30 Songs That Start With O

The letter O might seem unassuming at first glance, but in the world of music, it unlocks a treasure trove of iconic tunes. From upbeat anthems to melancholic ballads, songs that start with O paint a diverse sonic landscape, capturing a spectrum of emotions and experiences. Buckle up, music lovers, as we embark on a journey through 30 unforgettable songs that begin with this powerful vowel!

1. “Oops!… I Did It Again” by Britney Spears

Released year: 2000

“Oops!… I Did It Again” by Britney Spears playfully portrays a young woman who unintentionally leads someone on. Despite her innocent intentions (“I think I did it again / I made you believe we’re more than just friends”), she gets caught up in the “game” of love and flirtation (“Oops, I did it again / I played with your heart, got lost in the game”).

The song acknowledges the potential for hurt feelings (“Oops, you think I’m in love / That I’m sent from above / I’m not that innocent”), but ultimately maintains a lighthearted and carefree tone. The bridge, referencing the movie “Titanic,” adds a touch of whimsy and reinforces the idea of playful innocence (“I went down and got it for you”).

Overall, “Oops!… I Did It Again” is a catchy pop song about the innocent mistakes and playful confusion that can occur in young love.

2. “Ophelia” by The Lumineers

Released year: 2016

“Ophelia” by The Lumineers is a haunting ballad about the lingering hold of a past love.

The narrator, despite having moved on, can’t shake the memory of “Ophelia,” who represents an all-consuming but ultimately incompatible relationship. He cycles through guilt, apathy, and longing, highlighting the push-and-pull between desire and reality.

The repeated refrain of “Ophelia” and “Heaven help a fool who falls in love” underscores the bittersweet mix of affection and pain, leaving the listener with a sense of melancholic nostalgia.

3. “Ocean Avenue” by Yellowcard

Released year: 2003

“Ocean Avenue” by Yellowcard is a nostalgic ballad about lost young love.

The narrator reminisces about carefree days spent with his sweetheart on Ocean Avenue and Cherry Street, yearning for a second chance (“If I could find you now things would get better”). Despite the heartbreak and separation (“I remember the look in your eyes / When I told you that this was goodbye”), hope lingers (“I know somewhere somehow we’ll be together”).

Overall, the song paints a bittersweet picture of love’s enduring power and the search for reconnection.

4. “Oblivion” by Grimes

Released year: 2012

In “Oblivion,” Grimes paints a picture of cautiousness and fear, fueled by potential dangers lurking in the dark.

The lyrics express a constant state of vigilance, avoiding walking alone at night and fearing sudden attacks. Despite this anxiousness, the song yearns for connection and understanding. The narrator seeks someone to share her anxieties, someone to “look into my eyes and tell me” they’re okay. The repetitive “la la la”s become a plea for reassurance, highlighting the desire to overcome fear and find companionship in the face of darkness.

While the song might seem melancholic, it ultimately reveals a vulnerability and a longing for connection, even amidst the anxieties.

5. “One” by U2

Released year: 1991

U2’s “One” navigates a complex relationship filled with tension, hurt, and a flicker of hope.

The lyrics grapple with questions of blame, disappointment, and forgiveness (“Is it getting better? Did I disappoint you?”), suggesting a fractured bond. Despite the pain (“We hurt each other then we do it again”), there’s a plea for connection and unity (“We’re one, but we’re not the same”).

The song transcends romantic love, embracing a broader message of shared humanity (“One love, one blood”). The final soaring chorus emphasizes the need to rise above hurt and carry each other (“Higher, baby, yeah”), offering a glimmer of hope for reconciliation and a stronger bond despite differences.

6. “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus

Released year: 2018

Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” blends hip-hop and country to tell a story of escaping limitations and achieving success on his own terms. The “old town road” symbolizes his journey to fame and fortune, fueled by self-confidence (“Can’t nobody tell me nothin'”). He contrasts his humble beginnings (“Ridin’ on a tractor”) with his newfound wealth (“Ridin’ down Rodeo in my Maserati sports car”).

The song celebrates individuality and defiance, with a touch of playful humor (“Cheated on my baby / You can go and ask her”). Billy Ray Cyrus adds a layer of twangy authenticity, solidifying the genre-bending charm of the track.

7. “Only Time” by Enya

Released year: 2000

“Only Time” by Enya offers a message of solace and hope in the face of uncertainty.

The lyrics pose a series of questions about love, loss, and the passage of time, emphasizing that only time can provide answers. Phrases like “who can say” and “only time” create a sense of mystery and acceptance, suggesting that the future is unknown but ultimately holds the potential for healing and growth. The repetition of “night keeps all your heart” hints at moments of darkness and sorrow, but the overall tone remains hopeful, suggesting that time will eventually bring peace and clarity.

8. “One More Time” by Daft Punk

Released year: 2000

“One More Time” by Daft Punk is an infectious dance anthem fueled by the pure joy of celebration. The repetitive lyrics, dominated by the plea “one more time,” emphasize the desire to prolong the euphoric feeling of revelry and uninhibited movement.

The song builds on a simple yet powerful message: lose yourself in the music, forget your worries, and celebrate life with abandon. The robotic vocals and futuristic soundscape further accentuate the song’s otherworldly dancefloor atmosphere, making it an irresistible call to get moving and celebrate “one more time.”

9. “One Step Closer” by Linkin Park

Released year: 2000

“One Step Closer” by Linkin Park explodes with raw anger and frustration. The lyrics paint a picture of someone pushed to their emotional limit, drowning in negativity and yearning for silence. The repeated refrain, “Everything you say to me takes me one step closer to the edge,” emphasizes the mounting pressure and the threat of a breakdown.

The song’s intensity culminates in a desperate plea for silence and space, punctuated by the defiant chant of “Shut up when I’m talking to you.” It’s a powerful anthem of angst and rebellion, resonating with anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed and unheard.

10. “One and Only” by Adele

Released year: 2011

In “One and Only,” Adele pours her heart out, yearning for a love that overcomes past hurts and doubts.

The song opens with her confessing growing feelings and longing, grappling with fear and hesitation despite recognizing this special connection. The singer pleads with the beloved to take a chance, forget their past, and trust her to be their “one and only.”

The lyrics showcase vulnerability and a deep desire for commitment, urging the object of affection to reciprocate and embark on a journey together. While acknowledging the challenges of opening up, Adele assures her worthiness and promises unwavering dedication until the very end.

Overall, “One and Only” is a powerful ballad radiating raw emotion and a fervent plea for a love that conquers all.

11. “One Day Like This” by Elbow

Released year: 2008


“One Day Like This” by Elbow paints a vivid picture of waking up to newfound love and clarity. The song opens with the narrator reflecting on past mistakes, attributing him to the power of love (“I can only think it must be love”). This newfound love ignites a spark, prompting passionate declarations (“Kiss me like we die tonight”) and a newfound appreciation for life (“Holy cow I love your eyes”).

The lyrics capture the intimate moments of shared affection, from playful winks to stolen kisses. Despite the awkwardness and fumbling (“Stumbling over what to say”), the overall feeling is one of pure joy and optimism. The chorus emphasizes the transformative power of such a day, declaring, “One day like this a year would see me right.” This simple yet powerful sentiment encapsulates the song’s message of love’s ability to illuminate even the darkest days.

12. “One of Us” by ABBA

Released year: 1981

ABBA’s “One of Us” paints a picture of regret and longing after a relationship’s end.

The narrator, initially jealous of missed opportunities, initiated the breakup. Now, filled with remorse, she reflects on the loneliness and emptiness she caused both herself and her former partner. The repeated refrain, “One of us is crying, one of us is lying,” highlights the contrasting emotional states while “Wishing she had never left at all” emphasizes the deep desire for reconciliation.

Overall, through personal blame and introspective reflection, the song explores the aftermath of a painful decision and the yearning for a second chance.

13. “Ordinary World” by Duran Duran

Released year: 1993

“Ordinary World” by Duran Duran paints a melancholic picture of loss and resilience.

The narrator grapples with the ghost of a lost relationship and the pain of their absence, questioning the world around him. Despite the heartache, he refuses to dwell on the past and vows to find his way back to an “ordinary world,” a place of normalcy and survival.

The lyrics touch on broader themes of suffering and greed, highlighting the contrast between personal struggles and global issues. Ultimately, the song offers a message of hope and determination, stating that even in the face of adversity, one can find strength and adapt to any world they encounter.

14. “Out of My Mind” by Duran Duran

Released year: 1997

“Out of My Mind” by Duran Duran is a haunting lament about the lingering presence of a lost love.

The song opens with a melancholic scene of mourning, setting the stage for the emotional turmoil that follows. The lyrics weave between yearning and frustration, expressing a desperate desire to move on while being consumed by memories.

Despite the pain, the song acknowledges a deeper connection, wondering if the lost love feels the same pull. The chorus encapsulates the struggle: “Got to get you out of my mind, but I can’t escape from the feeling.” The final lines, repeating “deep in the back of your mind,” leave a lasting impression of the enduring impact of love and loss.

15. “Only Your Love” by Bananarama

Released year: 1991

“Only Your Love” by Bananarama is a powerful ballad that explores themes of love, freedom, and connection.

The lyrics depict a journey from loneliness and isolation to empowerment and liberation found through a transformative love. The singer compares her lover to an “angel divine,” emphasizing the profound impact his presence has. She expresses a willingness to sacrifice everything for this love, highlighting its depth and importance.

The chorus emphasizes the universal need for love and connection, urging listeners not to feel alone. It builds to a fervent plea, “Only your love can free me,” showcasing the love’s ability to break free from limitations and bring emotional ease. The song ends with a repeated plea, “Never let me go,” reinforcing the desperate desire to hold onto this transformative love.

16. “Only you” by Savage

Released year: 1984

Savage’s “Only You” paints a passionate yet unsettling portrait of love. The lyrics revolve around a singular obsession, where “you” are the only solace, the only solution to loneliness and blindness. The repetition of “only you” emphasizes this dependence, bordering on possessiveness.

While the verses describe finding comfort and clarity in “your eyes in the blue,” the chorus takes a darker turn. The desperate pleas of “don’t push me aside” and “don’t leave me to die” hint at an unhealthy attachment, amplified by the repeated “it all seems so right.”

Despite the sweetness of the melody, the lyrics leave a lingering unease. Is this love or a consuming need? The song’s ending, with the chorus echoing endlessly, leaves the question unanswered.

17. “One Way Ticket” by Boney M.

Released year: 1979

One Way Ticket by Boney M. is a melancholic disco anthem driven by the protagonist’s heartbreak.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of emotional desolation, using the metaphor of a “one way ticket to the blues.” As the “choo choo train” carries the heartbroken singer away, he bids farewell to his lost love and resigns himself to a stay at “heartbreak hotel.”

Despite the pain, the song maintains a catchy rhythm, urging the listener to “truck on” through their own struggles. With its relatable themes and infectious energy, “One Way Ticket” remains a timeless dancefloor classic.

18. “Only Love Can Break My Heart” by Modern Talking

Released year: 1986

“Only Love Can Break My Heart “by Modern Talking is a synth-pop anthem about the all-consuming power of love.

The song opens with the singer captivated by his lover, an “angel” who fills his dreams and nights. The singer acknowledges the intensity of young love, its unstoppable nature, and the vulnerability it brings. The chorus, “Only love can break my heart,” emphasizes the double-edged sword of love’s power: it brings immense joy but also the risk of heartbreak.

Despite the fear of pain, the singer declares his unwavering love and commitment, pleading with his partner to reciprocate. He acknowledges the challenges and potential deception in love, but ultimately reiterates the belief in its transformative power. The song ends with a hopeful message: true love, though risky, is worth the fight.

19. “Once in a Blue Moon” by Arabesque

Released year: 1980

“Once in a Blue Moon” by Arabesque is a bittersweet dance-pop song about a passionate, yet unreliable lover.

The lyrics paint a picture of stolen nights and empty promises, leaving the narrator longing for a deeper, more committed connection. Despite knowing it’s unhealthy, she falls back into his arms whenever he reappears, seeking the thrill but facing inevitable heartbreak at dawn. The song’s title reflects the infrequency of his affection, making it all the more alluring and painful.

Ultimately, it’s a story of conflicting desires and the struggle between passion and self-respect.

20. “Omen” by The Prodigy

Released year: 2009

The Prodigy’s “Omen” is a stark and urgent call to action, pulsating with a sense of impending doom.

The lyrics, though repetitive, hammer home a single message: a dire omen looms, yet we remain blindly robotic, running on “automation.” The insistent refrain “It’s an omen! Now!” serves as a wake-up call, urging us to heed the warning before it’s too late.

Overall, this powerful anthem demands attention, leaving listeners with a lingering unease and a call to break free from our programmed routines.

21. “One Love” by Dr. Alban

Released year: 1992

Dr. Alban’s “One Love” is a reggae-tinged dance anthem advocating for unity and love over jealousy and materialism.

The song criticizes those prioritizing money over genuine connections, highlighting the destructive nature of negativity. He urges listeners to “stand up for your right” and embrace a more positive, loving approach to life.

Despite facing negativity, the artist remains confident, emphasizing the power of “One Love” to overcome darkness and create a better world. The infectious chorus and Dr. Alban’s charismatic delivery make this song a timeless call for unity and positive change.

22. “Ordinary Love” by U2

Released year: 2013

“Ordinary Love” by U2 is a powerful ballad celebrating enduring love’s resilience and strength. Painted with imagery of sunlight, seashores, and birds soaring high, the song speaks of two souls finding solace and beauty in each other.

Despite facing challenges (“The sea throws rocks together”), their bond remains unshakeable (“I can’t fight you anymore”). The chorus emphasizes the song’s core message: true love lies in the “ordinary,” the everyday moments that build a foundation stronger than any grand gesture.

The repeated refrain, “Are we tough enough for ordinary love?”, becomes a self-assured declaration as the song reaches its climax. Ultimately, “Ordinary Love” leaves listeners with a sense of hope and the profound power of love’s simple embrace.

23. “Oh Father” by Madonna

Released year: 1989

“Oh Father” by Madonna is a poignant ballad exploring a complex father-daughter relationship.

The lyrics unveil childhood pain from perceived neglect and anger, transitioned into newfound strength and liberation. The singer declares, “You can’t hurt me now,” showcasing defiance and self-assurance. However, remnants of doubt linger, with questions like “Why am I running away?” hinting at unresolved hurt and a desire for understanding.

Though the song ends with a hopeful note, suggesting future forgiveness and empathy, the journey through emotional turmoil remains palpable.

24. “Open Your Heart” by Madonna

Released year: 1986

“Open Your Heart” by Madonna is a passionate plea for love, bordering on playful persistence. The singer expresses strong desire but feels ignored, lamenting, “You choose to look the other way.”

The lyrics transition to a determined pursuit, with lines like “Don’t try to run, I can keep up with you.” The central metaphor is a lock and key, with the singer holding the lock and the object of affection holding the key. The chorus pleads, “Open your heart to me,” promising love in return, “I’ll give you love if you, you turn the key.” The song ends with a confident, almost seductive, insistence: “Open your heart, I’ll make you love me.”

Overall, it’s a catchy dance-pop anthem about longing, determination, and the belief that love can be unlocked.

25. “One Love” by Bob Marley

Released year: 1977

Bob Marley’s “One Love” is a powerful plea for unity and peace.

The song opens with a hopeful call for togetherness, but quickly acknowledges the suffering of children and questions the place of sinners. Despite this darkness, Marley emphasizes the enduring power of one love and one heart, reminding us to give thanks and praises. He transitions to fighting “holy Armageddon” and seeking pity for those struggling, highlighting God’s judgement.

The song ends with a renewed plea for unity and thanks, leaving a lasting message of hope and connection.

26. “On The Floor” by Jennifer Lopez ft. Pitbull

Released year: 2011

“On The Floor” by Jennifer Lopez ft. Pitbull is an infectious party anthem that throws open the doors to a global dance floor.

J-Lo and Pitbull ignite the energy, inviting everyone to join the celebration. The song pulsates with rhythmic beats, urging listeners to lose themselves in the music and unleash their inner animal. From the club to the streets, the party transcends borders, uniting people from Brazil to Africa in a joyful movement.

With its catchy lyrics and energetic vibe, “On The Floor” is an irresistible invitation to let loose, live life to the fullest, and dance the night away.

27. “Out of My Head” by Fastball

Released year: 1998

Out of My Head” by Fastball is an introspective rock ballad about regret and self-reflection.

The singer grapples with past mistakes and questions his actions, wondering if he was “out of his head” or “out of his mind.” He acknowledges that his words aren’t enough and that his actions are what truly matter.

The song builds to a plea for open communication, urging the listener to speak up if they’re unhappy. With its relatable lyrics and catchy melody, “Out of My Head” is a song that resonates with anyone who has ever questioned their own behavior or felt misunderstood.

28. “One More Night” by Maroon 5

Released year: 2012

One More Night by Maroon 5 is a passionate, conflicted plea for just one more night with a toxic lover.

The lyrics paint a picture of a fiery, dysfunctional relationship filled with arguments and slammed doors. Despite knowing it’s unhealthy, the narrator is drawn back by an irresistible physical attraction, feeling “stupid” and “guilty” for giving in. The chorus encapsulates this struggle, with the singer vowing to leave while simultaneously begging for one more night. This push-and-pull continues, highlighting the torment of wanting what’s bad for you.

With its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, the song explores the complex emotions of desire and self-destruction within a passionate, yet troubled relationship.

29. “Obsessed” by Mariah Carey

Released year: 2009

“Obsessed” by Mariah Carey is a fiery anthem fueled by frustration and amusement. The song depicts a woman, presumably Mariah herself, facing an unnamed individual’s obsessive fabrications about their non-existent relationship.

Through sassy lyrics and powerful vocals, she dismantles these lies, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. She questions the individual’s motives, attributing their actions to jealousy and a desire for attention.

With lines like “Finally found a girl that you couldn’t impress” and “Seeing right through you like you’re bathing in Windex,” she asserts her dominance and dismisses his claims with humor. The chorus, a catchy chant of “Why you so obsessed with me?” further emphasizes her bewilderment and annoyance.

Overall, this song empowers listeners to confront unhealthy fixations and celebrate self-assurance, leaving the obsessed individual “starving” for the attention they crave.

30. “On My Way” by Alan Walker, Sabrina Carpenter & Farruko

Released year: 2019

“On My Way” by Alan Walker, Sabrina Carpenter & Farruko is an electropop anthem about resilience and self-discovery.

The song opens with a heartbroken woman needing space to process her emotions. While acknowledging the pain, she channels it into strength, refusing to be a victim. Instead, she embraces her independence and newfound fire, symbolized by the rising blood moon.

Farruko echoes this sentiment, acknowledging his mistakes but choosing to move on for his own well-being. The chorus unites their voices, both declaring their journey towards self-preservation and freedom.

Despite the vulnerability exposed in the lyrics, the overall message is empowering, urging listeners to take charge of their own happiness and destiny.

Songs That Start With O, Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the world of music offers a rich tapestry of melodies and lyrics, and within it, songs that start with “O” hold a special place. From timeless classics like “One Love” by Bob Marley to modern pop hits like “Oops!… I Did It Again” by Britney Spears, songs that start with O showcase a diverse range of genres and emotions. Whether you seek inspiration, nostalgia, or simply a catchy tune, these songs deliver. So, next time you’re crafting a playlist or searching for a new favorite, don’t forget to explore the captivating realm of “Songs That Start With O”.

And for those eager to delve deeper into musical exploration, why not embark on a journey through another curated list? Check out our article on “30 Songs That Start With P” for a delightful array of melodies awaiting discovery. Happy listening!