23 Best Songs About War

War is one of the toughest challenges mankind has to face. Even now, wars are raging in Israel and the Ukraine.

Below, we have thus compiled this list of songs about war. Some of the songs describe the utter futility of war and promote peace while others describe the bravery and fortitude of the men who go out and fight. Let’s get started!

1. Imagine – John Lennon

Our first song about war is John Lennon’s “Imagine” which was released in 1971 and quickly became a global hit.

The lyrics are simple yet profound. Lennon invites us to imagine a world of peace and unity. A world with no countries, religion, possessions, greed or hunger. Pure idealism.

The arrangement is understated and poignant. Just Lennon’s soothing vocals and piano, with subtle bass, drums and strings. It draws you in to really absorb the powerful message.

“Imagine” remains an anthem of hope and humanity today. It’s been covered by countless artists and performed at monumental events. Always wishing for a better world.

2. The Sound of Silence – Simon and Garfunkel

This song about war is a hauntingly beautiful song by Simon & Garfunkel. Released in 1965, it quickly became a cultural touchstone. The song’s lyrics explore themes of alienation and the inability to communicate.

Paul Simon wrote the song when he was just 21. He reportedly composed it in his bathroom, turning off the lights to better concentrate. The song’s original acoustic version was recorded in 1964 for the duo’s debut album, Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.

When the album initially flopped, Simon moved to London. But in 1965, the song unexpectedly gained popularity on radio stations in Boston and Florida. This prompted producer Tom Wilson to remix the track, adding electric instruments and drums. The result? A number one hit!

3. Born in the U.S.A. – Bruce Springsteen

Don’t be fooled by the upbeat rock sound. The lyrics tell the somber story of a Vietnam vet returning home to no fanfare.

Springsteen expertly juxtaposes the grim verses with the proud, glorious chorus. This contrast drives home the song’s message of cruel mistreatment of vets.

While many mistook it for a jingoistic anthem, “Born in the U.S.A.” is anything but. It’s a scathing critique delivered in a deceptively rousing package. Therein lies its brilliance.

4. Blowin’ in the Wind – Bob Dylan

“Blowin’ in the Wind” was released in 1963 and is a true classic by the legendary Bob Dylan. It’s a powerful protest song that asks some big questions about peace, war, and freedom. The famous line “The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind” is super poetic and mysterious.

This song was a huge hit for Peter, Paul and Mary. Their version topped the charts and won two Grammys! It’s been covered by countless artists since then.

“Blowin’ in the Wind” became an anthem of the civil rights movement. It captures the struggles and hopes of that time in a way that really resonated with people. To this day, it remains one of Dylan’s most iconic and beloved songs.

5. Gimme Shelter – Rolling Stones

Our next song about war describes the horrors of war. Gimme Shelter by the Rolling Stones was released in 1969 and was the opening track of their album Let It Bleed. The song features haunting guest vocals by Merry Clayton.

The song’s tension was inspired by Keith Richards’ jealousy over Mick Jagger’s relationship with his girlfriend. But the lyrics paint a bleak picture of a violent era, with references to rape, murder, and the Vietnam War. Nasty stuff.

Gimme Shelter has appeared on many “greatest songs” lists. It’s been used in films like Goodfellas and The Departed. The song is a staple of the Stones’ live shows and has been covered by numerous artists. An absolute classic.

6. Fortunate Son – Creedence Clearwater Revival

“Fortunate Son” was released in 1969 during the Vietnam War and became a symbol of the counterculture’s opposition to the conflict.

The song criticizes the unfairness of class and war. As John Fogerty put it, “It’s the old saying about rich men making war and poor men having to fight them.”

“Fortunate Son” has been widely used to protest military actions and elitism. Its popularity has even led to its use in unrelated situations, like advertising jeans. Talk about irony!

7. We’ll Meet Again – Vera Lynn

We’ll Meet Again is a lovely song from World War II. Vera Lynn’s beautiful voice brings hope and comfort.

The song has a simple melody and meaningful lyrics. It’s easy to sing along to. The words remind us that separation is only temporary.

We’ll Meet Again became an anthem of its time. It was in movies and on the radio. Even today, it remains a symbol of hope and resilience.

8. For What it’s Worth – Buffalo Springfield

Our next song about war is by Buffalo Springfield. It’s is a classic protest song but it’s not about the Vietnam War. Nope, it’s about the Sunset Strip curfew riots in 1966.

Stephen Stills wrote it after seeing the clashes between police and young people. The song became an instant hit, reaching #7 on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s been featured in countless movies and TV shows.

The song’s message still resonates today. It’s a timeless call for peace and understanding. And that guitar sound? Iconic.

9. War – Edwin Starr

Edwin Starr’s “War” is a soul-shaking anthem. It’s a protest song that pulls no punches. The message is clear: “War, what is it good for? Absolutely nothin’!”

The song’s driving rhythm and Starr’s powerful vocals demand attention. It’s impossible to ignore. The instrumentation is a force, with every element contributing to the relentless groove.

Released in 1970, “War” struck a chord with the anti-war movement. It soared to No. 1 in the charts. The song became Starr’s signature hit and a defining protest song of the era.

10. Zombie – The Cranberries

Zombie is a visceral response to the tragic deaths of two children in an IRA bombing. The song seethes with anger and pain.

O’Riordan’s voice is raw, guttural, pleading. She pushes it to the extreme to capture the anguish. Her accent adds richness.

The heavy guitar riffs and pounding drums match the intensity. It was a departure from the band’s usual dreamy sound. A risk that paid off.

Zombie struck a chord. It topped charts worldwide. A powerful anti-violence anthem that is still meaningful decades later.

11. One – Metallica

One is a legendary Metallica song about a wounded soldier. Begging God to take his life.

The song starts soft and melodic. Then it gets heavy and distorted. Fast and aggressive.

There’s an epic guitar solo by Kirk Hammett. Then a face-melting dual guitar assault. Hetfield and Hammett shred together.

One was Metallica’s first music video. Intense performance footage, mixed with scenes from an anti-war film.

One is a staple of Metallica’s live shows. Always a crowd favorite. A metal masterpiece.

12. Everybody Wants to Rule the World – Tears for Fears

Tears for Fears crafted a timeless hit with “Everybody Wants to Rule the World”. The synth-pop masterpiece tackles themes of power, corruption, and the human desire for control. Brilliant!

Released in 1985, the song soared to number one in several countries. It even won “Best Single” at the Brit Awards. Talk about ruling the charts!

The haunting lyrics still resonate today. They touch on everything from environmental destruction to fleeting success. Deep stuff for a catchy tune.

So crank up this ’80s classic and ponder its thought-provoking message. Just try not to hum along. I dare you!

13. War Pigs – Black Sabbath

War Pigs packs a punch with its hard-hitting lyrics and powerful instrumentals.

The song was originally titled “Walpurgis” after the witches’ sabbath. Geezer Butler, the bassist and lyricist, drew parallels between war and evil. The record company thought it sounded too Satanic, so they changed it to “War Pigs”.

With the Vietnam War raging, many young men feared being drafted. This song captured that rebellion against fighting for others’ benefit. Though the band knew little about Vietnam, they created a memorable anti-war message.

14. Masters of War – Bob Dylan

“Masters of War” is a powerful protest song by Bob Dylan which takes aim at the Cold War nuclear arms race.

Dylan adapted the melody from the traditional folk song “Nottamun Town.” He gave it new lyrics that pack a punch. The song is a biting condemnation of those in power who profit from war.

“Masters of War” has been covered by many artists over the years. Pete Seeger’s 1965 version is particularly notable. It features spoken Japanese translations after each line, linking the anti-war message to Seeger’s activism.

15. American Soldier – Toby Keith

“American Soldier” is a powerful tribute to the brave men and women who serve in the U.S. military. The song tells the story of a soldier preparing for deployment, highlighting the sacrifices they make to protect America’s freedom. Keith’s lyrics capture the emotions of saying goodbye to loved ones and the unwavering dedication of American soldiers throughout history.

The music video, filmed at Edwards Air Force Base, features real-life service members and their families. It’s a moving portrayal of the challenges and sacrifices military families face. “American Soldier” resonated with listeners, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for four weeks and earning a Platinum certification.

Keith’s heartfelt performance and the song’s poignant message make “American Soldier” a timeless anthem honoring America’s troops. It’s a reminder of the courage and selflessness displayed by American soldiers in every era, from the Civil War to the present day.

16. The Trooper – Iron Maiden

The Trooper by Iron Maiden is a heavy metal classic. It’s based on the Charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War. The song features an iconic galloping rhythm and harmonized guitar riffs.

This song about war has been praised as a genre-defining masterpiece. It’s a fan favorite and a staple of Iron Maiden’s live shows. Bruce Dickinson often waves a Union Flag while performing it.

The Trooper has appeared in video games, books, and documentaries. It even inspired Iron Maiden’s own brand of beer!

17. War – Bob Marley

“War” by Bob Marley is a powerful song with a message. The lyrics come from a 1963 speech by Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie I.

Marley saw Selassie as God on Earth. He used the Emperor’s words to call for equality and peace. The song says there will be war until the day all races are treated the same.

“War” became one of Marley’s greatest classics. It spread the Rastafari message worldwide. The Wailers played it at most of their concerts.

Two hit versions feature Selassie himself! They mix Selassie’s original speech with the Wailers’ music. This creates a virtual duet between the Emperor and Marley. Epic stuff.

18. Rooster – Alice In Chains

“Rooster” by Alice in Chains is a powerful song about the Vietnam War. Written by guitarist Jerry Cantrell for his veteran father, it captures the emotional scars of combat. Raw and honest.

The song features intense imagery and haunting vocals. Cantrell’s father, nicknamed “Rooster,” inspired the lyrics. He served two tours in Vietnam.

“Rooster” became a hit for Alice in Chains. It spent 20 weeks on the charts. The music video, featuring Cantrell’s father, is unforgettable.

A timeless anti-war anthem. “Rooster” continues to resonate with listeners. It’s a testament to the band’s storytelling prowess.

19. Paul McCartney – Pipes of Peace

Pipes of Peace is a gem from Paul McCartney’s solo career and is a fun, eclectic mix of sounds.

The title track is a holiday classic. Featuring a children’s choir, it’s an uplifting anthem for unity. Magical!

20. Miss Sarajevo – U2, Brian Eno & Pavarotti

Defiant beauty. In war-torn Sarajevo, women staged a pageant like no other. Surrounded by violence and despair, they walked on stage with a message: “Don’t let them kill us.”

This act of courage inspired U2, Brian Eno, and Pavarotti to create “Miss Sarajevo.” The song captures the resilience of the human spirit. It celebrates the power of lipstick and heels in the face of bombs and bullets.

“Miss Sarajevo” is a testament to hope. A reminder that even in the darkest times, beauty and bravery endure. U2’s lyrics, Eno’s haunting melodies, and Pavarotti’s soaring voice come together perfectly. The result is a song that moves the soul and lifts the heart.

21. Drive On – Johnny Cash

Drive On is a powerful war song by Johnny Cash. It’s a short track, but packs a punch. Cash’s deep, emotive voice brings the lyrics to life.

The song is a testament to the resilience of soldiers. Keep going, no matter what. Drive on.

22. The Longest Day – Iron Maiden

The Longest Day is a thrilling track from A Matter of Life and Death about the D-Day landings in World War II. Epic!

The song features Maiden’s signature galloping rhythms and powerful riffs. Dickinson’s vocals soar, painting vivid pictures of the historic battle. A true masterpiece that brings history to life.

23. War? – System of a Down

Our final song about war comes from System of a Down. Malakian’s guitar riffs are fierce. Tankian’s vocals soar, raw with emotion.

The anti-war message hits hard. “We’re going down in a spiral to the ground / No one, no one’s gonna save us now,” Tankian cries out.

In just over 2.5 minutes, System of a Down delivers a searing protest against the horrors of war. Unforgettable.

Peace Out

So that concludes our list of songs about war. Which songs about war got your blood flowing? Let us know in the comments below.