21 Most Famous Horse Songs Of All Time
Horses have had a significant influence on many musical genres. From rock anthems to country songs, these gentle beasts have won over the hearts of both fans and artists. Many songwriters have found inspiration in horses’ elegant motions and commanding presence. This has led to an extensive library of timeless songs with horse themes.
As a fan of all things equine, I’ve compiled a list of the top songs that honour the strength and beauty of horses. They convey the spirit of these magnificent creatures and strike a deep emotional chord with the listener.
Here are our top 21 picks for the most famous horse songs of all time:
1. “Mister Ed” by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans
Album: Television Theme Song
Released: 1961
Official video: Mister Ed
“Mister Ed” is a well-known ballad by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans. It was the theme tune for the 1960s television sitcom “Mister Ed,” from 1961 to 1966. The song portrays the whimsical and lighthearted personality of the eponymous character, a talking wild horse called Mister Ed.
“Mister Ed” is still one of the most well-known horse songs of all time. Its memorable melody and captivating lyrics have made it an iconic tune.
2. “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance” by Gene Pitney
Album: Only Love Can Break A Heart
Released: 1962
Official video: The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance
“The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance” is a popular horse-themed ballad by Gene Pitney. The 1962 song tells the tale of a heroic cowboy who defeats the infamous criminal Liberty Valance. The song’s beautiful melody and heartbreaking lyrics convey the spirit of the Wild West and the courage of those who tamed it.
“The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance” has become an iconic song in the Western genre. Its ageless appeal connects with fans of all generations. Many artists have covered or modified the song, making it one of history’s most enduring songs about horses.
3. “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones
Album: Sticky Fingers
Released: 1971
Official video: Wild Horses
The Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses” is a classic horse song. It evokes the spirit of freedom and desire; conveying the intimate connection between people and horses via its sincere lyrics and melancholy tune.
The song presents horses as symbols of untamed nature and wild beauty. “Wild Horses” has become an anthem for equine enthusiasts and music fans, solidifying its place as one of the most famous songs about horses of all time.
4. “A Horse with No Name” by America
Album: America
Released: 1971
Official video: A Horse with No Name
“A Horse with No Name” is a timeless song that showcases the band’s unique folk-rock style. The song tells the story of a man riding a runaway horse with no name across the desert. It expresses a spirit of freedom and self-discovery.
As a band member, Dewey Bunnell wrote the song, which became a breakout success and topped the charts. Its popularity catapulted worldwide prominence and cemented the band’s position in music history. It’s still a classic rock radio favourite and many consider it one of the best horse songs ever recorded.
5. “Wildfire” by Michael Martin Murphey
Album: Blue Sky-Night Thunder
Released: 1975
Official video: Wildfire
Michael Martin Murphey’s “Wildfire” is a timeless classic recounting the tale of a wild horse named Wildfire that magically appears and disappears in the middle of the night. The evocative music and lyrics give a vivid image of a cowboy’s connection with his horse.
This song was released in 1975. It became Murphey’s hallmark smash and cemented his reputation as one of country music’s best storytellers. “Wildfire” continues to attract listeners due to its fascinating storyline and excellent orchestration.
6. “Rhinestone Cowboy” by Glen Campbell
Album: Rhinestone Cowboy
Released: 1975
Official video: Rhinestone Cowboy
Glen Campbell’s famous country song “Rhinestone Cowboy” has become an iconic emblem of the horse-themed music genre. It tells the story of a struggling artist who finds consolation in the vision of a rhinestone cowboy riding a horse in a star-spangled rodeo. The song has appealing melodies and meaningful lyrics.
Campbell’s smooth voice and powerful guitar strumming make it one of the most famous horse songs ever. It creates a captivating mood that transports listeners to this cowboy’s wide field.
7. “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky: A Cowboy Legend” by Johnny Cash
Album: Silver
Released: 1979
Official video: (Ghost) Riders in the Sky
Johnny Cash’s vintage horse-themed song “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky: A Cowboy Legend” has become a signature of the country music genre. This spooky song, released in 1979, recounts the tale of a cowboy who witnesses a ghostly herd of fiery-eyed horses speeding across the sky.
Cash’s deep, resonant voice captures the song’s ominous mood well, making it one of his most memorable performances. The words and tune offer a realistic image of the West and produce a fascinating listening experience for fans of country and Western music.
8. “(I’m Gonna) Hire a Wino to Decorate Our Home” by David Frizzell
Album: The Family’s Fine, But This One’s All Mine
Released: 1982
Official video: (I’m Gonna) Hire a Wino to Decorate Our Home
“(I’m Gonna) Hire a Wino to Decorate Our Home” is a famous horse-themed song by David Frizzell. This country song portrays the narrative of a guy who turns to alcohol when his wife leaves him. It implies that he would rather hire an intoxicated horseback rider to decorate his house than deal with the loneliness and heartbreak of his shattered romance. This song shows how horses can be sources of inspiration in unlikely situations.
9. “Wanted Dead or Alive” by Bon Jovi
Album: Slippery When Wet
Released: 1986
Official video: Wanted Dead or Alive
“Wanted Dead or Alive” is a popular rock song by Bon Jovi. The song includes strong guitar riffs, while its fascinating lyrics give a realistic image of a cowboy’s life on the road. The song’s famous chorus, “I’m a cowboy, on a steel horse I ride,” pays tribute to cowboys and their beloved steeds.
“Wanted Dead or Alive” has become Bon Jovi’s most cherished song. It’s a timeless ode to the connection between man and horse.
10. “A Horse Called Music” by Willie Nelson
Album: A Horse Called Music
Released: 1989
Official video: A Horse Called Music
This is a poignant and heartfelt song written by the legendary country artist Willie Nelson. It presents a message of perseverance and optimism as Nelson reflects on the difficulties he has experienced in his love life.
The lyrics provide a vivid picture of “Music,” a horse who has been a constant friend. This song symbolises the power of “Music” to heal and offer comfort during difficult times.
11. “Tennessee Stud” by Johnny Cash
Album: Back In Black
Released: 1994
Official video: Tennessee Stud
The song “Tennessee Stud,” written by Jimmy Driftwood and performed by Johnny Cash, tells the tale of the illustrious horse known as the Tennessee Stud, who travelled through several states. Cash’s powerful, deep voice enlivens the lyrics, paints a clear picture of the horse’s adventures, and brings up memories of the American West.
12. “Horse” by Live
Album: Throwing Copper
Released: 1994
Official video: Horse
Live released the song “Horse” in 1991 as a part of their album “Mental Jewelry.” It conveys the devotion and energy associated with horses. This song creates a captivating musical experience by fusing powerful guitar riffs with lovely vocals.
With lyrics that celebrate the strength and independence of horses, “Horse” has grown to become one of the most famous horse songs in rock music history. Its ageless charm continues to captivate “horse-a-holics” and music fans worldwide.
13. “Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses” by U2
Album: Achtung Baby
Released: 1991
Official video: Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses
“Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses” is a popular song by Irish rock band U2. It’s a compelling song that shows the band’s unique sound and poignant lyrics. It delves into issues of love, grief, and the unpredictability of relationships.
It uses wild horses as a metaphor for freedom and the battle to keep control. “Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses” has become one of U2’s best songs and most cherished and lasting successes.
14. “She Rides Wild Horses” by Kenny Rogers
Album: She Rides Wild Horses
Released: 1999
Official video: She Rides Wild Horses
The song “Horse” came out in 1991 as a part of their album “Mental Jewelry.” It communicates the zeal and enthusiasm connected to horses and combines amazing vocals with intense guitar riffs to produce a fascinating musical experience.
The song’s lyrics encapsulate the woman’s wild spirit and yearning for freedom. Kenny Rogers sings of her daring equestrian adventures, transporting listeners to a world where boundaries are nonexistent, and the power of nature is accepted.
15. “All the Wild Horses” by Ray LaMontagne
Album: Introducing Ray LaMontagne
Released: 2003
Official video: All the Wild Horses
Ray LaMontagne’s “All the Wild Horses” is a passionate song exploring the themes of freedom and desire. The lyrics portray wild horses riding free across broad pastures. It expresses a longing to break out of the confines of daily life.
LaMontagne’s haunting voice and emotional delivery demonstrate his strong connection to these gorgeous animals and their wild souls. This beautiful song catches the spirit of horses as symbols of emancipation and escape.
16. “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” by KT Tunstall
Album: Eye to the Telescope
Released: 2004
Official video: Black Horse and the Cherry Tree
This composition demonstrates Tunstall’s unique fusion of folk and rock music and was a great hit in 2004. The song’s mesmerising melody and lyrics tell the story of a woman who expresses her thoughts by drawing comparisons between her love life and a black horse and a cherry tree.
17. “Horse and I” by Bat for Lashes
Album: Fur and Gold
Released: 2006
Official video: Horse and I
This piece by British singer-songwriter Bat for Lashes, pays ethereal tribute to the love shared between a horse and its rider. It’s about humans and horses’ incredible relationship and trust.
The song’s lyrics highlight the freedom and excitement of riding horses and their strength and loyalty. Beautifully capturing the essence of the horse-human link, the ethereal vocals of Bat for Lashes and an ambient orchestration create a captivating listening experience.
18. “Horse to Water” by R.E.M.
Album: Accelerate
Released: 2008
Official video: Horse to Water
R.E.M.’s well-known rock song has catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics that perfectly capture R.E.M.’s signature alternative rock approach. The horse metaphor both encourages and represents a person’s acceptance of new experiences and points of view while symbolising their stubbornness or hesitation to change. In fostering artistic expression via their music, R.E.M. honours the profound and transformative significance that horses possess.
19. “Chasin’ Wild Horses” by Bruce Springsteen
Album: Movie – Western Stars
Released: 2019
Official video: Chasin’ Wild Horses
“Chasin’ Wild Horses” draws comparisons to wild horses galloping free and masterfully captures the urge and need to pursue something elusive. It’s a captivating experience to listen to Springsteen’s lyrics and songs as they evoke feelings of both emancipation and grief. “Chasin’ Wild Horses” is a prime example of the enduring influence of horses on music, as Springsteen deftly incorporates their symbolic meaning into his poignant works.
20. “Old Town Road” by Billy Ray Cyrus, Diplo, and Lil Nas X
Album: Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley: Chapter 2 – Swamp Savant
Released: 2020
Official video: Old Town Road
“Old Town Road” by Billy Ray Cyrus, Diplo, and Lil Nas X mixes elements of country and hip-hop. It creates a distinct and captivating sound. The song’s chorus includes the memorable words, “I’m gonna take my horse to the old town road. I’m gonna ride ’til I can’t no more.”
This catchy refrain has become a cultural phenomenon. People of all ages sing along and enjoy the horse-centric theme. The song’s popularity attests to horses’ everlasting appeal and international attraction in music.
21. “White Horse” by Chris Stapleton
Album: Higher
Released: 2023
Official video: White Horse
“White Horse” by Chris Stapleton is a powerful country song. In this poignant composition, Stapleton—renowned for his powerful and soulful voice — conveys genuine love. The song demonstrates his exceptional compositional skills and portrays a tragic story of pain and lost love. “White Horse” leaves a lasting impression on all who hear it because of its heartfelt words and lovely tune.
FAQs
What was the song about a runaway horse in the 70s?
“Wildfire” by lead singer Michael Martin Murphey was a famous horse song in the 1970s. It’s about a little girl and her horse, Wildfire, who magically vanishes during a snowstorm.
What is the nursery rhyme about horses?
One famous horse nursery rhyme is “Ride a Cock-Horse to Banbury Cross.” It’s a popular English rhyme about a youngster riding a horse to the town of Banbury. The rider meets many personalities and sees various sites along the journey.
What music relaxes horses?
Classical music is one genre that is said to calm horses. According to studies, classical music, with a low frequency and moderate pace, might reduce stress and anxiety levels in horses.
Final Thoughts
When talking about “Horse songs”, we don’t mean songs sung by dancing horses, but the connection between horses and music has been long-standing. These tunes evoke feelings of freedom, strength, and adventure while capturing the spirit and beauty of these amazing creatures. So, always appreciate the strength and beauty that horse melodies provide.
