Songs about being 17 resonate with many of us, as they encapsulate the whirlwind of emotions and experiences during our teenage years.
Turning 17 marks a significant milestone, where we are on the brink of adulthood, yet still navigating the complexities of adolescence. In this article, we will delve into a collection of 30 remarkable songs that capture the essence of being 17, exploring their profound lyrics and melodies that continue to echo through generations.
1. “Seventeen” by Alessia Cara
Released year: 2015
“Seventeen” by Alessia Cara is a poignant song that captures the essence of being 17, navigating life’s changes, and reminiscing about the past.
With heartfelt lyrics, Alessia expresses how life evolves rapidly, like blades of grass that wither away with time. The song beautifully emphasizes the longing to freeze time at seventeen, a tender age filled with fears, dreams, and the eagerness to grow up.
Alessia’s introspective journey reflects on parental advice, the importance of cherished friendships, and the timeless wisdom of love. Through her melodic voice, she shares a mix of nostalgia and hope, reminding us that even as seasons change, the memories of being seventeen stay etched in the heart forever.
2. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA
Released year: 1976
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA is a vibrant and catchy song that puts you in a dancing mood.
The lyrics depict the excitement of being young, sweet, and only seventeen, exploring the joys of being the life of the party. The song’s lively tempo and tambourine beats will make you want to dance and jive, having the time of your life.
ABBA celebrates the thrill of going out on a Friday night, looking for a place where the right music plays, and anyone can be the king or queen of the dance floor.
It’s a fun and engaging tune that captures the essence of youthful exuberance and the love for dancing. So, feel the beat, join in, and dig the dancing queen!
3. “At Seventeen” by Janis Ian
Released year: 1975
“At Seventeen” by Janis Ian is a heartfelt ballad that beautifully captures the poignant journey of being seventeen.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the painful realization that love often favors conventional beauty, leaving those of us with insecurities to yearn for acceptance.
Janis shares the experience of feeling overlooked, witnessing others bask in the glory of love while she lingers in solitude, creating imaginary romances to fill the void.
The song speaks of the struggles faced by those who don’t fit the social norms, where even a simple basketball game could leave us feeling rejected.
With her soulful voice, Janis reminds us of the harsh realities hidden behind the superficial facade of a young and seemingly carefree life. “At Seventeen” echoes the universal longing for love, acceptance, and the struggle to find oneself amidst a world that often judges us by our appearance and social standing.
4. “Seventeen” by Winger
Released year: 1988
“Seventeen” by Winger is a captivating rock ballad that revolves around the magic of being 17.
With sparks flying, love, at first sight, unfolds when the protagonist meets a girl who’s just the right age. Despite initial doubts, their connection deepens, and she becomes everything he needs.The song exudes passion and desire, with the protagonist willing to overlook any age-related concerns.
The lyrics portray a strong attraction between the two, and the girl’s confidence and maturity add to the allure. As the story unfolds, it becomes evident that love knows no age, making “Seventeen” a timeless anthem of youthful romance and boundless affection. Yeah, it’s all about being 17!
5. “Edge of Seventeen” by Stevie Nicks
Released year: 1981
“Edge of Seventeen” by Stevie Nicks is a mesmerizing song that beautifully captures the essence of being 17.
With the white-winged dove as a metaphor, the singer conveys a sense of freedom and youthfulness. The hauntingly familiar music and poetic lyrics reflect a yearning to please and find answers. As the days go by, like a strand in the wind, the song portrays the passage of time and the changes in life.
Nicks’ soulful voice and melodic rhythm make it a timeless classic. Throughout the song, she reminisces about a past love, evoking emotions of heartache and the desire to be near the person again.
“Edge of Seventeen” is an evocative journey through love, loss, and the complexities of growing up.
6. “It Was a Very Good Year” by Frank Sinatra
Released year: 1965
It Was a Very Good Year” by Frank Sinatra is a nostalgic ballad that reminisces about life’s different stages.
The song begins with the singer reflecting on being 17, a time of innocence and small-town romance. Transitioning to 21, he remembers the allure of city girls and youthful adventures. Moving on to 35, he celebrates the elegance of blue-blooded ladies and their luxurious lifestyles. Finally, in the autumn of life, he compares his experiences to vintage wine, rich with memories from the past.
Throughout, the song evokes a sense of wistful reflection on the passage of time and the beauty of different life stages.
7. “As the Years Go By” by Mashmakhan
Released year: 1970
“As the Years Go By” by Mashmakhan is a poignant song that beautifully captures the journey of love through different stages of life. It revolves around a recurring theme of love and its evolving meanings, specifically focusing on the age of 17 as a pivotal moment. The lyrics reflect a child’s innocent inquiry to his mother, a teenager’s passionate declaration to his sweetheart, and later, an elder couple’s enduring affection.
The song suggests that love transforms as we grow older, yet its essence remains eternal. The transitions in the lyrics symbolize the progression of life, from childhood to adulthood, and the importance of love and commitment at every stage. It resonates with the idea that true love is constant and steadfast throughout the passage of time.
With its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody, “As the Years Go By” reminds us of the enduring power of love, its ability to mature and endure, and its significance in every chapter of life’s journey.
8. “Seventeen” by Ladytron
Released year: 2002
“Seventeen” by Ladytron is a captivating song that reflects on the bittersweet nature of youth. With its repetitive yet hauntingly melodic chorus, the track delves into the notion that people tend to desire others most when they are young and full of life at the age of 17. As time passes and one reaches the age of 21, the allure seems to diminish, and life becomes less exciting.
The analogy of a Polaroid picture captures the fleeting moments of youthful beauty, as they are taken and then let go.
Throughout the song, the singer implores the listener to embrace the present, as the world’s fascination with youth is transient. This poignant track serves as a reminder to cherish the essence of being 17 while it lasts, making it a reflection on the passing of time and the beauty of youth.
9. “17” by Youth Lagoon
Released year: 2011
“17” by Youth Lagoon is a heartfelt reflection on being seventeen, filled with nostalgic memories and yearning.
The lyrics take us back to roaming a lakeside campground, searching for snakes but finding something deeper. The singer’s mother’s wise advice echoes through time, urging not to cease imagining, as imagination fuels life.
Now, growing up, the burden of responsibility feels as heavy as pulling a one-ton carriage, replacing carefree days. The desire to find someone to talk to, free from judgment, lingers, while the snakes remain elusive, representing unwanted challenges.
This song beautifully encapsulates the joy and complexities of being 17.
10. “Seventeen” by Marina
Released year: 2010
“Seventeen” by Marina is an introspective song reflecting on the struggles of being 17. It beautifully encapsulates the emotions of growing up and finding one’s voice in a world of expectations.
The lyrics describe a clash of classes, where the singer’s outspoken nature challenges the upper-class norms and perceptions. Through clever transitions, Marina conveys her frustration with societal expectations and the pressure to conform.
The song speaks of a pivotal moment on her 17th birthday, signifying both the rise of her self-discovery and the fall of old stereotypes. It’s an empowering anthem about embracing individuality and breaking free from the confines of a rigid society.
11. “Seventeen” by Tim McGraw
Released year: 1999
“Seventeen” by Tim McGraw is a nostalgic ballad that takes us back to the sweet age of seventeen. Through vivid imagery, the song beautifully captures the innocence and excitement of being young and carefree. With heartfelt reminiscences of young love and carefree adventures, it delves into the experience of living on dreams, rock and roll, and faded blue jeans.
The lyrics highlight the fleeting nature of this phase, emphasizing how it only comes once in a lifetime, urging us to cherish those wild and free moments. As the singer reflects on youthful days spent by the bayou bridge, it becomes evident that being seventeen is a truly magical time in one’s life.
12. “Seventeen” by Bobby Brown
Released year: 1986
“Seventeen” by Bobby Brown is a powerful and soulful song that delves into the life of a young girl, only seventeen years old. With dreams in her eyes, she faced the world head-on, juggling school and church. Despite the understanding she had, life took unexpected turns when she left home due to her boyfriend’s flattery.
Love and passion led to the birth of her child, but the boyfriend vanished. She sold her soul to the streets, ensuring her child’s survival.
The lyrics emphasize the struggles of sex, drugs, and peer pressure, urging listeners to do what’s right and stay true to themselves. Through it all, being seventeen shaped her into a stronger person.
This emotionally charged song echoes the challenges faced at such a tender age, making it an ode to the complexities of being seventeen.
13. “Seventeen” by Alexa Vega
Released year: 2008
“Seventeen” by Alexa Vega is an empowering anthem about the tumultuous journey of being seventeen.
The song’s lyrics highlight the struggle to break free from parental control (“Mama drama’s got to go, Dad”), seeking independence and acceptance in a world that compares the singer to lifeless entities (“But you compare me to a corpse”). As she embraces newfound freedom, the transition from sixteen to seventeen becomes a pivotal turning point in her life (“Because I’m freer than sixteen!”). The repeated “Hey, hey, hey” phrases serve as a rallying cry, emphasizing her determination.
Ultimately, “Seventeen” celebrates self-discovery and embracing individuality, as the singer declares, “Seventeen and you can’t stop me, Seventeen and you won’t boss me!”
14. “17” by Zhavia Ward
Released year: 2019
“17” by Zhavia Ward is a captivating anthem that reflects on the struggles and triumphs of being 17. The song takes us on a journey through Zhavia’s humble upbringing in Norwalk, where she navigated life with determination. From walking the block to chasing dreams, she never gave up. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her hardships, like eating popcorn for dinner and living in motels while pursuing her passion for music.
With resilience, she faced the challenges head-on, and eventually, her talent caught the attention of the industry. Sacrifices were made, jobs were left behind, but Zhavia’s unstoppable spirit drove her forward. As the reality of her dreams unfolded, she now stands tall, proving that dreams can become reality with hard work and perseverance.
“17” serves as a powerful reminder that age doesn’t define potential, and with tenacity, one can overcome any obstacle. The song captures the essence of youthful determination, inspiring others to own their lives and face the world unapologetically. It’s an anthem of empowerment and showcases the real-life transformation from a young girl with a dream to a woman making her mark on the world.
15. “17” by Julia Michaels
Released year: 2019
“17” by Julia Michaels is a nostalgic and dreamy song that takes us back to the carefree days of being 17. In this wistful journey, the lyrics paint a picture of youthful love, where time seemed endless and troubles were nonexistent. The song captures the essence of innocent romance, with the singer reminiscing about riding in a drop-top down the block, dancing at crosswalks, and stealing moments in clubs.
The sweet and tender chorus yearns for a continuation of this blissful dream, where love and euphoria reign supreme. The desire to stay forever young and free from anger, bitterness, and loneliness is palpable throughout the verses. The melody and the lyrics combine to create an enchanting atmosphere that makes you long for the simplicity and purity of being 17 again.
Julia Michaels’ heartfelt delivery and the relatable themes of young love make “17” a song that resonates with anyone who cherishes their memories of teenage years and the exhilarating emotions that come with them.
16. “Seventeen” by Troye Sivan
Released year: 2018
“Seventeen” by Troye Sivan is a heartfelt reflection on the experiences of being 17.
The lyrics delve into the desires, naivety, and yearning for love at a tender age. Troye shares his beliefs and fears, admitting to seeking affection at a young age. Despite being green, he eagerly explores life, taking in the sights and sounds.
The track is a reminder that age is just a number; one can do whatever they want, regardless of societal expectations. The chorus echoes the memories of being 17, where emotions ran wild in the heat of the night, witnessing new and unforgettable things. The repetition of “Seventeen” emphasizes the significance of this transformative phase, making it a powerful and relatable anthem for anyone who has ever been young and yearned for love.
17. “He’s Seventeen” by The Supremes
Released year: 1962
“He’s Seventeen” by The Supremes is a delightful, upbeat song celebrating young love.
The lyrics revolve around the protagonist, who is just sixteen, adoring her guy, who happens to be seventeen. The song captures the excitement and happiness of their relationship, as they’ve pledged their love eternally. The catchy refrain, “He’s seventeen, I’m sixteen,” emphasizes their age difference playfully.
The lyrics convey the deep affection she has for her guy, and she’s unsure what draws her to him so strongly. Overall, this song beautifully encapsulates the joy and innocence of being 17 and experiencing the first throes of love.
18. “Seventeen” by Peach Pit
Released year: 2016
“Seventeen” by Peach Pit is a poignant song that captures the essence of being 17, brimming with youthful emotions.
The lyrics recount heartfelt moments, filled with insecurities and longing for affection. As the singer reflects on standing firm despite uncertainties, you can’t help but empathize with her vulnerability. From late-night encounters in Patrick Park to fleeting high school romances, the singer unveils a rollercoaster of experiences.
With a dark shadow looming overhead, the song delves into the struggles of adolescence. So, while memories of winter dances and stolen kisses are vivid, the song’s message remains clear: life at 17 is both turbulent and hopeful.
19. “Seventeen” by Tomberlin
Released year: 2018
“Seventeen” by Tomberlin is a poignant song about the vulnerability and struggles of being seventeen.
The lyrics beautifully capture the feeling of reverence mixed with discomfort when sitting across from someone you admire but are too scared to approach. The singer reminisces about a chance encounter with a mutual friend and how she pretended to look at the floor while stealing glances at the person’s hands. Love, in her experience, feels like war, especially when loving those who don’t reciprocate. Despite trying to distract herself, she remains deeply attached and blinded by her feelings.
The song’s gentle melody and introspective lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and raw emotions, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced the complexities of young love and unrequited affection.
20. “17” by Kings Of Leon
Released year: 2008
“17” by Kings Of Leon is a captivating song that delves into the complexities of being 17. With a mix of nostalgia and raw emotion, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of youthful struggles and desires. The singer reminisces about the challenges of growing up, represented by whining and weeping, while also celebrating the allure of youthful love.
The song’s powerful imagery evokes the chaos of life, from a “Bloody Mary breakfast busting up the street” to the turmoil between siblings. It’s a tale of farewell and self-discovery, symbolized by a heaving ship sailing away.
Amidst it all, the song highlights a unique connection with the girl, as her Spanish tongue and presence leave an indelible mark on the singer. The refrain of “I could call you baby, I could call you” underscores the intense bond that makes her one in a million.
Overall, “17” encapsulates the bittersweet essence of being on the verge of adulthood, beautifully crafted by Kings Of Leon.
21. “Seventeen Ain’t So Sweet” by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus
Released year: 2006
Seventeen Ain’t So Sweet” by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus is a powerful anthem about being 17, a time of challenges and self-discovery. The lyrics urge you not to conform to trends, but to rise above and embrace your unique self.
With a fire in your eyes and a scream in your voice, the song inspires you to be heard and stand strong against the crushing weight of the world. It advises living without regrets and shining brightly, even when others try to dim your light. The rhythmic beats and hopeful lyrics remind you that the power to be seen and make a difference lies within you. So, relax, let that fire burn, and let your voice be heard loud and clear.
22. “When I Was Seventeen” by Saint Etienne
Released year: 2012
“When I Was Seventeen” by Saint Etienne is a nostalgic reflection on the exuberant dreams and boundless possibilities of being 17. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a time when the world seemed full of brilliance and endless opportunities.
The song takes us back to a youthful era, where responsibility was nonexistent, and the future appeared clean and modern like the architectural masterpieces of Lubetkin, Corbusier, and others. The music and songs played back then feel like distant echoes now, but the memories remain strong.
This heartfelt track beautifully captures the essence of being 17, where everything felt known and uncertain at the same time, all through the lens of Saint Etienne’s distinctive sound.
23. “Seventeen” by Krista Siegfrids
Released year: 2013
“Seventeen” by Krista Siegfrids is a nostalgic and lively song that takes us back to the age of 17. With enchanting transitions, it paints a vivid picture of carefree moments and young love.
The lyrics beautifully reminisce about carefree nights, unforgettable friendships, and the magic of being young and free. The song cleverly captures the essence of being 17, a time when every experience felt incredible and every day held boundless possibilities.
As the melody unfolds, we are reminded of the thrilling feeling of being a dancing queen and the air of excitement that surrounds us at 17. Krista’s vocals and the vibrant rhythm make this song a delightful journey down memory lane, reminding us that there’s truly something special in the air when you’re seventeen.
24. “17” by Avril Lavigne
Released year: 2013
“17” by Avril Lavigne is a nostalgic ode to the unforgettable days of being seventeen.
The lyrics take us back to a small-town life, where love tasted like cigarettes and soda pop. The memories of kissing in the parking lot and sneaking into the neighbor’s pool are vividly portrayed. The song reminisces about the carefree, wild, and free-spirited moments of youth, when love and freedom were all that mattered. Red lights were run, and nights were spent going all out, without a care in the world.
Avril’s heartfelt vocals paint a picture of stolen beers, rooftop blankets, and reckless adventures. “17” beautifully captures the essence of being young and in love, making us long for those glorious days of youth.
25. “Cigarette Daydreams” by Cage The Elephant
Released year: 2013
“Cigarette Daydreams” by Cage The Elephant is a captivating song that beautifully expresses the emotional turmoil of being 17.
The lyrics paint a picture of standing alone, lost and unable to explain life’s complexities. The protagonist finds solace in someone who seems distant and troubled, maybe even afraid to face his own emotions. The search for answers and peace of mind drives them, but the journey is as endless as driving all night in the pouring rain.
The soft, melodic tones match the vulnerability of the story, leaving listeners mesmerized. The song resonates deeply, capturing the universal desire for change and understanding, all while standing in the pouring rain.
26. “brutal” by Olivia Rodrigo
Released year: 2021
“Brutal” by Olivia Rodrigo is a powerful and raw anthem that delves into the struggles of being 17.
The song portrays a feeling of insecurity, constant self-doubt, and the pressure to meet others’ expectations. Olivia vividly expresses her yearning for a different life and feeling unappreciated despite giving her best efforts. The lyrics convey a mix of frustration and vulnerability, as she battles with her ego and feelings of inadequacy.
The track beautifully captures the complexities of teenage emotions, where one wishes to escape the harsh realities and desires to be understood. Through poignant lyrics and a gripping melody, Olivia captures the essence of the turbulent teenage experience in a way that resonates with many.
27. “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Alan Merrill
Released year: 1976
“I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Alan Merrill is an awesome song that just rocks!
The lyrics tell a story about seeing a girl dancing by the record machine, and the excitement of knowing she’s just 17. The beat is strong, playing the favorite song, and you can feel the connection building.
It’s all about the love for rock and roll and the thrill of the moment. So, put another dime in the jukebox, baby, and let’s dance to this classic tune!
28. “I Saw Her Standing There” by The Beatles
Released year: 1963
“I Saw Her Standing There” by The Beatles is a lively and catchy tune that captures the essence of youthful romance.
The song narrates a charming encounter with a seventeen-year-old girl, captivating in a way that defies comparison. As the narrator saw her standing there, he couldn’t help but feel a deep connection, unable to dance with anyone else. With hearts pounding, they held hands and danced throughout the night, falling head over heels in love.
This upbeat track celebrates the magic of young love, and since that momentous meeting, the singer is devoted to his newfound love, vowing never to dance with another. The song’s vibrant energy and catchy melody are sure to leave you humming along.
29. “Girls” by The 1975
Released year: 2013
“Girls” by The 1975 is a captivating song that delves into the complexities of relationships and the struggles of being 17 years old.
The lyrics explore themes of rebellion, youthful defiance, and the desire for independence. The protagonist seems torn between the excitement of breaking rules and societal norms and the realization that these actions may lead to heartbreak and disappointment.
The song’s narrative revolves around the persona’s encounters with girls, wrestling with the challenges of growing up and making tough decisions. Throughout the track, The 1975’s signature blend of indie pop and alternative rock creates an infectious and introspective atmosphere, making “Girls” a relatable anthem for those navigating the uncertainties of adolescence.
30. “Carmen” by Lana Del Rey
Released year: 2012
“Carmen” by Lana Del Rey is a captivating song that delves into the life of a 17-year-old girl named Carmen. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her enigmatic personality, as she navigates a world of charm, allure, and self-destruction. Carmen’s allure is intoxicating as she captivates both boys and girls with her enigmatic presence, but beneath her glamorous exterior lies a troubled soul, relying on vices to cope. Lana’s haunting vocals, coupled with the poetic lyrics, portray Carmen’s yearning for love, acceptance, and escape from the harsh reality of her life.
Throughout the song, we witness Carmen’s self-destructive tendencies, as she immerses herself in a world of fleeting pleasures, using alcohol and drugs to numb her pain. Despite her young age, she carries a heavy burden, seeking solace in the company of strangers and embracing a life of chaos. The track’s haunting melody and emotive delivery capture the essence of Carmen’s tumultuous journey, as she grapples with the consequences of her choices.
“Carmen” serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities that often come with being a troubled teenager, searching for identity, belonging, and validation. Lana Del Rey’s mesmerizing storytelling and evocative lyrics make this song an introspective exploration of youth, fame, and the desire for something more profound amidst a backdrop of self-inflicted chaos.
Songs About Being 17, Final Thoughts
In conclusion, songs about being 17 provide a captivating and relatable insight into the rollercoaster of emotions experienced during our teenage years. From the nostalgic tunes of the past to the modern anthems that resonate with today’s youth, each song encapsulates a unique facet of this transformative age.
As we listen to these melodies and immerse ourselves in the lyrics, we can’t help but reflect on our own journey at 17 – the friendships, heartbreaks, dreams, and aspirations that have shaped us into who we are today. These songs serve as a timeless reminder that the teenage years are a pivotal time of growth, self-discovery, and cherished memories.
As we bid farewell to this collection of songs about being 17, I encourage you to continue exploring the power of music in understanding the human experience. Delve into another article that celebrates the adventures, challenges, and newfound freedom of turning 18. Songs about being 18 bring with them a fresh perspective and an exciting transition into adulthood, allowing us to relive those moments of youthful enthusiasm while embracing the responsibilities that come with growing older.
So, let the melodies guide you, the lyrics resonate with you, and the memories flood back as you embark on this musical journey through the ages. May the power of music continue to connect us all and remind us that, no matter the age, the magic of being young at heart lives on through the songs we hold dear.