25 Songs About Being 23

You’re 23! Or someone you know is. Either way, we’ve collected the best songs about being 23 that are out there, ready for this very memorable year. Here they are.

“Twentythree” by Yellowcard

Song Year: 2003

The song “Twentythree” by Yellowcard is from the band's fourth studio album Ocean Avenue. This song is about growing up and how it's time to let go of the past.

While it didn’t get any critical acclaim, the Ocean Avenue album peaked at number 23 on the 2004 US Billboard charts.

“23” by Jimmy Eat World

Song Year: 2004

The alternative-rock band Jimmy Eat World released one of the best songs about being 23 on their fifth album, Futures. This fan-favorite banger beautifully portrays all the angst and anguish of being heartbroken by unrequited love at a young age. The song peaked at number six on the US Billboard charts.

“What’s My Age Again?” by Blink-182

Song Year: 1999

This iconic pop-punk anthem was the lead single on Blink-182’s third album, Enema of the State. It became one of the band’s most popular songs, peaking on various music charts across the globe.

The song is about an immature person who needs to act his age but changes his mind and decides that being yourself shouldn’t be associated with a number. From the twinkling of the strumming guitar to the unapologetic lyrics, it’s a hit worthy of any playlist.

“23” by Sam Hunt

Song Year: 2021

“23” by country singer Sam Hunt is the lead single from his highly anticipated third studio album with a yet-to-be-determined release date. It’s a heartfelt song about dedicating a particular time in your life to a person and reminiscing about all the fond memories you’ve created together.

Most notably, the song peaked at number one on country music charts in US and Canada following its release. It also peaked at number 13 on Australia’s Country Hot 50 and did well on various other charts.

“23” by Mike Will Made-it, Miley Cyrus, Juicy J, & Wiz Khalifa

Song Year: 2013

This hip-hop song was written and produced by Mike Will Made It, but features a few other heavy hitters in the music industry, including Miley Cyrus rapping her verse to the surprise of the critics.

The lyrics reference Air Jordan sneakers and the number 23 in different ways. Moreover, they celebrate having a great time and dancing the night away, making this a worthy contender for a 23rd birthday playlist.

“Wishing I Was 23” by R5

Song Year: 2013

“Wishing I Was 23” by the pop-rock bank R5 was a bonus song from their album Louder, which peaked at number 24 on the US Billboard 200 charts in the first week of release. The lyrics are from the perspective of a 17-year-old boy in love with a 23-year-old woman. He wishes to be of the same age as her and reflects on his emotions for her.

Interestingly, R5 was formed by siblings Rocky Lynch, Ross Lynch, Riker Lynch, and Rydel Lynch, and their mutual friend Ellington Ratliff. Despite finding commercial success, only two band members, Rocky and Ross, would go on to pursue new goals in 2018 under the name The Driver Era, which also became the new handle for all of the band’s social media presence.

“23” by Chayce Beckham

Song Year: 2021

Chayce Beckham wrote “23” a year prior to performing it on the famous TV show American Idol, which he ultimately won in its 19th season. This also made him the only person ever on that show to win with an original song. The lyrics tell the story of his early life and how, at 23, no one can beat him at the drinking game.

Following its successful debut, the song hit the top rank on iTunes. Moreover, it peaked at number 25 on the US country charts following its release as a single.

“23” by God Lives Underwater

Song Year: 1995

“23” is a slow indie-rock song by the American rock band God Lives Underwater from their second album Empty. The lyrics are about the pain and hardships one experiences in life. By the age of 23, that pain is almost too much to handle, but the singer perseveres onwards anyways.

“Ab's Song” by Ben Bridwell and Iron & Wine

Song Year: 2015

“Ab’s Song” was originally released by the American rock band The Marshall Tucker Band in 1973. The band’s guitarist Toy Caldwell wrote most of their songs, including this one that he dedicated to his wife, Abbie.

This cover by Ben Bridgewell and Iron & Wine stays true to the song’s soft, folky sound. The lyrics are about love and caring for your significant other, even if they die young.

“Wasted” by Cartel

Song Year: 2007

“Wasted” is a song by the pop-punk band Cartel that talks about hardships encountered at different stages in life, including the age of 23. The chorus reminds listeners that even if things are difficult at seven, eighteen, 23, or 32, there’s still so much more to look forward to.

The song is featured twice on the band’s album Cartel, in the original version and a remix with the world-renowned Haitian rapper and musician Wyclef Jean.

“23” by Wallice

Song Year: 2021

“23” by indie pop singer Wallice is told from the perspective of a 22-year-old reminiscing about their life so far and anticipating how, by turning 23, things can start looking up.

Wallace attended music school in New York but dropped out to pursue her dream, which she references in this song from her album Off the Rails. As such, it’s a relatable song for anyone looking forward to figuring things out in their adult life.

“23” by Shakira

Song Year: 2014

“23” is one of the best Shakira songs from her self-titled album, Shakira, and revolves around her love story with soccer star Gerard Piqué. When the two met, Shakira was 33 years old, whereas her love interest was 23.

Quite candidly, Shakira describes her inner thoughts and feelings about him. She points out the differences between the two, one seeking an anchor, a missing piece in their life, while the other being a carefree spirit. She finds solace and common ground in their shared love.

“Twenty-Three” by IU

Song Year: 2015

IU is the stage name for the South Korean singer and songwriter Lee Ji-eun. This K-pop star released the song “Twenty-Three” in 2015. It’s about the difficulties of choosing one path in life when there are so many options to choose from.

Featuring funky and pop beats, the song took the number-one spot on the 2015 South Korean music charts.