The Rhythm of Time: The Best 10 Time-Inspired Songs of All-Time
We recently implemented a fun karaoke-inspired lyrics competition into our weekly company-wide meeting.
A set of incomplete lyrics are shown on our Zoom screens, and players are rewarded with points based on how quickly and accurately they complete the missing lyrics.
Inspired by all the fun our team has been having, we decided to put together a list of time-focused songs.
The criteria for our consideration on our list is simple: a song must mention “time” somewhere in the title.
So break out your singing voice and get ready to jam to the ten best time-inspired songs of all time!
#10: Lana Del Rey – Summertime Sadness
“Summertime Sadness (Cedric Gervais Remix)” is a timeless masterpiece that continually captivates listeners as the years go by. This lively dance remix, crafted by renowned French producer Cedric Gervais, breathes new life into Lana Del Rey’s melancholic original track. With its pulsating beats, infectious melody, and the perfect fusion of Del Rey’s emotive vocals, Gervais’ remix has transformed “Summertime Sadness” into an irresistible dance anthem that resonates with audiences across the globe.
#9: MGMT – Time to Pretend
While “Midnight City” remains their crowning achievement, “Time to Pretend” by MGMT stands as a quintessential emblem of the indie rock landscape in the late 2000s. The track, with its catchy hooks, memorable lyrics, and psychedelic synth-driven sound, embodies the spirit and energy of the era. “Time to Pretend” showcases MGMT’s unique blend of electronic and rock elements, making it an enduring favorite among fans and a definitive piece in the band’s discography.
#8: Billy Joel – For The Longest Time
It might be debatable whether “For The Longest Time” ranks among Billy Joel’s top 10 tracks, but when it comes to our selection, this gem from the 80s undoubtedly holds a special place. The song, characterized by its memorable a cappella harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, highlights Joel’s exceptional songwriting skills and timeless appeal. “For The Longest Time” remains a beloved classic in his extensive discography, showcasing his incredible versatility and enduring impact on the music landscape.
#7: Eddie Murphy – Party All The Time
One could argue that this track deserves a higher ranking. Nevertheless, Eddie Murphy’s “Party All the Time” stands as a timeless classic that irresistibly invites listeners to sing along each time it’s played. The catchy tune, infectious chorus, and Murphy’s enthusiastic performance have cemented this song as an enduring favorite that transcends generations and continues to captivate audiences.
#6: Green Day – Time of Your Life
Upon consulting ChatGPT for a description of this quintessential track from our ’90s upbringing, we received the following response: “A reflective, acoustic, and wistful gem.” We wholeheartedly concur. “Time of Your Life” (also known as “Good Riddance”) by Green Day captures the essence of a generation, evoking a sense of nostalgia while showcasing the band’s ability to create meaningful and enduring music beyond their punk rock roots.
#5: Enya – Only Time
Though we might receive some pushback from Millennials and Gen Z, there’s no denying that Enya’s “Only Time” is a true masterpiece among new age music. This enchanting and ethereal track, characterized by its soothing melody and Enya’s signature layered vocals, stands as a testament to the genre’s ability to transport listeners to a tranquil, introspective space. “Only Time” has left an indelible mark on the musical landscape and is celebrated as one of the most memorable creations in new age history.
#4: Britney Spears – Baby One More Time
A quintessential anthem from the late ’90s, “Baby One More Time” catapulted Britney Spears to superstardom and left an indelible mark on pop culture. This catchy, upbeat track continues to captivate listeners, and we must admit that our admiration for this iconic song endures. Its infectious melody and memorable chorus not only defined an era but also solidified Britney’s position as a pop music phenomenon.
#3: The Rolling Stones – Time is On My Side
While “Time Is on My Side” is originally a cover, The Rolling Stones managed to transform it into an exceptional work of art, thanks in large part to Mick Jagger’s unmistakable swagger. His impassioned vocal delivery, combined with the band’s gritty, bluesy sound, elevated the song to new heights, ensuring it remains an enduring classic in The Rolling Stones’ extensive repertoire and a fan favorite for generations to come.
#2: Daft Punk – One More Time
Hailed by multiple sources as the greatest dance track of all time, Daft Punk’s “One More Time” stands as an unforgettable and infectious symbol of the 2000s music scene. This iconic song, with its pulsating rhythm and catchy hooks, has captivated listeners for decades, making it not only a defining anthem of the era but also a testament to Daft Punk’s innovative and enduring impact on electronic music.
#1: Cyndi Lauper – Time After Time
The enduring impact of a song can be measured by the numerous reinterpretations it inspires across a wide range of musical genres, as well as its presence in TV and film. Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” stands as one of the most memorable love songs ever created, capturing hearts with its poignant message and timeless appeal. This captivating classic earns the top spot among time-themed songs and continues to resonate deeply with listeners across generations.
*Honorable Mention: Drake & Future – What a Time to be Alive
Had we considered entire albums, there’s a strong likelihood that “What a Time to Be Alive” by Drake and Future would have secured a spot on our list. This collaborative project not only left an indelible mark on the music scene but also popularized a new term and accompanying hashtag: #WATTBA.
