37 Best Songs About Florida

“The Everglades” by Waylon Jennings

Song Year: 1967

“The Everglades” by Waylon Jennings presents a vivid portrayal of the iconic Florida wetlands. The lyrics paint a captivating picture of the untamed beauty and mysterious allure of the Everglades.

Waylon's deep voice weaves a tale that embodies the spirit of this unique ecosystem, showcasing its marshes, alligators, and the legendary Skunk Ape. The song captures the essence of Florida's natural wonder, drawing listeners into the enchanting world of the Everglades.

“Miami, My Amy” by Keith Whitley

Song Year: 1985

This is one of the best songs of 1985.

This country-pop classic is about the singer’s first visit to Miami to see a woman he had fallen in love with. But Amy always returns to Florida and remains far from him despite his pleading.

Although Keith Whitley performed the song, it was originally written by Dean Dillon, Hank Cochran, and Royce Porter.

Whitley’s vocals have often been compared to Merle Haggard’s classic country croon, and the resemblance in this song is eerie.

“Mainline Florida” by Eric Clapton

Song Year: 1974

Although this song has definite undertones of Clapton’s infamous drug use, it’s actually about the Mainline—the main Floridian thoroughfare.

Clapton wrote this song while living in Golden Beach, Florida, and he named his album after his address on Ocean Boulevard. Whether his lyrics detail a romantic relationship in the Sunshine State or refer to the state itself is unknown.

Although the album received a lukewarm reception from critics, it remains a favorite among Clapton fans for its sentimentality.

“West Palm Beach” by Palace

Song Year: 1994

There aren’t many songs about West Palm Beach, but if there were, this would be the best. It features a bizarre narrative about a young man who seems to have taken over the life of someone else. He lives with his girlfriend and frequents the other man’s grandmother’s house. It’s all strange and beautiful, with sultry vocals and a classic indie-pop sound.

Palace is a British alternative rock band that includes members Leo Wyndham, Rupert Turner, and Matt Hodges. Although they are an alternative rock band, their sound verges on indie—and is fantastic.

“Talk Me Out of Tampa” by Joe Nichols

Song Year: 2003

Joe Nichols is a lesser-known but beloved country rock singer known for his old-school sound and contemporary lyrics.

His song, “Talk Me Out of Tampa,” is about a young man flying to Tampa to see his ex-girlfriend. In the song, he addresses a flight attendant, hoping that she will talk him out of going.

This song is the classic country-boy anthem with a twist—it isn’t about sandy beaches and beer but about a decision all of us have made at least once. Despite its sad undertones, it’s the perfect song for any Florida playlist.

“Tallahassee Lassie” by Freddy Cannon

Song Year: 1959

“Tallahassee Lassie” by Freddy Cannon paints a lively picture of a vibrant and energetic girl from Tallahassee, Florida. The song exudes a sense of youthful excitement and celebrates the lively spirit of the state.

As the catchy beats and energetic melodies unfold, the lyrics evoke the essence of Florida's lively music scene and the carefree atmosphere. Through its upbeat tempo and infectious chorus, “Tallahassee Lassie” captures the vibrant and dynamic essence of Florida, serving as a musical testament to the spirited nature of the region and its people.

“Deep Down in Florida” by Muddy Waters

Song Year: 1977

Muddy Waters was a classic blues singer and musician known for heavily influencing the post-war Blues scene in Chicago.

His song, “Deep Down in Florida,” chronicles the classic Floridian experience of bringing a beautiful woman down to the beach. The singer also mentions Gainsville—everyone’s favorite college town.

Although it’s about Florida, this song features Muddy Waters’ classic Delta Blues sound, making you feel like you’re in the bayous of Southeastern Louisiana.

“All Signs Point to Lauderdale” by A Day to Remember

Song Year: 2011

This song speaks to an experience we can all recognize: teenage angst. It’s a metal-rock anthem from the hit band A Day to Remember that touches on growing up different in a town where everyone is the same.

The theme emerges in the music video, where the band is portrayed as pantsless and mocked by their classmates. It’s hard to be an emo kid in South Florida.

A Day to Remember was initially formed in Ocala, Florida, and consists of guitarist Tom Denney and drummer Bobby Scruggs. They are known for mixing metal, punk, and pop.

“Florabama” by JJ Grey & Mofro

Song Year: 2013

J.J. Grey & Mofro is a Southern rock and soul band from Jacksonville, Florida. JJ Grey is known for his blue-collar lyrics and soulful sound.

This song is about learning how to relax and enjoy the ups and downs of life. The lyrics touch on the small plot of land between Florida and Alabama, where the heat is thick, and the women are beautiful.

If you’ve ever been to the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll understand this song's upbeat, sultry character—and it will make you long to return to Florida.

“Tampa to Tulsa” by The Jayhawks

Song Year: 2003

The Jayhawks are an alternative country rock band known for their Midwestern sound and classic country roots.

However, one of their best songs isn’t about the Midwest, it’s about traveling to the Sunshine State. The protagonist sits in the back of a plane on his way to Florida, dreaming of the woman he plans to meet in Tampa.

The song is a timeless classic about a theme we can all relate to long-distance relationships and traveling far and wide for love.

“Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce” by Elvis Presley

Song Year: 1965

This artist needs no introduction. One of the most beautiful and playful songs about South Florida comes from the world-famous King of Rock. The song was initially made for the movie Girl Happy, but it stands well on its own.

The song is about the riches of Fort Lauderdale, generously provided by the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce.

The music video is a classic 50s clip featuring Elvis spying on a beautiful woman jumping into a crystalline pool. It’s a narrative clip about how he wins the young woman over by serenading her.

“Hot Fun in the Summertime” by Sly and the Family Stone

Song Year: 1969

The summer of 1969 was all about sunshine, peace, and love—and this song embodies the spirit of the flower children.

From classic ‘60s band Sly and the Family Stone, this song chronicles the hot summer days when kids skip school and lovers reunite at the county fair.

It’s the perfect song to start the summer off right—or any season if you live in Florida, where it’s always hot and the sun always shines.

“Miami 2017” by Billy Joel

Song Year: 1976

In the 1970s, New York was in disarray, and many speculated about its impending downfall. This song predicts what would happen if an apocalypse hit the town, taking on a whole new meaning after 9/11.

Joel describes a fleet of New Yorkers taking off for brighter shores in the song. Headed to Miami, they hope to leave the crumbling city behind.

Billy Joel is known for his highly political songs that are heavily grounded in the cultural spirit of his time, and this song is no different.