Iconic Western songs about fireworks. Firework songs to listen to in summer.
Many people in Japan probably think of fireworks when they hear “summer.”
Fireworks that spread across the night sky after a festival, as well as those enjoyed with family, are scenes that evoke a deep sense of nostalgia for Japanese people.
While it’s easy to find songs about fireworks in Japanese music, it can be surprisingly difficult to immediately name a few Western songs that “sing about fireworks.”
Fireworks are called “firework” or “fireworks” in English, and in this article we introduce not only songs that use “firework(s)” as a theme, but also tracks where fireworks are used metaphorically, along with recommended Western songs you might enjoy alongside real fireworks.
We also review the meanings of the lyrics, so be sure to check them out!
Classic Western songs about fireworks: Firework songs to listen to in summer (1–10)
FireworkKaty Perry
Perhaps the most famous Western song themed around fireworks is this one, “Firework.” Released in 2010, it’s a track by the globally popular Katy Perry.
Many of her works are powerful and encouraging to listeners, and that distinctive quality shines through in “Firework” as well.
The lyrics carry a positive message to those who can’t quite take the next step, telling them it’s enough to light a spark and shine like a firework.
FirefliesOwl City
This is the signature work of Owl City, the electronica project by American artist Adam Young, which captivated many listeners with its dreamy, synth-pop soundscape.
The piece was created when he was struggling with insomnia and drew inspiration from the fireflies and meteor showers he witnessed while camping in Minnesota.
Released in July 2009, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for two consecutive weeks and became a massive hit, reaching number one on charts around the world.
Its poetic lyrics, expressing a longing for the tiny lights that shine on summer nights, and its striking, 1980s-style synth lines weave a dreamlike sound that is perfect for quiet evenings or moments when you’re moved by the beauty of nature.
Girl on FireAlicia Keys
This is a signature empowerment anthem by American singer-songwriter Alicia Keys, celebrating women’s inner strength through the metaphor of passionate flames.
The song portrays a protagonist who appears ordinary on the surface yet harbors a burning passion within, centering on themes of courage in the face of adversity and self-affirmation.
Released as a single from the album “Girl on Fire” in September 2012, it achieved commercial success, peaking at No.
11 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Singing of a woman’s resilience despite feelings of loneliness, this track is ideal for those at a turning point in life or seeking to regain their confidence.
Sex on FireKings Of Leon
This signature rock number by the American band Kings of Leon sings of a passion that flares up as intensely as fireworks coloring the summer night sky.
Released as a single from the album “Only by the Night” in September 2008, the song uses the metaphor of “flames” to express the burning love between two people.
Interestingly, it was originally going to be titled “Set Us on Fire,” but a mishearing in the studio led to its current name.
The track earned the band their first No.
1 in the UK and won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance.
With a powerful sound, it portrays the beauty and transience of a single, passionate moment.
It’s the perfect song for a night spent with someone special, gazing up at fireworks after a summer festival.
Firestone ft. Conrad SewellKygo
The song that helped spread the new genre of tropical house around the world is a heartwarming collaboration between Norwegian artist Kygo and Australian singer-songwriter Conrad Sewell.
Released in December 2014, this beautiful love song likens passionate romantic feelings to sparks, blending Kygo’s light steel drum and synthesizer sounds with Sewell’s powerful, emotive vocals.
It became a massive hit, reaching the top 10 in countries around the world and surpassing 900 million views on YouTube.
Perfect for relaxed summer nights or special moments with a loved one, its beautiful, fireworks-like melody leaves a lasting impression.
Bang Bang ft. Ariana Grande, Nicki MinajJessie J
This star-studded collaboration by UK singer-songwriter Jessie J with Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj is a powerful anthem celebrating women’s confidence and allure.
Each of the three artists showcases her own appeal from a different perspective, weaving a passionate narrative of seduction.
Released in July 2014, the track was included on Jessie J’s album “Sweet Talker” and the deluxe edition of Ariana Grande’s “My Everything,” achieving major success by reaching No.
1 in the UK and No.
3 on the Billboard Hot 100.
With its energetic sound and lyrics brimming with self-affirmation, it’s a perfect song for anyone who values authenticity or needs a positive boost.
FireworksMitski
Singer-songwriter Mitski, who is based in New York, has a song that could be said to be uniquely hers given her Japanese roots: “Fireworks.” The lyrics depict a sad event on a summer day.
Although the setting is indoors, there’s a device where the sound of fireworks can be heard from outside while the protagonist is immersed in sorrow.
This seems to contrast the cheerful atmosphere of people likely watching the fireworks outside with the protagonist’s sadness.