10 Standout Songs With The Word 'Truth' In The Title

Feature Photo: Heinrich Klaffs, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The concept of truth has always been a central force in human life, from personal relationships to the grand scale of political movements. Truth isn’t just about honesty between two people; it also plays a critical role in governments, politics, and cultures worldwide. As society evolves, the search for truth becomes an ever more pressing and multifaceted challenge. In music, truth serves as a reflection of these issues, a way for artists to channel their hopes, frustrations, and revelations.

This list delves into songs that focus on the concept of truth, exploring everything from personal integrity to political disillusionment. Some tracks, particularly those from the 1960s, were written in response to the growing distrust of government during the Vietnam War era, while others reflect broader social, economic, and political issues. Yet, not every song on this list is tied to grand societal concerns. Many simply express the basic human desire for truth in personal relationships—whether it’s between partners, friends, or family. At the heart of it all, these artists are asking for what we all seek: the truth.

These ten songs represent a wide range of musical genres, time periods, and thematic approaches, yet each is united by its search for truth. Whether confronting political corruption or reflecting on human connections, these tracks demonstrate the enduring power of music to speak to our deepest values and fears.

# 10 – Truth Hits Everybody – The Police

Starting off our list of standout songs with the word ‘truth’ in the title is The Police’s energetic and thought-provoking track, “Truth Hits Everybody.” Featured on their 1978 debut album Outlandos d’Amour, this song showcases the band’s early blend of punk-infused rock with the signature reggae-influenced rhythms that would define their sound. Written by Sting, “Truth Hits Everybody” is an intense exploration of life’s inevitable realities, with a particular focus on mortality. Sting’s distinctive lyrics confront the harsh truth that death is the only certainty, while the music delivers an explosive, raw energy that reflects the urgency of the message.

“Truth Hits Everybody” was recorded during the Outlandos d’Amour sessions, produced by the band alongside Nigel Gray at Surrey Sound Studios in 1978. The trio—Sting on bass and lead vocals, Andy Summers on guitar, and Stewart Copeland on drums—delivered a high-octane performance on this track, highlighting their instrumental prowess and punk-rock sensibilities. The song’s relentless pace, driven by Copeland’s propulsive drumming and Summers’ razor-sharp guitar riffs, creates a sonic backdrop that mirrors the intensity of the lyrics.

Lyrically, “Truth Hits Everybody” is direct, stark, and confrontational. Lines like “The only certain thing in life is death” are central to the song’s theme, offering listeners an unvarnished perspective on life’s finality. The chorus, with its repetitive assertion that “Truth hits everybody,” emphasizes how unavoidable this reality is. The song’s reflection on the inevitability of death ties seamlessly into the overall concept of the article, examining how music often wrestles with fundamental truths and the human condition. “Truth Hits Everybody” sets the tone for this list, laying bare the uncompromising nature of life’s truths with the same raw energy that fueled The Police’s rise to fame.

Read More: Top 10 Police Songs

# 9 – Three Chords And The Truth – Van Morrison

Contiuning our exploration of standout songs with “truth” in the title, Van Morrison’s “Three Chords and the Truth” serves as the title track from his 2019 album Three Chords & the Truth. Released on 25 October 2019, this album marked Morrison’s 41st studio release, continuing his prolific output with a collection of all-new original material—the first time since his 2012 album Born to Sing: No Plan B. The song “Three Chords and the Truth” encapsulates the ethos of simplicity and authenticity that has long defined Morrison’s music, grounding the track in the classic tradition of roots music, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll.

Recorded with a strong blend of musicianship and soulful production, Three Chords & the Truth was produced by Van Morrison himself. Musicians on the album included Jay Berliner on guitar, David Hayes on bass, and Morrison on vocals and saxophone, among others. The album was recorded at several locations, with Morrison carefully curating the sounds and arrangements that have made his music timeless. The track “Three Chords and the Truth” pays homage to the essence of blues and rhythm, reflecting Morrison’s respect for musical foundations. As the song plays out, you hear the crisp instrumentation and heartfelt delivery that Morrison is known for, driving the listener to the core idea: music stripped to its essentials, relying on nothing more than basic chords and truth.

Lyrically, Morrison’s reference to “three chords and the truth” is more than just a technical term for musical structure. It becomes a metaphor for honesty, simplicity, and emotional resonance in both life and art. Morrison sings of waking up in the morning and hearing the “good news” with a “shot of rhythm and blues,” drawing connections between personal revelation and musical expression. The song evokes imagery of church bells ringing, feet dancing, and staying in the groove, all underscoring how music—rooted in rhythm and blues—moves people. The song title itself draws from a popular saying often attributed to songwriter Harlan Howard, further cementing Morrison’s place within the storied tradition of heartfelt, simple music that speaks volumes.

While Three Chords and the Truth is rooted in the traditions of folk, rock, and blues, Morrison breathes fresh life into these elements, making the song feel contemporary yet timeless. As the first song on this list, “Three Chords and the Truth” sets the tone, celebrating the unvarnished power of music to convey truth and rhythm, qualities that resonate deeply across many of the songs that follow.

Read More: Our 10 Favorite Van Morrison Songs

# 8 – Don’t Tell A Lie About Me And I Won’t Tell The Truth On You – James Brown

The fiery and unapologetic track “Don’t Tell A Lie About Me And I Won’t Tell The Truth On You” by James Brown captures the Godfather of Soul in full command of his signature blend of funk, soul, and groove. This song, released in 1974 on his Hell album, delivers an electrifying mix of rhythmic intensity and confrontational lyrics. James Brown produced the track himself, with Fred Wesley serving as the arranger, contributing to the song’s dynamic structure and horn-driven energy. The recording took place at International Recording Studios in Augusta, Georgia, where Brown often worked. The album’s personnel included Brown’s trusted ensemble, the J.B.’s, featuring musicians such as Fred Wesley on trombone, Maceo Parker on saxophone, and Jimmy Nolen on guitar, ensuring a tight and powerful instrumental backdrop.

Lyrically, “Don’t Tell A Lie About Me And I Won’t Tell The Truth On You” is a biting and direct response to betrayal, encapsulated in its provocative title. Brown warns against dishonesty, setting a boundary with sharp wit: if someone spreads lies about him, he will retaliate by exposing the truth about them. The message of the song is as confrontational as the groove is infectious, with Brown’s delivery emphasizing the seriousness of the accusation and the consequences that will follow. This theme of deception and retaliation is delivered with Brown’s raw vocal intensity, adding layers of meaning to what could otherwise be seen as a playful, albeit edgy, title.

The song fits well within the concept of this article on standout songs with the word ‘truth’ in the title, showcasing how truth, in this case, is wielded as both a weapon and a shield. The honesty that Brown threatens to reveal serves as a defense mechanism, flipping the narrative on dishonesty and emphasizing the consequences of crossing him. This parallels other songs on this list where the concept of truth serves as a powerful emotional or moral focal point. While the groove-driven arrangement keeps the listener hooked, the lyrical content pushes a strong message of standing up for oneself in the face of deceit, making it one of James Brown’s standout tracks of the mid-’70s era.

Read More: Top 25 James Brown Songs

# 7 – Truth And Honesty – Aretha Franklin

The song “Truth and Honesty,” from Aretha Franklin’s Love All the Hurt Away album, stands as a powerful example of the legendary singer’s ability to blend emotional vulnerability with uplifting messages. Written by Burt Bacharach, Carole Bayer Sager, and Peter Allen, the track taps into themes of transparency, reconciliation, and love through Franklin’s soulful delivery. Released in 1981 as part of her twenty-seventh studio album, this song showcases the Queen of Soul’s vocal prowess and deep connection to the lyrical content.

Produced by the renowned Arif Mardin, Love All the Hurt Away was Franklin’s second album under the Arista Records label. The album performed well on the charts, reaching number four on Billboard’s R&B albums chart and number thirty-six on the Billboard 200. Although “Truth and Honesty” wasn’t released as a single, it is a standout track that exemplifies the themes of emotional healing and integrity that characterize the album. The song’s production, featuring lush orchestration and an emotive arrangement, highlights Franklin’s dynamic vocal range, adding layers of depth to the message she delivers.

Lyrically, “Truth and Honesty” calls for openness and authenticity in relationships, as Franklin urges her partner to “reveal your hands and show your heart” in an attempt to repair a broken connection. The song’s message is timeless, advocating for communication and sincerity as the foundation for rekindling love. Franklin’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously is one of the song’s most compelling features, making it a perfect fit for this list of standout songs with the word ‘truth’ in the title.

In the broader context of the article, this song demonstrates the importance of honesty not only in romantic relationships but in life. Through her soulful interpretation, Franklin reminds listeners of the power of truth and its ability to heal and bring people back together, a recurring theme found in several of the other songs included in this list.

Read More: 10 Essential Aretha Franklin Songs

# 6 – Policy Of Truth – Depeche Mode

As the third single from Depeche Mode’s seminal album Violator (1990), “Policy of Truth” became an instant classic and a key track in the band’s extensive catalog. Released on 7 May 1990, the song marked a significant moment in Depeche Mode’s career, particularly in the US, where it achieved greater chart success than in their home country. It reached number 15 on the US Billboard Hot 100, surpassing its UK peak at number 16. Moreover, “Policy of Truth” topped the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, solidifying the band’s dominance in the electronic music scene during the early 1990s.

Produced by the legendary Flood and recorded during the band’s sessions for Violator, “Policy of Truth” features the signature dark, synth-heavy sound that defines Depeche Mode’s late ’80s and early ’90s work. Band members Dave Gahan (vocals), Martin Gore (guitar, keyboards), Andy Fletcher (keyboards), and Alan Wilder (drums, programming) crafted a song that is both musically engaging and lyrically profound. The song’s polished production, coupled with its driving rhythm, showcases Depeche Mode’s transition into a more mature and refined sound. Flood’s production expertise added depth and texture, giving “Policy of Truth” a sound that resonated with both fans of the electronic genre and the broader pop/rock audience.

Lyrically, “Policy of Truth” explores themes of deceit, consequence, and regret. The protagonist is forced to confront the repercussions of being too honest in situations where dishonesty might have spared them greater pain. The chorus, with its haunting refrain “Never again is what you swore the time before,” encapsulates the cyclical nature of mistakes and the difficulties of adhering to the titular “policy of truth.” The lyrics suggest that sometimes, withholding the full truth might lead to a less painful outcome, a thought-provoking sentiment that resonates throughout the song.

The accompanying music video, directed by Anton Corbijn, adds another layer of intrigue to the song with its moody, noirish aesthetic, perfectly complementing the dark tone of the lyrics. As the opening track in this list of songs featuring “truth” in the title, “Policy of Truth” sets a high standard with its mix of synth-driven beats, insightful lyrics, and the band’s effortlessly cool delivery. It exemplifies Depeche Mode’s ability to blend introspective themes with infectious, danceable rhythms, making it a standout song both within their discography and on this list.

Read More: Top 10 Depeche Mode Deep Tracks

# 5 – Truth N’ Time – Al Green

Al Green’s “Truth N’ Time” is a powerful reflection of both the artist’s remarkable talent and the thematic depth he brought to his music. The title track from Green’s 1978 album Truth N’ Time holds a significant place in his discography, marking the end of his primarily secular work before his full transition into gospel music. The song embodies Green’s soul-infused sound, combining smooth vocals, reflective lyrics, and a tight rhythm section to deliver a message about the enduring power of truth and the necessity of time in relationships and life.

The song was recorded at Green’s American Music Studio in Memphis, with the soul legend himself producing the track. Known for his ability to fuse soul, gospel, and pop, Green weaves a contemplative message through a smooth, laid-back groove, emphasizing the importance of honesty and love in overcoming life’s challenges. The track’s production features Green’s signature vocal style, supported by understated but deeply effective instrumentation, including rich background harmonies and a gentle yet persistent rhythm section. This album, released toward the end of the 1970s, is notable for being Green’s last primarily secular work before fully embracing gospel music.

In terms of lyrical content, “Truth N’ Time” presents a meditation on the concepts of love, honesty, and the passage of time. Green’s repeated calls for “truth” and “time” speak to the song’s central theme—that both are essential for healing, understanding, and moving forward in any relationship. His heartfelt delivery, combined with the simple yet profound message, makes the song both a personal reflection and a universal call for sincerity. The chorus, with its repetition of “Time, time, all we need is time,” becomes a mantra that deepens the emotional impact of the track.

As the first song on this list of standout tracks with “truth” in the title, “Truth N’ Time” sets the tone by blending soulful artistry with a timeless message. It exemplifies Al Green’s ability to blend personal and spiritual introspection with the rhythms and sounds of classic soul, making it a perfect entry point for this exploration of truth in music.

Read More: Top 10 Al Green Songs

# 4 – The Truth About Arthur – Golden Earring

Miracle Mirror - Limited Gatefold 180-Gram Crystal Clear Vinyl

Golden Earring’s “The Truth About Arthur,” the opening track on their 1968 album Miracle Mirror, stands out as a unique and haunting entry in the band’s early discography. Produced by Fred Haayen, the track presents a psychedelic exploration of existential dread, making it one of the band’s more surreal and lyrically abstract pieces. Golden Earring, known for their later international hits like “Radar Love” and “Twilight Zone,” delivered a different sound on Miracle Mirror, with this track showcasing their roots in the psychedelic and experimental rock scene of the 1960s.

Recorded during a time when the band was transitioning from their earlier beat music influences into a more mature and complex sound, “The Truth About Arthur” serves as a perfect reflection of this evolution. The lineup at the time featured Barry Hay on vocals, George Kooymans on guitar, Rinus Gerritsen on bass, and Sieb Warner on drums. Together, they crafted a song filled with ominous imagery, eerie vocals, and haunting melodies. The lyrics tell a cryptic tale involving a character named Arthur, whose presence evokes fear, death, and a sense of impending doom. Arthur’s symbolic role in the song is underscored by a disturbing refrain where the narrator pleads, “I don’t wanna die,” heightening the intensity and anxiety of the narrative.

Musically, “The Truth About Arthur” features a blend of minor-key melodies and ghostly vocal harmonies, with guitar lines and atmospheric production that lend the song its eerie, otherworldly quality. The track stands in stark contrast to Golden Earring’s more straightforward rock output, using a dark duet of ghostly voices and the repeated motif of a “minuet” to convey a sense of the supernatural. The ballroom imagery in the lyrics adds a layer of macabre surrealism, placing the listener in a gothic world where life and death coexist uneasily.

The song’s production by Fred Haayen emphasizes the atmospheric elements of the track, creating a sense of space and depth that makes the listener feel as though they are walking through the eerie ballroom themselves. The song’s cryptic message and unconventional structure have helped it maintain a unique place in the band’s catalog and among songs with “truth” in the title, offering a distinctive take on the search for meaning, fear of mortality, and the unsettling realities that lie beneath the surface of life.

Read More: Top 10 Golden Earring Songs

# 3 – What Is Truth – Johnny Cash

Written by Cash, this song serves as a bold protest piece, addressing the Vietnam War, the generational divide, and societal issues. Cash’s willingness to question authority and social norms in this track made it a rarity in the country music scene of the time, where such politically charged topics were seldom explored. The song’s impact was significant enough that Cash performed it live at the White House for President Richard Nixon on April 17, 1970, cementing its place in history.

Musically, What Is Truth blends Cash’s traditional country sound with a more contemporary feel, resonating with audiences of various backgrounds. Recorded at Columbia Studios in Nashville, the track was produced by Bob Johnston, who also produced some of Cash’s most iconic records. The song features Cash’s signature deep vocals, backed by his band’s steady, unembellished instrumentation. Despite its simplicity, the message of What Is Truth shines through with a raw emotional intensity, reflecting the growing unrest among young people during the era. The song’s success was not limited to one genre—reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, number 19 on the Hot 100, and even number 4 on the Adult Contemporary chart.

Lyrically, What Is Truth captures the voice of youth questioning the world around them, challenging conventional wisdom and authority figures. Through verses that depict a young boy asking his father about war, and a young man on the witness stand judged by his appearance rather than his character, Cash delves into the disconnect between generations. He paints a vivid picture of a society in transition, where the youth are striving to find their own voice and their own version of truth. The song’s refrain—“What is truth?”—is a poignant reminder of the timeless human search for meaning and understanding. As the first track on this list, What Is Truth sets a strong precedent for the exploration of truth in music.

# 2 – Tell The Truth – Derek & The Dominoes

The Layla Sessions: Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs by Derek and the Dominos

“Tell the Truth” is a standout track by Derek & The Dominos, featured as the eighth song on their iconic 1970 album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs. Written primarily by keyboardist Bobby Whitlock, with guitarist Eric Clapton contributing the final verse, the song presents a compelling message of introspection and honesty. Recorded in August 1970 at Criteria Studios in Miami under the production of Tom Dowd, “Tell the Truth” showcases the band’s tight chemistry, fueled by Clapton’s emotive guitar work, Whitlock’s dynamic vocals and keyboard prowess, and the solid backing of Carl Radle on bass and Jim Gordon on drums. This lineup of Derek & The Dominos captured the essence of their blues-infused rock sound on this track, blending soaring guitar riffs with heartfelt lyrical content.

An earlier version of “Tell the Truth” was recorded in London during the sessions for George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass, marking the first collaboration between the members of Derek & The Dominos. Produced by Phil Spector, this initial take of the song was faster and featured contributions from both Harrison and guitarist Dave Mason. However, the band was unsatisfied with the production, leading them to withdraw the single shortly after its release in September 1970. The slower, more refined version that appears on Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs became the definitive recording, showcasing the band’s nuanced interplay and Clapton’s impassioned slide guitar, which adds emotional depth to the track.

Lyrically, “Tell the Truth” speaks to themes of self-awareness, honesty, and the urgent need for change. The repeated chorus—”Tell the truth, who’s been fooling you?”—challenges both the narrator and the listener to confront uncomfortable realities. The verses paint a picture of a world on the brink of transformation, urging the listener to seize the moment as “a new dawn is breaking now.” The song’s message, combined with its raw energy and soulful instrumentation, makes it a standout piece on the album. “Tell the Truth” fits seamlessly into the blues-rock framework of Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs while resonating as a timeless anthem for authenticity and self-reflection.

# 1 – Gimme Some Truth – John Lennon

Closing our list of standout songs with “truth” in the title is Gimme Some Truth, one of John Lennon’s most potent protest songs. Released on his 1971 album Imagine, this politically charged track was co-produced by Lennon and Phil Spector and features a sharp, distinctive slide guitar solo by George Harrison. Written during the later years of the Vietnam War, “Gimme Some Truth” encapsulates Lennon’s frustration with the political landscape of the time, filled with biting criticism of dishonesty, hypocrisy, and disillusionment.

The origins of “Gimme Some Truth” date back to the Beatles’ Get Back sessions in January 1969. Though initially performed with the band, it didn’t make it onto Let It Be and instead became one of Lennon’s standout solo efforts. The recording features Lennon on vocals and rhythm guitar, Klaus Voormann on bass, Alan White on drums, and the aforementioned George Harrison on slide guitar. The production by Phil Spector adds a bold, unfiltered edge to the track, highlighting Lennon’s unrelenting demand for honesty amidst the chaos of political deception.

Lyrically, Lennon pulls no punches, delivering sharp critiques with phrases like “I’m sick and tired of hearing things from uptight, short-sighted, narrow-minded hypocrites” and his pointed jab at “Tricky Dicky” Nixon. These lyrics, combined with the track’s relentless rhythm, encapsulate a deep frustration with leaders and systems that peddle falsehoods for personal gain. Lennon’s call for “truth” reflects both personal and collective struggles, making the song a powerful anthem of political dissatisfaction. In the context of this list, “Gimme Some Truth” stands as a raw and impassioned demand for transparency and integrity in a time of turmoil, establishing itself as one of the most enduring protest songs in rock history.