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

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Tomorrow is more than just a day away—it’s a recurring theme in rock music, where it often represents the uncertainty of the future, the hope for something better, or the weight of what’s yet to come. Across decades and genres, “tomorrow” has inspired some of the most introspective and powerful songs in rock.

In “Tomorrow Tomorrow,” the Bee Gees capture a moment of longing and regret, while Sheryl Crow’s “Tomorrow Never Dies” delivers a sleek, dangerous edge worthy of its Bond film legacy. Billy Joel’s “Tomorrow Is Today” reflects the darker side of tomorrow, exploring personal despair and the feeling of being trapped in the present. Elton John’s “Lady What’s Tomorrow” touches on the inevitability of change, while the Beach Boys’ “Lookin’ At Tomorrow” turns a more grounded lens on life’s daily struggles.

The Kinks’ “This Time Tomorrow” contemplates the endless journey of life on the road, while Jimi Hendrix’s “Wait Until Tomorrow” wraps humor and tragedy into a classic boy-girl love story with a sudden, dark twist. Closing out the list, Carole King’s “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” questions the fleeting nature of love and the uncertainty that follows a night of romance. These songs, each in their own way, reflect how the concept of tomorrow can be a source of both hope and doubt, making it a timeless theme in rock music.

# 10 – Tomorrow Tomorrow – Bee Gees

As the opening song in this list of the best songs with the word “tomorrow” in the title, “Tomorrow Tomorrow” by the Bee Gees sets the tone with its reflective yet forward-looking narrative. Recorded in March 1969 and released shortly after, the song marked a pivotal moment for the Bee Gees, being the first single released after Robin Gibb left the group, leaving Barry and Maurice Gibb to carry the torch alongside drummer Colin Petersen. Written by Barry and Maurice, the song was originally intended for Joe Cocker but was ultimately released by the Bee Gees themselves, although both brothers later admitted they thought it might have suited Cocker’s vocal style better.

Musically, “Tomorrow Tomorrow” captures the Bee Gees’ signature orchestral arrangements, courtesy of Bill Shepherd, and their melodic craftsmanship. The song features Barry Gibb’s powerful lead vocals, complemented by Maurice Gibb’s piano, bass, and rhythm guitar. Although the song didn’t make a massive impact in the U.S., where it peaked at No. 54 on Billboard, it found greater success internationally, reaching the top of the charts in Denmark and performing well in countries like New Zealand, Belgium, and Brazil. The upbeat yet wistful nature of the track is framed by Barry’s vibrant vocal performance, with rich instrumental layering and rhythmic shifts highlighted by Colin Petersen’s drums.

Lyrically, “Tomorrow Tomorrow” dives into themes of heartache, lost love, and the hope of a better future. The narrator reflects on unfulfilled promises and a future that could never be, but holds onto the idea that tomorrow will bring clarity and perhaps redemption. With lines like “Tomorrow…everyone gonna know me better” and “Tomorrow…everyone gonna read my letter,” the song conveys a yearning for understanding and reconciliation. This feeling of looking ahead, even in the midst of personal pain, fits seamlessly into the overarching theme of this list—how “tomorrow” often signifies hope, change, or simply the unknown in a variety of emotional contexts.

# 9 – Tomorrow Never Dies – Sheryl Crow

Opening the iconic 1997 James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, Sheryl Crow’s theme song is a captivating blend of sultry vocals and suspenseful orchestration, perfectly capturing the spy thriller’s tension. Co-written by Crow and producer Mitchell Froom, this song reflects the classic Bond theme formula, yet adds Crow’s signature mix of rock and blues influences. Released as a single in December 1997, “Tomorrow Never Dies” became a commercial success, reaching No. 12 on the UK charts and securing its place among the best-known Bond themes.

Recorded with dramatic instrumentation, including sweeping strings and electric guitars, the track embodies the high-stakes world of espionage. The recording sessions featured some of the industry’s top musicians under Froom’s production, enhancing the cinematic sound. Crow’s vocal delivery carries a smoky, seductive quality that aligns with the film’s dark themes of betrayal, danger, and seduction. Although Crow’s song was chosen over k.d. lang’s version, which was originally slated as the theme, the rejected track, later titled “Surrender”, can still be heard within the film’s score—a testament to the competitive nature of Bond theme selections.

Lyrically, “Tomorrow Never Dies” is a reflection on love entwined with danger, a hallmark of Bond’s romantic entanglements. Crow sings of a deadly love affair that mirrors the protagonist’s high-risk life as a spy: “Martinis, girls and guns / It’s murder on our love affair.” The lyrics are rife with fatalistic tones, yet they carry an undercurrent of resilience, as the chorus declares, “Until that day / Until the world falls away… Tomorrow never dies.” This sense of unyielding tension between life and death, love and danger, ties into the overarching theme of destiny that this list explores, where fate seems inevitable, yet there’s always a hope for something more.

Read More: Top 10 Sheryl Crow Songs

# 8 – Tomorrow Is Today – Billy Joel

A haunting reflection on despair and uncertainty, “Tomorrow Is Today” stands as one of Billy Joel’s most deeply personal songs. Recorded in 1971 at Record Plant Studios in Los Angeles for his debut album Cold Spring Harbor, the track was produced by Artie Ripp and features Joel’s raw, melancholic vocals accompanied by orchestral arrangements that heighten its emotional weight. The song was directly inspired by a period of deep depression in Joel’s life, with lyrics like “I’ve been livin’ for the moment, but I just can’t have my way” capturing a sense of hopelessness and stagnation. Unlike the confident, piano-driven anthems that later defined his career, this track leans into introspection, drawing from a note Joel had written while struggling with life. While Cold Spring Harbor initially suffered from a production mishap that sped up the recordings, the song remains a stark, moving testament to Joel’s songwriting depth. Its inclusion in this list underscores how powerfully music can express the weight of tomorrow feeling like an inescapable burden.

Read More: Top 10 Billy Joel Songs

# 7 – Lady What’s Tomorrow – Elton John

Lady What’s Tomorrow from Elton John’s debut album Empty Sky presents a poetic reflection on the passage of time and the inevitability of change. Released in 1969, this track is one of the early collaborations between John and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The song explores themes of nostalgia and uncertainty about the future, as the narrator reminisces about the past while contemplating what the future holds, framed by questions of whether tomorrow will be any different from today or just a continuation of the past.

The song’s arrangement features Nigel Olsson on drums, and is marked by its folk-rock sound, with Elton John’s piano playing weaving through the melody. Recorded at DJM Records’ 8-track studio in the winter of 1968 and early 1969, Lady What’s Tomorrow captures a wistful atmosphere, its lyrics drawing on themes of lost innocence. Lines like “Remember when you were nine and I was ten, we would run into the woods, we never will again” highlight a longing for the simplicity of childhood. Taupin’s lyrics hint at a contrast between the natural world of the past and a future dominated by concrete and industry, emphasizing the inevitable loss of an idealized past.

The chorus poignantly poses the question, “Lady, what’s tomorrow? What’s tomorrow anyway?” suggesting an uncertainty that ties into the theme of destiny explored throughout this article. Like other songs on this list, Lady What’s Tomorrow examines the notion of time and fate, reflecting a deep concern for what lies ahead. The song resonates with a melancholic tone, much like other tracks that grapple with the unknown future, offering a contemplative start to John’s long and storied career.

# 6 – Tomorrow’s Gonna Be A Brighter Day – Jim Croce

“Tomorrow’s Gonna Be a Brighter Day” is a heartfelt song by American singer-songwriter Jim Croce, featured on his third studio album, You Don’t Mess Around with Jim, released in April 1972. This track, like much of Croce’s work, showcases his ability to blend sincere emotions with simple yet evocative lyrics. Recorded during the winter and spring of 1969, the album captures Croce at a pivotal moment in his career. It was produced by Terry Cashman and Tommy West and marked the beginning of his rise to fame. The record was released by ABC Records, and despite its humble production budget, it became one of Croce’s most successful albums, remaining on the charts for 93 weeks.

“Tomorrow’s Gonna Be a Brighter Day” stands out for its hopeful message and personal tone. In contrast to other songs on the album like the title track “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim,” which has a more narrative and playful style, this song taps into deeper emotions. The song is a promise of change, with Croce’s narrator expressing regret for past mistakes and a renewed commitment to making things right. The lyrics emphasize the idea that, despite the challenges of today, there is hope for a better tomorrow. Croce sings, “Tomorrow’s gonna be a brighter day, there’s gonna be some changes,” offering the assurance of healing and reconciliation.

The lyrics are straightforward yet filled with tenderness. Croce reflects on the emotional struggles within a relationship, admitting his own shortcomings but promising to turn things around. The line, “Nobody ever had a rainbow, baby, until he had the rain,” encapsulates the song’s core message: that difficult times are often necessary for true happiness to emerge. This sentiment aligns with the overarching themes of hope and redemption that many artists explore when writing about tomorrow, making this song a fitting inclusion on the list of Best Songs with the Word ‘Tomorrow’ in the Title.

While “Tomorrow’s Gonna Be a Brighter Day” carries a more introspective tone, it offers a universal message that resonates with listeners, particularly in its promise of a better future. This theme, often explored in various musical genres, ties it to other tracks on this list. The hopeful optimism Croce presents contrasts with songs like Billy Joel’s “Tomorrow Is Today,” which takes a more somber view of life’s challenges. Croce’s vision of tomorrow is one of renewal, love, and possibility, making it a touching and memorable contribution to his catalog.

Read More: Top 10 Jim Croce Songs

# 5 -Lookin’ At Tomorrow (A Welfare Song) – The Beach Boys

“Lookin’ At Tomorrow (A Welfare Song)” by The Beach Boys is one of the more introspective and socially conscious tracks from their 1971 album Surf’s Up. As the band was trying to reinvent its image during the early 1970s, the album moved away from their signature surf-pop sound and embraced themes of environmental, social, and economic issues, with this track providing a poignant commentary on financial struggles and the search for stability. Written primarily by Al Jardine, this song reflects the band’s desire to address more serious societal concerns. Surf’s Up was released during a period when the band was attempting to stay relevant amidst the changing landscape of rock music, and “Lookin’ At Tomorrow” exemplifies that shift in focus.

Musically, “Lookin’ At Tomorrow” is sparse, with a stripped-back arrangement that relies heavily on acoustic guitar and vocals, giving it a raw, intimate quality. The song was recorded between January and July 1971, a time when Brian Wilson had largely retreated from the band’s production process. As a result, the vocal arrangements are much thinner than the lush harmonies the Beach Boys were known for in the 1960s. Jardine’s haunting lead vocals add an emotional layer to the song’s message about economic hardship. The lyrics capture the frustration of being out of work and feeling as though one’s potential is being wasted: “I had to take to sweeping up some floors / Well, I don’t mind that so much / Or the changing of my luck / But you know I could be doing so much more.”

Lyrically, the song’s message is centered on survival and hope, particularly the protagonist’s determination to find work and improve his situation. The character is grappling with the harsh realities of unemployment but remains optimistic that “everything will be alright,” as echoed in the refrain, “And we’ll be looking at tomorrow.” This idea of looking towards the future with hope, despite the struggles of the present, ties into the broader theme of optimism found in songs like Jim Croce’s “Tomorrow’s Gonna Be A Brighter Day,” which also stresses the belief that better days are ahead. While Croce’s track emphasizes love and emotional reconciliation, “Lookin’ At Tomorrow” focuses more on the socioeconomic difficulties many faced in the 1970s, particularly the working class.

Ultimately, “Lookin’ At Tomorrow” captures the uncertainty and resilience inherent in the human experience, and its minimalistic approach highlights the vulnerability of the song’s subject matter. The Beach Boys’ shift from their earlier, more carefree songs about surfing and youth culture to this kind of introspective storytelling is a reflection of the band’s evolving role in the rock music scene of the 1970s. This track adds a unique, socially aware layer to this list of the Best Songs with the Word ‘Tomorrow’ in the Title, capturing the sentiment of both struggle and hope for the future.

Read More: Top 10 Beach Boys Songs

# 4 – This Time Tomorrow – The Kinks

“This Time Tomorrow,” the eighth track on Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One, by The Kinks, delves into the uncertainty and monotony of life on the road for a musician. Written by Ray Davies, the song presents a reflective and melancholic take on the transient nature of life, questioning where one will be in the future and pondering the meaning of it all. Released in 1970, the song is notable for its introspective tone, something Davies was well known for in his songwriting. The song also marks one of the first appearances of Kinks’ pianist John Gosling, adding a layer of warmth and texture to its overall sound.

The song’s lyrics are deeply introspective, with the protagonist contemplating his place in the world as he travels. The metaphor of being on a plane highlights the sense of isolation and detachment, as he wonders, “This time tomorrow, where will we be? On a spaceship somewhere sailing across an empty sea.” This feeling of disconnect and floating in an uncertain future is echoed in the phrase “I don’t know where I’m going, I don’t want to see,” suggesting a weariness with the repetitive nature of touring life. The song conveys a broader theme of destiny and the unknown, aligning with the overall concept of the article that explores the nuances of how artists tackle the topic of “tomorrow.”

Thematically, “This Time Tomorrow” fits well within the concept of looking towards the future with a sense of uncertainty, much like Jim Croce’s “Tomorrow’s Gonna Be A Brighter Day.” However, while Croce’s song leans more into hope for better days, “This Time Tomorrow” reflects a more existential view, where the future is something not necessarily desired or even fully understood. Musically, the track’s gentle acoustic guitar and resonator guitar riffs create an airy, floating feeling that complements the song’s themes of perpetual motion and displacement. The airplane sound effects in the intro only add to the sensation of being unanchored, both physically and emotionally.

“This Time Tomorrow” received positive critical reception and became one of the standout songs on Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One. Despite its lack of release as a single, its impact has endured, including notable appearances in films such as The Darjeeling Limited by Wes Anderson, which further cemented its place in pop culture. The song’s reflective tone and melodic appeal make it an excellent addition to the list of the best songs with “tomorrow” in the title, capturing the essence of uncertainty and the passage of time.

# 3 – Tomorrow Never Knows – The Beatles

“Tomorrow Never Knows,” the closing track on Revolver, represents a groundbreaking moment for The Beatles, where they fully embraced the studio as an instrument itself. Recorded in April 1966, the song was composed primarily by John Lennon, who drew inspiration from his experimentation with LSD and Timothy Leary’s The Psychedelic Experience. The result is a song that moves far beyond conventional rock and pop of its time, incorporating avant-garde techniques like tape loops, reversed sounds, and the Indian-inspired drone of tambura and sitar. It stands as a defining example of the band’s mid-career shift toward psychedelic music and is widely regarded as one of their most experimental tracks.

The song’s production, handled by George Martin, was revolutionary for its use of unconventional studio techniques. The rhythm track, anchored by Ringo Starr’s innovative drum pattern, was built around a single chord, with minimal harmonic deviation—something almost unheard of in pop music at the time. Lennon’s vocal, treated with a Leslie speaker to create a swirling, otherworldly effect, added to the song’s unique sonic landscape. Additionally, the live overdubbing of tape loops—including reversed guitar and sitar parts—brought an unpredictable texture that enhanced its futuristic, experimental sound. The Beatles were not concerned with reproducing “Tomorrow Never Knows” live, allowing them to push the boundaries of the studio further than ever before.

Lyrically, “Tomorrow Never Knows” channels themes of transcendence, Eastern spirituality, and mind expansion. With lines like “Turn off your mind, relax and float downstream,” Lennon encourages a surrender to the void, a concept drawn from Buddhist teachings. The song’s core message of unity and love, encapsulated in the phrase “That love is all and love is everyone,” taps into the spiritual awakening that was beginning to permeate Western culture. In contrast to songs like “Tomorrow’s Gonna Be A Brighter Day” by Jim Croce, which speaks to personal optimism, “Tomorrow Never Knows” presents a much broader, philosophical exploration of existence and the human condition.

Critically, Revolver and “Tomorrow Never Knows” in particular have been hailed as one of the greatest examples of psychedelic rock. At the time of its release, the track baffled some listeners and critics for its radical departure from the Beatles’ earlier work, but over time it has come to be seen as a pioneering piece in both the psychedelic and electronic music genres. Its influence on future generations of musicians, particularly in the realms of sampling and sound manipulation, is profound. As the first song recorded for Revolver, yet placed at the end, it serves as a fitting and forward-looking conclusion to one of the most innovative albums in rock history.

Read More: Top 10 Beatles Albums

# 2 – Wait Until Tomorrow – Jimi Hendrix

“Wait Until Tomorrow” from Jimi Hendrix’s Axis: Bold as Love album is a compelling example of Hendrix’s genius in blending rock, funk, and soul influences to create a unique narrative style. Written by Hendrix, the song tells the story of a man who plans to run away with his lover, Dolly Mae, only for things to take a tragic turn when her father intervenes violently. Released in 1967, this song captures the playful yet tragic storytelling that was characteristic of Hendrix’s music at the time. The musical arrangement is a blend of soulful guitar riffs, groovy basslines, and tight drumming, giving it a light-hearted feel that contrasts with its darker narrative.

Recorded on October 26, 1967, “Wait Until Tomorrow” was one of the last songs laid down for Axis: Bold as Love. Hendrix’s guitar playing shines throughout, drawing influence from the soul music of artists like the Isley Brothers, with whom he performed before forming the Experience. The track’s upbeat, funky rhythm is reminiscent of guitarist Steve Cropper’s style, and the narrative of the song adds a playful element to the album. This juxtaposition between an upbeat groove and a tragic love story highlights Hendrix’s versatility as a songwriter.

Lyrically, the song deals with the theme of hesitation and missed opportunities, reflected in the repeated line, “I think we better wait ’til tomorrow.” The protagonist is ready to run away with his lover, but her hesitation leads to a tragic ending, marked by her father’s violent intervention. The song’s unexpected twist (“Click bang, what a hang, your daddy just shot poor me”) adds a layer of dark humor to the song. The theme of waiting for the right moment but ultimately running out of time ties into the concept of destiny explored in this article. While the protagonist believes they have all the time in the world, fate has other plans. The song aligns with the existential questions posed in other tracks on the list, such as the uncertain future in The Kinks’ “This Time Tomorrow,” and the inevitability of life’s changes in The Beatles’ “Tomorrow Never Knows.”

Hendrix’s blend of soulful music with a narrative-driven song structure sets “Wait Until Tomorrow” apart as one of the more playful yet tragic songs on this list. The tale of missed opportunities and fate’s cruel twist reflects the underlying message in several songs we’ve explored: sometimes, destiny takes a turn no one can anticipate.

# 1 – Will You Love Me Tomorrow? – Carole King

“Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” closes out the list of 10 Best Songs With The Word ‘Tomorrow’ In The Title as an iconic track that reflects timeless emotions of vulnerability and uncertainty. Originally written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, the song was first recorded by the Shirelles in 1960, becoming a groundbreaking hit as the first song by an African-American girl group to top the Billboard Hot 100. However, it was Carole King’s 1971 re-recording on her Tapestry album that gave the song a new life, framing it in a more introspective and soulful light. King’s gentle piano accompaniment and warm, emotional delivery of the lyrics emphasize the personal and reflective nature of the song, contrasting with the more polished and uptempo feel of the original version by the Shirelles.

The song was recorded during the sessions for Tapestry in early 1971, an album that went on to become one of the best-selling records of all time. The musicians on the track include King on piano, along with the legendary James Taylor on guitar, Charles Larkey on bass, and Joel O’Brien on drums, all of whom contributed to the lush, organic sound that defined Tapestry. King’s stripped-down rendition makes the song feel more intimate and personal, in contrast to the Shirelles’ version, which was adorned with lush string arrangements and a more polished pop production. Her version takes on a more contemplative tone, reflecting on the insecurities of love and the fear of being abandoned after the passion of the moment fades.

Lyrically, “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” deals with the uncertainty that often accompanies love, particularly in the vulnerable moments of intimacy. Lines like “Is this a lasting treasure, or just a moment’s pleasure?” convey a deep anxiety about whether the feelings of the night will still hold true when “the morning sun” arrives. This mirrors the theme of destiny explored in other songs on this list—whether the future will bring fulfillment or heartbreak. Like The Kinks’ “This Time Tomorrow”, which reflects on the unknowns of where life is heading, King’s song captures the uncertainty of what comes next. Similarly, Jimi Hendrix’s “Wait Until Tomorrow” tells a story about missed opportunities and sudden, unexpected changes in fate. All these tracks reflect the unpredictability of life and love.

As the closing song on this list, “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” ties together the theme of looking toward an uncertain future. Its blend of vulnerability, doubt, and hope captures the essence of songs that revolve around the concept of tomorrow, cementing its place as one of the greatest songs that explore the fear and anticipation of what is yet to come.

Read More: Top 10 Carole King Songs