May is a month of blooming flowers, warmer days, and a sense of renewal as spring transitions into summer. It’s also a month filled with unique stories, emotions, and moments that have inspired artists across generations.
From upbeat anthems to classic ballads, these songs capture the spirit of May and everything it represents.
Be sure to listen to the Songs About May Playlist at the bottom of this page.
Best Songs About May
1. “First of May” – Bee Gees
Lyric Sample: “When I was small and Christmas trees were tall, we used to love while others used to play.”
“First of May” is a tender ballad about childhood memories and the passage of time. Its nostalgic lyrics and soft melody capture the bittersweet feeling of looking back at cherished moments, making it a poignant tribute to the beginning of May.
2. “Month of May” – Arcade Fire
Lyric Sample: “Gonna make a record in the month of May.”
Arcade Fire’s “Month of May” is a high-energy indie rock anthem that channels the chaotic energy and creativity often associated with spring. The song’s driving rhythm and passionate lyrics create a powerful connection to the vibrancy of May.
3. “End of May” – Michael Bublé
Lyric Sample: “Golden haze, another morning feels like yesterday.”
“End of May” is a soulful piece about love and longing. With its smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, the song captures the bittersweet emotions tied to the closing days of May.
4. “May 16” – Lagwagon
Lyric Sample: “No more waiting on them, as you rise inside new rooms.”
Lagwagon’s “May 16” is a punk rock classic about personal growth and moving on. The song’s fast-paced energy and introspective lyrics make it a powerful anthem for turning a new page in life.
5. “May Queen” – Liz Phair
Lyric Sample: “Where have I been? Got any what? Who have I seen? I spy a May queen.”
“May Queen” by Liz Phair is a sharp, witty track that blends clever wordplay with vivid imagery. The song captures the intrigue and complexity of relationships, with the May Queen symbolizing allure and unattainable charm. Its playful tone and Phair’s signature style make it a standout addition to this list.
6. “First of May” – James Taylor
Lyric Sample: “First day of May, things are beginning, our side is winning.”
Off his album Never Die Young, James Taylor’s “First of May” is a gentle, optimistic song celebrating renewal and connection. With imagery of springtime and new beginnings, the song captures the joy and hope that come with the changing season. Its warm melody and poetic lyrics make it a heartfelt tribute to the start of May.
7. “5 Days in May” – Blue Rodeo
Lyric Sample: “They met in a hurricane, standing in the shelter out of the rain.”
Blue Rodeo’s “5 Days in May” is a poignant ballad about love and connection. The song’s vivid storytelling and evocative lyrics capture the transformative power of moments shared in May.
8. “One Morning in May” – James Taylor
Lyric Sample: “To see the waters glide and hear the nightingale sing.”
James Taylor must love the month of May! This one is a traditional folk ballad retelling a bittersweet encounter between a soldier and a young maiden. The song’s vivid imagery of spring and its gentle melody capture both the beauty of nature and the complexities of fleeting love. It’s a timeless story set against the backdrop of May’s arrival.
9. “Third of May” – Fleet Foxes
Lyric Sample: “Light ended the night, but the song remained.”
Fleet Foxes’ “Third of May” is a sweeping indie folk track filled with poetic imagery and emotional depth. The song explores themes of memory, time, and connection, set against the backdrop of May’s arrival.
10. “Maybe Next May” – Secrets
Lyric Sample: “This heart is yours, so take it as you please.”
“Maybe Next May” by Secrets is a heartfelt post-hardcore track about love, heartbreak, and longing. The song’s raw, emotional lyrics capture the pain of unreciprocated devotion, with May symbolizing a hope for resolution or change. Its powerful vocals and intense instrumentation make it a standout for those who resonate with the turmoil of lost love.
11. “This Sweet and Merry Month of May” – William Byrd
Lyric Sample: “This sweet and merry month of May, while nature wantons in her prime.”
“This Sweet and Merry Month of May” is a Renaissance choral piece celebrating the beauty and joy of May. With lyrics referencing nature’s renewal and a tone of reverence, the song captures the vibrant spirit of spring. Its rich harmonies and poetic imagery make it a timeless tribute to the month of May.
12. “Then Came the Last Days of May” – Blue Öyster Cult
Lyric Sample: “Three good buddies were laughing and smoking in the back of a rented Ford.”
“Then Came the Last Days of May” by Blue Öyster Cult is a haunting ballad that tells a tragic story of betrayal and violence. Set against the backdrop of late spring, the song uses vivid imagery and somber tones to paint a tale of three friends whose plans take a devastating turn.
Conclusion
May is a month of contrasts, balancing the freshness of spring with the approach of summer. Songs about May often capture this balance, whether through the excitement of new beginnings, the beauty of nature, or moments of contemplation.
These tracks highlight the variety of emotions and experiences tied to this dynamic time of year.
If you’re interested in exploring more music inspired by each month, check out our Best Songs with Months in the Title article for a deeper dive into songs that celebrate the calendar year.