17 Best Songs About Being 40 Years Old

Spread the love

As people approach their 40s, they may begin to reflect on their lives and the passage of time. Musicians have done the same, and many have written songs about being 40 years old. Some look forward to that big milestone, while some look back. Either way, here are the best of them.

1. “See You When You're 40” By Dido

Song Year: 2003

This relatable song by Dido describes the protagonist's decision to end a toxic relationship that obviously won't work out. It showcases their disappointment with a person whom they've waited around for but would no longer choose to be with today if given a chance to start over.

So, they bid farewell and tell their ex-lover that they'll see them when they're 40 and alone, not necessarily sad because they lost the relationship, but more so because they're an attention seeker who thinks they're deeper than they are. The singer is ready to move on and find something more meaningful.

2. “Forty Years Old and I'm Livin' in My Mom's Garage” By Austin Lounge Lizards

Song Year: 2000

This ballad is somewhat humorous when it comes to songs about being 40. It tells the story of a 40 year old man who has hit hard times and is forced to move back in with his mother. The lyrics begin with the singer describing how he and his girlfriend have drifted apart because she expects him to act his age.

According to him, he's living the life of an artist, and it sometimes causes him and his mom to butt heads. The song pokes fun at the idea of a grown man living in his mother's garage but also touches on themes of remaining young and everyone eventually appreciating a person's creative genius.

3. “40 Years Old” By Casey Lowry

Song Year: 1999

The song “40 Years Old” is about wanting to live life to the fullest and not be stuck in a mundane routine. The lyrics express a longing for adventure, excitement, and fear of being trapped in a tedious job. She wants to be 40 years old and still love the life of a young girl who looks nice and has a fast car, not slowed down by her age.

One of the verses refers to the singer's mind not being a bullet that's fast or flies, which could be interpreted as a feeling of inadequacy or self-doubt. However, the artist still hopes and desires to live a fulfilling life.

4. “Change the World” By Bone Thugs-n-Harmony 

Song Year: 2000

“Change the World” is about the group's desire to impact society and the world positively. The lyrics encourage listeners to join in making a change for the better, to unite, and work towards a common goal.

They speak about the struggles and challenges they've faced in their own lives and the issues facing their communities and the world at large. He mentions being 40 years old and still trying to go platinum, continuing to try to make an impact and aspire to new heights. 

The song's chorus serves as a rallying cry for people to take action and make a difference. The song ultimately sends a message of hope and a call to action to work towards a better future.

5. “Cool” By John Michael Montgomery

Song Year: 2003

“Cool” reflects the differences between generations and the realization that what is considered “cool” changes with time. The narrator describes his father, who was once regarded as uncool to him, and he thought to himself it must be difficult to be cool when you're 40 years old. However, he has come to understand and appreciate his father's values and taste as he has gotten older.

The song also touches on teenage pregnancy and the fear of making mistakes. The father's advice highlights that everyone goes through moments of not feeling cool and that these moments of vulnerability can help one grow and become a better person.

6. “Read Me” By J.O.A.D

Song Year: 2018

“Read Me” seems to be a reflective song about the passage of time and the choices we make in life. The lyrics express a sense of nostalgia and longing to connect with one's past and future selves.

The song begins with questions about the state of the singer's life and relationships, as well as their sense of purpose and fulfillment.

The singer wonders if they have made the right decisions, if their life is going well, and if they are still connected to their loved ones. It then shifts to the singer addressing their 40 year old future self directly.

They also offer advice, urging their future self to take pride in their accomplishments, pay attention to their loved ones, and cherish what they have earned.

7. “When I'm With You” By Chris Stapleton

Song Year: 2020

“When I'm With You” is one of those songs about being 40 that describes finding happiness and contentment in a relationship, despite feeling like life may not have turned out exactly as planned.

The narrator is forty years old and feels he has not accomplished much that will be remembered after he's gone.

He reflects on the places he's been, some of which he would go back to and others he wouldn't, and acknowledges that his body doesn't work like it used to. Despite all this, when he's with his partner, he feels like a dreamer whose dreams have come true. He describes feeling like his skies are all blue when he's with her.

8. “Punk Rock Dad” By Titanosaur

Song Year: 2018

“Punk Rock Dad” is an ode to the experience of being a father who is also a punk rocker. The lyrics describe the day-to-day routine of getting the kids ready for school in the morning, with punk rock music blasting in the background.

The singer proudly identifies as a 40-year-old punk rock dad with tattoos on his arms and a leather jacket that makes him look like a “madman.”

He is unapologetic about his punk rock lifestyle, even though it may cause some people to stare. Despite his punk rock image, the singer is still a devoted father who makes breakfast, lunch, and dinner for his kids. His children find his punk rock style amusing, even painting his nails and trading his earrings.

9. “The Blues Man” By Alan Jackson

"The Blues Man" By Alan Jackson

Song Year: 1999

The song tells the story of a musician who has faced many challenges, including addiction and legal troubles, but has found solace in his music. The opening verses describe the narrator as a talented musician dedicated to his craft but prone to sadness and nostalgia.

The lyrics also suggest that the narrator has found redemption and hope through his relationship with a woman who loves him unconditionally.

He says he's 40 years old and if he didn't have her his days would be so cold. He acknowledges the love and support of his partner and expresses gratitude for her presence in his life.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *