Songs Inspired by Birds: A Melodic Connection

Birds have long been a source of inspiration for musicians, symbolizing freedom, beauty, and nature. Songs about birds or those that mention birds capture these themes in melodies and lyrics, resonating with listeners in various ways. Here’s a look at some iconic songs that feature our feathered friends. Here are some catchy tunes along with the birds that inspired them.

Blackbird

One of the most famous bird-themed songs is "Blackbird" by The Beatles. Released in 1968 on their "White Album," the song was written by Paul McCartney. "Blackbird" is a beautiful acoustic track featuring a delicate guitar melody and McCartney’s soulful vocals. The lyrics, "Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly," are often interpreted as a metaphor for overcoming adversity and achieving freedom. McCartney has stated that the song was inspired by the civil rights movement in the United States, adding a deeper layer of meaning to its seemingly simple lyrics. 

unknown Jamaican birds

Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds" is a reggae anthem that spreads positivity and reassurance. Featured on the 1977 album "Exodus," the song’s chorus, "Don't worry about a thing, 'cause every little thing gonna be all right," is a comforting reminder to stay optimistic. Marley was inspired by the birds he saw outside the window of his Jamaican studio, and their carefree demeanor reflected the song's message of hope and tranquility. We can only speculate what feathered songsters may have inspired Marley's uplifting song.

White-winged Dove

Another beloved song that mentions birds is "Edge of Seventeen" by Stevie Nicks. This 1981 hit from her debut solo album "Bella Donna" features the famous line, "Just like the White-winged Dove sings a song, sounds like she's singing." The song is a tribute to John Lennon and Nicks' uncle Jonathan, who both passed away in the same week. The White-winged Dove symbolizes the soul's journey and the inevitable process of life and death. Nicks' haunting vocals and the powerful guitar riff make this song a timeless classic.

American Robin

"Rockin' Robin" by Bobby Day is a classic rock and roll song that has charmed audiences since its release in 1958. The upbeat, catchy tune is centered around a bird, the titular "Rockin' Robin," who "rocks in the treetops all day long," singing and dancing to its own delightful melody. With its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics, the song quickly became a hit, capturing the joyful spirit of the rock and roll era. Bobby Day's vibrant performance and the song's whimsical narrative about a bird who loves to rock and roll made "Rockin' Robin" a timeless favorite that continues to bring smiles to listeners' faces. This American classic is surely inspired by the familiar American Robin.

Sparrow sp.

Simon & Garfunkel's "Sparrow" from the 1964 debut studio album "Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M" is a poignant song that uses the story of a sparrow seeking help from others to explore themes of compassion and kindness. The sparrow's journey reflects the challenges and loneliness that can come with seeking understanding and empathy in the world. There are several sparrow species that could be the inspiration behind this mournful folk ballad. Historical eBird records from New York in 1964 indicate the most abundantly reported sparrows to be the Song Sparrow, and the non-native but always ubiquitous House Sparrow.

Bald Eagle (?)

"Fly Like an Eagle" by the Steve Miller Band is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of freedom and the desire for change. Released in 1976, the song features a smooth blend of rock and spacey synthesizers, creating a dreamy, almost ethereal atmosphere. The lyrics speak to social issues and the longing for a better world, with the repeated refrain, "Time keeps on slippin', slippin', slippin' into the future," emphasizing the urgency for progress. The imagery of an eagle flying high in the sky symbolizes the ultimate freedom and the potential for humanity to rise above its challenges. The Bald Eagle is known as the symbol of the USA, and a fitting inspiration for this song. However, North America's other eagle species, the Golden Eagle, is found all across the west, including the San Francisco area -- where the Steve Miller Band is from. 

Northern Mockingbird (?)

"Mockingbird" by Carly Simon and James Taylor is a delightful duet that brings a modern twist to the traditional lullaby "Hush, Little Baby." Released in 1974 (as a remake of a Inez and Charlie Foxx track), the song features a playful back-and-forth between Simon and Taylor, with each singer echoing the other's lines. The lyrics reference a mockingbird's ability to mimic sounds, using it as a metaphor for the promises and reassurances given to a loved one. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody, combined with the singers' charismatic performance, make "Mockingbird" a charming and enduring piece that continues to resonate with listeners. There are several species of mockingbird in the world, but in the United States, the Northern Mockingbird is by far the most common.

These songs, among many others, highlight the enduring connection between birds and music. Whether as symbols of freedom, love, or life's journey, birds continue to inspire musicians across genres and generations.