Friendship songs in Western music with great lyrics. Beautiful, moving messages that touch the heart.

BenMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Ben (lyrics)

Michael Jackson’s classic from his youth, “Ben.” He’s released a ton of incredibly cool dance music, but songs like this heartfelt one are wonderful too.

Since it’s from before his voice changed, listening to it is really soothing.

The lyrics tell the story of gently standing by and encouraging a best friend who’s being bullied.

It’s a truly heartwarming piece.

The lyrics are fantastic, so be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well!

WonderwallOasis

Oasis – Wonderwall (Official Video)

Oasis, the strongest rock band born from the UK in the ’90s.

This song they released on their classic album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? has become an enduring anthem loved around the world.

Carried by the wistful sound of an acoustic guitar, it gives voice to a piercingly heartfelt wish: even while burdened by loneliness and anxiety, you hope someone might come to save you.

Noel Gallagher later said it was a song about an “imaginary friend,” so you can hear it as reflecting feelings not just for a lover, but for an irreplaceable friend as well.

Released as a single in October 1995, it became a global hit.

Its iconic music video won a BRIT Award in 1996.

Give it a listen when you want to savor the vague restlessness of youth and the preciousness of friendship.

My FriendHayley Williams

Hayley Williams – My Friend [Official Lyric Video]

Hayley Williams, who commands an overwhelming presence as the frontwoman of Paramore, a band emblematic of the pop-punk scene.

From her first solo album, Petals for Armor, released in 2020, here’s a gem of a friendship song.

This track is dedicated to a longtime best friend whom Hayley met when she was 17, and with whom she has weathered personal hardships, including divorce.

A deep sense of gratitude—“something I couldn’t say until I turned 30”—is expressed with sincerity.

The sophisticated sound, tinged with art pop and funk, seems to gently envelop the bond between the two.

It’s the perfect song to listen to while looking back on the journey you’ve shared with a cherished friend who stood by you through difficult times.

Show UpSamia

Samia – Show Up (Official Video)

Samia, a singer-songwriter gaining attention in New York’s indie scene.

Born into an acting family, her poetic and emotional style has captured the hearts of many music fans.

One track on her EP “Scout,” released in June 2021, is a hidden gem that digs into the core of friendship.

It rides an energetic, driving sound to sing about the kind of friend whose mere presence can save you—and the firm resolve that it’s your turn to rush to their side.

Made the year after her acclaimed album “The Baby,” this record showcases her deeply expressive vocals that resonate in your chest.

It’s the kind of song that will warm your heart when you miss a dear friend or on a sentimental night.

Friend Song311

311 – Friend (Official Music Video)

311, a mixture rock band known for their unique style fusing reggae and funk.

This track is a gently heart-soothing number included on their album “Full Bloom,” released in October 2024.

Born from experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, the song delivers a straightforward message that friendship is more precious than anything, carried by a melancholic mood and a slow tempo.

Its hopeful assurance—that even in difficult times, you are never truly alone—wraps listeners in warmth.

The airy, floating guitar tones are also striking, making it perfect for those quiet moments when you want to immerse yourself in music while thinking of a dear friend.

I’ve Got A FriendMaggie Rogers

Maggie Rogers – I’ve Got A Friend (Official Visualizer)

Maggie Rogers is a powerhouse singer-songwriter who blends folk and electronic sounds, and has even been nominated for a Grammy.

She has a moving song that she wrote as a “love song for a friend,” a heartfelt ode to friendship.

In it, she expresses straightforward, profound gratitude to a best friend who stood by her during the hardest time in her life.

The unadorned lyrics and her raw, emotionally charged vocals are deeply affecting.

The track appears on her second album, Surrender, released in July 2022.

It’s lovely to hear the warm atmosphere created by the participation of her real-life friends in the recording.

Why not give it a listen when you want to be reminded of how precious your close friends are?

FriendsElton John

Elton John – Friends

Elton John’s classic song “Friends.” When it comes to Elton John’s songs about friendship, this is probably the one many people think of.

The track was written as the theme song for the 1971 film Friends.

Although it was created early in his career, Elton John’s musical identity already shines through.

The melody is crafted to be gentle and heartfelt.

Be sure to give it a listen!