Songwriters have been using the word “baby” as a form of expression since time immemorial. In many songs, “baby” refers to a boyfriend/girlfriend, husband/wife, or partner.
You’ll find out from the songs below that “baby” is used to convey different meanings. They can be associated with love, heartbreak, death, and even loneliness.
Below, we have gathered 31 of the best songs with “baby” in the title. Read on and find out how songwriters used “baby” to showcase the versatility and depth of music. Enjoy!
1. “…Baby One More Time” By Britney Spears
One of the most popular and timeless songs on this list is Britney Spears‘ “…Baby One More Time.” It hit the airwaves in 1998, solidifying the singer’s status as a pop artist.
In the song, Spears sings about longing and reconciliation. The lyrics weave a tale of a love lost and the narrator’s desire to rekindle the flame. Hence, her plea for her “baby” to give her one more chance.
“…Baby One More Time” catapulted Spears to fame. The song became a worldwide hit as it dominated the music charts in many countries. In the UK alone, it was the best-selling single of 1999. Worldwide, it was one of the best-selling singles of all time.
2. “Runaway Baby” By Bruno Mars
Let’s continue with another vibrant and energetic track with Bruno Mars‘ “Runaway Baby.” Here, the term “baby” is used to convey a narrative centering on love, relationships, and personal character.
Released in 2010, the song explores the persona of a self-proclaimed playboy. He is unabashed in warning his potential love interests of his dislike for commitments. The line “But when I play, I never stay” reflects this sentiment. And so he warns his baby to stay away from him “before [he] put[s] [his] spell on [her].”
“Runaway Baby” stands out for its refreshing twist on love, which is different from many songs. The use of “baby” to directly address the listener draws them more into the narrative.
3. “Hey Baby” By No Doubt Ft. Bounty Killer
If you’re looking for a song that blends elements of pop, rock, and reggae, “Hey Baby” is for you. This collaboration between the rock band No Doubt and deejay Bounty Killer was released in 2001.
Based on the band’s experiences while on tour, the song is about the interactions with groupies and the party lifestyle that accompanies life on the road. With no shortage of “baby” in the song, this term is used to address the people the band encounters.
The song is relatable in that it depicts fleeting moments and the search for genuine connections amid superficial encounters. This reflects the song’s themes of flirtation and transient relationships.
4. “Ice Ice Baby” By Vanilla Ice
Rapper Vanilla Ice, Robert Van Winkle in real life, was only 16 when he penned “Ice Ice Baby.” It was probably the last thing on his mind that the song would propel him to stardom several years later.
“Ice Ice Baby” was not successful initially as a B-side to “Play That Funky Music.” But thanks to deejay David Morales, who played the B-side more than the A-side, the song eventually gained traction. Notably, “Ice Ice Baby” is not about love and relationships. It is used to encapsulate lifestyle, success, and celebration.
This song became a critical success, becoming the first hip-hop single to dominate the Billboard charts. Many music critics also credit it for its role in diversifying hip-hop by introducing it to the mainstream audience.
5. “Baby Be Mine” By Michael Jackson
Using the term “baby” can add diversity and depth to songs, particularly in the context of love. This is exemplified by Michael Jackson‘s “Baby Be Mine.”
Released in 1982, the song finds the narrator pleading for his girl to commit to a lasting relationship with him. He is not just in love with her; he is also ready to do everything he can to make his baby feel cherished and loved.
“Baby Be Mine” leans heavily into the theme of romantic commitment. It captures the euphoria of being in love and the desire to commit to a permanent union.
6. “There Goes My Baby” By Usher
In 2011, Usher won a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for his single “There Goes My Baby.” It was the second single from his album Raymond v. Raymond.
The narrative explores deep emotional connections and the enduring nature of love. The narrator showcases an all-consuming love that he found in the presence of his partner.
The song carries an emotional weight, with the term “baby” used throughout the song. It emphasizes the tenderness and affection that the narrator feels toward his partner. The song highlights how such a relationship can withstand the test of time and circumstance.
7. “Baby” By Justin Bieber
A list featuring songs that have “baby” in the title cannot be complete without Justin Bieber‘s “Baby.” Featuring Ludacris, this track propelled Bieber to fame and cemented his status as a teen idol.
In the lyrics, the narrator laments the complexities of young love and its accompanying heartache. He experiences intense emotions tied to his first love and the longing to hold onto it despite the risk of a breakup.
The sentiment reflects the universal theme of not wanting to let go of someone important. It reflects the persistence and depth of feelings that can exist in young relationships.
8. “Cry Baby Cry” By The Beatles
In our list, The Beatles‘ “Cry Baby Cry” offers a unique contribution. Instead of using the term “baby” for endearment, it delves into a more narrative-driven perspective. Its storytelling approach weaves a tale that invites various interpretations.
The lyrics evoke imagery of childhood and innocence. This contrasts with many of the songs on this list where “baby” refers to a special someone in a romantic relationship. This song takes listeners on a whimsical journey to an eerie fairy tale.
The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions and intriguing characters. It explores themes of communication breakdowns and the innocence of youth.
9. “Baby It’s Cold Outside” By Idina Menzel And Michael Bublé
We’ve got a classic addition to our list, “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Since it was penned in 1944, many artists have given their renditions of the song. In 2014, Idina Menzel and Michael Bublé‘s version topped the Adult Contemporary chart.
“Baby, It’s Cold Outside” was a party song meant to entertain guests. It was in the 1990s when it was considered a holiday song. When it was included in the soundtrack album for the movie Elf, it further solidified its status as a holiday song.
Lyrically, the song is a conversational duet between a couple on a cold winter night. The man convinces his lover to stay the night because “it’s cold outside.” The woman expresses uncertainty about staying the night with him.
10. “Baby Love” By The Supremes
Another classic that mentions “baby” in the title is “Baby Love” by The Supremes. Released in 1964, this track is a hallmark in our list due to its emotional depth and a narrative of longing.
In the lyrics, the narrator expresses the pain of separation from her beloved. Despite knowing that “all [he] do[es] is treat [her] bad / Break [her] heart and leave [her] sad,” she still wishes that he’d come back and they could make up.
The inclusion of “baby” in the title is not just for a term of affection. It’s also a reminder of the intimacy that once existed between the narrator and her former partner. In addition, it highlights the depth of their relationship and the magnitude of loss she experienced when he was gone.
11. “Ooo Baby Baby” By Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
A song capturing a myriad of emotions is “Ooo Baby Baby” by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. This was released in 1965 and co-written by Robinson.
The lyrics find the narrator regretting cheating on his lover. He begs for her to come back, pointing out that he’s “only human” and she’s “made mistakes too.”
Upon its release, the song peaked at #4 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and #16 on the Hot 100. Many artists have also made their renditions of the song, including Ella Fitzgerald and Linda Ronstadt. Rolling Stone included the track on its list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
12. “Rock Me Baby” By B. B. King
Let us not forget B. B. King‘s famous rendition of the blues standard “Rock Me Baby” in 1964. It made its way to the top 40 in Billboard magazine’s Hot 100 chart.
What makes this song different from others is its portrayal of physical and emotional intimacy and desire. The lines “Rock me, baby / rock me all night long” are a straightforward plea for comfort and closeness.
This song enriches our catalog of “baby” songs through King’s ability to convey deep emotional truths. And perhaps it is one of the reasons why his rendition was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2022.
13. “Where Did My Baby Go” By John Legend
Let’s move away from classics for a while to check out something from the 2000s. John Legend‘s “Where Did My Baby Go” mentions “baby” in a narrative of loss and yearning.
The track revolves around the theme of separation. The narrator searches for the woman he loves, pleading with people to let her know how much he misses her.
In essence, the song is about the depths of longing and uncertainty that come with a loved one’s absence. The inclusion of “baby” in the title shows the affection that once existed and makes the sense of loss all the more felt.
14. “The Baby” By Blake Shelton
Up next is a standout song that’s a little different from the rest of our list. Blake Shelton‘s “Baby” isn’t about an endearment toward a romantic partner. Rather, it’s a narrative of love between a mother and her son.
The song highlights the idea that no matter how old the son gets, he’ll always be his mother’s “baby.” He is the youngest child and shares a special relationship with her. The song captures her unconditional love and the idea that in a mother’s eyes, the children never outgrow their status as her babies.
This perspective provides a glimpse into familial love. And as you can see, this is not a theme commonly explored in the other songs on this list.
15. “Baby Hold On” By Eddie Money
Rock singer Eddie Money co-wrote “Baby Hold On” with guitarist Jimmy Lyon for Money’s 1977 self-titled album. This song stands out for its message of reassurance and commitment in the face of uncertainty.
What makes “Baby Hold On” different from other songs is its exploration of trust and support within a relationship. The narrator pleads to his partner to have faith in him and their future despite the challenges.
The line “Baby hold on to me, whatever will be, will be” bears the central message of the song. It’s a call to perseverance and unity and highlights the importance of holding on to each other as a team.
16. “Too Busy Thinking About My Baby” By Marvin Gaye
In the extensive catalog of “baby” songs, there is a special place for Marvin Gaye‘s rendition of “Too Busy Thinking About My Baby.” It was released in 1969 as a follow-up single to his successful “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.”
Lyrically, the song portrays the all-consuming nature of love. The narrator just has no time for other unimportant things, such as the weather or money. He admits to being “a fellow with a one-track mind.” And when he thinks about his woman, he has no time for anything else.
“Too Busy Thinking About My Baby” was another success for Gaye. It reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Black Singles Chart.
17. “Baby Come Back” By Player
Despite being released in 1977, the rock band Player‘s song “Baby Come Back” remains a popular track. It resonates with listeners for its heartfelt narrative and emotional depth.
The song focuses on themes of regret and longing for reconciliation after a breakup. The narrator pleads for his lover to come back to him, even asking her to blame him for the end of their relationship. He admits he was wrong and “can’t live without [her].”
“Baby Come Back” proved to be a huge success for the band. It peaked at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became their biggest hit single.
18. “Baby I” By Ariana Grande
Enriching our collection of songs is Ariana Grande‘s “Baby I.” It was released in 2013 as part of her Yours Truly album.
“Baby I” explores the complexities and depth of expressing love. Here, the narrator struggles with articulating her emotions toward the man she loves. The use of “baby” in the title is not just an endearment but signifies intimacy that forms the core of the message.
In essence, “Baby I” portrays the indescribable nature of deep love. It resonates with listeners who have experienced difficulty in finding the right words to express how they feel for the person they love.
19. “Be My Baby” By The Ronettes
The seminal track “Be My Baby” by The Ronettes is a significant contribution to our list. It embodies early 1960s pop romance and its influential sound.
Lyrics-wise, “Be My Baby” conveys the intense feelings of love and one’s desire for commitment from their love interest. The line “Be my baby now” captures the euphoria of new love and the plea to be chosen as a partner.
In essence, this song is a timeless anthem for lovers longing for mutual devotion. Its blend of heartfelt lyrics and innovative production secure it a special place in our list of songs, having the term “baby” in the title.
20. “Brooklyn Baby” By Lana Del Rey
To enrich our list of songs, we have Lana Del Ray‘s “Brooklyn Baby” from her Ultraviolence album. Its narrative is a celebration and satire of a particular subculture.
In the lyrics, the use of “baby” serves a dual purpose: personal identity and cultural commentary. The song portrays the hipster subculture, particularly those associated with Brooklyn, New York.
The song lampoons and pays homage at the same time to the stereotypes and cliches associated with Millennials. It also targets the indie music scene and the bohemian lifestyle in parts of Brooklyn.
21. “My Baby Just Cares For Me” By Nina Simone
Up next is a song that focuses on affection that goes beyond materialism and societal expectations. “My Baby Just Cares for Me” was written in the 1930s, with numerous artists lending their own versions. Nina Simone‘s stylized version in 1957 became a UK top 10 hit.
The song revolves around the deep, genuine love that the narrator’s partner has for her. She’s proud to say that her baby “doesn’t care for shows” or material things, such as clothes and cars. He only cares for her.
The song highlights the importance of the kind of love that is not influenced by wealth, fame, or superficial things. It’s a love that is pure, sincere, and focused solely on the person and not what she has or represents.
22. “Baby, I Love Your Way” By Peter Frampton
The easy rocker “Baby, I Love Your Way” was penned and sung by Peter Frampton. It was released in 1975, but the song remained popular throughout the years.
This classic addition to our list captures a moment of intimacy and an appreciation of a partner’s presence. It stands out for being a straightforward declaration of love, marked by its simplicity and sincerity.
Frampton’s live version of the song reached #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The reggae-pop band Big Mountain’s 1994 cover was a hit. It peaked at #6 on the Hot 100 and was used in the film Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and its sequel.
23. “Always Be My Baby” By Mariah Carey
Released in 1996, Mariah Carey‘s “Always Be My Baby” captures the unbreakable bond between two people even in the face of separation.
Unlike other songs on this list, “Always Be My Baby” focuses on emotional connection that lasts over time and distance. The narrator still feels an attachment toward her lover even after they have separated. For her, he will “always be [her] baby” and will always be a part of her.
In essence, the song is about the enduring nature of love. It offers an optimistic view of love’s resilience.
24. “Baby Boy” By Beyoncé Ft. Sean Paul
The dancehall and R&B number “Baby Boy” by Beyoncé, featuring Sean Paul, is a sensual addition to our list. It was released in 2003 and explores themes of desire and infatuation.
The lyrics follow a woman’s fantasies and feelings toward her love interest. It’s almost an obsessive preoccupation with her partner. She finds herself “think[ing] about [him] all the time,” and he also appears in her dreams.
This song stands out for its focus on deep emotional and physical connection. It explores desire and fantasy, offering a perspective many can relate to.
25. “Baby” By LL Cool J Ft. The Dream
Up next is a song that contributes a unique blend of hip-hop and R&B. “Baby” is a collaboration between rapper LL Cool J and R&B singer The Dream.
Released in 2008, “Baby” focuses on a romantic pursuit. The narrator articulates his admiration and desire for his love interest. It mirrors the tradition of using “baby” as a term of endearment. However, it’s different for its hip-hop and R&B blend, providing a modern twist to the theme.
In essence, “Baby” stands out for its fresh perspective on expressing one’s romantic sentiments. It blends genres and at the same time maintains the core essence of a love song.
26. “Baby It’s You” By JoJo Ft. Bow Wow
From the 2000s, we have “Baby It’s You” by JoJo, featuring rapper Bow Wow. The song focuses on the value of genuine connections over materialistic expressions of love.
The song stands out for its catchy melody and heartfelt message that focuses on the simplicity of love. The narrator tells her potential lover that he doesn’t have to buy her anything to win her love. For her, “Havin’ [him] is enough.”
In essence, “Baby It’s You” zeroes in on the idea that true happiness comes from quality time spent together. It highlights the importance of going after authenticity and genuine care rather than superficial displays of wealth.
27. “Baby Don’t Hurt Me” By Anne-Marie, Coi Leray, And David Guetta
We have a contemporary addition to our list, “Baby Don’t Hurt Me” by Anne-Marie, Coi Leray, and David Guetta. This upbeat and energetic track interpolates Haddaway’s iconic “What Is Love.”
“Baby Don’t Hurt Me” focuses on love’s complexities and one’s longing for an enduring and respectful love. It also delves into the vulnerabilities and expectations within romantic relationships. Here, the narrator expresses a desire for emotional safety and mutual respect.
“Baby Don’t Hurt Me” is a notable addition to our list. Integrating contemporary sounds and including artists from different backgrounds enhance the song’s appeal. It also highlights the universal nature of its message.
28. “Baby, Now That I’ve Found You” By Alison Krauss
The 1967 single “Baby, Now That I’ve Found You” was originally recorded by The Foundations. Bluegrass-country singer Alison Krauss provided her own interpretation of the song in 1995. Her version won the Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance.
Lyrically, the song is about discovering love and the narrator’s fear of losing it. It portrays a profound emotional depth that comes when you find someone who changes your world completely.
“Baby, Now That I’ve Found You” is not just about the joy of being in love. It’s also a reminder that love can make you feel vulnerably attached but blissfully content.
29. “Baby Love” By Nicole Scherzinger And Will.i.am
Our next song is by Nicole Scherzinger and features will.i.am. “Baby Love” was released in 2007 from the Power Hist 2 album.
Lyrically, the song explores the depths of first love and its impact on an individual. It captures the tender and often vulnerable emotions associated with the initial romantic experiences.
The narrator sings about how a certain guy is her “baby love.” The love they share is something that feels all-encompassing and life-changing. This narrative resonates with the universal experience of first love, making it relatable to a wide audience.
30. “Angel Baby” By Troye Sivan
We come to the penultimate song of our list, “Angel Baby” by Troye Sivan. This romantic ballad explores themes of love, salvation, and intimate connections.
The lyrics convey the impact of love, particularly in moments of vulnerability and despair. The narrator is going through a tumultuous time when along comes his “angel baby,” who pulls him out of the darkness and into the light, metaphorically speaking.
As you can see, the song talks about divine or transcendent love. The titular “Angel Baby” is portrayed as a being of pure love whose presence is so powerful that it can bring renewal and hope.
31. “Baby Can I Hold You” By Tracy Chapman
Last but not least is “Baby Can I Hold You” by contemporary artist Tracy Chapman. It stands out as a song exploring themes of regret, apology, and the longing for closeness.
Chapman’s song addresses a person’s need for understanding and forgiveness in a relationship. The line “Baby, can I hold you” is a plea for physical and emotional closeness in the face of mistakes that can drive couples apart.
This song speaks to the difficulty of expressing one’s deepest feelings, such as admitting mistakes (“Sorry”), asking for forgiveness (“Forgive me”), and expressing genuine love (“I love you”).
Summing Up Our List Of Baby-Titled Songs
Songs where the term “baby” appears in the title share a common thread. They often explore facets of love, desire, and human connection. These songs showcase the different ways in which love shapes or enriches our lives.
In addition, the enduring popularity of these tracks speaks to the timeless appeal of love as a central theme in music. These songs tap into the core of what it means to love and be loved deeply.
We’ve only got 31 songs on the list, and there are plenty more out there. So if we’ve missed something, we always welcome song recommendations from our dear readers. Until next time!
