Songs that start with the letter “Q” can be a rare but intriguing find in music. This list celebrates the quirky, unique, and sometimes obscure songs that make this letter stand out in the musical world. From rock anthems to soul classics, these tracks capture a range of emotions and styles, proving that even the least common letters can have a powerful impact on song titles.
Be sure to check out the Songs that Start with a Q Playlist at the bottom of this page.
Best Songs that Start with a Q
1. “Queen of California” – John Mayer
Lyric Sample: “The Queen of California is stepping down, down.”
John Mayer’s “Queen of California” is a soulful, folk-inspired track that pays homage to icons like Neil Young and Joni Mitchell. Its thoughtful lyrics and laid-back melody capture the longing for change and rediscovery.
2. “Quicksand” – David Bowie
Lyric Sample: “Don’t believe in yourself, don’t deceive with belief.”
A haunting song from Bowie’s Hunky Dory album, “Quicksand” explores themes of self-doubt and existential crisis. The mix of philosophical lyrics and powerful instrumentation makes this track one of Bowie’s most profound pieces.
3. “Questions” – Chris Brown
Lyric Sample: “Girl, I got a question for ya, can I get an answer?”
Chris Brown’s “Questions” blends infectious dancehall rhythms with smooth R&B vibes, creating a catchy and upbeat track. Its playful lyrics and vibrant energy make it perfect for getting lost in the moment on the dance floor.
4. “Quiet Storm” – Smokey Robinson
Lyric Sample: “Soft and warm, a quiet storm, quiet as when flowers talk at break of dawn.”
Smokey Robinson’s “Quiet Storm” is a soulful masterpiece that embodies smooth sensuality and tender emotion. The gentle melody and poetic lyrics make it a timeless serenade.
5. “Queen” – Perfume Genius
Lyric Sample: “No family is safe when I sashay.”
Perfume Genius’s “Queen” is a defiant anthem of self-empowerment and individuality. Its haunting melodies and bold lyrics celebrate unapologetic authenticity and the strength found in embracing one’s true self.
6. “Quarter to Three” – Gary U.S. Bonds
Lyric Sample: “Oh, don’t you know that I danced, I danced ’til a quarter to three.”
Gary U.S. Bonds delivers an electrifying party anthem with “Quarter to Three,” a song brimming with energy and 60s rock ‘n’ roll flair. The infectious rhythm and lively saxophone make it a timeless hit that captures the joy of dancing the night away.
7. “Queen of Peace” – Florence + The Machine
Lyric Sample: “Oh, the king gone mad within his suffering.”
“Queen of Peace” from Florence + The Machine’s How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful explores the emotional toll of suffering, loss, and the quest for peace. With its sweeping orchestration and Florence Welch’s evocative vocals, the song immerses listeners in a powerful tale of inner conflict and the elusive nature of healing.
8. “Quarter Past Midnight” – Bastille
Lyric Sample: “It’s a quarter past midnight, as we cut through the city.”
Bastille’s “Quarter Past Midnight” channels the intensity of a night out, with its infectious rhythm and themes of running from reality. The song captures the mix of excitement and uncertainty that comes with living for the moment, making it an unforgettable anthem for late-night escapades.
9. “Quasar” – The Smashing Pumpkins
Lyric Sample: “Yes, I understand, yes I know thy will, yes I am that man.”
In “Quasar,” The Smashing Pumpkins blend spirituality and self-reflection with their signature alt-rock sound. The intense, poetic lyrics and energetic delivery create a sense of personal transformation and cosmic connection, making it a powerful anthem for introspection.
10. “Queer” – Garbage
Lyric Sample: “The queerest of the queer, the strangest of the strange, the coldest of the cool.”
With its provocative lyrics and rebellious tone, this song explores themes of identity, alienation, and societal expectations. The bold, defiant energy captures a sense of liberation and defiance against conventional norms.
11. “Question!” – System of a Down
Lyric Sample: “Sweet berries ready for two, ghosts are no different than you.”
This haunting, surreal track raises existential questions about life, death, and the mysteries of existence. Its hypnotic rhythm and thought-provoking lyrics leave listeners thinking about the fleeting nature of life and the unknowns that lie beyond.
12. “Que Sera” – Justice Crew
Lyric Sample: “At the end of the day, some you win, some you don’t.”
With its uplifting chorus and positive message, “Que Sera” inspires resilience and hope, celebrating the power of friendship and the importance of staying strong through life’s challenges. Its infectious rhythm and optimistic outlook make it a feel-good anthem about embracing whatever comes your way.
13. “Quantum Flux” – Northlane
Lyric Sample: “Can’t you see the joy of life is right before your eyes?”
“Quantum Flux” is a high-energy anthem that explores the transcendence of love and the infinite potential of life. With its powerful message and electrifying rhythm, the track urges listeners to embrace life’s joy and dream freely, offering a liberating experience through music.
14. “Queen Bitch” – David Bowie
Lyric Sample: “She’s so swishy in her satin and tat, in her frock coat and bipperty-bopperty hat.”
“Queen Bitch” is a vibrant, cheeky track from David Bowie, blending sharp wit with a playful, glam rock energy. The song tells a story of unrequited love and envy, wrapped in a stylishly cynical narrative about a seductive woman who captures attention effortlessly.
15. “Q.U.E.E.N.” – Janelle Monáe
Lyric Sample: “Am I a freak for dancing around? Am I a freak for getting down?”
A bold anthem about embracing individuality and defying societal expectations, “Q.U.E.E.N.” celebrates self-expression and unapologetic confidence. Monáe challenges conventional norms while encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves without fear of judgment.
16. “Quitter” – Carrie Underwood
Lyric Sample: “When I believe that nothing lasts forever, you stay with me.”
“Quitter” is a country ballad where Carrie Underwood sings about overcoming her fear of commitment through a love that feels different. It’s a song about vulnerability, growth, and finding hope in a relationship.
17. “Question…?” – Taylor Swift
Lyric Sample: “Did you ever have someone kiss you in a crowded room?”
“Question…?” is a track that explores the uncertainties of a past relationship and the lingering emotions that come with it. The song captures a mix of longing and curiosity, asking whether the connection ever truly meant something.
18. “Quick Escape” – Pearl Jam
Lyric Sample: “Had to quick escape.”
“Quick Escape” is a high-energy track by Pearl Jam that blends adventurous imagery with a sense of urgency. The song follows a journey of escape, highlighting the need to leave behind a world that feels increasingly chaotic and unrecognizable.
19. “Queendom” – Red Velvet
Lyric Sample: “We are queens in the red castle.”
Red Velvet’s “Queendom” is a bold K-pop anthem celebrating female empowerment and independence. The track’s catchy beat and confident lyrics make it a perfect addition to any playlist celebrating strength and self-expression.
20. “Queen of Hearts” – Twice
Lyric Sample: “Watch me go rule the world.”
“Queen of Hearts” by Twice is an empowering anthem about self-confidence and embracing one’s potential. The song highlights the journey of overcoming the past and confidently stepping into a future full of limitless possibilities, surrounded by supportive friends and the strength to rule the world.
21. “Queen of the Highway” – The Doors
Lyric Sample: “She was a princess, Queen of the highway.”
“Queen of the Highway” by The Doors is a song filled with vivid, surreal imagery that captures the spirit of freedom and rebellion. It tells the story of a mysterious woman and her journey with a lover, embracing both innocence and wildness in a life that seems to circle endlessly, bound by the open road.
22. “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)” – Backstreet Boys
Lyric Sample: “Quit playing games with my heart, before you tear us apart.”
The Backstreet Boys’ classic hit is a catchy pop anthem about love, betrayal, and emotional turmoil. Its catchy chorus and heartfelt lyrics make it a go-to track for anyone feeling conflicted in a relationship.
23. “Quicksilver” – Pink Floyd
Lyric Sample: Instrumental
Pink Floyd’s “Quicksilver” is a trippy, experimental track from More. The psychedelic sound and dreamy lyrics create an atmospheric vibe, perfect for those seeking a surreal musical experience.
24. “Queen of Diamonds” – Tom Odell
Lyric Sample: “Hope that suddenly you draw the queen of diamonds.”
“Queen of Diamonds” is a melancholic, haunting song that explores themes of gambling, regret, and fleeting hope. The protagonist fantasizes about a life-changing win symbolized by the queen of diamonds, but the song ultimately reveals the painful reality behind such illusions, where fleeting success and love are just out of reach.
25. “Question of the Heart” – Jann Klose
Lyric Sample: “I feel the question of the heart.”
“Question of the Heart” by Jann Klose is a ballad about the emotional confusion and introspection that comes with love. The song explores the vulnerability of searching for clarity in matters of the heart, balancing between desires and self-awareness.
26. “Que Onda Guero” – Beck
Lyric Sample: “See the vegetable man in the vegetable van with the horn that’s honking.”
This song blends playful, quirky observations with a lively mix of cultural references, giving it a fun, upbeat vibe. It’s a snapshot of street life, full of characters and vibrant energy.
27. “Quintessence” – Mastodon
Lyric Sample: “The demon skin is covered in fine mist, opened his hand in my hand.”
“Quintessence” is about letting go and seeking liberation, exploring a mix of primal instincts and spiritual awakening. The song’s vivid imagery and powerful intensity create a surreal experience, heightening the emotional journey through chaos and self-discovery.
28. “Queendom” – Aurora
Lyric Sample: “The underdogs are my lions, the silent ones are my choir.”
“Queendom” is an empowering anthem celebrating personal strength and unity, where the protagonist embraces both power and vulnerability. The lyrics evoke a sense of resilience and self-sovereignty, creating a metaphorical kingdom built from hardship and love.
29. “Quick” – Jill Scott
Lyric Sample: “Can’t believe it’s over, can’t believe it’s over now.”
This song captures the emotional shock and confusion following a breakup, expressing the swift and unexpected end of a relationship. The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and disbelief, as the protagonist struggles to move on from the abrupt separation.
30. “Queen of the Night” – Whitney Houston
Lyric Sample: “Cause I’m the queen of the night, the queen of the night.”
Whitney Houston’s “Queen of the Night” exudes confidence and empowerment, with the singer embracing her bold, unapologetic nature. The lyrics focus on a sense of control and allure, declaring dominance and independence.
31. “Queen Jane Approximately” – Bob Dylan
Lyric Sample: “Won’t you come see me, Queen Jane.”
Dylan’s “Queen Jane Approximately” explores themes of personal struggle and disillusionment, with the protagonist feeling disconnected from their surroundings. The repeated invitation to “Queen Jane” hints at a yearning for understanding and a return to simpler, more authentic connections.
Conclusion
Songs that start with a “Q” prove that even the most unlikely letter can produce music that resonates with listeners across generations.
From the deep, philosophical “Quicksand” by David Bowie to the upbeat anthem of “Queen Bitch” by David Bowie, these songs explore a range of emotions and themes, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of musical history.
Whether you are a fan of rock, pop, or soul, this list has something for everyone. These tracks showcase the creativity of musicians who embrace the challenge of starting their songs with an uncommon letter. The wide range of styles within this small selection proves that no matter the starting letter, great music is always within reach.
Be sure to check out Songs that Start with the Letter Q and our other themed lists!