It is hard to capture the true essence of California into words but some artists have done a marvelous job at it over the years. We have compiled a list of 50 best songs about California so that you can celebrate this beautiful state with us.
California is popular for many things, from its iconic Golden Gate Bridge of San Fransisco to the palm trees and legendary Hollywood sign in Los Angeles, Americans and tourists love this state. In our list of best songs about California, you will get a glimpse of life in California, whether romantic or carefree, chill life.
Here are the 50 best songs about California, listed:
- It Never Rains In Southern California
- California Day
- California Girls
- Back to California
- Surfin’ USA
- California Nights
- Surf City
- California Soul
- Going to California
- San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)
- California
- Do You Know the Way to San Jose
- Hollywood Nights
- Hotel California
- Ventura Highway
- California Dreamin’
- The Little Old Lady From Pasadena
- Promised Land
- Talk to Me
- I Left My Heart In San Francisco
- (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay
- Going Back To Cali
- Californication
- California Love
- California Soul
- California Here I Come
- Malibu
- Beverly Hills
- Lodi
- Los Angeles
- California One / Youth and Beauty Brigade
- California Sun
- West Coast Poplock
- California Saga (On My Way to Sunny Californ-i-a)
- California Girls
- California Blue
- Californian Soil
- Goodbye, California
- California (Cast Iron Soul)
- Califia (Stone Rider)
- Escape From Los Angeles
- California Bloodlines
- California
- California Stars
- Santa Cruz
- California Gurls
- The Golden State
- California Roll
- Going Back to California
- California
1. It Never Rains In Southern California
If you stream this song right this second you will immediately understand why it is listed number 1 in this article. Albert Hammond is the mastermind behind this song and while the beat of it reminds you of the perfect Californian sunset, the lyrics are the total opposite.
The song is about the disillusionment of fame that is promised by this land to many. This combination of dark lyrics with a jazzy beat is perfect and you should check this hit track out.
2. California Day
Next on our list is Starland Vocal Band’s California Day which is a lovely folk song that encapsulates the carefree vibe of California. The song is about having an ideal and minimalistic life in the Golden State, with lyrics describing the gorgeous landscape.
The song has harmonious vocals and upbeat tunes which can be called a breezy melody, especially when you imagine California. I would recommend you to listen to this song if you have any dreams about living in Cali.
3. California Girls
Of course, I had to include the Beach Boys in this list, their name and whole aesthetic are linked with California. This song has 1960s music nostalgia attached to it, and you don’t have to be from that era to appreciate it.
This song is a tribute to the Californian girls and their charm as well as praising the beauty of the state. The surf culture is showcased in this song and I would recommend you check out this chart-topping hit.
4. Back to California
This song is one of my favorites on this list and it’s probably because of the funky melody mixed in with the accent of the singer. The song is about homesickness for California, as the singer longs to return home to the Golden State.
The piano work is exceptional in this song I urge you to check this song out, you will not be disappointed at all. The sense of belonging and warmth and the artist’s admiration for California can all be seen in this masterpiece.
5. Surfin’ USA
I think now is the best time to warn you all that there might be one too many The Beach Boy songs on here. If you love to surf and your job is “just beach” like Barbie’s Ken, then this track is perfect for you.
The song is about the feeling of freedom that comes with surfing along with the thrill of catching the wave. Yet another lovely song by the rock band that encapsulates the ’60s music beats perfectly.
6. California Nights
We have talked about the days in California, now it’s time to discuss the dreamy nights of California. Lesley Gore did an amazing job writing this song about the long, chilly nights of California that are filled with longing.
I think the nights are hard for any lover, especially if you are yearning for some romance. This song showcases that along with painting the windy, breezy nights of the Golden State.
7. Surf City
Yet another song for the Kens, this one is by Jan & Dean and was released in 1963. It is said to be the ultimate surf-rock anthem as it celebrates the surf culture of California.
If you are good at imagination then this song is the one for you as it paints the picture of a sunny coastal paradise where every surfer is headed for the perfect wave. The song raked #! On the US Billboard Hot 100 in the year, it was released.
8. California Soul
This song is by the 5th Dimension and it celebrates the vibrant and chill life of the Golden State. The song is a blend of pop and R&B with a mix of jazz and soul thrown in.
I love the upbeat melody and the harmonies in this song and I would recommend you give it a listen as well. The song pays homage to Californian music, the sun, and the diverse communities that are living peacefully.
9. Going to California
Led Zeppelin released this song in 1971 and it is a soft, folk-influenced ballad. The song is about longing for a life of meaning with California painted as the land of dreams which describes the allure of the West Coast perfectly.
The minimalistic instrumentals and gentle vocals are very different from the usual style of the rock band. The song has a couple of different versions and I would suggest you check it out to see which one fits your taste best.
10. San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)
This song by Scott McKenzie is not the usual breezy and upbeat song about Californian days and nights. Rather it is about the counterculture movement of the 1960s as it urges people to embrace peace and love.
The phrase “wear flowers in your hair” symbolizes unity, harmony, and freedom. This song peaked at #1 on many charts, perhaps because we need this song for peace everywhere and not just in California.
11. California
This legendary song by Jon Mitchell is a bittersweet track that shows the multifaceted beauty of the Golden State. The song talks about the longing for freedom, fame, and a fresh start that people come chasing in California.
If you are from the state and you resonate with these feelings then you should check this song out. It sings about the complexities of living in California along with the loneliness that comes with it.
12. Do You Know the Way to San Jose
You will find the theme of chasing dreams in California very common on this list and that is probably because of the allure of the Golden State. This song by Dionne Warwick is also about that but more specifically it’s targeted at the city of San Jose.
The lyrics show a sense of longing for a simple, meaningful life and the challenges that come with living in a fast-paced urban world.
13. Hollywood Nights
This song is by Bob Seger and it flawlessly captures the vibe of Los Angeles glamour and shine, or of Hollywood, you can say. The song describes a night filled with music, adventure, lights and magic.
The fast-paced songs and Bob’s vocals make this song a favorite of many. The song ranked #12 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
14. Hotel California
This iconic rock track is by Eagles who use exceptional electronic guitar riffs and clever lyrics to describe the pull of a hotel in California. The lyrics “You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave” shows the pull of California on people and their dreams.
The song won a Grammy award and that should be enough to get you to give this track at least one chance.
15. Ventura Highway
If you love California and road trips then the band America, released the perfect song for you. This song is about a road trip down California’s Ventura Highway, with golden sunsets and endless opportunities in the land of dreams.
The chill and laid-back melody of the song along with the soothing vocals of the band make this a lovely song. I suggest you check it out, it will be worth your time!
16. California Dreamin’
If you like songs with acoustic guitars and strong vocals then you should listen to this song by the Mamas and Papas. The track is about missing the summers of the West Coast while being in the cold winters.
The description in this song is very vivid as it helps you imagine the scenery in your head.
17. The Little Old Lady From Pasadena
This song by the Beach Boys pays homage to the old lady from Pasadena who is frail and feisty and likes to speed. Her adventurous spirit is described in the track, along with her in a fast car.
The song celebrates the car and driving culture of California so if that’s your thing then you should check this out!
18. Promised Land
This rock n roll classic is by Chuck Berry who sings about the journeys across America. The song has an upbeat and infectious beat that will pull you in and you will not be holding yourself from dancing along.
The excitement and adventures of the “promised land” during the pursuit of dreams are conveyed clearly in this track.
19. Talk to Me of Mendocino
If you like music with piano and belting vocals then this one by Kate and Anna McGarringle is for you. This gentle song consists of nostalgic vibes as the singers yearn for a simple life in the Mendocino region of California.
This song is very gentle and lovely and I would recommend you to check it out if it fits your vibe.
20. I Left My Heart In San Francisco
As the name suggests, singer Tony Bennett talks about his longing for the return to his beloved city, San Francisco. He uses clever wordplay to describe his attachment and yearning to return to the charming city.
If you are from San Francisco then there is a high chance you have heard of this song already. If you haven’t then you need to catch up with the rest of us immediately!
21. (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay
This song by Otis Redding is a mixture of soul and folk, making it a marvelous track. The lyrics describe the feelings and thoughts of a person as he contemplates his life while staring at the ships in the bay.
The beats in this song are very minimal and it’s mostly Otis’ vocals that are carrying this song. I would recommend you listen to this 3 times platinum song.
22. Going Back To Cali
The next song on our list is the hit by LL Cool J, which reminds me of the ‘90s cartoon shows because of the beat. This is yet another song that appreciates the culture and vibe of the West Coast with the rappers yearning to go back.
The song went platinum in the USA and rightfully so, as the beats and the lyrics both are superb.
23. Californication
This song may sound very provocative from the name but it is not about what you are thinking at all. Red Hot Chili Peppers released this song in 1999 and it’s about the superficiality that exists in Hollywood.
This hit also talks about the consequences of excess such as fame. It has a darker meaning attached to it as well but I will leave that to your interpretation.
24. California Love
In honor of 2pac’s murderer getting charged recently, we have decided to include this hit by him. While this song may not be my favorite, it is loved by many others for its portrayal of the Californian culture.
The repetitive beat and the wordplay by Tupac showcase the rap world in Los Angeles. The song has many accolades to its name and if you want to understand the hype then you have to stream this song.
25. California Soul
If you want a cool beat to lighten up your mood with some sensual singing then Marlens Shaw has just the song for you. This song is a blend of soul, jazz, and folk, making it an incredible masterpiece.
The lyrics celebrate California’s culture, including its music. The groovy melody will make your day and I urge you to give this track a chance.
26. California Here I Come
Another song with phenomenal jazz music on this list is California Here I Come by Al Jolson. This song is about hope and optimism, the positive outlook on life as one travels to California to achieve their dreams.
The energetic singing of Al creates a jolly atmosphere. And of course, we cannot forget the excitement of going to the West Coast.
27. Malibu
Malibu is a city in California that is known for its sandy beaches and beautiful landscapes. In this song by Hole, Courtney Love expresses her vulnerability.
The song is a description of her personal experiences about love, loss, and transformation. All of this is set in Malibu, hence making it a sad, yet beautiful, hit song.
28. Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is famous for its luxury and glamor and this song by Weezer mocks this in a humorous way. The song pokes fun at the excessivity of people in this neighborhood while also displaying the desire, simultaneously, to be a part of this lifestyle.
I recommend you check out this track, it is easily one of my favorites on this list. The song charted #1 on the US Alternative Airplay in 2005.
29. Lodi
This song is by Creedence Clearwater Revival and is a rock song that portrays the disappointment and struggles of a musician. The music shows the feeling of being stuck that the musician has as he travels to Lodi, California.
The song is relatable for anyone who faced hardships while chasing their dreams, whether it was in a small town in California or not. I would suggest you check this song out for its emotional lyrics, not to rub salt in anyone’s wounds.
30. Los Angeles
If you want a punk rock song about the rebellious spirit of the people of California then this song by X is right up your alley. The song conveys the chaos of the Golden State in an edgy way, as both the lyrics and beats fit perfectly with each other.
The song emphasizes how this is the land of dreams but nightmares coexist with it as well.
31. California One / Youth and Beauty Brigade
This song is a lovely mixture of indie with rock and hints of folk. It’s a two-part song in which the singer talks about the topics of love and melancholy.
It’s about taking a cross-country road trip and the experiences of people who are making this journey.
32. California Sun
This jolly and upbeat song by the Rivieras portrays the carefree and lively spirit of California. It has a fast-paced tempo and infectious guitar riffs that pull you in and I suggest you listen to this song.
The imagery of beaches, sunshine, surfing, and the summer days is portrayed in this song. The song charted #5 on Billboard’s Hot 100.
33. West Coast Poplock
This song is by Ronnie Hudson and is a classic hip-hop song about California. This song has a catchy beat and smooth rap flow, which makes it a favorite of many, including mine.
The song celebrates the party culture of the Golden State and if you vibe with that then go check it out!
34. California Saga (On My Way to Sunny Californ-i-a)
I promise the Beach Boys did not pay me to list so many of their songs in this article. It’s just that they have hit after hit on California and I can’t gatekeep these lovely songs from you guys.
This song conveys a deep sense of love the band has for their state, for its beauty, and for people. The song is underrated in my opinion and when you listen to it, you will agree with me.
35. California Girls
This song by Gretchen Wilson is not my favorite because of the “I’m not like other girls” vibes it gives. The singer mocks Californian girls for being skinny, dumb, and blonde while saying “Ain’t you glad we ain’t all Californian girls”.
If that sounds like your vibe then go ahead and listen to it, but to me, this is a very “pick me” song.
36. California Blue
This song is by the famous Roy Orbison who sings about a lost love that he describes by using the allure of California. The pain, heartache, and loneliness in the artist’s voice can be heard clearly in this track.
37. Californian Soil
The vibe of this song is similar to the previous song, as the vocalist of the band, London Grammar, conveys feelings of longing, loss, and love. These feelings are felt on the “Californian soil” hence the name.
38. Goodbye, California
The style and singing in this song by Jolie Holland is not my cup of tea but if you like strong accents against acoustic guitar then this is for you. The song is about leaving your old life to start a new one, to say goodbye before you go on a journey of self-discovery.
39. California (Cast Iron Soul)
This song by Jamestown Revival is about the band’s challenges and struggles they faced in the Golden State. The song has a sense of hope, to overcome any problem and I recommend you check out this wholesome track.
40. Califia (Stone Rider)
This song is by Jesse Colin Young and it portrays the dream-like and mystical vibe of California. The lyrics are very detailed, as they will take you on a visual imagery.
The song did not top many charts but it is still worthy of being on this list.
41. Escape From Los Angeles
Most of the songs I have listed so far are happy songs about California but no this one. AFI released this song in 2021 and it is a punk-rock song that tells the dark side of the City of Angels.
I suggest you check this out, you might agree with the lyrics if you are a Los Angeles resident.
42. California Bloodlines
This song by John Stewart appreciates California for its diversity, both culturally and geographically. The song pays homage to the beauty of the state, from its people to its traditions.
43. California
Yet another song named “California” but this one is by Tom Petty. I like the beat of this song, its lyrics depict starting a new life in California and leaving the past behind.
The song is severely underrated in my opinion and I would recommend you check it out.
44. California Stars
Wilco and Woody Guthrie co-wrote this song and it is a song about California’s unwavering beauty. The song has soothing vocals and a catchy beat and I urge you to give it a listen, you will not regret it.
45. Santa Cruz
If you love California and its love culture then you will love this song by the Thrills. The song romanticizes California’s allure and expresses the desire to escape the coast of Santa Cruz.
The upbeat melody along with the harmonies of this song will make you fall in love immediately.
46. California Gurls
Katy Perry, a famous popstar icon, had to be on this list as she made one of the most legendary songs in 2010. It features Snoop Dogg and is about the sun-soaked, beachy lifestyle of California.
This song goes viral every few years, especially on TikTok. The song also went diamond in the USA so you can imagine its impact.
47. The Golden State
This song is by John Doe and in this track he sings about the mystique of California. The song has strong electrical guitar riffs as it is a folk-rock track that was released in 2016.
I like the collective vibe of the song, as it celebrates both sides of the Golden State. It talks about its beauty as well as the challenges and hardships that people face here. I suggest you give this song a try to see what the hype is about.
48. California Roll
This song is an iconic collaboration between Snoop Dogg, Stevie Wonder, and Pharrell Williams. It is a funky hip-hop track that appreciates California’s culture, particularly of Los Angeles.
The lyrics portray the easygoing lifestyle, although I believe this is only the lifestyle of the rich and successful in the city of Angels. Pharrell’s and Stevie’s harmonies and Snoop’s rap lyrics make this song a masterpiece.
49. Going Back To California
Yes, there is more than one song named Going Back To California, perhaps because people miss it once they leave. This one is by the Mountain Goats and the song is about escaping a troubled past and starting anew in California.
50. California
Ending this list on a song named California by Rich Brian because why not? The song features NIKI and Warren Hue, as the artists come together to sing about the opportunities in California along with the consequences that follow.
FAQs
Which is the most listened-to song about California?
Californication by the Red Hot Chili Peppers is the most listened to and performed song about California. Not only is this the band’s biggest hit but also in general, people listen to this song a lot when it comes to tracks that describe California.
Why are there so many songs about California?
California is the home of Hollywood as well as of many musicians. These artists love to talk about their Golden State so that other people can also appreciate the beauty of their home with them.
What made California so popular?
Hollywood is the simple one-word answer to this question. The films and stars helped make California the center of attention worldwide. This led to the idea of the “Californian dream” that many people wish to chase in the state.