Singles Charts, marking the singer’s career breakthrough.
22. “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling” By The Righteous Brothers
The world of music was forever changed with The Righteous Brothers‘s “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling.” This powerful ballad captured the hearts and ears of listeners everywhere.
The track is distinguished by its rich orchestration, a hallmark of Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound production technique. It layers multiple instruments to create a full, immersive sound. This method was revolutionary at the time and played a significant role in the song’s success.
At the heart of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling” is the soul-stirring vocals of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield. They narrate a tale of lost love and longing. This encapsulates the universal experience of a fading relationship with striking clarity and raw emotion.
The song is also significant culturally as it bridged the gap between rock and roll and soul. It appealed to a wide audience and contributed to the broader acceptance and appreciation of soul music among mainstream listeners.
23. “You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me” By Dusty Springfield
Our next “Y”-starting track is a classic hit — one of those songs that sticks with you long after you’ve heard it. “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me” was beautifully performed by Dusty Springfield in 1966.
The song itself deals with the pain and longing of unrequited love, a theme that many find relatable. The narrator knows her relationship with her lover can’t be salvaged. Still, she pleads, “You don’t have to say you love me, just be close at hand.”
Interestingly, “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me” started its life as an Italian song titled “Io che non vivo (senza te)” (I, who can’t live [without you]). Dusty’s rendition remains one of her most iconic performances, contributing significantly to her legacy as one of the greatest female vocalists of her time.
24. “Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots, Pt. 1” By The Flaming Lips
In our second to last song, we’ll dive into the world of alternative rock for a track released in 2003. “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Pt. 1” by The Flaming Lips is a delightful blend of electronic elements, acoustic sounds, and Wayne Coyne’s distinctive vocals.
It tells the story of a character named Yoshimi, who is tasked with the monumental challenge of fighting off evil pink robots. What makes this premise fascinating is not just its originality but how it serves as a metaphor for battling the darker aspects of life.
Beyond its surface, the song touches on themes of courage, resilience, and the human spirit’s capacity to fight against overwhelming odds. Yoshimi becomes a symbol of hope and strength, inspiring listeners to face their own “pink robots.”
25. “Yes” By Coldplay
Closing our list is Coldplay‘s “Yes.” From their Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends album, it is a seven-minute-long song with a rich tapestry of sounds and meanings.
Interpretations of its meaning vary widely. At first glance, it appears to be the narrator lamenting the poor choices he made in life. He’s tired of it and suggests sleeping it off to “be satisfied.”
Regardless of its meaning, “Yes” stands out for its musical composition and inclusion of North African instruments. It remains a favorite among fans and a standout track in the band’s discography.
Summing Up Our List Of Letter Y-Starting Songs
And now we’ve reached the end of our post. It’s fascinating to see how different artists interpreted “Y”-starting songs, turning them into a canvas for their creative expressions.
This exploration has not only allowed us to enjoy familiar hits in a new light but also to discover hidden gems that might have slipped under our radar.
With millions of songs out there, there’s always the chance we’ve missed a few notable “Y” titled tracks. So help us fill in the gaps and let us know your recommendations!
