Songs About Silence
There are countless songs composed about silence. Various songs, from game soundtracks to classical examples, deal with the theme of silence. Sometimes embarrassment, sometimes tension, sometimes fear can cause silence. Many artists have transformed these feelings into unique songs about silence.
Simon & Garfunkel – The Sound of Silence
At their core, S&G were gifted musicians. While others may have indulged in acid rock excess, S&G employed their expansive musical palette in harmony with vocal and acoustic guitar accompaniment to produce beautiful yet restrained harmonies that were as breathtaking as they were restrained.
Their October 10, 1966 album Parsley, Sage Rosemary & Thyme provided the listener with a sophisticated slow build of sound architecture that contrasted to the acid rock frenzy of their time. This track is one of the most popular songs about silence.
Queensrÿche – Silent Lucidity
Queensrche has amassed an illustrious career marked by numerous chart-topping albums and standout live performances that have amassed them a loyal following worldwide. Mixing progressive with hard rock elements, their music has become an instant classic within its genre.
In 1981, The Mob formed with Michael Wilton (bassist), Scott Rockenfield (drummer), Eddie Jackson and Chris DeGarmo on guitars as musicians; after they performed at a local rock festival without finding an appropriate vocalist, Geoff Tate joined after playing as their vocalist.
After the success of their debut album, Operation Mindcrime, the band experienced significant popularity growth with 1988 follow-up Empire becoming more mainstream. The album explored complex political and social injustice themes which earned it a spot on Billboard’s Top 200 Album list. This song is one of the most original songs about silence.
Disturbed – Hello Silence, My Old Friend (Cover of Simon & Garfunkel’s The Sound of Silence)
Disturbed are one of those bands you must experience live to fully grasp what they offer. Their frontman Mad Davey Draiman may come off as clumsy and silly on record and media coverage, yet in concert he delivers with forceful energy that pushes his bandmates along.
This unforgettable song is one of the most high-energy among songs about silence.
Tori Amos – Silent All These Years
This work by Tori Armos is one of the first ones that come to mind among songs about silence. Tori Amos has long been considered an icon of alternative music, bringing a personal and emotive piano-driven style that explores deeply personal topics to her audience. Her 1992 debut Little Earthquakes marked a departure from synth-pop of her short-lived band Y Kant Tori Read; since then she’s explored multiple genres on subsequent albums ranging from deep cuts like “Cornflake Girl” to radio hits like “A Sorta Fairytale”, giving fans attending shows featuring Tori Amos tickets an unforgettable and organic experience each time she performs live!
Traditional (Christmas carol) – Silent Night
When it comes to traditional Christmas music, nothing beats a classic carol. These songs have long been part of Christmas traditions, often dating back centuries as artists collaborated to resurrect them later – for instance a clergyman could write a hymn and years later composer would set it to music; similarly many popular Christmas songs boast complex histories involving war, religion and social reform – which can all add depth and dimension. It is considered as one of the songs about silence.
Marshmello ft. Khalid – Silence
Marshmello is an American electronic music producer and DJ who rose to prominence in 2015 following a string of popular remixes for artists like Jack U and Zedd. After garnering worldwide acclaim – including endorsement from dance music tastemaker Skrillex – Marshmello released original tracks such as “Alone”, “Silence” and “Happier”, hitting charts worldwide. This successful song has one of the most emotional lyrics among songs about silence.
The Tremeloes – Silence is Golden
“Silence Is Golden” is a song initially recorded by the American rock band the Four Seasons. Written by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio, Philips Records released it in 1964 as the B-side of the U.S. number 1 single “Rag Doll”, which was also written by Crewe/Gaudio. The Tremeloes’ 1967 cover version reached number 1 on the UK Singles Chart and number 11 on the US charts. This is a striking example for the songs about silence.
Mike + The Mechanics – Silent Running
Mike + The Mechanics were established by Mike Rutherford during a hiatus for Genesis, in 1985. Renowned for its melodious and fluid playing styles, it boasts musicians from other successful bands including vocalist Paul Carrack formerly with Squeeze and Nick Lowe; keyboardist Paul Young from Squeeze; drummer Peter Van Hook from Van Morrison; as well as Paul Carrack himself who sang with both groups.
Among songs about silence, it would be impossible not to mention this song.
JP Cooper – In the Silence
JP Cooper is an English singer-songwriter best known for appearing on Jonas Blue’s 2016 summer hit “Perfect Strangers” and their follow up release “September Song”. JP is currently signed to Island Records.
Since then, JP has released songs consistently, including collaborations with Gabrielle Aplin and Stefflon Don. Additionally, his second album She was released in 2022. JP is an emotive musician that offers timeless tunes.
Among songs about silence, it would be impossible not to mention this song by JP Cooper.