The Most Beautiful Lyrics of All Time, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the lyrics you think is the most beautiful!
Updated on May 5, 2024 06:15
Lyrics often capture the heart and soul of a song, resonating deeply with listeners through evocative imagery and emotive language. Determining which lyrics stand above the rest is both a subjective and dynamic journey, as various words strike different chords with people based on their personal experiences and cultural backgrounds.
By participating in the ranking of the most beautiful lyrics of all time, users contribute to a community-driven assessment that highlights which verses have touched the most hearts. This continuous influx of diverse opinions not only enriches the list but also provides new perspectives and appreciation for the artistry behind crafting impactful lyrics.
What Are the Most Beautiful Lyrics of All Time?
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144votes
"Imagine" by John Lennon
John LennonThe lyrics evoke a utopian world where there is peace and equality for all. The simplicity of the words and the powerful message make it a timeless classic.Imagine is a song by John Lennon that encourages listeners to imagine a world at peace, without division or borders, and without the restraints of greed, material possessions, or religion. It paints a picture of a utopian society filled with love, unity, and understanding.- Release date: October 11, 1971
- Genre: Pop
- Length: 3:07
- Label: Apple
- Writer(s): John Lennon
"Imagine" by John Lennon in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous song lyrics
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous old songs
- Position 4 of 10 in Most beautiful pop song
- Position 8 of 10 in Most beautiful rock song
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231votesThe lyrics offer comfort and support to someone going through a difficult time. The metaphor of a bridge over troubled water is both powerful and calming."Bridge Over Troubled Water" by Simon & Garfunkel in other rankings
- Position 9 of 10 in Most popular song sung at funerals
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333votes
"Over the Rainbow" by Judy Garland
Harold Arlen and Yip HarburgThe lyrics describe a place where dreams come true, and the melody is hauntingly beautiful. It has become an anthem of hope and perseverance.Over the Rainbow is a ballad from the 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz, directed by Victor Fleming and starring Judy Garland. The song was written by Harold Arlen and Yip Harburg, and it has been recorded and performed by numerous artists since its debut. It has become an iconic song and one of the most beautiful and recognizable movie songs of all time.- Movie: The Wizard of Oz
- Year: 1939
- Genre: Ballad
- Performer: Judy Garland
- Lyrics: Yip Harburg
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413votesThe lyrics celebrate the beauty of the world, even in the face of adversity. Armstrong's soulful voice adds to the emotional impact of the song."What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous old songs
- Position 7 of 10 in Most popular mother-son wedding song
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular mother-son wedding dance song for black couples
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511votes
"Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen
Leonard CohenThe lyrics are a mix of religious and secular imagery that explore the complexities of love and loss. The song has been covered by many artists and has become a modern-day classic.Hallelujah is a beautiful song written by Leonard Cohen, with lyrics that express a deep sense of longing, love, and awe of the world. It has become one of the most covered songs of all time, with countless renditions by artists across genres and generations.- Release Date: 1984
- Length: 4:36
- Genre: Folk rock
- Album: Various Positions
- Notable Covers: Jeff Buckley, Rufus Wainwright, K.D. Lang, and many more
"Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen in other rankings- Position 5 of 10 in Most impressive song to sing
- Position 5 of 10 in Most beautiful song to sing
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular funeral song
- Position 10 of 10 in Most popular wedding hymn
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613votes
Queen · Public domainThe lyrics tell a story of a man facing his own mortality and seeking redemption. The song's epic structure and operatic vocals make it a unique masterpiece."Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous old songs
- Position 1 of 10 in Most dramatic song
- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful rock song
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous song lyrics
- Position 3 of 10 in Most fun Karaoke song
- Position 6 of 10 in Most difficult song to sing
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75votesThe lyrics are cryptic and open to interpretation, but they touch on themes of spirituality and the afterlife. The song's iconic guitar solo adds to its beauty and power."Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most perfect rock song
- Position 1 of 10 in Most beautiful rock song
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous old songs
- Position 2 of 10 in Most dramatic song
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous song lyrics
- Position 6 of 10 in Most beautiful song to play on guitar
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83votesThe lyrics describe the loneliness and isolation of modern society. The haunting melody and melancholic tone make it a poignant reflection on the human condition."The Sound of Silence" by Simon & Garfunkel in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most dramatic song
- Position 10 of 10 in Most beautiful rock song
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910votesThe lyrics were written in response to the tragic death of Clapton's young son. They express his grief and longing for his child, and the song has become a universal expression of loss."Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most beautiful song to play on guitar
- Position 2 of 10 in Most difficult acoustic guitar song to play
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular funeral song
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular song sung at funerals
- Position 9 of 10 in Most dramatic song
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1012votesThe lyrics describe the struggle for civil rights and the hope for a better future. Cooke's soulful vocals and the song's gospel-inspired melody make it a powerful anthem of social justice.
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Ranking factors for beautiful lyrics
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Emotional resonanceA beautiful lyric should evoke an emotional response in the listener, whether it be happiness, sadness, nostalgia, or love. The words should have the power to move and touch people's hearts.
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Originality and creativityLyrics that stand out as memorable and beautiful are often those that offer something fresh and new, providing an interesting perspective or using unexpected words and phrases that capture the listener's imagination.
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Depth and meaningBeautiful lyrics should have substance and depth, revealing layers of meaning that can be explored and interpreted differently by each listener. They should provoke thought and reflection, going beyond simply providing a catchy melody or rhythm.
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TimelessnessA truly beautiful lyric should stand the test of time, remaining just as powerful and poignant years or even decades after it was first written.
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Clever wordplayGreat lyrics often use clever wordplay, such as puns, metaphors, and similes, to create a sense of artistry and depth that adds to their beauty.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful lyrics of all time. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Lyric is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1990 views
- 171 votes
- 10 ranked items
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Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Lyric once every 24 hours. The rank of each Lyric is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
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More information on most beautiful lyrics of all time
Music has been an art form that has always been able to touch people's hearts and souls. It has the power to convey emotions and tell stories in a way that no other medium can. And within the realm of music, lyrics are what give a song its meaning and its soul. The most beautiful lyrics of all time have the ability to connect with people on a deeper level and evoke strong feelings and memories. Whether it's the simplicity of a love song or the depth of a ballad, the most beautiful lyrics have the power to leave a lasting impact on listeners. At StrawPoll, we've asked our users to vote on the most beautiful lyrics of all time, and the results are sure to inspire and move you.
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