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 (51–60)
KokomoThe Beach Boys
The upbeat song “Kokomo” makes you feel like you’re in a resort.
It was released in 1988 by The Beach Boys, the original vocal group beloved in America.
Kokomo refers to a resort in Fiji, and in the film “Cocktail” starring Tom Cruise, where the song was used as the theme, resort locations in Latin America that evoke Kokomo appear.
The romantic story that unfolds there perfectly embodies the song itself.
It’s a track that will make you want to go on vacation.
OceanLady Antebellum
Lady Antebellum, the American country music group that became a global sensation with “Need You Now.” Ocean is a poignant love song about the heartache of being swept around by drifting emotions in a relationship.
In June 2020, they changed their group name to Lady A, but Ocean was the last song they released as Lady Antebellum.
The protagonist can’t bring themselves to be proactive in love.
Even while thinking, “I don’t want to get hurt,” they end up drowning in the ocean of love.
It’s a heart-wrenching track that makes you feel their sincere wish: “I just want to swim well.”
Wipe OutThe Surfaris
Characterized by its occasional vocal phrase “Wipe Out,” it has become one of the most famous drum solo breaks.
It’s a surf classic and a major hit.
It has been used in numerous films, including Runaway Bride and Wayne’s World 2.
Ocean EyesBillie Eilish
“Ocean Eyes” is the song that brought Billie Eilish into the spotlight in 2015, when she was 13 years old.
It was originally written by her brother for his own band, but he realized it suited Billie’s voice and had her sing it instead.
Her delicate, emotionally rich vocals—remarkable for someone just 13—showcase her extraordinary talent.
The lyrics, comparing a lover’s clear eyes to the ocean, along with the understated, sophisticated production, are also captivating.
Classic Western songs about the sea: Recommended popular tracks (61–70)
OceansJay Z ft Frank Ocean
A song conceived through reflection on the generational impact of the transatlantic slave trade.
Created by Jay-Z, who denounces colonialism, it features R&B singer Frank Ocean.
The producers are Pharrell Williams and Timbaland.
Walk On The OceanToad The Wet Sprocket
A song composed by the band’s guitarist, Todd Nichols.
With a songwriting style reminiscent of Nirvana, the crafted lyrics’ “sea” is said to be a metaphor for heaven.
Released in 1992, the track was also used in the film Jobs.
Tenerife SeaEd Sheeran
“Tenerife Sea,” which sings, “I fell in love with someone whose eyes are like the sea of Tenerife,” is a song released in 2014 by the British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran.
It’s included on the album X.
The track is centered on his rootsy style—singing with just an acoustic guitar.
His voice, where warmth and coolness seem to coexist, is utterly enchanting.
The Tenerife mentioned in the song is a small island off Spain, surrounded by the sea.
Its waters are a stunning shade of blue, and because Ed’s then-girlfriend, Beth, had eyes of the same color, he describes them as “electric blue.” It’s a lush, romantic song about sinking into those beautiful eyes and falling in love.