25 Iconic Songs That Start with E You Must Know
Music is a huge part of our lives, filling moments with emotion, energy, and memories. Whether you’re curating a playlist for a road trip, a workout, or just to relax, finding the right songs can make all the difference. Some of the most memorable tracks happen to begin with a specific letter, offering a mix of nostalgia and fresh beats. In this article, we’ve rounded up some fantastic tunes that all have one thing in common: they are songs that start with E.
Top 20 Iconic Songs That Start with E
1. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
Released in 1983 as part of The Police’s album Synchronicity, “Every Breath You Take” is a song that has captivated listeners for decades. Written by Sting during a turbulent period in his personal life, the song is often misinterpreted as a romantic ballad, when in fact, it explores themes of obsession, control, and surveillance.
The haunting lyrics, “Every breath you take, every move you make, I’ll be watching you,” combined with the song’s minimalist yet catchy melody, create a sense of unease beneath its surface.
Despite—or perhaps because of—its darker undertones, the song topped the charts worldwide, including the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed at number one for eight weeks. Its lasting impact is evident in its frequent use in films, TV shows, and covers, solidifying it as one of the most iconic tracks of the ’80s.
2. “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
When “Eye of the Tiger” was released in 1982, it quickly became an anthem for overcoming adversity and striving for victory. Commissioned by Sylvester Stallone for the movie Rocky III, the song was written by Survivor’s Frankie Sullivan and Jim Peterik after Stallone couldn’t secure the rights to Queen’s “Another One Bites the Dust.”
The song’s powerful guitar riff, driving bassline, and empowering lyrics—”It’s the eye of the tiger, it’s the thrill of the fight”—perfectly captured the gritty determination of the film’s protagonist.
The track’s energy and motivational message resonated with audiences, propelling it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, where it held the number one spot for six weeks. “Eye of the Tiger” remains one of the most recognizable and inspirational rock songs, often associated with sports, fitness, and any challenge that requires grit and perseverance.
3.”Electric Feel” by MGMT
“Electric Feel,” released in 2007 as part of MGMT’s debut album Oracular Spectacular, is a song that defies easy categorization. Blending elements of psychedelic pop, funk, and indie rock, the track stands out for its infectious groove and ethereal atmosphere.
The song’s lyrics evoke a surreal and almost mystical experience, with lines like “Ooh girl, shock me like an electric eel, baby girl, turn me on with your electric feel,” capturing a sense of playful sensuality and youthful energy. The accompanying music video, which features vibrant, dreamlike visuals, further adds to the song’s allure.
“Electric Feel” quickly became a fan favorite and has since been covered and remixed by numerous artists, demonstrating its broad appeal across different music genres. Whether played at a party or during a solo listening session, “Electric Feel” is a track that electrifies and enchants, making it one of MGMT’s most enduring hits.
4. “End of the Road” by Boyz II Men
“End of the Road,” released in 1992, is one of Boyz II Men’s most celebrated songs, and it’s easy to see why. The track was featured on the soundtrack of the film Boomerang and later included on the group’s album Cooleyhighharmony.
With its soulful harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and smooth production, “End of the Road” addresses the emotional pain of a breakup, resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced the end of a significant relationship. The song’s chorus, “Although we’ve come to the end of the road, still I can’t let go,” perfectly encapsulates the struggle of holding onto something that’s already gone.
The track’s success was unprecedented, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 13 consecutive weeks, a feat that remained unbeaten until Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” surpassed it later that year. “End of the Road” not only solidified Boyz II Men’s place in R&B history but also became an anthem of love, loss, and the difficulty of moving on.
5. “Eleanor Rigby” by The Beatles
Released in 1966 as part of The Beatles’ Revolver album, “Eleanor Rigby” is a song that marked a significant shift in the band’s musical direction. Moving away from their earlier pop sound, The Beatles embraced a more experimental and introspective style with this track.
Unlike most of their previous songs, “Eleanor Rigby” features a string quartet instead of the usual rock band instrumentation, giving it a somber and classical feel. The lyrics, penned by Paul McCartney, tell the story of a lonely woman and a disillusioned priest, reflecting on themes of isolation, unfulfilled lives, and the often unnoticed struggles of ordinary people.
“All the lonely people, where do they all come from?”—this haunting question lies at the heart of the song, resonating with anyone who has felt alone in a crowd. “Eleanor Rigby” was groundbreaking not only for its musical composition but also for its storytelling, which veered away from the typical love songs of the era.
It became one of The Beatles’ most critically acclaimed songs and remains a poignant reminder of the power of music to address the deeper, sometimes darker aspects of human experience.
6. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica
Released in 1991 as the lead single from Metallica’s eponymous fifth album, often referred to as The Black Album, “Enter Sandman” marked a pivotal moment in the band’s career. The song features one of the most iconic guitar riffs in rock history, instantly recognizable and packed with energy.
Lyrically, “Enter Sandman” delves into the realm of nightmares, exploring themes of fear and the loss of innocence. The chorus, “Exit light, enter night, take my hand, we’re off to never-never land,” captures the eerie atmosphere of the song, which became a massive hit and a staple in Metallica’s live performances.
The success of “Enter Sandman” helped Metallica achieve mainstream popularity, and the track remains a defining anthem of heavy metal, known for its relentless intensity and haunting lyrics.
7. “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys
“Empire State of Mind,” released in 2009, is a tribute to New York City, blending Jay-Z’s rap verses with Alicia Keys’ soaring, soulful chorus. The song was an instant hit, capturing the essence of New York’s vibrant energy, its challenges, and its allure.
Lyrics like “In New York, concrete jungle where dreams are made of, there’s nothing you can’t do” resonate with anyone who has ever been inspired by the city’s towering skyline and dynamic culture. The track topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became an anthem for the city, played at countless events and celebrations.
“Empire State of Mind” is more than just a song; it’s a love letter to New York, encapsulating the spirit of the city in every beat and lyric, making it a timeless classic.
8. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears
Released in 1985, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” is one of Tears for Fears’ most enduring hits. The song captures the uncertainty and complexity of the modern world, addressing themes of power, control, and the desire for change. The iconic guitar riff and catchy chorus made it a standout track from the album Songs from the Big Chair.
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” quickly became a global hit, topping charts in several countries, including the United States. The song’s blend of thoughtful lyrics and accessible pop-rock sound has kept it relevant for decades, often featured in films, TV shows, and political commentary. It’s a song that resonates with listeners of all ages, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition.
9. “Earth Song” by Michael Jackson
“Earth Song,” released in 1995 as part of Michael Jackson’s HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I album, is one of the most powerful and socially conscious songs of his career.
The track addresses environmental issues, animal welfare, and human suffering, making it a heartfelt plea for healing the world. The lyrics, “What about sunrise, what about rain, what about all the things that you said we were to gain,” coupled with Jackson’s passionate vocal delivery, convey a deep sense of urgency and concern.
The accompanying music video, which shows scenes of environmental destruction and war, further amplifies the song’s message. “Earth Song” became a global hit, particularly in Europe, where it topped the charts in several countries. It stands out as one of Jackson’s most profound and impactful songs, reflecting his commitment to using music as a platform for change.
10. “Everlong” by Foo Fighters
Released in 1997, “Everlong” is one of Foo Fighters’ most beloved songs, written by frontman Dave Grohl during a period of personal turmoil. The song is known for its powerful combination of raw emotion, melodic guitar riffs, and an anthemic chorus that has made it a staple in the band’s live performances.
“Everlong” explores themes of love, longing, and the complexities of relationships, with lyrics like “If everything could ever feel this real forever, if anything could ever be this good again” capturing a sense of timeless passion.
Although it didn’t top the charts upon its initial release, “Everlong” has grown in popularity over the years, becoming a fan favorite and often cited as one of the greatest rock songs of the ’90s. Its enduring appeal lies in its emotional depth and the way it resonates with listeners, whether through the intensity of the music or the sincerity of the lyrics.
11. “Enjoy the Silence” by Depeche Mode
Released in 1990 as part of Depeche Mode’s album Violator, “Enjoy the Silence” is one of the band’s most successful and iconic songs. The track, with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, explores themes of communication, the value of silence, and the overwhelming nature of words.
The line “All I ever wanted, all I ever needed, is here in my arms” suggests a longing for simplicity and peace, a stark contrast to the noise and chaos of the outside world. The song’s dark yet soothing electronic sound, combined with Dave Gahan’s deep, emotive vocals, helped it become a global hit, topping charts across Europe and reaching the top 10 in the U.S.
“Enjoy the Silence” has remained a staple in Depeche Mode’s live performances and continues to influence electronic music and beyond, with its timeless message resonating with audiences for over three decades.
12. “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes
Released in 1979, “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes is a light-hearted, narrative-driven pop hit that tells the story of a couple rediscovering their love for each other through a personal ad. The song’s catchy chorus, “If you like Piña Coladas, and getting caught in the rain,” quickly became a cultural touchstone, embodying a carefree, adventurous spirit.
Despite its whimsical tone, the song explores themes of boredom, desire for change, and ultimately, the rediscovery of a relationship’s spark. “Escape” was Holmes’ most successful single, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Its playful lyrics and memorable melody have kept it in rotation on radio stations and in popular culture, making it an enduring favorite for listeners seeking a feel-good tune.
13. “Everything I Do (I Do It for You)” by Bryan Adams
“Everything I Do (I Do It for You)” was released in 1991 as part of the soundtrack for the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and quickly became one of Bryan Adams’ most successful songs. The track’s sweeping, romantic lyrics—”Look into my eyes, you will see, what you mean to me”—and Adams’ raspy, heartfelt delivery made it an instant classic.
The song spent an unprecedented 16 consecutive weeks at number one on the UK Singles Chart, a record that still stands. In the U.S., it topped the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks. “Everything I Do” became a wedding staple and a symbol of deep, unwavering love, transcending its original connection to the movie.
Its universal appeal has made it one of the best-selling singles of all time, ensuring its place in the pantheon of great love songs.
14. “Edge of Seventeen” by Stevie Nicks
Released in 1981 as part of Stevie Nicks’ debut solo album Bella Donna, “Edge of Seventeen” is a powerful rock anthem that has become one of her signature songs. The track features an iconic, driving guitar riff played by Waddy Wachtel and Nicks’ distinctive, raspy vocals that convey raw emotion and strength.
The lyrics, inspired by the death of Nicks’ uncle and John Lennon, explore themes of grief, loss, and resilience, with the chorus “Just like the white-winged dove sings a song, sounds like she’s singing, ooh, ooh, ooh” becoming a memorable hook.
“Edge of Seventeen” wasn’t an immediate commercial success, but over time, it has gained recognition as one of Nicks’ most important and influential songs. It has been covered and sampled by various artists, cementing its place in rock history and continuing to resonate with new generations of fans.
15. “Everlasting Love” by Robert Knight (covered by many artists)
“Everlasting Love” was originally recorded by Robert Knight in 1967 and became a significant hit in the U.S. The song is known for its uplifting melody and hopeful lyrics that celebrate enduring love—”Open up your eyes, then you’ll realize, here I stand with my everlasting love.”
The song’s catchy, Motown-influenced sound helped it become a timeless classic. Over the years, “Everlasting Love” has been covered by numerous artists, including Carl Carlton, Gloria Estefan, and U2, each bringing their unique style to the track.
Each version has enjoyed success, further cementing the song’s status as a staple of love-themed playlists. Its enduring popularity lies in its universal message and infectious energy, making it a go-to song for celebrations of love and commitment.
16. “Electric Avenue” by Eddy Grant
Released in 1982, “Electric Avenue” by Eddy Grant is a song that blends elements of reggae, rock, and electronic music to create a distinctive and memorable track. The song was inspired by the 1981 Brixton riot in London and addresses themes of social unrest, economic hardship, and the struggles of urban life.
With its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus, “We’re gonna rock down to Electric Avenue, and then we’ll take it higher,” the song quickly became a global hit. It reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and topped the charts in several other countries.
“Electric Avenue” remains one of Eddy Grant’s most well-known songs, celebrated for its danceable groove and its powerful social commentary, making it both a party anthem and a message of resilience in the face of adversity.
17. “Even Flow” by Pearl Jam
“Even Flow,” released in 1992 as part of Pearl Jam’s debut album Ten, is one of the band’s most iconic songs and a staple of their live performances. The track features a driving rhythm, powerful guitar riffs, and Eddie Vedder’s intense vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “Even Flow” describe the struggles of a homeless man, capturing the chaos and uncertainty of life on the streets with lines like “Even flow, thoughts arrive like butterflies, oh, he don’t know, so he chases them away.” The song’s energetic, almost frenetic pace mirrors the disorientation and frustration of its subject.
“Even Flow” became a commercial success and helped solidify Pearl Jam’s place in the grunge movement of the early ’90s. It remains one of their most popular songs, known for its raw emotion and the band’s impassioned performances.
18. “Express Yourself” by Madonna
Released in 1989 as the second single from her album Like a Prayer, “Express Yourself” is a powerful anthem of self-empowerment and independence, particularly for women. The song was inspired by the funk and soul music of the ’60s and ’70s, and its upbeat tempo, brass sections, and Madonna’s confident vocal delivery make it an infectious dance track.
The lyrics encourage listeners to take control of their lives and not settle for less than they deserve—”Don’t go for second best, baby, put your love to the test.” The music video, directed by David Fincher, further emphasized the song’s message of female empowerment with its futuristic, industrial aesthetic and bold imagery.
“Express Yourself” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in multiple countries, and it remains one of Madonna’s most iconic songs, celebrated for its message of strength and self-expression.
19. “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” by The Police
Released in 1981 as part of The Police’s album Ghost in the Machine, “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” is a song that combines elements of rock, reggae, and pop to create a bright, upbeat track that became a major hit.
The song’s lyrics, written by Sting, describe the overwhelming and almost magical feeling of being in love, where everything the object of affection does seems perfect—”Every little thing she does is magic, everything she does just turns me on.” The track’s infectious melody and rhythmic complexity, featuring a prominent piano line and syncopated beats, helped it stand out in the band’s discography.
The song reached number one on the UK Singles Chart and became a top 10 hit in the United States. Its joyous, celebratory tone makes it a favorite among fans of The Police, and it remains one of their most beloved songs.
20. “Everything Has Changed” by Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran
“Everything Has Changed,” released in 2013 as a single from Taylor Swift’s album Red, is a duet with British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran that explores the theme of new love and the transformative power of finding someone special. The song features acoustic guitars and a gentle melody that complements the intimate lyrics—”All I know since yesterday is everything has changed.”
Swift and Sheeran’s voices blend harmoniously, creating a sense of warmth and sincerity that resonated with listeners. The music video further emphasizes the innocence and joy of discovering a new connection, depicting two children forming a close friendship.
“Everything Has Changed” was well-received by both fans and critics, praised for its heartfelt simplicity and the chemistry between Swift and Sheeran. The song became a commercial success, charting in several countries, and remains a favorite for fans of both artists, capturing the sweet and sometimes surprising nature of love.
21. “Eruption” by Van Halen
“Eruption,” released in 1978 as part of Van Halen’s self-titled debut album, is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitar solos in rock history. This instrumental track, performed by Eddie Van Halen, showcases his groundbreaking guitar techniques, including finger tapping, rapid picking, and harmonics.
Although it lasts just under two minutes, “Eruption” has had an outsized impact on rock music, inspiring countless guitarists and solidifying Eddie Van Halen’s reputation as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
The solo transitions seamlessly into the band’s cover of “You Really Got Me,” and together, these tracks helped catapult Van Halen to stardom. “Eruption” is not only a display of technical prowess but also a powerful expression of energy and creativity, making it a cornerstone of the band’s legacy and a must-listen for any rock enthusiast.
22. “Everything She Wants” by Wham!
Released in 1984 as part of Wham!’s album Make It Big, “Everything She Wants” is a song that explores the complexities of relationships, materialism, and the pressures of providing for a partner. Written and produced by George Michael, the track features a smooth, soulful groove and catchy melodies that belie the more serious tone of the lyrics.
The song tells the story of a man struggling to meet the demands of his partner, questioning whether his efforts will ever be enough—”Some people work for a living, some people work for fun, girl, I just work for you.”
“Everything She Wants” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and solidifying Wham!’s status as one of the most popular pop acts of the 1980s. The song’s blend of introspective lyrics and danceable rhythm has made it a lasting favorite among fans, reflecting the dualities often present in pop music.
23. “E-Pro” by Beck
“E-Pro,” released in 2005 as the lead single from Beck’s album Guero, is a high-energy, genre-blending track that exemplifies Beck’s eclectic approach to music. The song features a driving beat and a catchy guitar riff, which was sampled from the Beastie Boys’ track “So What’cha Want.”
The lyrics, delivered in Beck’s signature laid-back style, are somewhat abstract but convey a sense of rebellion and self-assurance—”Nah nah nah nah nah, yeah!” The infectious chorus and gritty production made “E-Pro” a commercial hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Alternative Songs chart.
The song also received positive reviews from critics, who praised its raw energy and Beck’s ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles. “E-Pro” remains one of Beck’s most popular songs, showcasing his talent for creating music that is both innovative and accessible.
24. “Evil Woman” by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO)
“Evil Woman,” released in 1975 as part of Electric Light Orchestra’s (ELO) album Face the Music, is a song that combines rock with classical influences, a hallmark of the band’s signature sound. Written by Jeff Lynne, the song features a catchy piano riff, lush strings, and Lynne’s distinctive vocals, which together create a sophisticated and infectious pop-rock tune.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who realizes he’s been wronged by a manipulative lover—”Evil woman, how you done me wrong, but now you’re trying to wail a different song.” “Evil Woman” became one of ELO’s biggest hits, reaching the top 10 in both the UK and the US, and it remains one of the band’s most recognizable tracks.
The song’s blend of orchestral elements with rock and pop sensibilities helped to define ELO’s unique style, making “Evil Woman” a classic of the 1970s.
25. “Everglow” by Coldplay
“Everglow,” released in 2015 as part of Coldplay’s album A Head Full of Dreams, is a tender ballad that reflects on the enduring impact of love, even after a relationship has ended. Chris Martin’s heartfelt lyrics and emotive piano playing create an intimate atmosphere, with the chorus—”So if you love someone, you should let them know, oh, the light that you gave me will everglow”—delivering a message of gratitude and remembrance.
The song was inspired by Martin’s experience with loss and the realization that some connections continue to shine brightly in memory. “Everglow” was well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for its emotional depth and sincerity.
The song has become a favorite in Coldplay’s live performances, often dedicated to those who have passed away, and it stands as a poignant reminder of the lasting power of love and human connection.
