10 Best Songs With The Word 'Something' In The Title

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This list of the 10 best songs with “something” in the title explores how artists across genres and decades have transformed this simple word into a powerful thematic anchor. Whether through soulful ballads or electrifying rock anthems, these tracks showcase the versatility and depth of “something” in musical storytelling.

James Taylor’s “Something in the Way She Moves” introduced his gentle and introspective songwriting to the world, becoming a cornerstone of his career and inspiring George Harrison’s “Something.” The Beatles’ “Something,” written by Harrison, became one of their most beloved love songs, lauded for its elegant simplicity and universal appeal. Boston’s “Something About You” electrifies with its soaring melodies and arena-rock energy, while Level 42’s “Something About You” injects funk and sophistication into the theme. Peter Frampton’s “Something’s Happening” captures the raw excitement of live performance, setting the stage for his iconic Frampton Comes Alive! album.

Frank and Nancy Sinatra’s duet “Somethin’ Stupid” offers a tender and intimate exploration of vulnerability in love, contrasting sharply with Bruce Springsteen’s “Something in the Night,” which delves into themes of disillusionment and resilience. Nikka Costa’s “Everybody Got Their Something” radiates funk-fueled confidence and individuality, while Utopia’s cover of “Something’s Coming” reimagines a Broadway classic with progressive rock flair. Finally, Todd Rundgren and his bandmates bring theatricality and innovation to their reinterpretation of the Leonard Bernstein classic, adding a distinctive touch to this diverse collection.

# 10 – Everybody Got Their Something – Nikka Costa (Everybody Got Their Something)

“Everybody Got Their Something” by Nikka Costa is an electrifying blend of funk, soul, and rock that showcases Costa’s distinctive vocal style and genre-blurring creativity. Released as the title track of her 2001 album Everybody Got Their Something, the song was recorded at Sunset Sound and Capitol Studios in Los Angeles. The album was produced by Justin Stanley, Costa’s husband, who also co-wrote the track. The lineup of musicians included seasoned players like Lenny Castro on percussion and James Gadson on drums, whose contributions anchored the track’s infectious groove.

The song’s lyrics emphasize individuality and resilience, with lines such as “Everybody got their something, make you smile like an itty bitty child” celebrating the unique qualities that drive personal fulfillment. Costa’s powerhouse vocal delivery, layered over a dynamic instrumental arrangement featuring a prominent bassline and bold brass sections, gives the track an unstoppable momentum. The production expertly balances the raw energy of live instrumentation with the precision of a polished studio recording, making “Everybody Got Their Something” a standout single that resonated with audiences and critics alike. The song gained significant exposure, becoming a cultural touchstone through its use in commercials and films.

In the context of this list, “Everybody Got Their Something” stands as a vibrant and empowering anthem. Its confident, funk-driven sound contrasts beautifully with more introspective tracks already explored in this article, adding a layer of celebratory exuberance to the theme of “something.” Costa’s ability to fuse multiple genres while delivering an uplifting message cements this song’s place as a defining moment in her career and a highlight on this list. It serves as a reminder that self-expression and individuality remain essential elements of great music.

Read More: Top 10 Nikka Costa Songs

# 9 – Something So Strong – Crowded House

“Something So Strong” by Crowded House is a vibrant, uplifting anthem that has become one of the band’s most enduring hits. Released in 1987 as the fifth single from their self-titled debut album, Crowded House, the song was co-written by bandleader Neil Finn and producer Mitchell Froom. The album was recorded at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles and produced by Froom, with Finn on lead vocals and guitar, Nick Seymour on bass, and Paul Hester on drums. The track’s infectious energy and polished production contributed to its commercial success, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and securing the band’s foothold in the U.S. market.

The lyrics reflect themes of resilience and connection, with lines such as “Love can make you weep, can make you run for cover” encapsulating the emotional highs and lows of relationships. Finn’s warm, emotive vocal delivery is complemented by a crisp, guitar-driven arrangement, creating a song that is both introspective and radio-friendly. The buoyant melody and soaring chorus amplify the track’s positive tone, making it an instant favorite among fans and a staple of Crowded House’s live performances.

In the context of this list, “Something So Strong” brings a sense of optimism and universality, contrasting with the funk-driven energy of Nikka Costa’s “Everybody Got Their Something.” Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to marry relatable lyrics with a memorable melody, ensuring its place as one of Crowded House’s defining songs. This track underscores the versatility of the word “something” as a theme, offering a celebratory and uplifting perspective that resonates across generations.

Read More: Top 10 Crowded House Songs

# 8 – Somethin’ Stupid – Frank & Nancy Sinatra

“Somethin’ Stupid” by Frank Sinatra and Nancy Sinatra is a tender and timeless duet that captures the magic of heartfelt simplicity. Released in 1967 as a single, the song was featured on Frank Sinatra’s album The World We Knew. Written by C. Carson Parks and originally performed by Parks and his wife, Gaile Foote, the Sinatra version was recorded at United Western Recorders in Hollywood and produced by Jimmy Bowen. This father-daughter collaboration became an instant hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks and achieving global success, including reaching No. 1 in the UK.

The lyrics of “Somethin’ Stupid” revolve around the vulnerability of confessing love, with lines like “I can see it in your eyes that you despise the same old lines you heard the night before.” The understated vocal interplay between Frank and Nancy adds an authentic and relatable touch to the narrative. The arrangement, featuring lush strings and acoustic guitar, enhances the track’s intimate tone while maintaining a timeless elegance. This simplicity and sincerity in execution set the song apart, creating a moment of shared vulnerability that resonates universally.

In the context of this list, “Somethin’ Stupid” offers a contrast to the upbeat confidence of tracks like Nikka Costa’s “Everybody Got Their Something” and the anthemic optimism of Crowded House’s “Something So Strong.” Instead, it brings a softer, more introspective take on the theme of “something,” highlighting the complexity of human connection. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to convey profound emotion with subtlety, making it a cornerstone of the Sinatra legacy and a perfect addition to this exploration of songs with “something” in the title.

Read More: Top 10 Frank Sinatra Songs

Read More: Top 10 Nancy Sinatra Songs

# 7 – Something’s Happening – Peter Frampton

“Something’s Happening” serves as the electrifying opening track of Peter Frampton’s landmark live album Frampton Comes Alive! Released on January 6, 1976, this double album is widely regarded as one of the most iconic live albums in rock history. Recorded during performances at Winterland in San Francisco, Long Island Arena in Commack, New York, and a few other venues in 1975, the album was produced by Peter Frampton and Eddie Kramer. The album skyrocketed to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and went on to sell over 8 million copies in the U.S. alone, solidifying Frampton’s status as a rock superstar.

“Something’s Happening” kicks off the album with exuberance, capturing the energy of Frampton’s live performance and setting the tone for what would become a groundbreaking record. The lyrics, including lines like “I want you to know I’m happy again,” convey themes of renewal and excitement, perfectly mirroring the electric atmosphere of the live setting. Frampton’s distinctive guitar work, especially his fluid solos and dynamic riffs, takes center stage, accompanied by his commanding vocals and the tight backing of his band. The live version brings a heightened intensity to the track, showcasing Frampton’s ability to connect with his audience through both technical skill and raw emotion.

# 6 – Something In The Night – Bruce Springsteen

This one has always been one of my favorite songs from Springsteen’s Darkness on the Edge of Town album. It’s the perfect song for driving late at night and doing some pretty deep thinking. Recorded at The Record Plant in New York City and produced by Springsteen, Jon Landau, and Steven Van Zandt, the album marked a turning point in Springsteen’s career, shifting from the grandeur of Born to Run to a grittier, more introspective sound. While not released as a single, “Something in the Night” remains one of the album’s most poignant and thematically rich tracks.

The lyrics paint a vivid portrait of disillusionment and loss, with lines like “Well, you’re born with nothing, and better off that way” reflecting a stark worldview shaped by betrayal and hardship. Springsteen’s raw vocal delivery captures the pain and defiance embedded in the song, while the melancholic piano introduction sets the stage for the track’s somber tone. The restrained instrumentation, featuring Max Weinberg’s steady drumming and Roy Bittan’s evocative piano work, emphasizes the emotional weight of the lyrics, allowing Springsteen’s storytelling to take center stage.

Compared to other songs on this list, “Something in the Night” delves into darker emotional terrain, contrasting sharply with the uplifting energy of Boston’s “Something About You” or the romantic introspection of The Beatles’ “Something.” Its unflinching exploration of the struggles and scars left by life’s challenges demonstrates Springsteen’s ability to connect deeply with listeners, making it a powerful addition to this collection of songs with “something” in the title. This track captures the essence of Darkness on the Edge of Town as an album rooted in resilience and the search for meaning amidst despair.

# 5 – Something About You – Boston

“Something About You” by Boston is a high-energy rock track from the band’s groundbreaking 1976 debut album, Boston. Recorded at Foxglove Studios and Capitol Studios, the album was produced by Tom Scholz, the band’s mastermind and multi-instrumentalist. The track features Brad Delp on vocals, Tom Scholz on guitars and bass, Barry Goudreau on rhythm guitar, Fran Sheehan on bass, and Sib Hashian on drums, showcasing the precision and craftsmanship that defined the band’s sound. Boston was a massive commercial success, becoming one of the best-selling debut albums in history and reaching No. 3 on the Billboard 200. “Something About You” stood out as a vibrant and electrifying piece within the album’s lineup.

The lyrics of “Something About You” explore themes of emotional vulnerability and the transformative power of love. Lines like “But there was something about you, brought a change over me” emphasize the catharsis that comes with connection and self-discovery. Delp’s soaring vocals, paired with Scholz’s meticulously layered guitar harmonies, create a dynamic blend of melody and intensity. The song’s upbeat tempo and powerful instrumentation make it a quintessential example of Boston’s ability to balance technical precision with raw emotional impact.

Read More: Top 10 Boston Songs

# 4 – Something About You – Level 42

Level 42’s “Something About You” is a hallmark of 1980s pop-funk, showcasing the band’s technical precision and melodic finesse. Released in 1985 as the lead single from their fifth studio album, World Machine, the track was recorded at Sarm West Studios in London and produced by Wally Badarou alongside the band. It reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart, marking the band’s breakthrough in the United States and solidifying their status as one of the era’s premier funk-pop acts.

The song’s lyrics delve into the complexities of relationships, blending vulnerability with longing. Lines such as “Now how can it be that a love carved out of caring fashioned by fate could suffer so hard?” capture the emotional turbulence of romantic connections. Mark King’s masterful slap bass technique drives the rhythm, creating a groove that is both intricate and danceable. Mike Lindup’s keyboard layers add a sophisticated melodic texture, while the harmonized vocals elevate the track’s emotional depth. The production, clean and meticulously crafted, reflects the band’s commitment to musical detail and innovation.

Unlike more introspective or raw entries on this list, “Something About You” brings a polished, contemporary sound that epitomizes the sleek production values of its time. Its chart success and enduring appeal underscore its importance in Level 42’s catalog and the broader landscape of 1980s music. This track remains a defining example of how the word “something” can anchor a song’s theme while capturing the complexities of human connection.

Read More: Top 10 Level 42 Songs

# 3 – Something in the Way She Moves – James Taylor

“Something in the Way She Moves” is a defining track from James Taylor’s 1968 self-titled debut album, released by Apple Records. Produced by Peter Asher, the album was recorded at Trident Studios in London, where Taylor worked with an array of accomplished musicians, including Paul McCartney on bass for other tracks on the album. While the song wasn’t released as a single, its impact on Taylor’s career and its influence on contemporary music were substantial, as it introduced his gentle, introspective songwriting style to the world.

The song’s lyrics, characterized by lines like “Every now and then the things I lean on lose their meaning,” convey a quiet, reflective appreciation for love and comfort. Taylor’s soothing voice, paired with his intricate fingerpicking guitar style, creates a serene and emotionally resonant atmosphere. The title of the song famously inspired George Harrison to write the opening line of The Beatles’ “Something,” solidifying its legacy as one of Taylor’s most enduring compositions.

“Something in the Way She Moves” is a testament to James Taylor’s ability to weave delicate emotion into his music, leaving listeners with a timeless sense of intimacy and reflection. The song’s influence, including its connection to The Beatles’ “Something,” highlights its far-reaching impact and Taylor’s role in shaping the singer-songwriter genre. This gentle and heartfelt piece continues to resonate, capturing the enduring beauty of simple yet profound expression.

Read More: Top 10 James Taylor Songs

# 2 – Something – The Beatles (George Harrison)

“Something” by The Beatles stands as one of the most celebrated love songs in the history of rock music. Written by George Harrison, it was released on the band’s 1969 album Abbey Road. The song was recorded between May and August 1969 at EMI Studios (later Abbey Road Studios) in London, with George Martin serving as the producer. Featuring Harrison on lead vocals and guitar, Paul McCartney on bass, Ringo Starr on drums, and contributions from John Lennon on piano, the song marked Harrison’s ascent as a songwriter capable of rivaling Lennon and McCartney. Released as a double A-side single alongside “Come Together,” “Something” became The Beatles’ first single written by Harrison to top the charts in the United States, peaking at No. 3 in the UK.

The lyrics reflect an understated yet profound appreciation for love, with lines like “Something in the way she moves attracts me like no other lover” capturing the ineffable qualities of deep emotional connection. The simplicity of the words, paired with Harrison’s tender vocal delivery, lends the song an intimate and timeless quality. Musically, “Something” combines lush string arrangements—scored by George Martin—with Harrison’s emotive guitar solo, creating a balance between sophistication and heartfelt emotion. The track’s unique blend of melody and harmony has been widely regarded as one of The Beatles’ finest works, earning praise from contemporaries, including Frank Sinatra, who called it “the greatest love song ever written.”

When compared to other tracks on this list, “Something” occupies a unique space as both deeply personal and universally relatable. Its subtle elegance contrasts with the vibrant funk of Level 42’s “Something About You” and the stripped-down intimacy of James Taylor’s “Something in the Way She Moves.” Harrison’s songwriting here demonstrates his ability to craft a song that resonates on both emotional and musical levels, making “Something” a cornerstone of The Beatles’ legacy and a defining entry in this collection of songs with “something” in the title.

# 1 – Something’s Coming – Utopia

If you’re not familiar with Utopia or Todd Rundgren’s extensive catalog, you might be surprised to learn that the band delivered a dynamic cover of the iconic West Side Story song “Something’s Coming” on their 1975 album Another Live. Originally composed by Leonard Bernstein with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim for the 1957 Broadway production, the song was a standout moment in musical theater. Utopia’s reinterpretation transformed the jazz-inspired Broadway standard into a progressive rock showcase, highlighting the band’s musical ingenuity and Rundgren’s versatility.

Recorded live during performances in August 1975 and released later that year, Another Live captures the band’s experimental spirit and willingness to tackle ambitious material. Utopia’s lineup for the album featured Rundgren on guitar and vocals, Roger Powell on keyboards, John Siegler on bass, and Willie Wilcox on drums. The band’s arrangement of “Something’s Coming” preserves the rhythmic complexity and dynamic shifts of the original while infusing it with their signature progressive rock energy. Rundgren’s commanding vocals and Powell’s intricate keyboard work are particularly notable, adding depth and dimension to this reinterpretation.

Compared to other songs on this list, “Something’s Coming” stands out for its theatrical origins and ambitious transformation into a rock context. While tracks like Boston’s “Something About You” and Bruce Springsteen’s “Something in the Night” remain rooted in rock traditions, Utopia’s cover bridges the gap between Broadway and progressive rock. The track’s dynamic structure and bold reinterpretation exemplify Utopia’s adventurous approach to music, making it a fascinating entry in this exploration of songs with “something” in the title.