In this blog post, we're exploring 26 Songs That Start With Y. Spanning from 1990 to the present, this collection showcases the incredible diversity of the music industry.
Our rule makes this specific alphabet series particularly intriguing. It is the one-artist rule: no musician can appear twice on our playlist of songs beginning with a particular alphabet. This ensures a richly varied musical experience, introducing you to perhaps unfamiliar tunes while rekindling your love for well-known hits.
Songs beginning with Y are limited to songs released in or after 1990 till date. Each song is a gem in its own right, capturing the essence of its time while contributing to the timeless journey of music. Whether you're a die-hard music enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys a good tune, this list has something for everyone. Let the journey begin!
Spotify Playlist of Songs That Start With Y
Yeah Yeah – Willy Moon
This high-energy track, released in 2012, quickly became known for its unique blend of rockabilly, pop, and hip hop sounds all into one. This song starting with Y grabs your attention from the first drop of the beat. Its success landed it in various commercials and TV shows, boosting its popularity. The music video is a stylish, black-and-white affair, reflecting the song's retro yet contemporary vibe. Willy made this a perfect example of how to combine the old and new to create something truly exciting.
Yellow Brick Road – Eminem
This song that starts with Y didn’t make our playlist for a fancy musical video, no. It made it for the real talk that Eminem laid in the lyrics. It came about after a song he made back in the day came back to haunt him. Eminem was bold enough to address the issue from the previous song and he also offered an apology. "Yellow Brick Road," is from his 2004 album 'Encore' and it makes our list of songs that start with Y.
Yesterday – Boyz II Men
If you are looking for a harmonious masterpiece then look no further. This 1994 rendition of The Beatles' classic "Yesterday" is soulful, as Boyz II Men put their signature R&B twist on it. The track showcases their vocal range and the talent within the group. Yesterday speaks of nostalgia and regret, a theme universally understood by listeners. It paints a vivid picture of longing and reflection in the listener's mind.
Yikes – Kanye West
Released in 2018, "Yikes" from Kanye West's album 'Ye' is a hard-hitting track where he discusses his struggles with mental health and the public's perception of him. The song offers a glimpse into Kanye's world, blending honesty with his unique style. Although it didn't have a music video, "Yikes" charted in the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and it makes our playlist of songs that start with Y.
Yo Pe – Innoss’b
An Afrobeats song makes our playlist of songs that start with Y and it is a vibrant blend of Congolese Afrobeat and modern pop. "Yo Pe" by Innoss'B became a hit in 2019 topping many African radio station charts. It's a dance-inducing track that speaks of wealth and success, resonating with many listeners.
The song's music video is a colorful display of African culture, dance, and fashion, adding an extra layer of joy and vibrancy to the tune. Also, there are two visuals of this song, one for the original and another for the remix featuring Diamond Platnumz. "Yo Pe" showcases Innoss'B's ability to create music that's not only fun but also culturally rich and visually engaging.
You Are Everything – Druhill
In 1997, Dru Hill released "You Are Everything," as a single from their album titled “Enter the Dru.” It is an apology song as well as a way of telling your partner you are nothing without her. In the lyrics, Druhill reflects on a recent argument they had with their partner. The day after the heated moment, they felt regret and a desire to reconcile with their partner. The music video featured her is of the remix which features New York rapper Ja Rule.
You Are My Kind – Santana featuring Seal
This 2002 collaboration between Santana and Seal combines Santana's legendary guitar skills with Seal's soulful voice, creating a smooth, melodious track. "You Are My Kind" is a song about finding someone who perfectly complements you in all ways. The fusion of Santana's Latin rock and Seal's R&B style makes it a memorable track from the album 'Shaman'.
You Are Not Alone – Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson's 1995 hit "You Are Not Alone," is written by R. Kelly. It became the first song ever to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and it also clinched the top spot in the UK charts. This gentle, reassuring ballad speaks of comfort and companionship to anyone who needs it. It says even if we are far apart the thought of you never leaves my mind and I am just 3 words away. R. Kelly thought it was a joke when he got the call that MJ wanted a song from him.
You Don’t Know – 702
This R&B track from the girl group 702, released in 1999, showcases their vocal talent and range. The song is about the complexities of relationships and may resonate with listeners who've experienced misunderstanding and miscommunication in love. These lyrics of the song express confusion and hurt feelings. When one questions why a partner leaves, especially since you have given everything you could.
You Don’t Know My Name – Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys' 2003 soulful hit, "You Don’t Know My Name," reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and won a Grammy for the Best R&B song of 2004. This song, blending R&B and soul, speaks about a girl crushing on a guy, longing and anticipating a new romance with him.
The accompanying music video, set in a diner, perfectly captures the song's narrative of the unspoken attraction and desire of a girl to a customer who regularly comes to dine. In the music video, this customer is played by MosDef. Keys' smooth vocals and the song's classic soul vibe make it a timeless piece in her discography.
You Gotta Be – Des’ree
Released in 1994, Des'ree's "You Gotta Be" is an uplifting song about self-empowerment and resilience. Its inspiring lyrics and catchy melody helped it become a hit, charting globally. The song's music video, simple yet effective, focuses on Des'ree's compelling presence and the song's positive message. This track remains a beloved anthem for its encouraging words and Des'ree's soothing voice.
You Know How We Do It – Ice Cube
Ice Cube's 1994 track "You Know How We Do It" is a smooth, laid-back rap song that showcases his storytelling ability. The song reflects on life in South Central L.A., blending relaxed beats that sampled “Will You Be Mine” by Anita Baker. It also has elements of “The Show Is Over” by Evelyn King and “Summer Madness” by Kool & the Gang. Its music video captures L.A. streets in the early 90s and complements the track's chilled vibe.
You Know I’m No Good – Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse's 2007 song "You Know I'm No Good" is a raw and honest track about a flawed relationship. Winehouse's soulful voice and the song's jazz-influenced sound made it a standout track from her album 'Back to Black.'
In the famous song, she talks about how her problems with drugs and alcohol led her to be unfaithful in a relationship. The song gives a clear picture of Amy's troubled life, which included a lot of drinking and addiction. Sadly, her excessive drinking was a big factor in her passing away in 2011.
You Make Me Wanna – Usher
Usher's 1997 hit "You Make Me Wanna" marked a significant moment in his career, showcasing his smooth vocals and charismatic presence. The song is about the complexities of love and relationships that many people have experienced. When you are with someone, however, you find yourself falling in love with someone else. To make matters worse, the person you are falling in love with is the same one that got you and your partner together. Now you are confused and don’t know what to do about it.
Usher has 9 Billboard Hot 100 number ones, but this is not one of them as it peaked at #2. Unsurprisingly, it was kept off the top spot by Sir Elton John’s Candle In The Wind 1997/Something About The Way You Look Tonight. Which was a song he dedicated to Princess Diana after her death.
You Owe Me – Nas featuring Ginuwine
In "You Owe Me," Nas, teaming up with R&B singer Ginuwine, explores themes of materialism and transactional relationships. This track, featured on Nas's 1999 album "I Am...." The song's lyrics delve into the idea of expecting certain favors in exchange for wealth and luxury, presenting a perspective where relationships are seen more as business deals rather than emotional connections.
Its music video complements this theme, showcasing a lavish lifestyle filled with luxury. The song is a reflection of the materialistic side of society, where value in relationships is sometimes measured in terms of wealth and status rather than genuine affection.
You’re Makin Me High – Toni Braxton
Toni Braxton's 1996 track "You’re Makin' Me High" was a major success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The song, a sultry R&B number, speaks of desire and attraction. Its music video shows Toni and her girls playing a game assessing guys who came up the elevator to win their hearts. Partly produced by Babyface, it is one of the outstanding tracks in the album “Secrets.” It also won her a Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
You’re Still The One – Shania Twain
This song on our playlist of songs that start with Y is a song categorized as a country song. Shania Twain's 1998 hit, "You’re Still The One," from her album 'Come On Over,' is a heartfelt song celebrating enduring love. It is hailed as an iconic love anthem and the message here is simple yet powerful.
It responded to negative comments that circulated at the time about her relationship with her husband. She spoke to the strength and perseverance of a relationship against the odds. It received massive commercial success earning her two Grammys. They are Best Female Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Song.
Your Body’s Callin’ – R. Kelly
Released in 1994 on the album 12 Play, "Your Body’s Callin’" is a sensual R&B track by R. Kelly. The song, known for its smooth melody and seductive lyrics, speaks of the intense physical and emotional desire of attraction to another person.
It achieved success on the R&B charts as most of his songs do by reaching #2. It was only stopped from the top spot by Aaliyah’s “Back & Forth”, a song he produced. This song has also been sampled many times notably on “Dick in a Box” by The Lonely Island feat. Justin Timberlake and “Unbelievable” by Biggie
Your Love – Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj's 2010 song "Your Love" showcases her unique style and versatility as an artist. This song was recorded 2 years before its release. The song, blending hip-hop and pop elements, talks about devotion to her man and the power of love.
The music video features a martial arts theme, which adds an interesting visual element to the song's narrative of a powerful, captivating love. Michael Jai White played the role of trainer and “The Boy is Mine.” Your Love samples vocals from No More "I Love You's" by Annie Lennox.
Yahhh! – Soulja Boy
Soulja Boy's 2007 track "Yahhh!" is a lively yet annoying song due to its repeated line "Yahhh, Trick, Yahhh!". It is likened to the frustration of dealing with a never-ending itch. The synth elements of the song are like something from low-quality arrangements suggesting a simplistic and perhaps unrefined sound. With all these said, it became very popular among the younger audience. This is why it makes our playlist of songs that start with Y.
You – Keyshia Cole featuring Remy Ma and French Montana
Released in 2017, "You" is a powerful collaboration that combines Keyshia Cole's soulful R&B style with sharp verses from Remy Ma and French Montana. Keyshia’s lyrics focus on realizing they are in a relationship where they are being constantly deceived and mistreated.
The singer expresses regret that their partner didn't end the relationship when they first met, indicating that staying together was a mistake. The overall message is about ending a cycle of disappointment and moving on from a partner who is not truthful or committed.
You & Me – Disclosure featuring Eliza Doolittle
"You & Me," released in 2013, is a track from Disclosure's debut album and features Eliza Doolittle's vocals. The song made the top 10 charts in the UK and it is a blend of elements of electronic and dance music. It is basically about the ups and downs of a romantic relationship.
The overall theme is about the powerful and sustaining impact of love in the face of difficulties. It became popular in the electronic music scene for its catchy rhythm and the seamless fusion of electronic beats with soulful vocals. The track's success in dance music circles captures the essence of young love and adventure, solidified Disclosure's reputation in electronic music.
You're the One – SWV
Released in 1996, "You're the One" is a R&B track by the sisters with voices who are known for their harmonious vocals and soulful sound. This song combines a smooth R&B rhythm with lyrics about the deep connection and irreplaceable nature of loving someone. The lyrics express the feelings of someone who is attracted to a person they know is already in a relationship. They even nursed the idea that the person's current partner won't know about this potential affair indicating a willingness to do whatever it takes to be with this person.
You Make Me Sick – P!nk
Next on our list of songs that start with Y was released in 2000 as part of her debut album "Can't Take Me Home," "You Make Me Sick" is a track that showcases P!nk as an R&B artist. The song, blending elements of R&B with a pop sensibility, talks about the conflicting feelings of attraction and frustration in a relationship. One day they can’t get enough of each other, the next day they are tearing down the house. Babyface produced this song and it introduced the artist to a new audience.
Yellow – Coldplay
Produced by Ken Nelson, “Yellow” released in 2000, quickly became a defining track for the band and a favorite among fans. It's a simple yet powerful love song, known for its touching lyrics. The song, expressing unconditional love and admiration, reached number four on the UK Singles Chart and gained significant popularity worldwide.
Its music video which at the time of writing has 1 billion views on YouTube features lead singer Chris Martin walking along a beach during a one-take shot at dawn, and is as straightforward and impactful as the song itself. The simplicity and sincerity of 'Yellow' have made it an enduring hit. It is a song that begins with Y and should be on anyone's playlist.
Ye – Burna Boy
Burna Boy's track "Ye" from his 2018 album 'Outside' has become an anthem, symbolizing the fight for freedom and the celebration of the African man. It samples vocals from the Afrobeat legendary father Fela Kuti’s "Sorrow Tears and Blood".
The song is an uplifting mix of Afrobeat rhythms and meaningful lyrics, portraying personal struggles and resilience. Burna implies that people want to live a good life but are not ready to fight for it by resisting bad government. If you are not familiar with Afrobeats, then adding this song that starts with Y is a good place to start your exploration.
Outro
As we wrap up our eclectic journey through "26 Songs That Start With Y," it's clear that music's ability to connect across genres, eras, and styles is truly remarkable. Our one-artist rule has led us down a path of incredible diversity, it may have also left out some of your favorite songs that start with Y.
However, we put this together hoping you are ready to embrace more songs from a variety of sounds and artists. So as you reflect on these songs, we hope you've found new favorites to add to your playlist and rediscovered old ones that bring back cherished memories.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. We invite you to keep exploring, listening, and celebrating the diverse world of music. Remember, every song tells a story, and every note is a step on the never-ending path of musical discovery.
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