81 Sexy Songs

For all those private, tender moments, you still need your jams. They can heighten the experience.

But which songs should you put on? Or which ones should you add to your playlist?

In this guide, we look at the best sexy songs for those hot moments.

Best Sexy Songs

We’re going to start this list off with the best sexy songs, and we’ll cover a few “songs about sex” later.

Ready? Come along for the ride.

“Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak

Song year: 1989

The sexiness of this modern classic is near undeniable, and its music video…. Wow… that takes it to a whole new level.

Now, you can tell from the title, the lyrics, the music, and the subject matter that things aren’t exactly going the way the narrator had hoped. But sometimes relationships and encounters are like that. Which is why so many relate to this song.

“I Touch Myself” by Divinyls

Song year: 1990

We couldn’t get enough of this song in the 90s, and at first it was all about the catchy, unforgettable melody. Then we started listening to the lyrics, which at first didn't add up… “Wow, that’s kind of scandalous.” And maybe for a fleeting moment the shock left us feeling repulsed.

And then the song appeared in the popular Mike Myers comedy, Austin Powers. And from then on, this has always been a go-to guilty pleasure.

It’s the song, really. It’s the song!

“Fever” by Kylie Minogue

Song year: 2001

What part of Kylie’s musical catalog isn’t sexy? Well, I suppose you could rewind all the way back to her teenage pop sensation “The Loco-Motion” days. That’s certainly innocent by comparison.

We rather prefer the disco strains of and the smooth curves of… oops. Anyway, “Fever” is beyond sexy, and even Kylie’s live performance of it is sexy. To the point of stunning audiences.

“Need You Tonight” by INXS

Song year: 1987

This song’s mysterious and funky groove seems to embody the mystery of Michael Hutchence himself. And it’s hard not to get caught up in its addictive beat.

The song speaks of a growing desire the narrator can’t contain – “I’ve got to let you know.”

“I’m On Fire” by Bruce Springsteen

Song year: 1984

How would The Boss express his growing desire? The answer to that question seems to be this song, in which the narrator says he’s got a “bad desire” that can only be quelled by that special someone.

“Little Red Corvette” by Prince

Song year: 1982

You’re going to see Prince come up on this list multiple times, and there is no denying that the flamboyant and talented multi-instrumentalist was well-expressed when it came to his sexuality.

At the time of its release, “Little Red Corvette” was considered scandalous, but let’s just say it was the tip of the iceberg (refer to Prince's catalog for more). This song, by the way, is about a call girl.

The song itself is amazingly arranged.

“Video Phone” by Beyoncé

Song year: 2008

In this song, we find the narrator with an appetite for kink, saying, “If you want me, you can watch me on your video phone.” Well, that’s one way of saying “I want to be your one and only.”

“Love To Love You Baby” by Donna Summer

Song year: 1975

Whenever there’s a sexy moment in a movie, this song comes on. That might be a bit of an exaggeration to say, but more than likely it should strike you as familiar.

If Summer’s breathy vocals and moaning don’t make you hot, then I have no idea what will.

“The Sweetest Taboo” by Sade

Song year: 1985

Sometimes your desires take over. And you just can’t hold them in anymore. This is what this song seems to be saying.

“Climax” by Usher

Song year: 2012

The title kind of says it all, but here we have the suave Usher offering up his best falsetto vocals.

When you look closely at the lyrics, you see that the song is about a relationship gone wrong, but with Usher’s vocals set against the music video… well… There’s just no way “Climax” couldn’t be on this list.

“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails

Song year: 1994

When it comes to Nine Inch Nails, what immediately tends to come to mind is dark, somber, depressing music. And even with “Closer” we find them doing what they do best with creepy electronic beats.

But without even listening too closely to the lyrics, well… You’ll see what I mean. This song is kind of filthy while being spiritual too.

“I Just Wanna Make Love To You” by Etta James

Song year: 1960

In case there was any doubt, jazz music can be incredibly sexy, and here we have Etta James singing passionately about how much she wants to make love to “you,” whoever that may be.

Here’s a song that’s sure to get you in the mood.

“I Want Your Sex” by George Michael

Song year: 1987

George Michael had classic good looks and catchy songs. “I Want Your Sex” was progressive for its time, and maybe a little too forward for some. Especially since HIV/AIDS was all over the news at the time. But it’s relatively tame by today’s standards.

If its message didn’t win you over, the song probably did anyway. Because it’s just that good.

“Rocks Off” by The Rolling Stones

Song year: 1972

Now, the Stones were quite upfront about their desires, and “Rocks Off” is just one example of how it found its expression in music.

The lyrics are a little all over the map, but all I can say is that the narrator must be having some amazing dreams.

“I Feel You” by Depeche Mode

Song year: 1993

As with Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer,” we find Depeche Mode equating sexy time with spirituality in “I Feel You.”

The song has got a strange blues rock vibe to it, but it’s repetitive strains could be perfect for certain private moments.

“Tender” by Blur

Song year: 1999

The soul-tinged “Tender” is nothing if not celebratory from start to finish. Although its direct sexiness factor is limited, it certainly expresses the joy of finding someone amazing.

“Sledgehammer” by Peter Gabriel

Song year: 1986

Peter Gabriel may not have shouted from the rooftops what this song was about. But if you let it sink in, just for a minute, what it would mean if a man said to you that he wanted to be your sledgehammer, it might come into view.

And I can’t imagine Gabriel coming right out and saying it anyway (can you?). But juxtapose “big dipper” with “bumper car,” and if nothing else, you’ll sense the presence of euphemisms throughout this song.

“Dress” by Taylor Swift

Song year: 2017

I don’t know what to say except Taylor must have had one crazy night. She only bought the dress so it could be taken off.

Taylor’s breathy vocal delivery is sure to spice up hot moments.

“Hands To Myself” by Selena Gomez

Song year: 2015

Reminiscent of Taylor Swift’s “Dress,” here we find Selena Gomez writhing in a bed. Oh wait, that’s the music video.

There’s nothing of especial interest here. Just a simple song about not being able to control yourself around someone you’re attracted to.

“I’m A Slave 4 U” by Britney Spears

Song year: 2001

Britney always had sexual undertones in her songs. But with “I’m A Slave 4 U” she shed the goodie teen girl image and showed exactly what she was made of. Dripping of… Well, you can finish the rest.

I always found it funny when good girls turned bad and everyone thought it was a big controversy. Because I always saw it coming from miles and miles away, even with Britney.

“Dirrty” by Christina Aguilera

Song year: 2002

Also see last entry.

Here we have Christina Aguilera shedding what some might call a “clean” girl image and embracing her more adult, “dirty” side.

The music video immediately went into high rotation, and we couldn’t get the image of a provocatively dancing and scantily clad Christina out of our head. Still can’t… actually.

Aguilera herself said this was one of her favorite music videos.

“Hot In Here” by Nelly

Song year: 2002

The infectious “Hot In Here,” at least in my opinion, isn’t hot so much as it is unforgettably infectious. That is a compliment, though, not a slight.

But I promise I won’t look at you with judgmental eyes if this song gets you going.

“Runaround” by Van Halen

Song year: 1991

To be fair, several songs off Van Halen’s For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge (figure out the acronym for yourself) were sexually oriented.

“Runaround” has got kind of a funky breakdown/interlude in the middle that makes it abundantly clear what this song is about (if the lyrics leading there didn’t send you on a runaround – ha!).

“Like A Virgin” by Madonna

Song year: 1984

The legendary and notorious Madonna delivers a hot and sexy pop number in which the narrator pretends she’s a virgin.

It’s a little goofy by today’s standards, sure, but just imagine someone you care about approaching you the way the narrator does in this song.

“Honey” by Mariah Carey

Song year: 1994

The mere mention or sight of Mariah Carey is bound to be a major turn on to some. And what’s not to like?

Over the years, Carey came to embrace her budding womanhood, and “Honey” was, perhaps, the first time anyone looked at her as an attractive (dancing) woman and not just a girl.

This is a great song for those spicy moments.

“Teenage Dream” by Katy Perry

Song year: 2010

There are certainly more overt Katy Perry songs. But overt doesn’t always mean sexy. We found this song to be sexier than the rest, if only because of its playful, “I’ll be your teenage dream” nature.

And, more than that, it’s a bit of a love song too.

“Can’t Get You Out Of My Head” by Kylie Minogue

Song year: 2001

If the music or the lyrics don’t light your fire… the music video should. What do you call that thing that Kylie’s wearing, anyway? A sling hoodie?

Anyway, there’s no mistaking the reason why the narrator can’t get him out of her head.

“Your Body Is A Wonderland” by John Mayer

Song year: 2001

For all those clothing optional Sundays, here’s a gentle acoustic ballad that’s sure to leave you both relaxed and in the mood… if you get my meaning.

Mayer’s “Your Body Is A Wonderland” will seem cheesy until you enjoy a nice private moment with someone you care about.

“Sex Machine” by James Brown

Song year: 1970

The Godfather of Funk James Brown sure knew how to groove. “Sex Machine” is everything you’d imagine it to be, and a little more. Great for dancing and some body language.

“Shakin” by Eddie Money

Song year: 1982

Eddie Money is at his catchy best in “Shakin,” with backing harmonies and electric guitar licks.

If you follow the narrative, you see that it’s a song about a girl that stole her dad’s car keys and goes on a night on town with the narrator, who sees her dancing. You can guess what he’s thinking.

“Fetish (XXX)” by Joan Jett And The Blackhearts

Song year: 1999

The words “Joan Jett” and “sexy” tend to go together, and in “Fetish (XXX)” we are met with her aggressive vocals and lyrics.

Not a whole lot needs to be said here. The song kind of speaks for itself.

“Love In An Elevator” by Aerosmith, A Sexy Song

Song year: 1989

There’s plenty to like about Aerosmith’s “Love In An Elevator.” But let me start by pointing out just how great a song it is. It’s insanely catchy, with hooky vocals and guitar riffs.

For all those who know the thrill of public rendezvous, this song is sure to hit home.

“Pearl Necklace” by ZZ Top

Song year: 1981

No comment.

Just kidding! But while this new wave tinged ZZ Top song may have flown a little under the radar, it’s quite suggestive if taken in context. We’ll leave you to do the investigative work if you aren’t sure what it means.

“Feel Like Makin’ Love” by Bad Company

Song year: 1975

Sometimes simple says it best, and this classic rock tune doesn’t beat around the bush.

Bad Company’s “Feel Like Makin’ Love” starts out with a floaty, folky sound until it reaches the chorus, where the electric guitars are used to great effect.

“Crazy On You” by Heart

Song year: 2015

“Gosh, what could she possibly mean when she says, ‘let me go crazy on you’?”

Heart’s “Crazy On You” rocks, and its lyrics are decidedly sexy.

The fact that the band is made up of incredibly talented women can be a turn on too.

“Brown Sugar” by The Rolling Stones

Song year: 1969

The Rolling Stones’ “Brown Sugar” is one of their most recognizable tunes, and quite provocative when you realize what it’s all about.

“Stir It Up” by Bob Marley And The Wailers

Song year: 1978

Bob Marley tunes tend to hold up to just about any occasion. Yes, that includes sexy times too. One listen to the intro of “Stir It Up” should tell you most of what you need to know.

Reggae has always been great “dance” music, don’t you know?

“Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison

Song year: 1967

“Brown Eyed Girl” may have been controversial in its time, and one of its verses may have been left out of radio edits, but at core, it’s a song about young love and infatuation. And you know what that leads to, don’t you?

Now you know. This song is sexier than you thought.

“She Bop” by Cyndi Lauper

Song year: 1983

In a way, Cyndi Lauper’s “She Bop” was a rather innocent precursor to songs like the Divinyls’ “I Touch Myself.” That ought to give you a good idea of what the song is about.

“Kiss” by Prince & The Revolution

Song year: 1986

The provocative “Kiss” is sexy from the opening notes. The song is decidedly funky, and Prince takes full advantage of his falsetto to deliver his trademark vocals. Great groove.

“Bang A Gong (Get It On)” by T. Rex

Song year: 1971

“Bang A Gong (Get It On)” is T. Rex at its catchy best. And if you don’t recognize the song from the title, there is a chance you’ll know it when you hear it.

This rock and roll tune is maybe a tad cheesy, but its catchiness tends to save it.

“Night Moves” by Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band

Song year: 1976

In “Night Moves,” the narrator sings about the object of his love. And he goes onto tell the story of where things lead. Hint: it leads to “Night Moves.” Get it?

“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin

Song year: 1969

Hmm… I wonder what all those guitar slides are for? I wonder what sort of feelings they were meant to evoke…

Make no mistake about it. The boys in Zeppelin had their roots in the bacchanalian 60s, and they were quite thirsty. “Whole Lotta Love” says a whole lot.

“Sex And Candy” by Marcy Playground

Song year: 1997

“Sex And Candy” is like a drug-induced and depressive fantasy. It seems like those words shouldn’t go together, but in this case, they kind of do.

Sexy is sometimes in the eyes of the beholder, and let’s just say some might get a kink out of this (see what I did there?).

“Urgent” by Foreigner

Song year: 1981

The typically romantic Foreigner suddenly turns urgent in this classic rock number. The narrator, however, isn’t talking about himself – he’s talking about that special someone that’s caught his attention.

“Dim All The Lights” by Donna Summer

Song year: 1979

The slinky groove of “Dim All The Lights” certainly makes you want to get comfortable in your pajamas. But maybe not for long. Because the song picks up pace as it moves into the chorus, and maybe there’s better things to do now.

“Raspberry Beret” by Prince & The Revolution

Song year: 1985

A funky Prince song with an over-the-top groove. If this song doesn’t put you in the mood, I don’t know what will.

If you follow the narrative, it’s relatively tame for Prince. It’s about spotting a beautiful girl in a raspberry beret and fantasizing about her.

You might need to banish images of the music video from your mind though. It’s psychedelic cheese plain and simple.

“Pour Some Sugar On Me” by Def Leppard

Song year: 1987

Pickup lines and come-ons are a dime a dozen. But “Pour Some Sugar On Me” is as good as any, and it should get some points for being unique.

This song also became the go-to for exotic dancers.

“Bump N’ Grind” by R. Kelly

Song year: 1993

What to say about “Bump N’ Grind.” Well, I mostly know this as a comedic relief song. And the R. Kelly controversies don’t exactly help its cause. At this point, it’s kind of a self-caricature, wouldn't you say?

But hey, we’re not saying this song can’t spice up your tender moments.

“Unskinny Bop” by Poison

Song year: 1990

The band admitted “Unskinny Bop” means absolutely nothing, but at least it sounds good, right?

But the song itself is about private moments.

“Man On A Mission” by Van Halen

Song year: 1991

Exactly what the mission is, well, I’m sure you can guess.

This Van Halen favorite features some killer guitar work (don’t all Van Halen songs?) and there are few things sexier than talent, right? Eddie even goes a little funky on you, just for good measure.

“Lady Marmalade” by Patti LaBelle

Song year: 1974

Now, there’s no denying Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, Mya, and Pink’s version of “Lady Marmalade” was hot. But it all started with Patti LaBelle, and without her, you wouldn’t have the former.

“All I Want To Do Is Make Love To You” by Heart

Song year: 1990

Well, if they didn’t make it abundantly clear in “Crazy On You,” then Heart made an obvious statement with “All I Want To Do Is Make Love To You.” Unlike “Crazy On You,” this song is closer to a sentimental ballad.

A great tune for a little one on one.

“Afternoon Delight” by Starland Vocal Band

Song year: 1976

With all the times it’s been used in films for comedic relief, “Afternoon Delight” has become a bit of a self-caricature.

That said, it is a relaxing, romantic tune.

“Ring My Bell” by Anita Ward

Song year: 1979

Here’s a song that really rings the bell when it comes to setting the mood. And once inside your head, it tends to get stuck there too.

Euphemisms aside, this club hit hasn’t exactly aged well, with the cheese factor turned to 11. But if it still floats your boat, there’s no shame in it.

“Crazy Love” by Van Morrison

Song year: 1970

This laid-back number is decidedly sexy and is perfect for when you need a little extra spice.

This song isn’t just about lust though. It’s also about love.

“Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains Of Wayne

Song year: 2003

Here we have the impossibly clever Fountains of Wayne taking their stab at a tune in the style of The Cars. The band would go onto regret having written such sell-out shlock (because they’d be stuck having to perform it in virtual perpetuity), but fortunately it still played well with the fans.

The song itself is goofy, and is a bit of a cash-in on American Pie, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, and other “teen” comedies, but let’s just say we don’t mind the view in the music video…

“Turn Me On” by Norah Jones

Song year: 2003

“Turn Me On” was originally written by John D. Loudermilk and recorded by Mark Dinning in 1961. Others like Nina Simone recorded their covers, and so did Norah Jones.

Jones’ smoky delivery can certainly float your boat, as it expresses the longing and yearning we feel when we’re waiting for our significant other to come home.

“You Really Got Me” by The Kinks

Song year: 1964

The Kinks’ “You Really Got Me” is a classic through and through. And like Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl,” it accurately depicts the intense drive of infatuation and young love.

“Let’s Spend The Night Together” by The Rolling Stones

Song year: 1967

This is a terrible thing to say upon meeting someone. But the perfect thing to say when the chemistry is undeniable.

“Let’s Spend The Night Together” is one of those songs that will easily get stuck in your head. And I happen to think it’s one of those songs that’s more catchy than sexy, but hey, it’s the Stones.

“Mirror” by Ne-Yo

Song year: 2006

From the opening notes of “Mirror,” we know that Ne-Yo means business. That kind of business.

It’s catchy, sure, but it gets kinky when the mirror starts getting involved. Listen for yourself and see what you think.

“Any Time, Any Place” by Janet Jackson

Song year: 1993

Here’s a song that’s stereotypically sexy, with a slow R&B groove and high-pitched vocals that sit comfortably in the background.

This is a song for those times when you get so into it that you don’t even notice your surroundings.

“Promiscuous” by Nelly Furtado ft. Timbaland

Song year: 2006

When Nelly Furtado turned bad, the whole world… yawned. Okay, so Nelly’s transformation didn’t exactly have the same impact that Britney Spears or Christina Aguilera had when they eventually went full on nasty. But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t hot.

And I rather like Nelly in hip-huggers and a low-cut top. More so than the innocent “I’m Like A Bird” Nelly.

“Too Close” by Next

Song year: 1997

This one’s a bit of a personal favorite, but let’s be honest – it’s on most “best of” lists. At first, I was simply drawn in by the music, but once I started listening to lyrics, I realized just how blatant the message was.

You still can’t deny its appeal though.

“Super Freak” by Rick James

Song year: 1981

If you can’t tell what this song is about… Well, just wait a few years. Because Rick James makes it kind of obvious. Kind of.

Listening again to the great grooves that Rick James and his band pounded out, you can see why MC Hammer found it irresistible and put his rhymes to it in “U Can’t Touch This.”

“You Can Leave Your Hat On” by Joe Cocker

Song year: 1986

Here’s a song that really sizzles, and its appearance in 9½ Weeks didn’t hurt it any.

The song was originally written by Randy Newman. Which is not surprising, because Newman is incredibly talented, but I’m not sure he’s ever presented himself as thirsty as he seems in this song.

“On A Night Like This” by Kylie Minogue

Song year: 2000

“On A Night Like This” explores the simple thrills of spending a night with someone you care about.

“You kiss me, I’m falling / Can you hear me calling? / You touch me, I want you / Feels like I’ve always known you.”

With a pre-chorus like that, how could you say it isn’t sexy?

“Thinkin Bout You” by Frank Ocean

Song year: 2012

This is one of those songs that just keeps getting hotter the more you listen to it. Frank Ocean’s falsetto vocals don’t hurt one bit.

“Omg (What’s Your Name?)” by Richie Kotzen

Song year: 2011

Here’s an artist that seems noticeably absent from most sexy song lists. Probably because he’s not that well-known. But we think he’s worthy.

Richie Kotzen’s “Omg (What’s Your Name?),” like other songs on this list, equates sexuality with a spiritual experience.

And the music? Forget about it. If his guitar playing doesn’t get your mojo working, I don’t know what will.

“Take A Message” by Remy Shand

Song year: 2001

Canadian multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter Remy Shand was born to make R&B music in the Motown tradition, plain and simple.

“Take A Message” is not a sexy song lyrically. It’s really the music that does it. Because the song is about heartbreak and the narrator is simply looking to tell his side of the story.

But Remy’s falsetto vocals could easily steam up your windows.

“All Night” by Def Leppard

Song year: 1999

It’s so funky that it might just be a tad cheesy. But that’s kind of what’s fun about Def Leppard’s “All Night,” which is about as sexed up as you can get (although their “Excitable” is another worthy contender).

This one really gets you into a flow.

Songs About Sex

Not that there’s a whole lot of difference between these songs and the ones found above. But these songs might be a little more “in your face” when it comes to their message.

And we can hardly blame them, since sex truly is an amazing thing worthy of celebration.

Anyway, here are a few songs about sex.

“Sex With Me” by Rihanna

Song year: 2016

The title doesn’t exactly leave a whole lot to the imagination. And neither do the lyrics.

If you like typical Rihanna fare, you will like this song. Otherwise, you know exactly what to expect. A lot of repetition.

“Sexual Healing” by Marvin Gaye

Song year: 1982

Marvin Gaye obviously wasn’t too shy about expressing his deepest desires, and in “Sexual Healing” we find the narrator declaring that sexual healing is good for him.

“Physical” by Olivia Newton-John

Song year: 1981

When someone says, “let’s take it horizontal,” well… There’s not a whole lot left to the imagination. And while it might seem innocent by today’s standards, at the time “Physical” by Olivia Newton-John was quite the scandal and was even banned in parts of the world.

While the music video is goofy at best, the song itself is sexy and it could easily get you going.

“Doin’ It” by LL Cool J, A Song About Sex

Song year: 1995

Doing what? Well, we’re sure you’re clever enough to figure it out.

And the summery grooves in “Doin’ It” are accompanied by female moans. The lyrics that follow are about as cheesy as the euphemisms I’ve been peppering this article with (and that’s a lot of cheese). But hey, in the 90s you could get away with it.

“I’ll Make Love To You” by Boyz II Men

Song year: 1994

This is another one of those songs that frequently appears in media. And there’s no doubt that the vocal talent of Boyz II Men plays a part, but the fact that the song is about sex means it can be used in specific but frequently occurring circumstances.

“Rocket” by Beyoncé

Song year: 2013

There’s certainly no beating around the bush in “Rocket.” You can have a listen for yourself. I’m not going to mention the lyrics, as it simply wouldn’t be appropriate. This song is way over the top.

“How Many Licks” by Lil’ Kim feat. Sisqo

Song year: 2000

Alright kids, if you can’t figure this one out… like I said earlier, in due course, you will. I’m not going to spell it out for you.

I guess I can say that it’s the female version of 50 Cent’s “Candy Shop” though.

“Sexual Eruption” by Snoop Dogg

Song year: 2008

The title alone is facepalm worthy. And the lyrics are a tad scandalous, as we find the narrator messing around with another man’s lady.

Fortunately, the title never makes it into the lyrics.

“Candy Shop” by 50 Cent ft. Olivia

Song year: 2003

Let’s just say this is not one of my personal favorites. But oral fixation isn’t anything to make fun of, and hey, there’s no denying it’s fun. Like a candy shop. Yeah, that’s it.

“Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye

Song year: 1973

As I said, there’s nothing terribly shy about Marvin Gaye. And here he says it simply – “Let’s Get It On.”

And as with other songs on this list, this one tends to show up in movies a lot because of its instant sexiness.

Best Sexy Songs, Final Thoughts

There are few things more human than the impulses God himself probably blessed us with. Enjoy them. Celebrate them.

And don’t forget to put on some great music. Fill your playlist with songs that are meaningful to you.

We hope you savored this list of songs about sex.