Feature Photo by Brian Kachejian
Animals have long been a source of inspiration for countless musicians, spanning various genres and decades. From dogs to horses, cats to birds, the connection between humans and animals has sparked creativity, emotion, and even humor in songwriting. Hands down, it’s likely that there are more songs written about dogs than any other animal, but for this list, we wanted to explore a broader range of creatures, offering some variety. While dogs make a strong appearance, you’ll also find songs about horses, raccoons, and even a space monkey. The goal here was to capture the diversity of ways in which musicians have used animals in their work—whether as symbols, metaphors, or expressions of deep personal connections.
Some of the songs on this list are heartfelt tributes to beloved pets, like Henry Gross’s “Shannon,” a deeply emotional song about the loss of Carl Wilson’s Irish Setter. Others, like The Beatles’ “Rocky Raccoon,” inject a bit of fun and whimsy into the mix, using animals as part of a broader narrative. Then there’s the haunting “A Horse With No Name” by America, which uses the image of a horse as a metaphor for isolation and freedom. These songs demonstrate how animals can evoke a range of emotions—whether it’s love, grief, or even comedy. Iggy Pop’s “King of the Dogs” takes a swaggering, almost humorous approach, while Gilbert O’Sullivan’s “Get Down” uses a dog as a playful metaphor in a catchy pop hit.
What unites these 10 songs is their ability to speak to the powerful bonds humans share with animals, whether those animals are literal companions or stand-ins for more complex ideas. With thousands of songs about animals to choose from, these selections offer a snapshot of how different musical artists—whether it’s the playful Beatles or the soulful Henry Gross—have turned to the animal kingdom for inspiration. These tracks reflect the variety of feelings animals inspire, from humor to sorrow to introspection, and they showcase the depth of creativity that musicians bring to this timeless subject.
# 10 –October Song– Amy Winehouse
“October Song” by Amy Winehouse is a deeply emotional and symbolic track that stands out as one of her most poignant compositions. Originally featured on her 2003 debut album, Frank, the song was written about the death of her pet canary, Ava, which she personifies with intricate lyrics that blend her grief with beautiful metaphors. The song was recorded during sessions for Frank, primarily at Creative Space Studios in London, with Salaam Remi serving as the primary producer for the album. Remi, a close collaborator of Winehouse throughout her career, helped shape the jazz, soul, and R&B-infused sound that permeates this track, which reflects the thematic blend of personal loss and artistic reverence for legendary vocalists like Sarah Vaughan.
Musically, “October Song” features a minimalist arrangement, allowing Winehouse’s soulful voice to carry the weight of the song. Backed by a blend of acoustic guitar, subtle percussion, and atmospheric keys, the song’s production emphasizes the emotional clarity in her vocal delivery. The musicians involved in this session were tightly curated, with bass, keys, and guitar played by seasoned session players under Remi’s direction. This restrained, jazz-influenced instrumentation allows the lyrics to take center stage. The song doesn’t appear on any major charts, but it has gained critical acclaim for its poetic depth and has become a fan favorite over time.
Lyrically, “October Song” is a heartfelt tribute to Ava, her beloved bird, whose death becomes a metaphor for loss, renewal, and transformation. Winehouse sings of Ava flying to paradise, being reborn “like Sarah Vaughan,” one of her musical idols. The lyrics, “Ava was the morning, now she’s gone / She’s reborn like Sarah Vaughan,” encapsulate the idea of reincarnation through music, evoking a sense of peace amidst sorrow. Winehouse’s grief is palpable, yet she finds solace in imagining her bird in a place of eternal sanctuary, surrounded by music and beauty. The repetitive refrain “Ava flies in paradise” adds an ethereal touch, reinforcing the song’s meditative nature.
As the first entry on this list of 10 Noteworthy Rock Songs About Animals, “October Song” showcases Amy Winehouse’s ability to weave personal experiences with profound emotional resonance. It also highlights her respect for musical greats like Sarah Vaughan, which permeates her body of work. This track is not only a tribute to her lost pet but also a reflection on life, loss, and the enduring power of music to heal. The imagery of flight, birds, and paradise makes it a unique and fitting entry for a list centered around animals in rock music.
Read More: Top 10 Amy Winehouse Songs
# 9 –Get Down – Gilbert O’Sullivan
“Get Down” by Gilbert O’Sullivan is a playful and energetic track from his 1973 album I’m a Writer, Not a Fighter. Released as a single, the song quickly became a chart-topping hit, reaching number one in the UK and Ireland, and breaking into the top ten in the U.S., Canada, and several other countries. Produced by Gordon Mills, the song’s lively tempo and catchy piano riffs marked a stylistic departure from O’Sullivan’s typically melancholic ballads. Laurie Holloway, a renowned pianist, provided the signature electric piano riff that gives the track its upbeat, danceable groove.
At first glance, “Get Down” might seem like a fun command to a misbehaving dog, with O’Sullivan crooning “Get down, get down, you’re a bad dog, baby.” However, the song’s lyrics are more metaphorical. O’Sullivan is actually addressing a woman, comparing her overly eager behavior to a dog jumping on him. The line, “You’re a bad dog, baby, but I still want you around,” humorously reflects a love-hate dynamic, highlighting the singer’s frustration while maintaining a sense of affection. The cheeky use of dog metaphors adds a layer of wit to the song, which was a clever contrast to the more sentimental material O’Sullivan had previously released.
Musically, “Get Down” features a lively arrangement, with a strong emphasis on rhythm, accentuated by Holloway’s electric piano and vibrant backing instrumentation. The song’s upbeat feel made it a dance-floor favorite in the ’70s, and its infectious energy is reflected in its chart success. In addition to topping the UK Singles Chart for two weeks, the song achieved significant international popularity, reaching number three in Canada and Austria, and charting in the top ten in countries such as Belgium, New Zealand, and the U.S. adult contemporary charts.
As the second song on this list of 10 Noteworthy Rock Songs About Animals, “Get Down” offers a lighthearted and whimsical take on the theme of animals, albeit through a metaphorical lens. Its juxtaposition of playful lyrics with an irresistible beat makes it stand out as one of O’Sullivan’s most memorable and commercially successful tracks. The song’s legacy continued beyond the ’70s, as it was later used in The Harry Hill Movie in 2013, demonstrating its enduring appeal. Comparatively, while Amy Winehouse’s “October Song” brings a somber, emotional reflection on a lost pet, “Get Down” delivers an entirely different tone—humorous, lively, and full of energy.
Read More: Top 10 Gilbert O’Sullivan Songs
# 8 – King Of The Dogs – Iggy Pop
This one is weird but oh, so cool. “King of the Dogs” by Iggy Pop was released on his fifteenth studio album Préliminaires, released in 2009. The song is a bold and quirky departure from Iggy’s traditional hard-hitting rock style, instead leaning into New Orleans jazz, complete with brass instrumentation. Iggy Pop, known for his wild stage presence and raw rock energy, takes on a new persona in this track—one that evokes the carefree, primal life of a dog. Recorded as part of an album inspired by Michel Houellebecq’s novel La Possibilité d’une île (The Possibility of an Island), the album marked a notable shift in Iggy’s sound. The production team behind this track included Hal Cragin, who provided bass, guitar, and keyboards, and Jon Cowherd, who contributed jazz piano elements that infused the song with an unmistakable New Orleans vibe.
“King of the Dogs” is a swaggering declaration of freedom from societal norms, with Iggy embracing the life of a dog in a manner that is both humorous and rebellious. The song features vibrant instrumentation, including Clarence L. Banks on trombone, Tim Ouimette on trumpet, and Marc Phaneuf on clarinet, evoking a jazz atmosphere that perfectly complements Iggy’s gruff, commanding vocals. The use of traditional jazz elements reflects Iggy’s intent to escape from the “idiot thugs with guitars,” as he described in interviews leading up to the album’s release. The horns, combined with a swinging rhythm, make the song feel like a cross between a street parade and a jazz dive bar, further enhancing its playful, defiant tone.
Lyrically, the song revolves around Iggy’s metaphorical transformation into a dog, reveling in a life of freedom from societal expectations: “I don’t want no shoes / I don’t want no clothes / I’m living like the king of the dogs.” These lyrics capture a sense of liberation, not unlike the themes explored in Préliminaires as a whole. Iggy celebrates living outside the constraints of “polite life” that he asserts will “fill you full of cancer.” In stark contrast to Amy Winehouse’s reflective and somber “October Song,” also on this list, “King of the Dogs” is brash and unapologetic, much like the persona Iggy embraces. The song’s imagery of biting throats and smelling things beyond human senses adds an almost primitive, yet humorous edge to the track.
Musically and thematically, “King of the Dogs” stands as one of Iggy Pop’s most daring departures, blending jazz with his signature gritty attitude. It holds its place on this list of 10 Noteworthy Rock Songs About Animals not only because of its title and content but also due to its unique fusion of genres and its exploration of life from an animalistic perspective. The track is a refreshing reminder of Iggy Pop’s ability to continually reinvent himself while maintaining his rebellious spirit.
Read More: Top 10 Iggy Pop Songs
# 7 –Phenomenal Cat – The Kinks
“Phenomenal Cat” by The Kinks is a whimsical, psychedelic track from their 1968 album The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society. This song, written by Ray Davies, stands out as one of the more fantastical pieces on the album, capturing the era’s fondness for storytelling and surreal imagery. Released during the height of the band’s creative evolution, the album saw The Kinks moving away from their early rock sound and embracing a more introspective, baroque pop style. “Phenomenal Cat” is a prime example of this shift, blending dreamy melodies with an unusual narrative about a wise and content cat who has traveled the world.
Recorded at Pye Studios in London, the album was produced by Ray Davies himself, who sought to create a cohesive concept album that reflected on themes of nostalgia, English life, and the passage of time. Musically, “Phenomenal Cat” is driven by a mellotron, played by Dave Davies, giving it an ethereal and otherworldly feel that complements the song’s whimsical lyrics. The band’s instrumental choices, including the use of flute-like sounds and light percussion, further add to the song’s surreal and almost childlike atmosphere.
Lyrically, “Phenomenal Cat” tells the story of a cat who has experienced everything the world has to offer but ultimately chooses a simple, carefree existence. Lines such as “He learned to purr, a phenomenal cat” and “Now he just sleeps all day” evoke a sense of wisdom gained through experience and the desire to retreat from worldly concerns. The cat’s journey is recounted with a tone that is both playful and reflective, echoing some of the themes found in other Kinks songs, such as the yearning for a simpler, more idyllic life present throughout The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society. The song contrasts with others on this list, like Iggy Pop’s “King of the Dogs,” in its softer, more introspective take on animal themes.
Read More: Dave Davies of The Kinks: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upWnwfzA_i8
# 6 – A Horse With No Name – America
“A Horse with No Name” by America is one of the most iconic rock songs of the 1970s, known for its hypnotic acoustic guitar riff and dreamy, atmospheric lyrics. Released in 1971 as the lead single from America’s self-titled debut album, the song became an international hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States in March 1972. Written by band member Dewey Bunnell, the song was produced by Ian Samwell and Jeff Dexter and recorded at Morgan Studios in London.
Musically, “A Horse with No Name” is built around a simple yet memorable acoustic guitar melody, accompanied by light percussion and subtle bass lines. The track’s production, with its desert-like atmosphere, perfectly complements the song’s lyrics, which describe a journey through a desolate landscape. The influence of Neil Young’s style is evident in the vocal delivery and instrumentation, but Bunnell has clarified that the song was inspired by the band’s travels in the American Southwest, where the vastness and beauty of the desert made a deep impression on him.
Lyrically, “A Horse with No Name” paints a vivid picture of isolation and self-discovery. The central figure is traveling through the desert on a nameless horse, seeking solace and freedom from society’s pressures. Lines like “The first thing I met was a fly with a buzz and the sky with no clouds” evoke the stark beauty of the landscape. The absence of the horse’s name has been interpreted as a metaphor for freedom and simplicity, emphasizing the song’s themes of escape and wandering. The repetition of the chorus, “I’ve been through the desert on a horse with no name, it felt good to be out of the rain,” reinforces the idea of finding peace and clarity in isolation.
Although the song sparked some controversy upon release, with listeners interpreting the lyrics as referencing drug use (an interpretation Bunnell has consistently denied), “A Horse with No Name” has endured as a beloved classic. Its simplicity, both musically and lyrically, lends it a timeless quality. In the context of this list of rock songs about animals, the horse serves as a powerful symbol of freedom, escape, and the search for meaning, making it an essential entry. The song’s dreamlike quality stands in contrast to other animal-themed tracks on the list, like Gilbert O’Sullivan’s playful “Get Down,” showing the versatility of animal imagery in rock music.
Read More: America’s Best Song On Each Of Their Studio Albums
# 5 – Space Monkey – John Prine
“Space Monkey” by John Prine, featured on his Live on Tour album released in 1997, is a satirical and surreal track that blends humor, political commentary, and Prine’s distinctive folk-rock style. This live album captures the energy of Prine’s performances, with “Space Monkey” standing out as a whimsical narrative about a monkey sent into space during the Cold War era. Co-written with Peter Case, the song mixes absurdity with deeper reflections on the consequences of ambition, fame, and forgotten heroes of the space race.
Recorded during a live tour, Live on Tour features an ensemble of talented musicians supporting Prine’s unique storytelling. The tracklist includes a range of Prine’s classics alongside this standout track. “Space Monkey” is notable for its playful and yet poignant lyrics, backed by a lively band that brings the song’s eccentricities to life. The personnel for this performance include Prine on vocals and guitar, with contributions from Larry Crane on guitar and backing vocals, Howie Epstein on bass, and Pat McLaughlin on guitar, among others. The piano and keyboards were provided by Benmont Tench, adding a rich texture to the sound.
The lyrics of “Space Monkey” depict the story of a monkey sent into space by the Soviet Union during the Cold War, serving as a metaphor for those who are thrust into situations far beyond their control. Lines such as “They dressed him up in a spacesuit / And it started to snow / Shot him off in a rocket where no man would go” highlight the absurdity and isolation faced by this “brave young primate.” Prine cleverly contrasts the monkey’s space-bound adventure with the reality of being forgotten upon his return, using humor to shed light on the often overlooked costs of technological advancement and political competition. The song’s closing verses, where the space monkey is last seen reminiscing in a karaoke bar in Russia, reflect Prine’s signature blend of melancholy and wry humor, painting a vivid picture of a forgotten hero lost in time.
In comparison to other songs on this animal-themed rock list, “Space Monkey” stands out for its satirical take on the animal-in-space motif. While songs like America’s “A Horse with No Name” use animal imagery for introspective and existential reflections, Prine uses the space monkey to provide a humorous yet critical lens on history and human endeavors. The light-hearted tone of the song masks its deeper commentary on both the space race and the fleeting nature of fame and recognition.
Read More: Complete List Of John Prine Studio Albums And Discography
# 4 – The Lion Sleeps Tonight – The Tokens
“The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” made famous by The Tokens in 1961, is a globally recognized song with deep roots in South African music history. Originally composed by Solomon Linda in 1939 under the title “Mbube,” the song was recorded in Johannesburg by Linda and his group, The Evening Birds. The Zulu word “Mbube” translates to “lion,” and Linda’s original version reflected a traditional African call-and-response style, incorporating rich harmonies typical of Zulu music. Over the years, the song evolved through various adaptations, most notably as “Wimoweh” by The Weavers in 1951, before The Tokens’ pop version transformed it into a chart-topping hit.
In its 1961 incarnation, The Lion Sleeps Tonight was produced by Hugo & Luigi in New York City, with George David Weiss contributing the now-iconic English lyrics. The Tokens, known for their doo-wop sound, infused the song with lush harmonies and soaring falsettos, turning it into an international sensation. The song features a repetitive but infectious chant of “weeoh aweem away,” alongside a soothing melody that brings to life the imagery of a peaceful jungle where a lion quietly slumbers. Musically, it is grounded in F major and showcases a blend of African rhythms with Western pop structures, a fusion that contributed to its widespread appeal.
The track became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and becoming synonymous with the folk-pop genre of the 1960s. Its success did not stop there; The Lion Sleeps Tonight has since been featured in numerous films, commercials, and even animated features, most famously The Lion King. Its cross-cultural and cross-genre influence is evidenced by covers from artists as diverse as R.E.M. and Tight Fit, with the latter bringing the song back to the top of the UK charts in 1982.
Lyrically, the song conveys an almost lullaby-like simplicity. With lines such as “In the jungle, the quiet jungle, the lion sleeps tonight,” it paints a vivid picture of serene nature, yet beneath the surface, it speaks to the enduring power and mystique of the lion as a symbol. The contrast between the gentle melody and the mighty lion evokes a sense of tranquility juxtaposed with latent power, much like the way The Lion Sleeps Tonight manages to both soothe and captivate its listeners.
# 3 – Wild Horses – The Rolling Stones
“Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones is one of the band’s most enduring and emotionally resonant songs. Released in 1971 on their classic album Sticky Fingers, it showcases the band’s ability to blend rock with country influences, creating a timeless ballad that explores themes of longing, heartbreak, and resilience. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Wild Horses” is often noted for its poignant lyrics and melancholic melody, making it one of The Rolling Stones’ most heartfelt and introspective tracks.
The song was recorded over a series of sessions at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama in December 1969. Known for its warm, organic sound, Muscle Shoals was the perfect setting for “Wild Horses,” as it allowed the band to explore a more stripped-down, acoustic-driven arrangement. The song features Mick Jagger on lead vocals, with his emotional delivery capturing the depth of the song’s lyrics. Keith Richards plays the iconic acoustic guitar riff, which carries the song, and Mick Taylor adds a subtle yet powerful touch with his electric guitar work. The use of a 12-string acoustic guitar by Richards further enhances the song’s lush soundscape.
“Wild Horses” is widely interpreted as a song about love and the pain of separation. Jagger’s lyrics express vulnerability, with lines like “I watched you suffer a dull aching pain / Now you’ve decided to show me the same,” conveying deep emotional complexity. The chorus, “Wild horses couldn’t drag me away,” symbolizes the unyielding power of love and devotion, despite the struggles faced in the relationship. Some interpretations suggest that the song reflects Richards’ personal life, particularly his struggles with addiction and the impact it had on his relationships. While the song’s meaning remains open to interpretation, its emotional depth has made it a fan favorite for decades.
Read More: 10 Most Underrated Rolling Stones Songs
# 2 – Rocky Racoon – The Beatles
“Rocky Raccoon” is one of the most unique and whimsical tracks from The Beatles (commonly known as The White Album), released in 1968. Primarily penned by Paul McCartney, this quirky ballad tells the humorous yet tragic story of Rocky Raccoon, a boy from the “black mining hills of Dakota” whose girlfriend, known both as Lil and Nancy, leaves him for another man named Dan. After being struck by his romantic rival, Rocky seeks revenge but finds himself outdrawn and wounded, only to stumble upon a Gideon’s Bible in his room. While the song is lighthearted in its storytelling, it explores timeless themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption, all wrapped in an Old West-style narrative.
The song was recorded on August 15, 1968, at EMI Studios in London. McCartney takes the lead on vocals and acoustic guitar, bringing a blend of country and ragtime elements to the track, while George Martin’s honky-tonk piano enhances the playful, Western feel of the song. John Lennon contributed harmonica and a six-string bass, while George Harrison added backing vocals and additional bass. Ringo Starr’s simple yet effective drumming supports the song’s loose, saloon-like atmosphere. The production, helmed by George Martin, allows the song to drift between humor and melancholy seamlessly.
Lyrically, “Rocky Raccoon” follows a narrative akin to a Western showdown, complete with love triangles, gunfights, and a down-on-his-luck protagonist. McCartney’s clever use of storytelling shines through as Rocky’s tale unfolds with an almost cinematic flair. The character of Rocky, who seeks retribution but instead ends up with a scratch and a renewed sense of faith, becomes an unlikely hero. The song’s comical nature is further enhanced by the interplay of McCartney’s vocal delivery and George Martin’s honky-tonk piano, which adds to the old-fashioned, ragtime feel of the track.
Comparatively, “Rocky Raccoon” stands out on the list of noteworthy rock songs about animals for its unique narrative structure and playful tone. While other songs on this list may evoke emotional depth or symbolic representation of animals, “Rocky Raccoon” takes a more lighthearted and storytelling approach. The use of an animal name for the protagonist, Rocky, adds to the charm and whimsy of the song, making it a memorable and beloved part of The Beatles’ vast catalog.
Read More: The Beatles White Album Deluxe 50th Anniversary Edition
# 1 – Shannon – Henry Gross
“Shannon” by Henry Gross is a heartfelt tribute to a pet, written about the passing of Beach Boys’ Carl Wilson’s Irish Setter, Shannon. Released in 1976 on Gross’s Release album, the song struck a chord with listeners for its tender expression of loss and grief, becoming a major hit. The recording sessions for “Shannon” took place in 1975, with Gross both writing and producing the song. Musicians featured on the album include Henry Gross himself on vocals and guitar, Kenny Ascher on piano and keyboards, and Allan Schwartzberg on drums, among others. The song’s rich, melodic instrumentation is a reflection of Gross’s craftsmanship as a musician and songwriter, and the overall production encapsulates the emotional weight of the song’s content.
“Shannon” tells the story of a family mourning the loss of their beloved dog, Shannon, who has passed away, presumably drifting off into the ocean. Gross’s vocals capture the deep sadness in the lyrics, as the family comes to terms with their pet’s death. The lines “Shannon is gone / I hope she’s drifting out to sea” reveal the poignant acceptance of her passing while offering a hopeful image that she has found peace in a serene, distant place. The instrumentation in “Shannon” features lush harmonies and a soft, soothing arrangement that mirrors the reflective and melancholic tone of the lyrics. Much like the sentimentality of other animal-themed songs in this list, such as The Beatles’ “Rocky Raccoon,” Gross uses a deeply personal story to evoke universal emotions of love, loss, and remembrance.
Chart-wise, “Shannon” was a commercial success, peaking at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching number one in Canada. Its widespread appeal came not only from the song’s emotional narrative but also from its radio-friendly pop sound, which resonated with audiences. The tender ballad contrasts with other tracks in this list of notable animal-themed rock songs, such as the whimsical storytelling of “Rocky Raccoon” or the cultural and historical layers of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” “Shannon” stands out for its raw emotionality and its focus on the deep bond between a family and their dog, something many listeners could easily relate to.
In its closing position on the list, “Shannon” serves as a fitting conclusion, highlighting the theme of personal loss and the ways animals touch our lives in profound, lasting ways. While many songs about animals might use metaphors or take a humorous approach, Gross’s ballad is one of the most genuine and poignant expressions of sorrow, delivered with sincerity and compassion.
10 Noteworthy Rock And Pop Songs About Animalsarticle published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
