17 Best Songs About Being 40 Years Old
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10. “Revenge of a Middle-Aged Woman” By Tracy Byrd
Song Year: 2005
The song talks about a woman who’s a little older than 40 years old and her husband cheated on. She is looking for a cheap car in the classifieds when she stumbles upon a two-year-old Mercedes for only seven hundred dollars. She calls the number listed in the ad and arranges to meet the woman who is selling the car.
When she arrives, she meets the woman in a short skirt and a tan who offers to throw in some golf clubs. During the test drive, the protagonist realizes that the woman selling the car is the wife of her cheating husband.
The two have breakfast, and she tells her about her husband’s infidelity and many affairs with younger women.
11. “Full Plate” By Spice God
Song Year: 2021
“Full Plate” is about the struggles and ambitions of an up-and-coming musician. The song begins with the artist catching a groove and feeling like they’re in the zone, wanting to live long enough to see their story told. He says when he turns 40 going to hit the road and head to some unknown destination.
Despite having a full plate, they’re focused on success and not letting anyone get in their way. The lyrics also suggest a degree of distrust towards others, with the artist stating they won’t pick up the phone unless it’s for a check, and warning others not to intrude, as they’ll defend themselves if necessary.
12. “Photograph” By Sonofold
Song Year: 2008
The lyrics of “Photograph” discuss someone holding onto memories of a past relationship through photographs.
The artist says they have the other person’s photo and are willing to give it up for free, indicating that they don’t place a monetary value on the memory. The cracks in the wall serve as a reminder of the person and their past together.
They want to return when things were better and imagine a future where they could be together again. However, the lyrics also describe the emotional toll from a past relationship, as he brings up a demon that’s maybe 40 years old, and the artist may be trying to push those feelings aside.
13. “Beautiful Boys” By Yoko Ono
Song Year: 2010
This song is about the beauty and potential of young boys and how they grow and change as they get older. The beginning describes a young boy who has already seen so much of the world and cries easily, but the singer encourages him never to be afraid to cry.
The second verse describes an older man who is 40 years old and has achieved success. He has everything he can carry yet still feels empty. Overall, the song emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and not being afraid to face one’s fears, even if it means going to “hell and back.”
14. “Middle Age Crazy” By Tom Jones
Song Year: 1999
The song “Middle Age Crazy” describes a man experiencing a midlife crisis. He’s 40 years old and has traded in his practical car for a flashy sports car and is dressed in youthful attire. He is trying to hold onto his youth by pursuing a younger woman, even though he has a long-time love at home.
Despite his business success, he feels unfulfilled and seeks excitement in risky behavior. The lyrics suggest that he tries to prove to himself and others that he is still capable and desirable, even as he reaches middle age. The song highlights the struggle many people face as they enter middle age and grapple with changes in their lives and sense of self.
15. “The Frozen Logger” By Johnny Cash
Song Year: 1995
“The Frozen Logger” tells the story of a logger, as recounted by a 40 year old waitress to the singer (Johnny Cash) in a small cafe. The waitress recognizes the singer as a logger because he stirs his coffee with his thumb, a habit unique to loggers. She then tells the story of her lover, who was also a logger.
One freezing day he came to see her, and when he left to go home, the weather did its best to freeze him. He was tough and resilient, but the freezing temperature eventually got the best of him, and he froze to death.
The waitress comes to the cafe to remember him and waits for someone to stir their coffee with their thumb as a reminder of her lover’s strength and unique habits.
16. “Expensive Genes” By Phonte
Song Year: 2021
“Expensive Genes” reflects on the struggles of aging and the fear of mortality. Phonte talks about the consequences of poor health choices and how they can cut a life short.
He laments his own struggle with weight, wishing he could fit into “expensive genes” that allow for a slim waistline and large pharmaceuticals to combat health issues.
He’s 40 also addresses the fact that young people are dying from “old people stuff,” such as heart disease, while older people are struggling with sleep apnea, diabetes, and cancer. He mentions that by age 40 you’ve lived most of your life. The song is a sobering reminder that life is precious and fleeting and that caring for oneself is crucial for longevity.
17. “The High Tension Line” By The Fall
Song Year: 1991
“The High Tension Line” appears to reflect the mundanity and emptiness of modern life. The group comments on fashion trends, such as 40 year olds wearing multi colored shirts, and the pressure to conform to them. However, it he feels overwhelming stress to fit in with how things are.
The rest of the song references buying houses, dealing with technical issues, and avoiding responsibilities. Overall, the song conveys a sense of disconnection and dissatisfaction with contemporary society.
Top Songs About Being 40 Years Old, Final Thoughts
Hopefully, you’ve enjoyed these songs about being 40 that touch on different themes, from the wistful and nostalgic to the celebratory and defiant. These songs reflect a range of perspectives on the age and offer insight into how music can help us make sense of our lives and emotions.
