As we age, it’s natural to reflect on our lives and what we’ve accomplished. For many of us, music is one of the ways we share our reflections with others. Here are 54 of the best songs about getting older and aging:
1. Still Crazy After All These Years – Paul Simon
Paul Simon’s song “Still Crazy After All These Years” is a beautiful reflection on aging. The song speaks to the idea that even as we age, we can still find joy in life and remain crazy after all these years. It’s a reminder that no matter how old we get, we should never lose our sense of humor or joie de vivre.
Next: The best songs about being in a state of happiness
2. Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran’s love song is all about his feelings of wanting to live with and grow old with someone.
Next: Our ultimate list of the best love songs of all time
3. The Times They Are A-Changin’ – Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan’s classic song “The Times They Are A-Changin'” speaks to the inevitability of change. As we age, we inevitably see changes in our own lives and in the world around us. This song is a reminder that change is always happening, and that we should embrace it rather than resist it.
4. Old Man – Neil Young
Neil Young’s song “Old Man” is a nostalgic ode to aging. He reflects on the changes he’s seen in his life, and how those changes have made him into the man he is today. The song is a reminder that aging is not always easy, but that it can be rewarding if we take the time to reflect on our lives and appreciate all we’ve experienced.
Next: Greatest songs about growing up (our list)
5. What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong’s classic song “What A Wonderful World” is a beautiful celebration of life. He sings about all the wonderful things he sees in the world, from the sky to the trees to the people he meets along the way. This song is a reminder that no matter how old we get, there are still plenty of amazing things to experience in life.
6. The Boy With the Thorn In His Side – The Smiths
The Smiths’ song “The Boy With The Thorn In His Side” is a bittersweet reflection on aging. The song is about a young man who is struggling to deal with the pain of growing older. He’s a boy with a thorn in his side, which represents the challenges and hardships of life. The song is a reminder that aging can be difficult, but that it’s also a part of life that we all have to go through.
7. Forever Young – Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan’s classic song “Forever Young” is a beautiful prayer for longevity. In the song, he sings about how he wishes that everyone could be forever young. It’s a reminder that even though we age, we should never lose our sense of wonder and joy for life.
8. Opening: I Hope I Get It – From A Chorus Line
The song “Opening: I Hope I Get It” from the musical A Chorus Line is a powerful and emotional reflection on the aging process. In the song, the cast sings about how getting older can be both scary and exciting. It’s a reminder that even though we age, we should never stop striving for our dreams.
9. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me – Elton John
Elton John’s classic song “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” is a beautiful plea for understanding and compassion. In the song, he sings about how he doesn’t want the sun to go down on him because he doesn’t want the day to end. It’s a reminder that we should never give up on each other, no matter how old we get.
10. Forever Young – Alphaville
Alphaville’s song “Forever Young” is a hopeful and optimistic anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like they’re not good enough. The song is about how we should never give up on our dreams, no matter how old we get. It’s a reminder that we are all still young at heart, no matter how many years we’ve lived.
Next: Songs about not being good enough (our playlist)
11. Age of Consent – New Order
New Order’s song “Age Of Consent” is a dark and haunting exploration of the dangers of growing older. In the song, the band sings about how we can often be tempted by danger as we age. They remind us that we should be careful about who we trust and what we do.
12. Heroes – David Bowie
David Bowie’s classic song “Heroes” is a beautiful celebration of life. He sings about how we are all heroes in our own way, and how we should never give up on ourselves. This song is a perfect reminder that no matter how old we get, we can still be heroes.
13. I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s classic ballad is a beautiful ode to aging gracefully. The lyrics talk about how love never fades, no matter how old we get. This song is a perfect reminder that we should always cherish the ones we love, no matter how old they are.
Next: The top power ballads of all time
14. Old Time Rock & Roll – Bob Seger
This classic rock tune is all about celebrating getting older. Bob Seger sings about how rock and roll never gets old and how it’s the perfect music to grow old to. This song is a great reminder that we can still enjoy the things we loved when we were younger, even as we get older.
Next: Our ultimate playlist of the best classic rock songs
15. I Will Follow You Into the Dark – Death Cab for Cutie
Death Cab For Cutie’s song “I Will Follow You Into The Dark” is a beautiful and haunting plea for love and connection. In the song, singer Ben Gibbard sings about how he would follow his loved one into the dark, even if it means death. We should all be so lucky to find someone who loves us enough to follow us into the dark.
16. Immortals – Fall Out Boy
Fall Out Boy’s “Immortals” is an inspirational rock ballad that talks about living life to the fullest and making yourself immortal in the process. No, you may not live forever, but at least you lived, and your actions will live on!
17. 22 – Lily Allen
Lily Allen’s “22” talks about how having a relationship is not the end all be all of your life. Your life can be meaningful whether you are married with children, or whether you live alone forever.
18. Yesterday – The Beatles
The Beatles’ classic song “Yesterday” is a beautiful and nostalgic reflection on the past. In the song, Paul McCartney sings about how he wishes he could go back to yesterday when things were simpler and more innocent. It’s a reminder that even though we age, we should never forget the beauty of youth.
Next: The best family songs for slideshows or tributes
19. In My Life – The Beatles
The Beatles’ classic song “In My Life” is a beautiful and reflective look at the past. In the song, John Lennon sings about how he has experienced so many things in his life. He reflects on all the people and places that have shaped him. This is especially important as we age and we look back on our own lives. We can see how far we’ve come and how much we’ve changed.
Next: Greatest songs about life (and everything it holds)
20. Seasons of Love – from Rent: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
The song “Seasons Of Love” from the musical Rent is a beautiful celebration of life. In the song, the cast sings about how we should never take our time on earth for granted. It’s a reminder that even though we age, we should never forget to enjoy every moment.
21. Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler
Bette Midler’s classic song “Wind Beneath My Wings” is a beautiful tribute to anyone who has ever helped us achieve our dreams. In the song, she sings about how we should never take our friends and loved ones for granted. It’s a reminder that even though we age, we should never forget the people who have helped us along the way.
22. Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) – Green Day
Green Day’s song “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” is a bittersweet reflection on the passing of time.
Next: The best funeral songs for dads (our list)
23. You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone – Brooks & Dunn
Brooks & Dunn’s song “You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone” is a sad but ultimately uplifting song about mortality. In the song, Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn sing about how we should never take our time on earth for granted. We may not be here forever, but we should make the most of the time we have.
24. Not Ready to Make Nice – The Chicks
The Chicks’ song “Not Ready To Make Nice” is a defiant and angry reflection on the aging process. In the song, the group sings about how they’re not ready to give up or slow down just because they’re getting older. It’s a reminder that even though we age, we should never stop fighting for what we believe in.
25. I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack
Lee Ann Womack’s song “I Hope You Dance” is a beautiful reminder to live life to the fullest. We should dance and dream and live every moment to the fullest.
26. My Way – Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra’s classic song “My Way” is a timeless anthem about living life on your own terms. It is about making your own choices and following your own path. It is a reminder that we should never let anyone else control our lives. We should live our lives the way we want to live them.
27. Cinderella – Steven Curtis Chapman
This beautiful piece is all about a father watching his daughter grow up, and how he wants to cherish every moment with her that he can.
Next: Ultimate list of the best songs about daughters
28. Slow Down – Nichole Nordeman
This piece is a lot like Cinderella. It’s about a mother singing to her child, telling them that they don’t need to race into adulthood.
Next: The best songs about family of all time (our complete playlist)
29. Midlife Crisis – Faith No More
Faith No More’s song “Midlife Crisis” is a dark and honest exploration of the ups and downs of growing older. In the song, the band sings about how growing older can be difficult and confusing. They explore the idea that we often try to hold on to our youth even as we age.
30. Live Like You Were Dying – Tim McGraw
Tim McGraw’s song “Live Like You Were Dying” is all about living life to the fullest and making the most of every moment. The lyrics encourage listeners to “seize every minute” and not take anything for granted. This is a great song for anyone who is starting to feel like they’re getting older and want to make the most of their remaining time.
Next: Our ultimate list of country songs about death (best ever)
31. As Time Goes By – Dooley Wilson
Casablanca‘s classic song “As Time Goes By” is a beautiful reflection on the passing of time. In the song, the character Ilsa sings about how she will always love Rick even as they both age. It is a reminder that love can last a lifetime.
32. I’m Still Standing – Elton John
Elton John’s song “I’m Still Standing” is a triumphant anthem about overcoming adversity. He sings about how he has been through a lot in his life but he is still standing. It is a reminder that no matter what life throws at us, we can always get back up and keep going.
33. (Everything I Do) I Do It For You – Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams’ song “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” is a beautiful ballad about the power of love. In the song, he sings about how he would do anything for the person he loves. It is a reminder that no matter what happens, we will always have each other.
34. Unforgettable – Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole’s song “Unforgettable” is a beautiful tribute to the power of love. In the song, he sings about how his love for someone is unforgettable. It is a reminder that even though time may pass, our love for each other will never fade.
35. The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra’s classic song “The Way You Look Tonight” is a beautiful love song about appreciating the one you love. In the song, he sings about how his love for someone is as fresh as the way they look tonight. It is a reminder that no matter how much time passes, we will always appreciate the ones we love.
36. Puttin’ On The Ritz – Irving Berlin
Irving Berlin’s classic song “Puttin’ On The Ritz” is a lighthearted and fun reflection on the aging process. In the song, he sings about how we can all still enjoy life even as we age. He reminds us that we should never take ourselves too seriously.
37. Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Judy Garland
This classic Judy Garland song “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” is a beautiful and hopeful reminder that there is always something to look forward to. No matter how tough life gets, there is always a rainbow waiting for us at the end.
38. 7 Years – Lukas Graham
Lukas Graham’s song “7 Years” is a reflective and introspective look at the aging process. In the song, he sings about how time seems to move faster as we get older. He reflects on all the things he has experienced in his life and how they have shaped him.
39. 100 Years – Five for Fighting
Five For Fighting’s song “100 Years” is an uplifting and inspiring anthem about living life to the fullest. In the song, the band sings about how we should make the most of the time we have. They remind us that we should never take our time on this earth for granted.
40. My Generation – The Who
The Who’s song “My Generation” is a powerful and iconic anthem about the power of youth. In this song about aging, the band sings about how we should never let anyone put us down. They remind us that we have the power to change the world.
41. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction – The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones’ song “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is a timeless classic about the struggles of growing up. In the song, the band sings about how we often feel like we can’t get what we want. They remind us that we should never give up on our dreams.
42. Lean On Me – Bill Withers
Bill Withers’ song “Lean On Me” is a beautiful and moving ballad about the power of friendship. In the song, he sings about how we all need someone to lean on from time to time. He reminds us that we are never alone and that our friends will always be there for us. This is especially important as we age together.
43. Imagine – John Lennon
John Lennon’s classic song “Imagine” is a beautiful and moving plea for peace. In the song, he sings about how we should all imagine a world where we can live in peace and harmony. He reminds us that we are all human beings and that we should treat each other with respect.
44. Beautiful Day – U2
U2’s song “Beautiful Day” is an uplifting and positive anthem about enjoying life. In the song, the band sings about how we should never take our time on this earth for granted. They remind us that every day is a beautiful day.
45. Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
Journey’s song “Don’t Stop Believin'” is an iconic and timeless anthem about never giving up on your dreams. In the song, the band reminds us that anything is possible if we just believe in ourselves. This is especially important as we age and our dreams may seem out of reach.
46. A Change Is Gonna Come – Sam Cooke
Sam Cooke’s classic song “A Change Is Gonna Come” is a beautiful and hopeful ballad about the future. In the song, he sings about how he knows that things are going to get better. He reminds us that we should never give up hope. This is especially important as we age and we may feel like our best days are behind us.
47. Butterfly Kisses – Bob Carlisle
Bob Carlisle’s song “Butterfly Kisses” is a beautiful and moving ballad about the preciousness of life. In the song, he sings about how we should never take our time on this earth for granted. He reminds us that we are all here for a brief moment and that we should cherish every moment we have.
48. You’ve Got a Friend – James Taylor
James Taylor’s song “You’ve Got A Friend” is a beautiful and moving ballad about the power of friendship. In the song, he sings about how we all need someone to lean on from time to time. He reminds us that we are never alone and that our friends will always be there for us. This is especially important as we age together.
Next: The absolute best friendship songs (best friend tracks)
49. The Wanderer – Dion
Dion’s song “The Wanderer” is a classic about the journey of life. In the song, he sings about how we should never give up on our dreams. He reminds us that we are all here for a reason and that we should never give up. This is especially important as we age and our dreams may seem out of reach.
50. Ramblin’ Man – The Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band’s song “Ramblin’ Man” is a classic about the journey of life. In the song, the band sings about how we should never give up on our dreams. They remind us that we are all here for a reason. This is especially important as we age and our dreams may seem out of reach.
51. Temporary Home – Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood’s song “Temporary Home” is a beautiful and moving ballad about the impermanence of life. In the song, she sings about how we are all just temporary residents on this earth. She reminds us that we should never take our time here for granted. This is especially important as we age and we may feel like our time is running out.
Next: Our ultimate list of songs about death to grieve to
52. I Can See Clearly Now – Johnny Nash
Johnny Nash’s classic song “I Can See Clearly Now” is a beautiful and hopeful ballad about the future. In the song, he sings about how he knows that things are going to get better. He reminds us that we should never give up.
53. Forever Young – Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart’s classic song “Forever Young” is a beautiful and moving ballad about the preciousness of life. In the song, he sings about how we should never take our time on this earth for granted. He reminds us that we are all here for a brief moment and that we should cherish every moment we have.
54. Young and Beautiful – Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey’s song “Young And Beautiful” is a beautiful and reflective piece all about the fleeting nature of beauty and youth. The lyrics mourn the loss of one’s youth while also celebrating the beauty that remains. It’s a perfect song for anyone feeling a bit nostalgic about their younger years.
Next: The greatest Lana Del Rey songs playlist feature
55. 1985 – Bowling For Soup
This classic track was everywhere in the early 2000s and it really struck a chord with everyone who felt life wasn’t panning out exactly as they planned. Oftentimes are confidence gets shaken and we start to lose the identity that we once held dear. Of course, this is natural and part of life, but this poignant pop hit really hammers this home nicely, we believe.
Read Next:
Top Christian funeral songs of all time
Top Catholic funeral songs of all time
As the Head Editor and Writer at Music Grotto, Liam helps write and edit content produced from professional music/media journalists and other contributing writers. He works closely with journalists and other staff to format and publish music content for the Music Grotto website. Liam is also the founding member of Music Grotto and is passionate in disseminating editorial content to its readers.
Liam’s lifelong love for music makes his role at Music Grotto such a rewarding one. He loves researching, writing and editing music content for Music Grotto.