33 Best Songs About Fire

From classic rock to modern pop, songs about fire have been burning up the charts for decades. Here’s our list of the 33 best songs about fire – let’s get straight to it.

1. We Didn’t Start the Fire – Billy Joel

We Didn’t Start the Fire is a classic Billy Joel hit from 1989. It’s fast, furious, and full of historical references.

The lyrics mention 119 significant events from 1949 to 1989. That’s the year Joel was born to the year the song was released. Talk about a trip down memory lane!

Despite its catchy tune, Joel wasn’t a fan of the song musically. He even compared the melody to a dentist drill. Ouch!

But the song struck a chord with listeners. It became Joel’s third #1 hit in the US. The album Storm Front also reached #1.

The song’s message? The world has always been a crazy place. We didn’t start the fire, but we have to deal with it. Deep stuff, Billy.

2. Light My Fire – The Doors

“Light My Fire” is a psychedelic rock classic by The Doors. Released in 1967, it became their signature song.

The track was mostly written by guitarist Robby Krieger, inspired by “Hey Joe” and the Rolling Stones. Each band member added their own touch.

It features a jazzy improvisation and an iconic organ intro by Ray Manzarek. Despite being over 7 minutes long, a shortened radio edit helped propel it to #1.

The Doors famously performed it on The Ed Sullivan Show, defying censorship of the “higher” lyric. This cemented the song’s rebellious reputation.

“Light My Fire” has been widely covered, most notably by José Feliciano. His Latin-soul rendition became an international hit.

A true ’60s anthem. It captured the era’s psychedelic and sexual revolutions.

3. Great Balls of Fire – Jerry Lee Lewis

Another classic song about fire is Jerry Lee Lewis’s “Great Balls of Fire” is a rock and roll classic. Released in 1957, it quickly became a hit. The song sold a million copies in just 10 days!

Recorded at Sun Studio in Memphis, the track features Lewis’s dynamic piano playing and vocals. It’s backed by a solid rhythm section. The result is an energetic, unforgettable performance.

“Great Balls of Fire” reached #2 on the Billboard pop charts and #1 on the country charts. It also topped the UK Singles Chart. The song’s popularity has endured for decades.

It’s been featured in films like Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick. The title even inspired the name of a Jerry Lee Lewis biopic. What a legacy!

4. Ring of Fire – Johnny Cash

Next on our list of songs about fire is Johnny Cash’s  inimitable “Ring of Fire” is an unforgettable classic. It’s one of his biggest hits ever. And for good reason!

The song’s chorus is super catchy, comparing the passion of love to a “ring of fire”. You feel the burn as the flames rise higher and higher. Down, down, down you fall, head over heels in love.

Cash’s mariachi horns add a festive flair that’ll get stuck in your head. It’s a twist on his usual sound, inspired by a dream. And it totally works!

“Ring of Fire” has stood the test of time. Covered by many artists and loved by fans worldwide. An anthem for the ages. Pure Cash magic.

5. Disco Inferno – The Trammps

This funky classic will set any dance floor on fire! Released in 1976 by The Trammps, it was a hit on the disco charts. But it really took off after being featured in Saturday Night Fever.

The song’s inspiration? The Towering Inferno movie! It’s about a party threatened by a fire below. How fitting!

Some stations banned the song for its “burn baby burn” lyrics. They thought it was too reminiscent of the Watts riots. Controversy aside, “Disco Inferno” is an undeniable dancefloor filler. It’s impossible not to groove to!

In 2005, the song was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame. A well-deserved honor for this disco gem. So put on your dancing shoes and let “Disco Inferno” take you to funky town!

6. I’m On Fire – Bruce Springsteen

A moody masterpiece by Bruce Springsteen. Released in 1985, this classic was an instant hit.

The song features a soft rockabilly beat and synthesizers – a first for Springsteen. The lyrics ooze with sexual tension.

“I’m on Fire” peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was one of seven Top 10 singles from Born in the U.S.A. Impressive!

The music video, directed by John Sayles, is a dramatic interpretation of the song’s themes. Springsteen plays a mechanic pining for a married customer. It’s a wistful, bittersweet tale.

Springsteen has been performed this song live 245 times. It’s a fan favorite, often featuring crowd sing-alongs and red stage lighting. A true Springsteen classic!

7. Burning Down the House – Talking Heads

“Burning Down the House” is a funk-filled jam. Talking Heads turned it into an art rock anthem.

The song’s origins are pure fun. Bassist Tina Weymouth and drummer Chris Frantz were inspired by a wild Parliament-Funkadelic show.

Lead singer David Byrne took the groove and ran with it. He used a unique writing process, fitting nonsense phrases to the rhythms. “Burning down the house” stuck — and a hit was born.

The iconic video is a trip. It features the band rocking out, Byrne’s intense stare, and even younger versions of the group.

“Burning Down the House” lit up the charts. It was Talking Heads’ biggest musical hit, cracking the top 10 in the US and Canada. A major triumph.

8. Firework – Katy Perry

This is an uplifting dance-pop anthem that’ll make you feel like you can conquer the world.

The lyrics are all about self-empowerment and believing in yourself. Sure, some lines are a bit cheesy, but who cares when the beat is this infectious? Crank it up!

Perry’s vocals seriously shine here. She belts out those inspirational words with power and conviction. The production is top-notch too – it’s like Coldplay met a glowstick.

“Firework” was a huge hit, topping charts worldwide. The music video is an absolute must-see. It follows people overcoming struggles and lighting up the night.

So let “Firework” ignite your spirit. Dance, sing, and let your colors burst! This song is pop dynamite.

9. Set Fire to the Rain – Adele

The song features lush instrumentation and soaring strings. They perfectly complement Adele’s stunning vocals.

Critics praised the emotional intensity of her performance. Many called it a triumphant radio hit.

“Set Fire to the Rain” topped charts around the world. It became Adele’s third consecutive #1 single in the US.

No official music video was filmed. However, a live performance from the Royal Albert Hall was released on YouTube.

This rendition won Adele a Grammy Award in 2013. Best Pop Solo Performance and another reason why it made it onto our list of the best songs about fire.

10. Sex on Fire – Kings of Leon

Kings of Leon’s “Sex on Fire” was a smash hit and had to make it onto our list of songs about fire. It topped charts in Australia, Finland, Ireland, and the UK. The song even reached number one on downloads alone in the UK before its physical release!

“Sex on Fire” has sold over 1.2 million copies in the UK as of November 2012. It also gained significant popularity in the US, reaching number one on the Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart. The song earned the band their first Grammy nominations in 2008, winning Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group.

Despite its success, lead singer Caleb Followill initially thought the song was “terrible”. The lyrics were originally different, with working titles like “Set Us on Fire” and “Socks on Fire”.

11. Burning Love – Elvis Presley

Elvis’ “Burning Love” is a fiery hit! Released in 1972, it was his last Top 10 single on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song features electric guitar riffs by Dennis Linde himself. It’s catchy and upbeat. Pure fun!

Despite its popularity, Elvis rarely performed it live. He did sing it in the film Elvis on Tour and the Aloha from Hawaii concert.

“Burning Love” has been used in many movies and TV shows. Wynonna Judd’s version closes out Lilo & Stitch. It’s even been to space as a wake-up song on the space shuttle!

12. Girl on Fire – Alicia Keys

This is a killer track from Alicia Keys. It’s an empowering anthem with a powerful message.

This song about fire is all about inner strength and confidence. Keys’ vocals are incredible – she belts out the chorus with serious passion.

The production is top-notch too. Pounding drums and dramatic piano set the perfect backdrop for Keys to shine.

Multiple versions were recorded, each with a unique flavor. The main single is perfect for radio. The “Inferno” remix adds fierce verses from Nicki Minaj.

But the stripped-back “Bluelight” version is something special. Keys’ smoky vocals over minimal instrumentation are simply intoxicating. Wow.

“Girl on Fire” was a huge hit worldwide. It’s easy to see why – the song is an absolute powerhouse that uplifts and inspires. Alicia Keys is truly on fire!

13. Smoke on the Water – Deep Purple

“Smoke on the Water” is a classic rock masterpiece by Deep Purple. Released in 1972, it features one of the most iconic guitar riffs ever.

The song tells the true story of a fire at the Montreux Casino in Switzerland. Deep Purple watched the smoke spread over Lake Geneva from their hotel.

The band was there to record their album Machine Head. They had to find a new place to record after the fire. It wasn’t easy, but they eventually did it.

“Smoke on the Water” has been honored in many ways. There’s a sculpture in Montreux with the riff in musical notes. This song about fire is also in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

It’s a simple but powerful song. And it rocks hard. No wonder it’s Deep Purple’s signature tune!

14. Firestarter – The Prodigy

Firestarter is a banger. It’s a techno-dance classic that’ll get you moving. The track features Keith Flint’s intense vocals over a thumping beat.

The song samples guitar from the Breeders and drums from Ten City. It also includes the iconic “hey” sample from Art of Noise. These elements combine to create a high-energy sound.

Released in 1996, Firestarter topped charts in several countries. The black-and-white music video is unforgettable. Firestarter is a defining track of the ’90s electronic scene.

15. Eternal Flame – The Bangles

Eternal Flame by The Bangles is a power ballad classic. Written by Susanna Hoffs with hit songwriters Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly. Released in 1989, it went to #1 in nine countries!

The song’s focal metaphor was inspired by eternal flames at Elvis Presley’s gravesite and a synagogue Steinberg attended as a child. Catchy lyrics but with no chorus, instead, it uses an AABA structure with a repeated middle eight.

Critics compared it to the Byrds, the Beatles, and other 60s songs. Some felt it didn’t quite fit the Bangles’ sound. But it became a “minor pop standard” and the band’s signature song.

The song’s success caused tension by making the Bangles seem like just Hoffs’ backing band. They broke up soon after. But Eternal Flame endures as a timeless love song.

16. I See Fire – Ed Sheeran

“I See Fire” is a folk ballad by Ed Sheeran, written for The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. It’s a perfect fit!

Sheeran wrote the song in just one day after watching an early screening of the film. He captured the essence of the movie’s ending, following the director’s advice.

The lyrics touch on themes present in The Hobbit, like fire, mountains, and brotherhood. Sheeran played most of the instruments himself, even the violin, which he had never played before.

Released in November 2013, this song about fire was a hit. It reached number one in New Zealand and Sweden, and charted well in many other countries.

The music video showcases Sheeran’s creative process and features scenes from the film. A captivating watch!

17. Fire and Rain – James Taylor

“Fire and Rain” is a James Taylor classic. Released in 1970, it put Taylor on the musical map.

The song has three distinct parts. Part one is about Taylor’s childhood friend Suzanne, who committed suicide while he was recording in London. Part two dives into his struggles with drug addiction and depression. And part three grapples with the challenges of fame and fortune.

The song features Carole King on piano and Russ Kunkel on brushed drums. Double bass by Bobby West adds to the melancholic vibe. “Fire and Rain” is a poignant, powerful ballad that showcases Taylor’s songwriting genius.

18. Beds Are Burning – Midnight Oil

A classic 1987 hit by Aussie rockers Midnight Oil. It topped charts worldwide and is a powerful call for indigenous land rights.

Midnight Oil wrote it after touring the Outback and seeing Aboriginal communities struggling. The lyrics reference specific Australian places and politics. It’s a uniquely Aussie song with a universal message.

“Beds Are Burning” has been covered by many artists over the years. A 2009 version featured 60 international musicians and celebrities. It aimed to raise awareness of climate change.

This Midnight Oil anthem is truly iconic. Raw and impactful. It’s one of the greatest Aussie songs ever written.

19. Relight My Fire – Dan Hartman / Take That

Originally released by Dan Hartman in 1979, it topped the US dance charts for six weeks. Wow!

In 1993, British boy band Take That covered the song with Scottish singer Lulu. It went straight to number one in the UK. A huge hit!

The Take That version features Gary Barlow on lead vocals. Lulu reprises Loleatta Holloway’s role from the original. The music video shows the band and Lulu partying in a club. Fun times!

In 2003, Ricky Martin released his own version. It peaked at number five on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. Loleatta Holloway’s vocals from the original were included. Disco lives on!

20. St. Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion) – John Parr

This 80s classic is catchy, uplifting, and totally rad. The song hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985 and stuck around for two weeks.

John Parr wrote the tune for the movie St. Elmo’s Fire. But get this – he cranked it out in just 24 hours! Talk about a quick turnaround.

The lyrics were inspired by Rick Hansen, a Canadian athlete wheeling around the world for spinal cord injury awareness. Pretty cool, right? The song became a global No. 1 hit for Parr and even scored a Grammy nod.

It features some serious ’80s star power too. Members of Toto, REO Speedwagon, and Mr. Mister all made appearances. The music video is equally iconic, with the movie’s cast looking all broody and stuff.

21. Fireball – Pitbull

Released in 2014, this club hit features vocals from John Ryan and Pitbull’s signature style.

The music video is a star-studded affair. YouTube sensations Jenna Marbles, Bart Baker, and Brittany Furlan make appearances, dancing alongside Pitbull.

When a stunning woman enters the club, the video switches from black and white to vibrant color. All eyes are on her as she approaches Pitbull. Sparks fly!

“Fireball” was a commercial success, selling over a million copies in the US alone. It’s been featured in movies like Zootopia and The Angry Birds Movie 2. A fan favorite at sporting events too!

22. Burn – Ellie Goulding

“Burn” is an infectious pop anthem by Ellie Goulding. It’s catchy and radio-friendly. Goulding’s ethereal vocals shine.

The track was a smash hit, topping charts worldwide. In the UK, it was Goulding’s first number-one single. It also gain traction in the US, peaking at 13 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The music video is a visual treat. It features Goulding singing and dancing with friends in a vibrant setting. The video ends with a stunning display of lights forming Goulding’s logo.

“Burn” showcased Goulding’s mainstream appeal. It remains one of her most memorable and successful singles to date and thus a oblgatory entry in this list of songs about fire..

23. Play With Fire – The Rolling Stones

Recorded in just one night, it features Mick Jagger’s soulful vocals and Keith Richards’ acoustic guitar.

But there’s more to love here. The iconic harpsichord arrangement by Jack Nitzsche adds an eerie, unforgettable layer. And Phil Spector’s bass rounds out the moody atmosphere perfectly.

The lyrics are biting and sardonic, taking aim at high society. But it’s the instrumentation that really shines. From the echo on Jagger’s voice to the tambourine accents, every element works together seamlessly.

“Play with Fire” proves that sometimes the simplest songs hit hardest. It’s a testament to the Stones’ uncanny ability to craft raw, affecting music. An underrated gem that still sizzles.

24. Fight Fire with Fire – Metallica

Metallica’s “Fight Fire with Fire” is a thrilling ride from start to finish. It kicks off with a haunting acoustic intro before exploding into a blistering thrash metal assault. The band’s signature sound is on full display here.

James Hetfield’s vocals are fierce and powerful, perfectly complementing the song’s aggressive tone. The lyrics explore themes of revenge and fighting back against oppression. “Do unto others as they have done to you,” Hetfield snarls.

The guitar work by Kirk Hammett and Hetfield is nothing short of spectacular. Blistering solos, crunching riffs. Lars Ulrich’s drumming is relentless, driving the song forward with unstoppable momentum. All the elements come together to create a true metal masterpiece.

25. Through The Fire And Flames – DragonForce

“Through the Fire and Flames” by DragonForce is a power metal classic. Known for its insanely fast twin guitar solos, it’s the band’s most successful song. TTFAF peaked at #86 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has sold over 1.1 million copies in the US alone.

The song is in C minor at a blistering 200 BPM. Wow! Despite Herman Li breaking a guitar string during recording, they kept it on the album.

TTFAF’s music video showcases the band’s epic performance. It features close-ups of the guitarists shredding during their solos. The video helped popularize the song on YouTube and MTV2.

While only earning the band about $3,000 in royalties, TTFAF’s inclusion in Guitar Hero III introduced it to millions. It has since appeared in numerous other rhythm games and is a fan favorite.

26. The Roof Is on Fire – Rock Master Scott & the Dynamic Three

This song’s infectious chorus is impossible to forget: “The roof, the roof, the roof is on fire! We don’t need no water—Let the **bleep** burn! Burn, **bleep**, burn!” It’s a party anthem that demands you throw your hands in the air and wave ’em like you just don’t care.

The track’s influence is undeniable, with its lyrics and samples appearing in countless other songs. From the Chemical Brothers to the Bloodhound Gang, “The Roof Is on Fire” has left an indelible mark on pop culture. A true classic that still sets dance floors ablaze.

27. Fire Burning – Sean Kingston

Sean Kingston’s “Fire Burning” is a certified banger! Released in 2009, this RedOne-produced track is an absolute club hit.

The song’s infectious chorus and pulsing bassline make it impossible not to dance. Kingston’s reggae-tinged vocals add a unique flair to the synthesizer-heavy production.

“Fire Burning” was a global success, peaking at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100. It even topped the charts in South Africa! The music video features cameos from Rick Ross and Iyaz, showcasing Kingston’s star power.

28. Fire – Kasabian

This song about fire was released in 2009 and skyrocketed to the top of the charts.

The song’s catchy mix of slow verses and groovy choruses is pure genius. Guitarist Serge Pizzorno stitched them together “for a laugh” and struck gold.

“Fire” peaked at #3 in the UK and #1 in Scotland. It even charted in Australia, Ireland, and Belgium. The music video, featuring a guitar-wielding bank heist, is a wild ride.

With its infectious energy and clever composition, it’s no wonder “Fire” is Kasabian’s most successful single to date. An instant classic!

29. Fire – Arthur Brown

The song “Fire” by The Crazy World of Arthur Brown is a wild ride. Released in 1968, it became a massive hit. It topped the charts in the UK and Canada and reached #2 in the US.

Brown’s powerful vocals and the song’s psychedelic sound made it stand out. The lyrics are sung from the perspective of a gleeful “god of Hellfire” destroying everything in sight. Intense!

During live performances, Brown wore a burning helmet. Ouch! The flames could reach 4 feet high and even caught his clothes on fire once. Talk about a hot show.

“Fire” has had a lasting impact. It’s been covered, sampled, and remains a classic of the era. A true original that still burns bright today.

30. She Sets The City On Fire – Gavin DeGraw

Gavin DeGraw knows how to write a catchy tune. “She Sets the City on Fire” is a perfect example. It’s fun, upbeat, and will get stuck in your head for days.

The song tells the story of a woman who’s the life of the party. DeGraw’s vocals are smooth and soulful, perfectly capturing the energy and excitement of the lyrics. The production is top-notch, with a mix of modern pop and classic rock elements that give the song a timeless feel.

“She Sets the City on Fire” peaked at number 16 on the Billboard Adult Top 40 chart. It’s easy to see why. The song has all the ingredients of a hit – a great melody, relatable lyrics, and an irresistible hook.

31. Fire With Fire – Scissor Sisters

Scissor Sisters’ “Fire with Fire” is a catchy pop tune that’ll get you moving. It’s the lead single from their third album, Night Work. The song even made it into the video game FIFA 11!

The music video, directed by Philip Andelman, is a visual treat. Andelman worked with production company Partizan and producer Billy Parks to bring the song to life on screen.

“Fire with Fire” was a hit, reaching number 11 on the UK Singles Chart and cracking the top 40 in Austria and Ireland. It also topped the U.S. dance charts. The single came in various formats, including CD, 12-inch vinyl, and digital EP, with plenty of remixes to keep fans dancing all night long.

32. Fire On Fire – Sam Smith

This song about fire was written for the Netflix adaptation of Watership Down. Pure magic!

Smith co-wrote the track with legendary producer Steve Mac. Recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios. With the BBC Concert Orchestra, no less!

Billboard praised the song, calling it “haunting and stirring”. They noted how it perfectly captures the story’s themes. Fear, hope, friendship – it’s all there.

The music video is a must-watch. Released same day as the single. December 21, 2018 – mark your calendar!

“Fire on Fire” was a hit across Europe. Top 40 in six countries. It’s on Smith’s album Love Goes too.

33. Fire and The Flood – Vance Joy

The final song on our list of songs about fire is Vance Joy’s “Fire and the Flood”. Released in 2015, it’s a standout from his debut album. The song’s got serious power.

Joy wrote the catchy guitar riff in February 2015. He recorded it in LA, going all out. The lyrics and horns elevate the track to new heights.

The music video is a dramatic affair. Directed by Hayley Young, it features Joy front and center. Intense scenes unfold behind him, adding to the song’s impact.

“Fire and the Flood” even made it to the big screen. It was featured in the 2016 animated film Storks. Talk about reaching new audiences!

Burn On

So that concludes our list of the best songs about fire.  Whether it’s the iconic guitar riff of “Smoke on the Water” or the emotional intensity of “Fire on Fire,” these songs have left an indelible mark on music history. Let us know your thoughts in the comments.