CityMash.com - Everyone knows there are tons of catchy tunes dedicated to cities like Los Angeles, New York, London and Paris. We’ve got old classics like Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” or “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses and more modern hits such as Katy Perry’s “California Girls” and “Empire State of Mind” by Jay Z and Alicia Keys. But where are all the songs dedicated to Vancouver? Surely someone must have come across our beautiful mountains or picturesque beaches and been inspired to write a song. As one of the most stunning cities in all of Canada, it’s a shame we don’t hear Vancouver in song more often. But it turns out, we have had a few tunes penned in our honour.
Check out 15 songs written about Vancouver that you may have never heard of. We definitely think they’re worth a listen:
The Cure by Tegan and Sara
While it may not seem like The Cure is about Vancouver, Tegan and Sara revealed that they actually wrote this song about the Vancouver neighbourhood where they live.
False Creek Change by Said The Whale
Of course, Said The Whale, an indie-rock band that originated in Vancouver in 2007 would pay tribute to their hometown with a few songs.
Big Wave Goodbye by Said The Whale
We’re adding one more Vancouver song by Said The Whale to our list. This time the band takes to the beach to say goodbye to their beloved city.
Pine for the Cedars by Dan Mangan
Vancouver based musician Dan Mangan performs this hauntingly beautiful dedication to our city.
Vancouver, Baby! by Behind Sapphire
The perfect tribute to Vancouver that name drops Stanley Park, Robson Street and Science World is Vancouver, Baby!
Northern Touch by Rascalz FT. Kardinal Offishal, Choclair, CheckMate and Thrust
Talk about a blast from the past! This Canadian tribute by Vancouver rap duo Rascalz was the epitome of Canadian hip hop in 1997. Twenty years later and we’re still grooving to it.
The Crawl by Spirit of The West
And you thought Spirit of The West only sang “Home For A Rest” didn’t you? Well, turns out the Deep Cove boys had another song in them about dear Vancouver.
Vancouver by Reckless Kelly
Something a bit more country is Reckless Kelly’s take on our coastal city.
West Van Girl by The Awkward Stage
It’s the classic love story: West Van girl meets East Van boy. Will true love prevail when someone is from the wrong side of the tracks?
Vancouver BC by The Smugglers
Another Vancouver-born indie band, The Smugglers, dedicated this fun number to their favourite Canadian city.
English Bay by Blue Rodeo
It doesn’t get much more Vancouver than singing about English Bay and listening to the rain. Enjoy another country tune!
Vancouver Spirit by Frank Lucas
Independent singer songwriter Frank Lucas penned this homage to Vancouver after spending time in the city in 2008.
Vancouver by Jeff Buckley
Fans of Jeff Buckley are almost unanimous in their love for this beautiful tune. But what they can’t quite figure out is why it’s called Vancouver. Neither can we, but we love it anyway! We’ll take it as one of Vancouver’s songs.
Vancouver by Genesis
Why would an English rock band write a song about Vancouver? Turns out, lead singer Phil Collins actually lived in Vancouver in the late 70’s when he took a quick break from the band in order to try and rebuild his marriage. Unfortunately, his marriage didn’t last but we hope he doesn’t blame Vancouver for that!
Main and Broadway by Cub
Ah a tribute to one of our favourite Vancouver blocks! This 1996 tune by Canadian indie band Cub is a perfect little song for a great East Van neighbourhood.
Which Vancouver song is your favourite?
