If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the dreamy, cinematic world of Lana Del Rey, you’ve come to the right place. Known for her melancholic melodies, vintage Hollywood aesthetic, and exploration of themes like love, fame, and Americana, Lana Del Rey has crafted a unique and captivating discography. As we eagerly anticipate her upcoming releases, let’s dive into a curated Lana Del Rey Songs List featuring 10 essential tracks that perfectly encapsulate her signature sound and enduring appeal. These songs, handpicked for their lyrical depth, sonic landscapes, and overall impact, are perfect for both longtime fans and those just beginning to explore her mesmerizing artistry.
10. Music To Watch Boys To (Honeymoon, 2015)
“Music To Watch Boys To” from the Honeymoon album is the quintessential Lana Del Rey track for daydreaming. Its hazy, almost underwater soundscape creates an incredibly wistful and ethereal atmosphere. The song’s delicate instrumentation and Lana’s breathy vocals perfectly capture a sense of longing and voyeuristic fascination, making it the ideal soundtrack for moments of quiet contemplation or, as the title suggests, observing from afar. This track exemplifies her ability to create immersive sonic worlds that transport listeners to another place and time.
9. Radio (Born to Die, 2012)
“Not even they can stop me now,” Lana declares at the start of “Radio,” a powerful anthem of triumph over adversity. Featured on her breakthrough album Born to Die, this song is about achieving long-sought dreams and silencing doubters. The upbeat tempo and confident lyrics contrast with some of her more melancholic work, showcasing her versatility. “Radio” is an empowering track about self-belief and the exhilaration of finally reaching your goals, resonating with anyone who has faced challenges on their path to success.
8. National Anthem (Born to Die, 2012)
Lana Del Rey as Jackie Kennedy in the "National Anthem" music video, alongside A$AP Rocky as JFK, portraying a glamorous yet tragic American love story.
“National Anthem,” another gem from Born To Die, is a bold and provocative track that blends patriotic imagery with themes of love and rebellion. The song’s music video, featuring A$AP Rocky, is famously inspired by the Kennedy presidency and explores a tumultuous love triangle within a glamorous, yet ultimately tragic, American context. Here, Lana fully embodies her self-proclaimed “gangsta Nancy Sinatra” persona, delivering a performance that is both captivating and critical of American ideals.
7. Pretty When You Cry (Ultraviolence, 2014)
Opening with haunting strings and static, “Pretty When You Cry” from Ultraviolence delves into the darker side of love and longing. This raw and emotional track explores the pain of unrequited affection and the vulnerability of wanting someone who may never be truly yours. Despite the sadness, there’s a sense of self-awareness and even a touch of defiance in the lyric, “I’m pretty when I cry.” This song highlights Lana’s ability to convey deep emotional complexity through her music, resonating with listeners who have experienced heartbreak.
6. Freak (Honeymoon, 2015)
Lana Del Rey in a retro-style image, possibly a promotional shot for "Freak", embodying a vintage aesthetic and allure.
“Freak,” another standout from Honeymoon, is quintessential Lana Del Rey. It encompasses all the signature elements fans adore: dreamy melodies, evocative lyrics, and a visually stunning music video. The video for “Freak,” which features Father John Misty, is a psychedelic trip filled with acid, nature, and mesmerizing underwater slow-motion scenes, perfectly complementing the song’s hypnotic and sensual vibe. “Freak” is a celebration of unconventional love and embracing your true, perhaps “freaky,” self.
5. American (Paradise EP, 2012)
“American,” from the Paradise EP, is a more upbeat and carefree track compared to some of Lana’s heavier ballads. Produced by her frequent collaborators Emile Haynie and Rick Nowels, this song is an effortlessly cool and catchy tune with infectious melodies. The lyrics, “Be young, be dope, be proud, like an American,” encapsulate a youthful, rebellious spirit and a romanticized view of American culture. “American” is a breezy and enjoyable track that showcases Lana’s lighter side while still maintaining her signature dreamy aesthetic.
4. Old Money (Ultraviolence, 2014)
Black and white image of Lana Del Rey, possibly from the Ultraviolence era, conveying a melancholic and nostalgic mood.
“Old Money,” the most mellow offering from Ultraviolence, is a masterclass in vocal performance and nostalgic atmosphere. This track is drenched in longing and reminiscence, with Lana’s stunning vocals taking center stage. From its delicate production to its poignant lyrical content about lost love and faded glamour, “Old Money” is a beautifully crafted song that evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia and bittersweet reflection. It’s a testament to Lana’s ability to create emotionally resonant and timeless music.
3. Ride (Paradise EP, 2012)
Accompanied by a visually striking music video that plays like a short film, “Ride” from the Paradise EP is an anthem of freedom and self-discovery. This song is all about breaking free from constraints and embracing the open road, both literally and metaphorically. Delivered with one of Lana’s most soulful and powerful vocal performances, “Ride” is a soaring ballad that speaks to the desire for liberation and the courage to forge your own path. It’s a fan favorite for its epic scope and deeply personal lyrics.
2. Born To Die (Born to Die, 2012)
The opening notes of “Born To Die” immediately establish the orchestral and cinematic sound that defines much of her debut album. This acclaimed title track is a powerful exploration of love, mortality, and the desire to live life intensely. “Born To Die” captures the essence of Lana Del Rey’s artistry: a blend of romanticism, tragedy, and a yearning for something larger than life. The song’s dramatic instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics have made it an enduring classic and a cornerstone of her discography.
1. Video Games (Born to Die, 2012)
It’s no surprise that Lana Del Rey’s breakout single, “Video Games,” tops this Lana Del Rey songs list. This down-tempo ballad remains one of her most beloved and recognizable songs. Its hypnotic melody and nostalgic lyrics about simple pleasures and everyday moments of connection, like “Watching all our friends fall/ In and out of Old Paul’s/ This is my idea of fun/ Playing video games,” resonate deeply with listeners. “Video Games” is a timeless and emotionally resonant song that launched Lana Del Rey into stardom and continues to captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying its place as her signature track.
