You know you’ve hit best friend status when shared playlists become a thing. And no playlist dedicated to your closest buds is complete without a healthy dose of Friend Songs. While romantic love often steals the spotlight when it comes to musical inspiration, the deep friendships that anchor our lives are just as, if not more, inspiring. It’s no wonder countless artists have poured their feelings for their platonic soulmates into song. Luckily for us, this means there’s a treasure trove of bops perfect for celebrating friendship.
Ready to honor your bestie and the unique bond you share? We’ve curated a list of 47 iconic songs about friendship, packed with best friend lyrics that will have you and your ride-or-die nodding in agreement and saying, “Been there.” And yes, of course, Taylor Swift songs about friendship made the cut!
Listen to our best friend songs playlist on Spotify.
1. “True Blue,” boygenius
With their 2023 album “the record,” boygenius — the supergroup featuring best friends Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus — delivered a powerful album-long tribute to platonic love. Among their collection of friend songs, “True Blue” shines particularly bright. The lyrics, “And it feels good, to be known so well. I can’t hide from you like I hide from myself,” perfectly capture the comfort and deep understanding that defines true friendship. This track is a modern anthem for anyone who cherishes being completely seen and accepted by their closest friends.
2. “Goodbye Earl,” The Chicks
Imagine Thelma and Louise in song form, and you’ve got “Goodbye Earl.” This is the ultimate best friend song for those bonds where you know your friend has your back, no matter what – even if “what” involves some questionable scenarios. Few BFF songs tell as compelling and darkly humorous a story as this country classic murder ballad. It’s a testament to the lengths friends will go to for each other, wrapped in a catchy and unforgettable tune.
3. “I’ll Be There For You,” The Rembrandts
Instantly recognizable as the theme song from Friends, “I’ll Be There For You” perfectly encapsulates the unwavering loyalty and support at the heart of best friendships. While the message is simple, it’s profoundly effective. Best friend lyrics like, “I’ll be there for you, when the rain starts to pour. I’ll be there for you, like I’ve been there before. I’ll be there for you, ‘cause you’re there for me too,” become a comforting mantra of steadfast friendship. It’s a reminder that in the face of life’s storms, true friends are your constant anchors.
4. “Best Friend,” Harry Nilsson
If you were a fan of the MTV show Rob & Big, you already know and love this song. Harry Nilsson’s “Best Friend” is a genuinely heartfelt and catchy ode to that exceptional person in your life. It’s a pure celebration of the joy and simplicity of having a best friend, making it one of the most endearing friendship songs out there. Its upbeat tempo and sincere lyrics make it perfect for expressing appreciation for your closest pal.
5. “You’re My Best Friend,” Queen
While “You’re My Best Friend” by Queen was originally inspired by bassist John Deacon’s relationship with his wife, it has transcended its romantic origins to become a beloved anthem for besties everywhere. The song’s cheerful melody and heartfelt lyrics resonate deeply with the appreciation we feel for our closest friends. It’s a timeless classic that perfectly captures the joy of having someone special in your life who is also your best friend.
6. “Thank You For Being a Friend,” Andrew Gold
Andrew Gold originally wrote “Thank You For Being a Friend” in 1978 as a tribute to his musical partner Brock Walsh. However, it was Cynthia Fee’s cover that became iconic as the theme song for The Golden Girls. This song is synonymous with the warmth and comfort of close female friendships. Imagine sharing midnight cheesecake with your own Dorothy-Blanche-Rose-Sophia crew while this song plays in the background – pure friendship bliss.
7. “Anytime You Need a Friend,” Mariah Carey
Written during a period of loneliness and marital difficulties in Mariah Carey’s life, “Anytime You Need a Friend” is a deeply comforting and supportive track. It’s the perfect song to send to a friend going through a tough time, offering reassurance and unconditional support. The powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics make it a moving testament to being there for your friends in their moments of need, solidifying its place among essential friend songs.
8. “That’s My Best Friend,” Tokyo Vanity
tokyo vanity thats my best friend
New Orleans rapper Tokyo Vanity went viral in 2015 with “That’s My Best Friend,” a hit tailor-made for Instagram and Vine. The fun, tutu-filled music video is infectious and will instantly make you want to join her best friend squad. This song is a high-energy celebration of female friendship, perfect for dancing with your besties and capturing those fun moments on social media.
9. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” the Motown classic by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, is one of the most universally loved best friend songs. Its message of unwavering dedication transcends romantic love, making it an especially sweet choice for BFFs separated by distance. This song’s powerful vocals and uplifting melody beautifully express the idea that nothing can come between true friends, no matter the miles.
10. “Wannabe,” Spice Girls
Oh, the nostalgia! “Wannabe” by the Spice Girls instantly brings back memories of choreographing playground dances and playful arguments over who got to be Baby Spice. This iconic girl-power anthem is a celebration of female friendship and individuality. It’s a fun, energetic track that embodies the spirit of sisterhood and sticking together, making it a perfect addition to any friend songs playlist.
11. “Best Friends,” Missy Elliott (feat. Aaliyah)
Missy Elliott’s “Best Friends” featuring Aaliyah features best friend lyrics that resonate with anyone who’s watched a BFF navigate a less-than-ideal relationship. It’s a song about wanting the best for your friend and hoping they find their way out of a bad romance. This track highlights the supportive and protective nature of true friendships, making it a relatable and empowering friend song.
12. “Heroes,” David Bowie
While “Heroes” by David Bowie was reportedly inspired by seeing his producer kissing his girlfriend against the Berlin Wall, its powerful message of overcoming obstacles together makes it a triumphant addition to any BFF playlist. Plus, it’s impossible to hear this song without thinking of that iconic scene from The Perks of Being a Wallflower. It’s a song that celebrates the strength and resilience found in friendship, making it a powerful and uplifting choice.
13. “Best Friend,” Brandy
Brandy dedicated her song “Best Friend” from her self-titled debut album to her younger brother and fellow singer, Ray J. This personal touch makes it an even sweeter BFF anthem, especially for best friends who are also family. It’s a heartfelt expression of love and appreciation for a sibling-like bond, adding another layer of warmth to the theme of friend songs.
14. “In My Life,” The Beatles
Yes, “With a Little Help From My Friends” is another great Beatles friendship anthem, but “In My Life” is simply too tender and reflective to overlook. This song beautifully captures the way friends become woven into the fabric of our lives and memories. It’s a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of friendships, making it a deeply meaningful addition to any collection of friend songs.
15. “Where You Lead,” Carole King
Carole King’s musical genius is reason enough to include “Where You Lead,” but its association as the theme song for Gilmore Girls adds an extra layer of sentimental charm. This song, with its themes of loyalty and unwavering support, perfectly embodies the essence of a strong friendship. The Gilmore Girls connection further cements its place as a feel-good friend song.
16. “You’ve Got a Friend,” James Taylor
While Carole King wrote and first recorded “You’ve Got a Friend,” James Taylor’s version carries an extra layer of soothing comfort. His gentle voice singing, “Winter, spring, summer or fall, All you have to do is call, And I’ll be there, yes, I will,” is incredibly reassuring. This song is the epitome of unconditional friendship and support, making it a timeless and essential friend song.
17. “Best Friend,” Saweetie (feat. Doja Cat)
The first 30 seconds of Saweetie and Doja Cat’s “Best Friend” music video alone, where the real-life friends telepathically communicate while a man mansplains objectification, is enough to land this song on any fun friend songs list. The iconic line, “Bitch, please, that kind of crass virtue-signaling is nothing but a less overtly nefarious form of toxic masculinity,” is just chef’s kiss. This track is a modern, unapologetic celebration of confident female friendship and empowerment.
18. “Graduation (Friends Forever),” Vitamin C
For anyone who grew up in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, Vitamin C’s “Graduation (Friends Forever)” was a guaranteed inclusion on this list of friend songs. This nostalgic anthem perfectly captures the bittersweet feeling of moving on to new chapters while cherishing the friendships made along the way. It’s a sentimental classic that evokes memories of school days and lifelong bonds.
19. “We’re Going to Be Friends,” The White Stripes
With its elementary school-appropriate rhyme scheme and simple melody, The White Stripes’ “We’re Going to Be Friends” is a charming throwback to our earliest friendships. This sweet and innocent song evokes the simple joys of childhood friendships and the excitement of making new connections. Its simplicity is its strength, making it a universally appealing friend song.
20. “I’m Only Me When I’m With You,” Taylor Swift
From her self-titled debut album, Taylor Swift’s “I’m Only Me When I’m With You” was inspired by her real-life best friend Abigail Anderson. (Keep an eye out for Anderson in the music video!). This early Taylor Swift track captures the comfortable and genuine feeling of being yourself around your best friend. It’s a sweet and relatable song about the ease and authenticity found in true friendships.
21. “You Can’t Make Old Friends,” Kenny Rogers (feat. Dolly Parton)
Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, who describe themselves as “soul partners,” share a 30-year friendship that began when they teamed up for the karaoke classic “Islands in the Stream.” “You Can’t Make Old Friends” beautifully celebrates the irreplaceable value of long-term friendships and the shared history that comes with them. It’s a touching tribute to the bonds that deepen and strengthen over time.
22. “Umbrella,” Rihanna
“When the sun shines, we’ll shine together,” sings Rihanna in “Umbrella.” While the weather analogy is the core of the lyric, the sentiment is undeniably sweet and applicable to friendship. This song, with its powerful declaration of togetherness through thick and thin, resonates deeply with the protective and supportive nature of close friendships. It’s a powerful anthem of solidarity.
23. “Waiting on a Friend,” The Rolling Stones
Despite Keith Richards’ well-documented complicated relationship with Mick Jagger, “Waiting on a Friend” by The Rolling Stones is a tender reflection on the brighter days of their friendship. This song captures the simple joy of spending time with a friend and the comfortable companionship that defines those bonds. It’s a more mellow and reflective take on friend songs.
24. “God Only Knows,” The Beach Boys
You might have expected “Friends” from The Beach Boys canon, but “God Only Knows” is a more profound and emotionally resonant choice. While not explicitly about friendship, its themes of unconditional love and devotion can easily be interpreted through the lens of deep platonic connection. It’s a musically rich and lyrically beautiful song that adds depth to any friend songs playlist.
25. “Super Trouper,” ABBA
Putting ABBA’s “Super Trouper” on with your friends might just inspire you to form your own girl band, Donna and the Dynamos-style. This song, with its themes of reunion and shared experiences, is perfect for celebrating the joy of being together with your friends. It’s an upbeat and feel-good track that encourages camaraderie and fun.
26. “Friends in Low Places,” Garth Brooks
Blame it on your roots, but when Garth Brooks’ “Friends in Low Places” comes on at that Nashville bar during a bachelorette party, you and your crew will be singing along at the top of your lungs. This singalong anthem is all about letting loose and enjoying the company of your friends, even if it means embracing a little bit of chaos. It’s a fun and rowdy addition to any playlist of friend songs.
27. “Cheetah Sisters,” The Cheetah Girls
“Cheetah Sisters” by The Cheetah Girls was the moment for coordinated headbands and tracksuits! This song is a pure shot of early 2000s nostalgia, celebrating the power of sisterhood and friendship. It’s an energetic and upbeat track that embodies the fun and fashion of girl group friendships.
28. “Hold On,” Wilson Phillips
Okay, Wilson Phillips’ “Hold On” might only be considered a best friend song because of its iconic use in Bridesmaids. But honestly, that’s reason enough! The movie scene cemented this song as an anthem of female friendship and support. It’s a powerful and uplifting song about persevering together, perfectly capturing the essence of strong female bonds.
29. “Old Friends,” Simon & Garfunkel
“Old Friends” by Simon & Garfunkel carries a bittersweet tone. Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel sing, “Can you imagine us years from today, sharing a park bench quietly? How terribly strange to be 70.” At the time of writing, they were “really best friends,” but their friendship fractured shortly after. This song is a poignant meditation on aging and the passage of time within friendships, tinged with a hint of melancholy.
30. “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Simon & Garfunkel
Just a couple of years after “Old Friends,” Simon & Garfunkel’s friendship was significantly strained. Yet, for the title song of their final studio album, Simon penned the lyrics for “Bridge Over Troubled Water”: “When you’re weary, Feeling small, When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all, I’m on your side, When times get rough, And friends just can’t be found.” Whether intentional or not, it’s a powerful message about commitment to friendship through challenges. It stands as a testament to being there for someone, regardless of the difficulties the friendship might face.
31. “Time After Time,” Cyndi Lauper
Because it’s not just romantic partners who deserve these moody keyboard-synth chords! Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” is a beautiful expression of unwavering support and presence in a friendship. Her other hit, “True Colors,” would also be perfectly fitting for a BFF songs playlist, showcasing her talent for capturing the emotional nuances of close relationships.
