The relationship between brothers is a tapestry woven with threads of camaraderie, competition, and unwavering loyalty. It’s a bond unlike any other, filled with shared memories, inside jokes, and an unspoken understanding that transcends words. This unique connection has served as fertile ground for songwriters across genres, resulting in a rich catalog of songs that explore the multifaceted dynamics of brotherhood.
To celebrate this powerful theme in music, we’ve curated a list of 20 essential Songs About Brothers. From anthems of brotherly love to poignant reflections on sibling rivalry and the enduring strength of family ties, these tracks offer a diverse and compelling soundtrack to brotherhood. Featuring artists ranging from rock and roll royalty to indie icons, this collection showcases the myriad ways musicians have captured the essence of the brotherly bond. These songs delve into the complexities, the joys, and sometimes the challenges of having a brother, resonating with anyone who has experienced this special relationship.
“Sibling Rivalry,” PUP
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PUP, the Canadian punk rock band, perfectly encapsulates the exasperating yet enduring nature of sibling relationships with “Sibling Rivalry.” This high-energy 2019 track recounts the hilarious and harrowing camping adventures of lead singer Stefan Babcock and his sister. Through vivid lyrics, Babcock details comical near-death experiences, from sewage rafting to surviving unexpected snowstorms. The song’s genius lies in its relatable portrayal of brother-sister dynamics – a mix of annoyance and underlying affection, even amidst chaotic situations. It’s a punk rock anthem for anyone who’s ever questioned their sibling’s sanity while secretly enjoying the shared madness.
“Come Dancing,” The Kinks
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“Come Dancing” by The Kinks, a band synonymous with British rock, offers a nostalgic and tender reflection on the passage of time and changing family dynamics. Ray Davies, the Kinks’ frontman, crafts a charming narrative about his sister, reminiscing about her teenage years and contrasting them with her present role as a mother. The song evokes a bittersweet sentiment, underscored by its music-hall-inspired instrumentation, highlighting the bittersweet beauty of growing up and watching siblings navigate life’s different stages. The final verse adds a layer of poignant reflection, hinting at unspoken desires and the complexities of sibling understanding.
“Boss of Me,” They Might Be Giants
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Instantly recognizable as the theme song for the popular TV show Malcolm in the Middle, “Boss of Me” by They Might Be Giants is a quirky and relatable anthem for younger siblings everywhere. While not explicitly about brothers, its punk-ska energy and lyrics perfectly capture the frustration of being bossed around by an older sibling. The song’s appeal lies in its universal message of standing up for yourself, even when outsized and outranked. It’s a playful reminder that age and size don’t automatically equate to authority, resonating with the spirit of sibling rebellion.
“Little Sister,” Elvis Presley
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Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, delivers a classic tale of romantic pursuit with a twist in “Little Sister.” This rockabilly track showcases Elvis’s signature swagger as he sets his sights on his ex-girlfriend’s younger sister. With twangy guitars and a hint of playful menace, Elvis warns the “little sister” against repeating her older sister’s mistakes. The song’s catchy rhythm and Elvis’s charismatic delivery make it a timeless exploration of sibling connections in the realm of love and relationships, albeit with a somewhat cheeky and possessive undertone.
“We Are Family,” Sister Sledge
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“We Are Family” by Sister Sledge is the ultimate anthem of unity and familial love, extending beyond blood relations to encompass chosen families. Penned by the iconic Chic duo, Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers, this disco-soul classic transcends the traditional definition of family, celebrating the power of togetherness and mutual support. Its infectious energy and uplifting message make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, capable of uniting even the most dysfunctional siblings on the dance floor in a celebration of their shared bond.
“What’s Happening, Brother?” Marvin Gaye
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Marvin Gaye, a soul music legend, shifts focus from global issues to deeply personal experiences in “What’s Happening Brother?” This poignant track from his masterpiece album What’s Going On is inspired by Gaye’s brother’s return from the Vietnam War. The song poignantly captures the challenges of readjusting to civilian life after war, highlighting the disconnect between a soldier’s experiences and the changed world at home. Gaye’s soulful vocals convey the veteran’s longing for normalcy and connection, making it a powerful and moving portrayal of brotherly concern and empathy in the face of societal upheaval.
“He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother,” The Hollies
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“He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” by The Hollies is a heartwarming ballad that encapsulates the selfless nature of brotherly love and support. Inspired by the motto of Boys Town, a community for youth in need, the song speaks to the unwavering commitment brothers have to each other, regardless of burdens. Elton John’s piano accompaniment and the song’s lush orchestration amplify its emotional impact, making it a timeless ode to brotherly devotion and the willingness to carry each other through life’s challenges.
“Little Brother,” Ella Vos
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Ella Vos, an indie-pop artist known for her emotionally resonant music, delves into personal vulnerability in “Little Brother.” Written after her younger brother’s car accident, this tender song is a heartfelt expression of love and protection. Vos’s delicate vocals convey a sense of reassurance and unwavering support, promising to always be there for her brother. “Little Brother” is a touching reminder of the protective instincts and deep empathy that characterize strong sibling bonds, especially in times of adversity.
“White Wedding,” Billy Idol
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Billy Idol, the rebel rocker, delivers a new-wave classic with a darkly humorous edge in “White Wedding.” While legend suggests the song is a taunt directed at his sister’s engagement, Idol himself has hinted at a more complex and unsettling interpretation. Describing the narrator as a “kind of sick brother,” Idol injects a layer of incestuous undertones into the song’s narrative. This darker reading transforms “White Wedding” into a bizarre and unsettling exploration of twisted family dynamics, adding a provocative layer to its already iconic status.
“You and Your Sister,” Chris Bell
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Chris Bell, co-leader of the power-pop pioneers Big Star, showcases his songwriting brilliance in “You and Your Sister.” This B-side, released shortly before his untimely death, is a pure and heartfelt love song complicated by sibling disapproval. The “doubting sis,” though only mentioned briefly, casts a shadow over the innocent romance. Featuring backing vocals from his former bandmate Alex Chilton, the song’s melancholic beauty highlights how sibling opinions and dynamics can intricately influence personal relationships.
“My Brother’s a Basehead,” De La Soul
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De La Soul, the innovative hip-hop trio, tackles the serious issue of addiction with a deceptively upbeat sound in “My Brother’s a Basehead.” Sampling Wayne Fontana and the Mindbenders’ “The Game of Love,” the music creates a stark contrast with the song’s somber lyrical content. Posdnuos’s verses express the anger and despair of watching a brother succumb to crack addiction. The song serves as a raw and unflinching portrayal of the devastating impact of drug abuse on families and the helplessness felt by siblings witnessing a loved one’s descent.
“When We Grow Up,” Diana Ross
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Diana Ross, the iconic diva, offers a tender and hopeful perspective on sibling relationships in “When We Grow Up.” This sweet 70s pop song expresses a simple yet profound wish: to maintain closeness with a beloved friend, implied to be her brother, as they navigate life’s journey. Subtly feminist, the lyrics touch upon societal expectations, envisioning different paths for brother and sister. It’s a heartwarming reflection on the enduring value of sibling bonds and the desire for lifelong connection.
“Alfie,” Lily Allen
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Lily Allen, known for her candid and witty songwriting, delivers a playfully scolding yet ultimately affectionate portrait of her brother in “Alfie.” This track from her debut album Alright, Still humorously catalogues her brother’s perceived shortcomings – laziness, video game addiction, and lack of ambition. While seemingly critical, the song is rooted in sisterly concern. Ironically, Alfie Allen, the brother in question, went on to achieve significant success as an actor, famously portraying Theon Greyjoy in Game of Thrones, proving Lily’s worries unfounded.
“Martha,” Rufus Wainwright
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Rufus Wainwright, known for his theatrical and emotionally rich music, presents a poignant piano ballad dedicated to his sister, Martha, in “Martha.” Despite a slightly flippant tone, the song conveys genuine concern and a call for sibling solidarity in the face of their mother’s illness. Wainwright’s emotive vocals and the song’s delicate piano melody create a powerful atmosphere of vulnerability and familial responsibility. The final, wavering plea to “call me back” resonates deeply, capturing the urgency and emotional weight of sibling connection during times of family crisis.
“My Sister Says the Saddest Things,” Grimes
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Grimes, the enigmatic art-pop innovator, offers an ethereal and atmospheric exploration of sisterly intimacy in “My Sister Says the Saddest Things.” This 2010 electro-pop track, with its dreamlike soundscape and cryptic lyrics, delves into the unspoken bond between sisters. The song evokes a sense of shared secrets and deep understanding, portraying the sister as a confidante and kindred spirit. Grimes’s otherworldly vocals and the song’s haunting melody create a mystical and deeply personal portrayal of sibling connection.
“Sister,” Prince
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Prince, the legendary musical provocateur, courts controversy with “Sister,” a track that explores taboo themes of incest. Appearing on his Dirty Mind album, the song is a raw and explicit exploration of forbidden desire. With lyrics that begin with “I was only 16 but I guess that’s no excuse,” Prince pushes boundaries and challenges societal norms. The song’s scandalous nature and Prince’s unapologetic approach make it a shocking and unforgettable, if disturbing, exploration of sibling relationships taken to an extreme.
“My Sister,” Juliana Hatfield Three
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Juliana Hatfield Three, the alternative rock trio, channels a whirlwind of sibling emotions in “My Sister.” This alt-rock favorite captures the complex and often contradictory feelings of sisterly relationships – anger, admiration, envy, and longing. Hatfield’s raw and honest lyrics express a range of emotions, from frustration and resentment to respect and affection. The song’s relatable portrayal of sibling rivalry and the bittersweet pang of missing a sister who has left home resonates with the messy reality of family bonds.
“My Little Brother Just Discovered Rock and Roll,” Art Brut
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Art Brut, the British indie band, delivers a humorous and observational take on sibling influence in “My Little Brother Just Discovered Rock and Roll.” Eddie Argos, Art Brut’s frontman, adopts a bewildered and slightly exasperated tone as he describes his younger brother’s newfound obsession with indie rock. The song’s witty lyrics and punky guitar riffs create a lighthearted and relatable portrayal of sibling dynamics and the contagious nature of musical passions. It’s an amusing anecdote about the transformative power of music and sibling influence.
“Sister Christian,” Night Ranger
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Night Ranger, the arena rock band, delivers a power ballad with a protective brotherly message in “Sister Christian.” Written by drummer Kelly Keagy for his younger sister Christy, the song serves as a cautionary tale about navigating young adulthood and romantic encounters. The song’s anthemic chorus and heartfelt lyrics, despite its somewhat cheesy power ballad aesthetic, convey a brother’s concern and protective instincts for his sister as she embarks on life’s journey.
“Highway Patrolman,” Bruce Springsteen
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Bruce Springsteen, the master storyteller, paints a poignant and morally complex picture of brotherhood in “Highway Patrolman.” This narrative song from Nebraska tells the story of a law-abiding highway patrolman and his troubled brother, Franky. Springsteen’s evocative lyrics and stark musical arrangement create a deeply moving tale of loyalty, responsibility, and the limits of brotherly love. The song’s heartbreaking conclusion at the Canadian border underscores the difficult choices and enduring bonds that define sibling relationships, even when tested by life’s harsh realities.
