15 Best Jon Batiste Songs

Best known as the bandleader for “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,” Jon Batiste is a talented and world-renowned singer-songwriter and composer.

He fuses countless styles of music to create songs that are uplifting, poignant, and meaningful. Today, we’ll cover the best Jon Batiste songs ever.

1. “Freedom” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2021

“Freedom” is a mesmerizing track that combines jazz, soul, and gospel to create a fun and groovy pop song. The song's spirited groove, adorned with lively piano melodies and infectious rhythms, invites you to sway along while its lyrics celebrate the boundless possibilities that arise when we embrace our true selves and stand up for what we believe in.

The song actively encourages the listener to let go and dance the day away.

2. “It’s All Right” by Jon Batiste, Celeste

Song Year: 2013

Celeste and Jon Batiste team up to create a delightful tune for the Disney Pixar film “Soul.” The song is a feel-good romp through melodies and jazzy sounds.

The duo gives us a heartwarming and upbear cover of the classic Curtis Mayfield & The Impressions track originally recorded in 1963. The cover by Batiste and Celeste is packed with charm and will put a smile on anyone’s face.

3. “Candy Necklace” by Lana Del Rey & Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2023

Lana Del Rey adds her haunting vocals to a deep and brooding piano track from Jon Batiste on “Candy Necklace.” The song features a soft, soulful vocal performance from Del Rey and a gentle piano accompaniment from Batiste. The lyrics are about a lost love, and the song's overall vibe is one of nostalgia and longing.

The song was a modest hit for the duo and reached number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100.

4. “I Need You” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2021

While the song starts as a relaxing ballad, “I NEED YOU” quickly turns into a funk and danceable tune. It features a strong vocal performance from Batiste and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics are about the importance of community and love, and the song's overall vibe is one of hope and resilience.

If you need hope in your life, this song has all the parts to get you up and on the dance floor. You’ll quickly forget your problems and appreciate the little things in life while listening to “I NEED YOU.”

5. “L.O.V.E” by Yung Bae, feat EARTHGANG, Jon Batiste, & Sherwyn

Song Year: 2022

Taking a cue from the band Justice and using a children’s choir for the chorus, Yung BAE evokes “D.A.N.C.E” and combines it with his signature future funk sound.

The song celebrates the power of love, the energy it provides, and how it’s a joyful experience.

The song features sections by EARTHGANG and Jon Batiste. Batiste gives the song added depth and makes the song a delight to dance to.

6. “Cry” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2021

Jon Batiste's “Cry” is a soul-stirring ballad that tugs at the heartstrings and leaves an indelible mark on the listener.

The song features a raw and vulnerable vocal performance from Batiste, and the lyrics are about the importance of expressing our emotions, even the difficult ones. “Cry” is a beautiful and moving song that is sure to resonate with listeners of all ages.

The song was a modest hit and a critical success. Batiste won the 2022 Grammy for Best American Roots Performance for “Cry.”

7. ”Adulthood” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2021

Jon Batiste delves into the complexities of growing up and navigating adulthood on “Adulthood.” The song showcases Batiste’s versatility as he delivers a smooth and soulful blend of jazz and R&B.

Batiste’s voice is silky smooth and satisfies your nostalgic itch throughout the song. Reminiscent of a bygone era, “Adulthood” will transport you back to your favorite childhood memories.

8. “Tell The Truth” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2021

In “TELL THE TRUTH,” Jon Batiste takes a stand and invites listeners to confront the unvarnished realities of the world. Building on the cultural revolution of the 1960s and 1970s, “TELL THE TRUTH” is an ode to the artists of the past. The song sounds like it came from one of the best bands of the 60s.

Lyrically, Batiste implores us to break free from the shackles of deception and embrace the power of truth. “TELL THE TRUTH” is a rallying cry, urging us to challenge injustice. If you need hope in your life, give “TELL THE TRUTH” a listen.

9. ”Born to Play” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2020

The song starts with a mesmerizing drum solo. The horns quickly take over and create a fun and exciting jazz tune. Another tune from the Disney Pixar film “Soul,” “Born to Play is an acoustic number designed to introduce the characters of the film.

While there are no lyrics, the song's plucky instrumentation gives “Born to Play” a fun and playful vibe perfect for music fans of all ages.

10.” The Very Thought of You” by Jon Batiste & Corinne Bailey Rae

Song Year: 2018

Listening to “The Very Thought of You” shows the exceptional musical process of Jon Batiste. The song was put together with zero time to rehearse and recorded in one take.

Covering” Nat King Cole’s original, the duo put their spin on the track giving it a gripping and seductive style. Lovely and quaint, the duo’s version of the track is a testament to the skills of these musicians.

11. “We Are” by Jin Batiste

Song Year: 2021

“We Are” is a powerful and uplifting anthem by Jon Batiste that serves as a rallying cry for unity and resilience. The song has an empowering message and uses a mixture of gospel, soul, and R&B to create a vibrant soundscape for the listener.

Lyrically, “We Are” celebrates the strength of collective solidarity, urging listeners to stand together and overcome adversity. The singer proclaims, “We Are,” and that no one is ever alone. The community is always there for you and everyone.

12. “Sunny Side of the Street” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2011

“Sunny Side of the Street” is a fun and whimsical journey through a jazz tune. The song features an addictive horn melody that you’ll be whistling along to in no time.

Once the lyrics start, you know you’re in for a good time. “Sunny Side of the Street” is about how fun, sweet, and exciting life is. Tthe key takeaway from “Sunny Side of the Street” is not to worry and be happy.

13. “Until” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2021

While short, “UNTIL” delivers a thought-provoking performance. The song features a mesmerizing piano solo mixed with a vast array of vocal samples and chops.

The song starts with a mix of tribal drums and a group of men grooving but quickly devolves into a myriad of sounds that are both confusing and mesmerizing. As the piano closes the song out, the listener is addicted and aching for more.

14. “Higher” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2019

Jon Batiste shows off his keyboard skills throughout “Higher.” The song is addictively upbeat and exciting, as you never know which notes are coming next.

Often hectic and exhilarating, Batiste is a master on the piano and shows us few have skills that match his. The piano solo is accompanied by jazz drummers giving their all as well. If you want to watch a professional put on a clinic on how to play piano, go and watch the video for “HIGHER” now. 

15.” Don’t Stop” by Jon Batiste

Song Year: 2018

In the spirited anthem “Don't Stop,” Jon Batiste ignites a fire within listeners, urging them to embrace their passions and persevere through life's challenges.

“Don’t Stop” features a somber musical style, but the lyrics are about never giving up on your dreams, no matter what obstacles you face. The song's lyrics serve as a rallying cry, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to rise above, chase our dreams, and conquer the world.

Best Jon Batiste Songs, Final Thoughts

Did you find your new favorite Jon Batiste song while checking out our list? Batiste is a master at expressing every emotion, and each of these songs is a masterclass in composition and performance.