Classic Western songs about the sea: recommended popular tracks
The sea, so beloved that it’s often called the “mother ocean,” can at times be terrifying as well—it’s a vast presence in our lives.
From the cheerful image of summer vacations to the fierce waves that evoke the harshness of winter, the sea has long been a source of inspiration and a theme for many artists.
In this article, we’ve picked out famous hits, popular tracks, and hidden gems in Western music that center on the theme of the sea!
You’ll find not only songs that sing directly about the ocean, but also tracks about passionate seaside romances and songs that use the sea as a metaphor—we’ve researched from a wide range of angles, so you just might discover an unexpected classic.
Enjoy!
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Classic Western songs about the sea: Recommended popular tracks (81–90)
OceanMartin Garrix feat. Khalid
Ocean, a song that sings of “absolute love.” It’s a dream collaboration between Dutch DJ Martin Garrix and Khalid, the charismatic singer who’s a mainstay in the EDM world! The track unfolds around Khalid’s rich, resonant vocals.
With a calm, steady beat, mood-setting guitar, and strings, the production pursues a flowing beauty rather than a big “hype” moment.
Its romantic message—“Even if a vast ocean separates our love, we won’t be torn apart”—is delivered in a sweet vocal, making it a perfect recommendation for couples in long-distance relationships across countries.
Astronaut in the OceanMasked Wolf
This work is memorable for its lyrics comparing the protagonist to an astronaut drifting underwater.
It deftly expresses loneliness, alienation, and a journey of self-discovery.
After its release in January 2021, it blew up on TikTok and dominated charts around the world.
For Australian rapper Masked Wolf, it truly became a life-changing track.
Its popularity is striking, with over a billion streams on Spotify.
Through the sensation of drifting in the deep sea, it vividly portrays the loneliness and anxiety of modern society, as well as the process of overcoming them—making it a perfect song for times when you want to face yourself.
To The SeaRazorlight
This is a song from Up All Night, the debut album released in 2004 by Razorlight, a rock band from London, UK.
The driving band sound pairs perfectly with Johnny Borrell’s emotional vocals, resulting in an exhilarating track that makes you want to sprint toward the ocean.
And with the band restarting in 2021 with their original lineup from their debut days, their future activities are definitely worth watching!
Ocean of Thought (feat. machinedrum)TPOLM
A sea-themed track released in 2016 on Ninja Tune, the cult label and hotbed of cutting-edge talent.
It’s a song by TPOLM, an alias of Travis Stewart that drew attention from underground music freaks.
With gentle distortion, melodies evoking the tropics, and skillful use of wave samples, it’s exquisite electronica that conjures the feel of summer.
CHILDREN OF THE SEABlack Sabbath
A song with a mystical theme, said to be one of the most enigmatic lyrics in Black Sabbath’s catalog.
It was written by Ronnie James Dio, who became the new lead singer after Ozzy Osbourne’s departure.
It is included on the 1980 album Heaven and Hell.
Beyond the SeaBobby Darin
“Beyond the Sea” was originally written by the French artist Charles Trenet, but it became a hit in 1960 when American singer Bobby Darin performed it with English lyrics.
More recently, many people may have heard Robbie Williams’s cover, which was used in the film Finding Nemo.
With lyrics about a lover somewhere beyond the sea and a relaxed swing-jazz sound, it lets you sink into an elegant mood, like a fish gliding through the ocean.
Classic Western songs about the sea. Recommended popular tracks (91–100)
CarusoLucio Dalla
Not only in Italy but around the world, the masterpiece “Caruso” has received extraordinarily high acclaim.
Composed in 1986 by Italian pop singer Lucio Dalla, the song tells the life story of the great tenor Enrico Caruso—hence the title “Caruso.” It portrays the romance of Caruso’s final years, depicting him, afflicted by illness, gazing out over the sea of Sorrento as he reflects on his life.
Both the melody and the lyrics are so accomplished that it’s no exaggeration to call them perfect.
For the record, I’ve listened to thousands of songs from more than 50 countries, and this is the one I find most sublime and magnificent.
Be sure to give it a listen!