[2025] Classic Western songs about the moon: recommended popular tracks
The moon we see when we look up at the sky is both familiar and endlessly mysterious—a presence that never ceases to fascinate us.
Shaped by the influence of sunlight into forms like the full moon and new moon, the “moon” enchants and bewilders those who behold it.
It’s only natural that artists with keen sensitivity would choose it as a theme for their songs.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of classic Western songs themed around that captivating moon.
From tracks that sing directly about the moon to songs that use the moon or moonlight as a metaphor, enjoy a diverse lineup of pieces spanning eras and genres.
- [Moon Songs Special] Famous songs about the moon. Songs you’ll want to listen to under a full moon or in the moonlight.
- [Night Songs] Classic masterpieces themed around the night. J-POP you’ll want to listen to at nighttime.
- Masterpieces that sing of the stars. Star songs that resonate in the heart, best heard beneath the night sky.
- Classic Western songs about the sea: recommended popular tracks
- Songs of the constellations: classic and popular tracks you’ll want to listen to while gazing at the night sky
[2025] Classic Western songs about the moon: Recommended popular tracks (41–50)
Moon SongMy Bloody Valentine
This song, performed by an alternative band, is included on the album Tremolo, released in 1991.
Its unusual sound captivates listeners’ interest.
It’s an intriguing track that reflects the creative drive of these Ireland-born artists.
Walking On The MoonThe Police
Walking On The Moon, a classic by The Police released in 1979.
Originally a track from their second studio album, Reggatta de Blanc, it was later issued as the second single.
While the melody essentially falls under new wave, it’s also influenced by reggae.
Even with the distinctive reggae-infused arrangement, the way the melody evokes the image of the moon is classic Sting at his best.
Song about the moonPaul Simon
Paul Simon, who gained worldwide popularity as part of the duo Simon & Garfunkel with Art Garfunkel, was also extremely popular in Japan.
While Simon & Garfunkel sang quintessential folk songs, his solo work was among the first by American artists to incorporate genres like Latin, reggae, and African music.
His Song About the Moon is one of his tracks themed around the moon, infused with elements from a variety of genres.
Mr MoonOAR
It’s a song with beautiful piano playing, and the vocals are striking as they sing as if speaking, carried by an expansive melody.
It feels like he’s asking the moon, “Why are you smiling at me?” It’s a track included on the 2003 album In Between Now and Then.
Sail to the moonHail to the thief
Radiohead’s album Hail to the Thief deals with a consistent theme of government, and this track included on the album is a quiet one.
Its melody is striking—dark, yet somehow carrying a glimmer of bright hope.
Moon ShadowCat Stevens
The song Moonshadow was released in 1971.
It’s a beautiful piece featuring guitar and vocals.
Cat Stevens is also known as a singer-songwriter for performing other beautiful songs such as Morning Has Broken.
Harvest MoonNeil Young
In Japan, the moon known as the “Chushu no Meigetsu” is called the “Harvest Moon” in English-speaking countries.
This song, created with the image of that harvest moon in mind, has a country-style feel.
Its acoustic guitar and pleasantly laid-back vocals give it a relaxed atmosphere.
Released in 1992 as a track on the album of the same name, it’s well worth listening to the whole record, as the other songs are excellent too.