# 10 – Blue Oyster Cult -Moon Crazy
“Moon Crazy” by Blue Öyster Cult is the first song on this list of the 10 Best Songs With The Word “Moon” in the Title. Featured on the band’s Mirrors album, released on June 19, 1979, “Moon Crazy” stands out with its pop-rock sound, contrasting with the darker tones that Blue Öyster Cult had been known for in their earlier works. Produced by Tom Werman, this album marked a significant departure for the band, as it was their first not produced by long-time collaborator Sandy Pearlman. Recorded at Kendun Recorders in Burbank, CBS Recording Studios in New York City, and The Record Plant in Los Angeles, Mirrors was an effort to appeal to a broader audience with a more polished and commercial production.
The song features the core members of Blue Öyster Cult, with Eric Bloom on vocals and rhythm guitar, Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser on lead guitar and vocals, Allen Lanier on keyboards and guitar, Joe Bouchard on bass and vocals, and Albert Bouchard on drums and vocals. “Moon Crazy” was one of the singles from the album and was released in Japan in 1979. Despite not achieving major commercial success, the song remains an integral part of Blue Öyster Cult’s discography and showcases their versatility as musicians. The polished production by Werman gives it a different feel from the band’s earlier, more raw sound.
Lyrically, “Moon Crazy” captures the essence of personal transformation and longing, much like the moon’s own cycles. The theme of lunacy, reflected in lines like “A world gone crazy from the lunacy,” speaks to the chaos of emotions that can take hold, especially during moments of change. The song’s reference to summer and its recurring refrain—”Moon crazy, summer of changes, let the night shine on and on”—creates an atmosphere of nostalgic reflection, where the passage of time, dreams, and fleeting connections dominate the narrative. This ties into the overall concept of the article, as the song’s use of “moon” metaphorically mirrors how the moon’s phases affect human emotions, particularly the highs and lows of love and desire.
“Moon Crazy” also showcases a unique balance between wistfulness and energy. The juxtaposition of phrases like “Summer of changes” and “Dreaming about, what could it be” brings forth the uncertainty of life’s transitions, a recurring theme often associated with the moon’s influence on human behavior. The lyrics suggest a longing for clarity and peace, as the characters in the song search for meaning amidst the chaos of summer romances and fading dreams. This song opens the list with a powerful message, illustrating how the moon’s symbolism can extend beyond celestial imagery to represent the emotional tides of life.
Read More: Eric Bloom of Blue Öyster Cult: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview
# 9 – The Moon Upstairs – Mott The Hoople
“The Moon Upstairs” by Mott the Hoople is the third entry in the list of the 10 Best Songs With The Word “Moon” in the Title. This fiery track from the band’s 1971 album Brain Capers stands out for its raw energy and aggressive sound, making it one of Mott the Hoople’s most powerful songs. Written by lead vocalist Ian Hunter and guitarist Mick Ralphs, “The Moon Upstairs” showcases the band’s signature blend of hard rock and glam influences, which would later be fully realized in their subsequent albums. Brain Capers, often considered a turning point for the band, was produced by Guy Stevens and recorded at Island Studios in London. Although the album didn’t achieve the commercial success of their later work, it remains a cult favorite for many fans.
Musically, “The Moon Upstairs” is a fast-paced, heavy-hitting song, featuring Ian Hunter’s snarling vocals and Mick Ralphs’ scorching guitar work. There’s an undeniable edge to the track, with its rebellious spirit and dynamic instrumentation drawing comparisons to bands like The Who. Ralphs’ guitar riffs and Overend Watts’ thunderous bass lines provide the backbone of the song, while Hunter’s piano adds another layer of intensity. The song’s relentless rhythm, driven by drummer Dale “Buffin” Griffin, propels it forward, giving it a sense of urgency and aggression. This musical ferocity is part of what makes “The Moon Upstairs” one of Mott the Hoople’s standout songs.
Lyrically, the song delves into themes of disillusionment and rebellion. The defiant tone is apparent in lines like “We ain’t gonna take it anymore,” reflecting the frustration and anger of a generation seeking change. The “moon” in the title can be interpreted as a symbol of the oppressive forces at play, a looming presence that the band seeks to defy. As the third song on this list, “The Moon Upstairs” brings a different interpretation of the moon’s symbolism compared to the previous songs, shifting from personal longing or foreboding disaster to a metaphor for resistance against external pressures. This song captures the rebellious ethos of rock in the early 1970s, making it a perfect addition to the list.
“The Moon Upstairs” is one of Mott the Hoople’s most intense tracks, both musically and thematically. The powerful combination of Ian Hunter’s snarling vocals and the band’s fierce instrumentation creates a song that leaves a lasting impact. In comparison to “Moon Crazy” by Blue Öyster Cult, where the moon represents personal transformation, and “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival, where the moon is a harbinger of doom, “The Moon Upstairs” symbolizes defiance and rebellion, underscoring the versatility of the moon as a central figure in rock music.
Read More: Top 10 Mott The Hoople Songs
# 8 – Full Moon – The Kinks
“Full Moon” by The Kinks is the fourth entry in the list of the 10 Best Songs With The Word “Moon” in the Title. Featured on their 1977 album Sleepwalker, “Full Moon” showcases Ray Davies’ introspective songwriting during a period when the band transitioned from their earlier rock-opera style to a more straightforward rock sound. Sleepwalker, released under the Arista label, marked a return to commercial success for The Kinks, and “Full Moon” fits perfectly within the album’s exploration of personal turmoil and emotional unrest. Produced by Ray Davies and recorded at Konk Studios in London, this track adds a reflective element to the list, as Davies delves into themes of inner conflict and the emotional toll of life’s uncertainties.
Musically, “Full Moon” features Ray Davies on vocals and guitar, with Dave Davies contributing lead guitar, Mick Avory on drums, John Gosling on keyboards, and Andy Pyle on bass. The song combines a gentle yet driving rhythm with haunting guitar lines, creating a sound that complements the introspective lyrics. The subtle tension in the music reflects the emotional turmoil expressed in the song, adding depth to the track’s overall atmosphere. Davies’ ability to blend accessible rock elements with deeply personal themes is evident throughout Sleepwalker, and “Full Moon” exemplifies the band’s knack for marrying introspection with a melodic sensibility.
Lyrically, “Full Moon” taps into the powerful imagery of the moon as a symbol of transformation and instability. The full moon in this song serves as a metaphor for the uncontrollable forces that drive one’s emotions, with lines like “Haven’t you noticed a kind of madness in my eyes?” reflecting the effect of the moon’s phases on the narrator’s mental state. The song touches on themes of anxiety, restlessness, and vulnerability, as the full moon becomes a symbol of the personal battles the protagonist faces. As the fourth song on the list, “Full Moon” explores the moon’s influence in a more internal, psychological context, compared to the rebellious energy of Mott the Hoople’s “The Moon Upstairs” or the ominous warning found in “Bad Moon Rising.”
The song’s reflective nature and haunting atmosphere offer a contrast to the more energetic tracks already on the list. “Full Moon” adds a layer of emotional complexity to the theme of the moon’s influence, exploring how it can represent both external forces and internal struggles. Ray Davies’ lyrical depth and The Kinks’ ability to create evocative music make “Full Moon” a fitting addition to the exploration of how the moon shapes our emotions and experiences.
Read More: Dave Davies of The Kinks: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview
# 7 – Grapefruit Moon – Tom Waits
“Grapefruit Moon” by Tom Waits is the fifth song on the list of the 10 Best Songs With The Word “Moon” in the Title. This haunting ballad appears on Waits’ debut album Closing Time, released in 1973, showcasing his early talent for blending jazz, folk, and blues influences with deeply poetic lyrics. Waits, known for his gravelly voice and evocative songwriting, composed “Grapefruit Moon” as one of the more introspective and emotionally rich tracks on the album. Produced by Jerry Yester and recorded at Sunset Sound Recorders in Hollywood, Closing Time marked the beginning of Waits’ remarkable career, with “Grapefruit Moon” standing out as a poignant meditation on loneliness and lost love.
Musically, “Grapefruit Moon” is characterized by its minimalist arrangement, featuring Waits on piano with gentle backing from string instruments. The simplicity of the piano accompaniment highlights the emotional weight of Waits’ lyrics, creating an intimate and melancholic atmosphere. The track is a far cry from the more experimental and raw sound Waits would develop in his later work, but it captures the tender, jazz-influenced style that dominated much of Closing Time. Waits’ vocal delivery is soft yet expressive, reflecting the vulnerability at the heart of the song.
Lyrically, “Grapefruit Moon” uses the image of the moon to evoke feelings of isolation and longing. The moon becomes a symbol of distant beauty, something that shines brightly but remains unreachable, much like the narrator’s fading love. Lines such as “Grapefruit moon, one star shining / Is all that I can see” paint a vivid picture of solitude, with the moon representing both a comforting presence and a reminder of what has been lost. This emotional complexity ties into the broader theme of the article, as the moon here serves as a reflection of inner sorrow and unfulfilled desires.
As the fifth song on the list, “Grapefruit Moon” contrasts with the more outward-focused themes of earlier entries like “Bad Moon Rising” and “The Moon Upstairs.” While those songs explore the moon’s role as a symbol of rebellion or impending disaster, “Grapefruit Moon” turns inward, using the moon as a lens through which to examine personal grief and the passage of time. Tom Waits’ lyrical depth and sparse musical arrangement make this track a moving exploration of heartache, adding a softer, more introspective tone to the list’s diverse interpretations of the moon’s symbolism.
Read More: Top 10 Tom Waits Songs Of The 1970s
# 6 – Walking On The Moon – The Police
“Walking on the Moon” by The Police is the sixth entry in the list of the 10 Best Songs With The Word “Moon” in the Title. Released in 1979 on the band’s second album, Reggatta de Blanc, this track stands as one of their most iconic hits. Written by lead vocalist and bassist Sting, “Walking on the Moon” combines the band’s signature blend of reggae rhythms and rock influences, a sound that helped define their early success. The song was a major commercial hit, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart, solidifying The Police’s position as one of the leading bands of the era. Produced by the band members—Sting, guitarist Andy Summers, and drummer Stewart Copeland—along with producer Nigel Gray, Reggatta de Blanc was recorded at Surrey Sound Studios in Leatherhead, England.
Musically, “Walking on the Moon” exemplifies The Police’s innovative use of reggae-inspired rhythms fused with a minimalist approach to instrumentation. Sting’s bass line drives the song, while Summers’ sparse, echoing guitar chords create a spacey, atmospheric feel, perfectly suited to the song’s lunar theme. Copeland’s distinctive drumming, with its emphasis on syncopation and use of the hi-hat, adds a rhythmic complexity that elevates the track’s dreamy quality. The interplay between the instruments allows the song to feel both laid-back and dynamic, contributing to its enduring appeal.
Lyrically, “Walking on the Moon” uses the metaphor of lunar exploration to describe the feeling of being in love, with Sting singing about the sensation of floating weightlessly, as if walking on the moon. The refrain “Walking on the moon” captures the emotional high of love’s early stages, with lines like “Giant steps are what you take” suggesting that love can make everyday experiences feel extraordinary. The moon in this context symbolizes the surreal, otherworldly feeling of being deeply in love, making it a powerful metaphor for emotional transcendence.
As the sixth song on the list, “Walking on the Moon” adds a different interpretation of the moon’s symbolism compared to previous tracks. Where songs like “Bad Moon Rising” view the moon as a harbinger of disaster, and “Grapefruit Moon” reflects personal sorrow, The Police use the moon as a metaphor for the elation of love, further showcasing the moon’s versatility in rock music. Its upbeat, rhythmic groove and Sting’s ethereal vocals create a song that remains one of the band’s most beloved tracks, capturing the joy and weightlessness of walking through life on the emotional high of love.
Read More: Complete List Of The Police Albums And Discography
# 5 – Moonlight Drive – The Doors
“Moonlight Drive” by The Doors was released in 1967 on their second studio album, Strange Days. The song stands as one of the band’s most mystical and poetic tracks. Written by all four members—Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore—it was one of the earliest songs the band worked on together. The song was released as the B-side to “Love Me Two Times,” which reached number seven on the US Billboard Hot 100. Strange Days, produced by Paul A. Rothchild and recorded at Sunset Sound Recorders in Hollywood, further solidified The Doors’ place in the burgeoning psychedelic rock movement of the late 1960s.
Musically, “Moonlight Drive” captures The Doors’ signature blend of blues, rock, and psychedelic influences. Ray Manzarek’s haunting keyboard lines, combined with Robby Krieger’s slide guitar, create an ethereal, hypnotic atmosphere that complements Jim Morrison’s mysterious lyrics. John Densmore’s jazz-influenced drumming adds a sense of fluidity and depth to the song’s rhythm, giving it an otherworldly quality. The track has a languid, flowing structure that mirrors the imagery of drifting and floating under the moonlight, adding to the dreamlike feel of the song.
Lyrically, “Moonlight Drive” is steeped in Morrison’s characteristic blend of surrealism and romanticism. The song invites the listener to “swim to the moon” and “climb through the tide,” using the moon as a symbol of escape and transcendence. Morrison’s vocals are both seductive and eerie as he evokes images of moonlit journeys and mystical connections. The moon in this context represents the allure of the unknown, a destination for lovers seeking freedom from the constraints of reality. The lyrics’ emphasis on the sensuality of the moonlight adds a layer of nocturnal mystique, making the song feel like a dream or a vision from another world.
As the seventh song on this list, “Moonlight Drive” brings a new layer of meaning to the moon’s symbolism, shifting from the joyous romance of The Police’s “Walking on the Moon” to a darker, more mysterious interpretation. While earlier tracks on the list have explored themes of rebellion, destruction, and love, The Doors delve into the moon as a portal to a different realm, suggesting an escape from societal norms and a journey toward spiritual or emotional freedom. The song’s unique blend of psychedelic and bluesy elements makes it one of The Doors’ most iconic moon-themed songs, capturing the band’s signature style and Jim Morrison’s deep connection to the mystical and surreal.
Read More: Complete List Of The Doors Albums And Discography
# 4 – Mr. Moonlight – The Beatles
“Mr. Moonlight” by The Beatles is the eighth entry in the list of the 10 Best Songs With The Word “Moon” in the Title. Featured on their 1964 album Beatles for Sale, this track showcases the band’s early willingness to cover lesser-known songs, bringing their unique flair to a wide range of material. Originally written by Roy Lee Johnson, “Mr. Moonlight” had been recorded by other artists before The Beatles made it their own, and their version stands out due to its distinctive arrangement and John Lennon’s powerful vocal delivery. Beatles for Sale, produced by George Martin, was recorded at EMI Studios (later known as Abbey Road Studios) in London and represents a transitional period in The Beatles’ career as they began to experiment with more introspective songwriting while still delivering upbeat rock and roll covers.
Musically, “Mr. Moonlight” is notable for its moody atmosphere and contrasting dynamics. The song opens with John Lennon’s unaccompanied vocal, which is both soulful and commanding, immediately drawing the listener in. His vocal performance is supported by George Harrison’s lead guitar, Paul McCartney’s bass, and Ringo Starr’s drumming, but it is the Hammond organ played by McCartney that gives the song its unique sound. The organ adds a slightly eerie, haunting quality, fitting the song’s theme of longing and desire. While it may not be one of the most well-known tracks from Beatles for Sale, “Mr. Moonlight” stands out for its distinctive mood and arrangement.
Lyrically, “Mr. Moonlight” speaks directly to the titular moon, personified as a figure that brings light and joy to the narrator’s life. The song revolves around the narrator’s plea to the moon for solace, with lines like “Mr. Moonlight, you came to me one summer night, and from your beam, you made my dream.” The moon is portrayed as a guiding, almost magical force that provides comfort in moments of loneliness. This ties into the larger theme of the moon as a symbol of emotional influence, which runs throughout this list. Unlike earlier entries that depict the moon as a source of danger or mystery, “Mr. Moonlight” represents it as a benevolent and comforting presence.
As the eighth song on this list, “Mr. Moonlight” brings a unique emotional tone, characterized by its romantic and almost pleading quality. While earlier tracks like “Moonlight Drive” by The Doors focus on escape and transcendence, The Beatles’ interpretation of “Mr. Moonlight” is more grounded in the need for reassurance and emotional support. The song provides a softer, more intimate portrayal of the moon’s symbolic power, emphasizing its role as a source of comfort in times of uncertainty. Despite being a cover, The Beatles’ rendition of “Mr. Moonlight” remains a memorable moment on Beatles for Sale, contributing to the band’s exploration of diverse musical styles during this period.
Read More: Complete List Of Beatles Band Members
# 3 – Moonlight Mile – The Rolling Stones
“Moonlight Mile” by The Rolling Stones was released on their iconic 1971 album Sticky Fingers, this hauntingly beautiful track is often regarded as one of the band’s finest recordings. Its emotional depth, lush arrangement, and introspective lyrics make it stand out not only on the album but also in the band’s extensive catalog. Uniquely, Keith Richards did not perform on this track, with lead guitar duties handled by Mick Taylor, whose delicate and expressive playing gives “Moonlight Mile” its distinctive sound. The song was recorded at Stargroves, Mick Jagger’s country estate, with additional work done at Olympic Studios in London, under the production of Jimmy Miller.
Musically, “Moonlight Mile” is a departure from The Rolling Stones’ more typical rock sound, leaning into a more atmospheric, ballad-like quality. Mick Taylor’s elegant acoustic guitar, paired with Jim Price’s expressive piano work, creates a serene, almost cinematic backdrop. Charlie Watts’ gentle drumming adds to the song’s dreamy, nocturnal feel, while Bill Wyman’s subtle bass provides a solid foundation without overwhelming the delicate arrangement. Mick Jagger’s vocals are raw and emotive, perfectly capturing the weariness and longing expressed in the lyrics. The use of strings arranged by Paul Buckmaster adds an extra layer of richness to the song, contributing to its grandeur and emotional weight.
Lyrically, “Moonlight Mile” is reflective and deeply personal, with Jagger singing about the exhaustion of life on the road and the longing for peace and solitude. The song’s imagery of traveling under the moonlight is both literal and metaphorical, representing a journey through both physical and emotional landscapes. Lines like “I’m just about a moonlight mile on down the road” evoke the sense of being so close to home, yet still distant, capturing the weariness and desire for rest. The moon here serves as a guiding light, a distant but comforting presence as the narrator continues on his journey. The song’s title itself suggests a long road ahead, but with the hope that the moon will illuminate the path.
As the ninth song on this list, “Moonlight Mile” brings a more introspective and serene interpretation of the moon’s symbolism compared to the previous entries. Where tracks like The Doors‘ “Moonlight Drive” use the moon as a symbol of escape and adventure, The Rolling Stones’ “Moonlight Mile” turns inward, using the moon as a source of quiet reflection and emotional healing. The song’s rich instrumentation, coupled with Jagger’s heartfelt delivery, makes it one of the most moving and powerful tracks on Sticky Fingers, and it remains a fan favorite for its emotional resonance and lyrical depth.
Read More: Complete List Of Rolling Stones Band Members
# 2 – Moondance – Van Morrison
“Moondance” stands as one of the most beloved and genre-blending songs in Van Morrison’s career. Fusing elements of jazz, R&B, and rock, “Moondance” captivated a broad audience with its smooth, sophisticated sound and evocative lyrics. While the song is now considered an iconic classic, it was not released as a single until seven years after the album’s initial release. The track’s effortless mix of jazz-inspired rhythms and pop accessibility helped solidify Moondance as one of Van Morrison’s defining albums.
Musically, “Moondance” showcases the incredible synergy between Van Morrison and his band. The song features Van Morrison on vocals and guitar, Jeff Labes on piano, John Klingberg on bass, Gary Mallaber on drums, John Platania on rhythm guitar, and prominent saxophone performances by Jack Schroer on alto sax and Collin Tilton on tenor sax and flute. The instrumentation is rich and lush, with Labes’ piano setting the song’s jazzy foundation, while the saxophones provide a sultry, flowing texture that enhances the mood. Morrison’s vocal delivery is smooth yet powerful, filled with warmth and subtle phrasing that brings the romantic lyrics to life.
Lyrically, “Moondance” is a celebration of romance and the magic of a night under the moon. The song paints a picture of a perfect evening filled with love and connection, using the moon as a backdrop for an intimate encounter. Lines like “Well, it’s a marvelous night for a moondance” and “Can I just have one more moondance with you, my love?” emphasize the mood of enchantment and passion. The moon here becomes a symbol of romantic possibility, casting a soft glow over the scene as the couple enjoys their “moondance” together. The jazz-influenced rhythms and gentle swing of the music perfectly match the lyrics’ sophisticated, romantic vibe.
As the tenth song on this list, “Moondance” rounds out the diverse interpretations of the moon’s symbolism, bringing a more lighthearted and romantic tone to the collection. While other songs like The Rolling Stones‘ “Moonlight Mile” reflect personal introspection and emotional struggle, Van Morrison’s “Moondance” focuses on the joy and beauty of romance, using the moon as a symbol of love and connection. Its timeless blend of genres and Morrison’s captivating performance have ensured that “Moondance” remains a staple of both jazz and rock music.
Read More: Our 10 Favorite Van Morrison Songs
# 1 – Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival
“Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival is the closing entry in the list of the 10 Best Songs With The Word “Moon” in the Title. Released in 1969 as part of their Green River album, this iconic track is one of the band’s most well-known songs, written by lead vocalist and guitarist John Fogerty. The song was a commercial success, peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, and it has since become synonymous with the band’s signature swamp rock style. The Green River album, produced by John Fogerty and recorded at Wally Heider Studios in San Francisco, cemented Creedence Clearwater Revival’s reputation as one of the leading rock bands of the late 1960s.
Musically, “Bad Moon Rising” is a tight, fast-paced track that juxtaposes its upbeat rhythm with darker, more ominous lyrics. John Fogerty, along with the rest of the band—Tom Fogerty on rhythm guitar, Stu Cook on bass, and Doug Clifford on drums—delivers a sound that blends rock, country, and blues influences. The song’s jangly guitar riffs (though Fogerty’s style is much more rooted in rock and blues) and driving rhythm provide an infectious energy, which contrasts sharply with the song’s apocalyptic lyrical themes. Despite its lively instrumentation, “Bad Moon Rising” carries a foreboding warning of impending disaster, a hallmark of Fogerty’s songwriting during that period.
Lyrically, “Bad Moon Rising” centers on the theme of impending doom, reflected in lines like “Don’t go around tonight / Well, it’s bound to take your life / There’s a bad moon on the rise.” Fogerty has mentioned in interviews that the song was inspired by a scene in the 1941 film The Devil and Daniel Webster, where a hurricane destroys a town. The “bad moon” serves as a metaphor for disaster and upheaval, warning of turbulent times ahead. This ties into the overall concept of the article, as the moon here takes on a menacing presence, symbolizing the unpredictability and danger that can arise in life, much like how the moon influences tides and emotions in human behavior.
The contrast between the song’s upbeat rhythm and the ominous lyrics creates a sense of unease, making “Bad Moon Rising” both catchy and unsettling. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Fogerty’s ability to craft memorable, thought-provoking songs. As the second song on the list, “Bad Moon Rising” broadens the moon’s symbolism from personal change and longing, as seen in “Moon Crazy,” to a force that foreshadows danger and destruction, showcasing the moon’s complex role in shaping human emotions and events.
Read More: Top 10 Creedence Clearwater Revival Songs