You know you’ve officially crossed into best friend territory with someone when creating collaborative playlists becomes a norm. And no playlist dedicated to your closest buds is truly complete without a generous selection of songs about best friends.
While romantic love often steals the spotlight when it comes to musical inspiration, the deep friendships that anchor our lives are equally, if not more, inspiring. It’s no surprise then that countless artists have poured their feelings for their platonic soulmates into song. Fortunately for us, this means there’s a wealth of amazing tracks vying for the title of ultimate friendship anthem.
Ready to celebrate your bestie and the unique love you share? We’ve compiled a list of 47 of the most iconic songs about friendship, filled with best friend lyrics that will resonate deeply with you and your ride-or-die. Get ready for those “Been there!” moments. (And yes, Taylor Swift’s friendship anthems definitely made the cut!)
Listen to our best friend songs playlist on Spotify.
1. “True Blue,” boygenius
With their acclaimed 2023 album “the record,” boygenius — the supergroup comprised of best friends and artists Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus — essentially crafted an album-long tribute to platonic love. Among their collection of best friend songs, “True Blue” arguably takes the crown. Its lyrics, like “And it feels good, to be known so well. I can’t hide from you like I hide from myself,” perfectly encapsulate the comfort and vulnerability found in deep friendship.
2. “Goodbye Earl,” The Chicks
Imagine Thelma and Louise in song form, and you’ve got “Goodbye Earl.” This might just be the ultimate best friend song for those who know their BFF would help them bury a body, no questions asked. Few friendship songs tell a story as compelling as this classic country murder ballad. It’s a dark humored anthem about sticking by your friends, no matter what.
3. “I’ll Be There For You,” The Rembrandts
Famously known as the theme song for the iconic sitcom Friends, this tune, like many songs about friendship, perfectly articulates the profound loyalty and unwavering support that exists between best friends. While the message is simple, its power lies in that very simplicity. 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,” are universally relatable and deeply comforting.
4. “Best Friend,” Harry Nilsson
If you’re a fan of the MTV classic Rob & Big, you’re already familiar with this gem. Harry Nilsson’s “Best Friend” is a genuinely heartfelt ode to the most cherished person in your life and easily one of the catchiest friendship songs ever created. Its simple and direct lyrics celebrate the joy of true companionship.
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 since transcended its romantic origins to become a beloved anthem for best friends everywhere. Its upbeat tempo and celebratory lyrics resonate with the joy and appreciation found in platonic friendships.
6. “Thank You For Being a Friend,” Andrew Gold
Andrew Gold penned “Thank You For Being a Friend” in 1978 as a tribute to his musical collaborator Brock Walsh. However, it’s Cynthia Fee’s iconic cover that most people recognize, thanks to its use as the theme song for The Golden Girls. This song is perfect for playing while sharing late-night cheesecake with your own crew of close-knit friends, reminiscent of Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, and Sophia.
7. “Anytime You Need a Friend,” Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey wrote “Anytime You Need a Friend” during a period marked by loneliness and marital difficulties in her own life. This comforting and powerful track serves as the ideal song to send to a friend who is navigating a challenging time. It’s a melodic reassurance of unwavering support during hardship.
8. “That’s My Best Friend,” Tokyo Vanity
New Orleans rapper Tokyo Vanity achieved viral fame in 2015 with “That’s My Best Friend,” a hit tailor-made for Instagram and Vine. The accompanying music video, filled with tutus and infectious energy, will make you instantly want to join her inner circle and become her best friend. It’s a fun, high-energy track celebrating female friendship.
Tokyo Vanity in her music video "That's My Best Friend", showcasing energetic female friendship
9. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” stands as one of the most cherished best friend songs of all time. This Motown classic is an especially poignant choice for BFFs who are separated by distance. Its powerful vocals and unwavering message of dedication make it a timeless expression of friendship that transcends physical boundaries.
10. “Wannabe,” Spice Girls
Ah, the nostalgia! Remember choreographing dances to “Wannabe” on the playground and playfully arguing over who got to be Baby Spice? (And on a side note: Why did so many of us gravitate towards Baby Spice anyway?) This iconic Spice Girls anthem is all about prioritizing friendship and having fun with your girl gang.
11. “Best Friends,” Missy Elliott (feat. Aaliyah)
Missy Elliott’s “Best Friends,” featuring Aaliyah, contains best friend lyrics that will deeply resonate with anyone who has ever wished and hoped for their BFF to break free from a toxic relationship. It’s an anthem of support and empowerment, urging friends to recognize their worth and leave unhealthy situations.
12. “Heroes,” David Bowie
While the inspiration behind David Bowie’s “Heroes” might have been witnessing his producer kissing his girlfriend against the backdrop of the Berlin Wall, it undeniably adds a triumphant and uplifting note to any BFF playlist. (Plus, we know you can’t help but think of that iconic scene from The Perks of Being a Wallflower). It’s a powerful song about overcoming obstacles together, perfect for celebrating the strength of friendship.
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 dedication makes it an even sweeter and more meaningful BFF anthem, especially for best friends who are also siblings or consider each other family.
14. “In My Life,” The Beatles
Yes, yes, we know what you were expecting: “With a Little Help From My Friends,” and that’s a fantastic choice too! But “In My Life” by The Beatles is simply too tender and reflective to overlook. It’s a beautiful meditation on cherishing the people who have been constants in your life, making it a deeply moving friendship song.
15. “Where You Lead,” Carole King
As if Carole King’s legendary status weren’t enough, the strong association with the Gilmore Girls theme song adds an extra layer of sentimental charm to “Where You Lead.” It’s a song about unwavering loyalty and following your loved ones through life’s journey, perfectly capturing the essence of a steadfast friendship.
16. “You’ve Got a Friend,” James Taylor
Is it truly fair to highlight James Taylor’s rendition of “You’ve Got a Friend” over Carole King’s original, especially considering she wrote and first recorded it? Probably not. However, there’s an undeniable extra layer of soothing comfort in Taylor’s voice as he sings the iconic lyrics, “Winter, spring, summer or fall, All you have to do is call, And I’ll be there, yes, I will.” His version brings a unique warmth and gentleness to this timeless friendship anthem.
17. “Best Friend,” Saweetie (feat. Doja Cat)
Even just the first 30 seconds of Saweetie and Doja Cat’s “Best Friend” music video, in which these real-life friends playfully read each other’s minds while a man condescendingly explains objectification to them, is enough to secure its place on any list of fun friends songs. And let’s not forget the truly iconic line: “Bitch, please, that kind of crass virtue-signaling is nothing but a less overtly nefarious form of toxic masculinity.” It’s a bold and unapologetic celebration of female empowerment and friendship.
18. “Graduation (Friends Forever),” Vitamin C
For anyone who grew up in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, “Graduation (Friends Forever)” by Vitamin C was an inevitable inclusion on this list. This nostalgic anthem perfectly encapsulates the bittersweet emotions of graduation and the enduring bonds of friendship as you transition into new life chapters.
19. “We’re Going to Be Friends,” The White Stripes
With its elementary school-appropriate rhyme scheme and simple, charming melody, “We’re Going to Be Friends” by The White Stripes is a delightful throwback to the innocent beginnings of some of our earliest friendships. It evokes the simple joys of childhood companionship and the excitement of forming new bonds.
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 song beautifully expresses the feeling of being completely yourself and most comfortable in the presence of your best friend.
Taylor Swift and Abigail Anderson in the music video for "I'm Only Me When I'm With You", depicting real-life best friendship
21. “You Can’t Make Old Friends,” Kenny Rogers (feat. Dolly Parton)
Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton famously described themselves as “soul partners,” highlighting their 30-year friendship that blossomed when they collaborated on the karaoke classic, “Islands in the Stream.” “You Can’t Make Old Friends” perfectly captures the irreplaceable value of long-lasting friendships and the unique bond that develops over years of shared experiences.
22. “Umbrella,” Rihanna
“When the sun shines, we’ll shine together.” While Rihanna’s “Umbrella” lyrics might be rooted in a weather metaphor, the sentiment is undeniably sweet and applicable to friendship. It’s a powerful declaration of being there for each other through thick and thin, sunshine and storms, just like true best friends do.
23. “Waiting on a Friend,” The Rolling Stones
Even though Keith Richards’ well-documented disdain for Mick Jagger is widely known, The Rolling Stones’ “Waiting on a Friend,” which reflects on the brighter days of their relationship, is surprisingly tender. It’s a nostalgic look back at the early days of friendship and the simple joys of companionship.
24. “God Only Knows,” The Beach Boys
Did you think we were going to choose “Friends” from The Beach Boys’ catalog? Well, surprise! “God Only Knows” is a more profound and emotionally resonant choice. Its heartfelt lyrics and soaring harmonies express a deep appreciation for the people who enrich our lives, making it a beautiful and unexpected friendship song.
25. “Super Trouper,” ABBA
Putting ABBA’s “Super Trouper” on with your best friends might just inspire you to form your own girl band, Donna and the Dynamos-style. It’s an upbeat and energetic anthem about performing for your fans, but the underlying message of camaraderie and shared dreams makes it a fun friendship song too.
26. “Friends in Low Places,” Garth Brooks
“Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks is a guaranteed singalong anthem. When this song plays at that Nashville bar you inevitably end up in for a bachelorette party, you and your crew will be belting it out at the top of your lungs. It’s a rowdy and fun celebration of letting loose with your friends and embracing your shared experiences, no matter how unconventional.
27. “Cheetah Sisters,” The Cheetah Girls
“Cheetah Sisters” perfectly encapsulates the energy of coordinated outfits and synchronized moves! This song embodies the fun and unity of girl groups and the power of sisterhood, both literal and figurative, making it a quintessential friendship anthem for girl besties.
28. “Hold On,” Wilson Phillips
Okay, let’s be honest, Wilson Phillips’ “Hold On” might only be considered a best friend song because of its iconic scene in Bridesmaids. But that association alone is reason enough! The movie scene cemented it as an anthem of female camaraderie and support, making it a fun and slightly ironic addition to a friendship playlist.
29. “Old Friends,” Simon & Garfunkel
“Old Friends” by Simon & Garfunkel takes a bittersweet turn. In it, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel poignantly sing, “Can you imagine us years from today, sharing a park bench quietly? How terribly strange to be 70.” At the time of writing, the famous duo considered themselves “really best friends,” but their friendship began to fracture a few years later during the creation of their next album. This song is a reflective meditation on the passage of time and the changing nature of friendships as life progresses.
30. “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Simon & Garfunkel
Just a few years after “Old Friends,” Simon and Garfunkel’s friendship was significantly strained. Yet, for the title track of their final studio album, Simon penned the words: “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, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” can be interpreted as a powerful message about committing to support someone through difficulties, regardless of the challenges a friendship may face. It speaks to the enduring power of loyalty and being a steadfast friend even when times are tough.
31. “Time After Time,” Cyndi Lauper
Because it’s not just a romantic partner who deserves those moody keyboard-synth chords! Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” is a perfect choice for a best friend song. Her other hit, “True Colors,” could also easily find a place on a BFF songs playlist, showcasing her knack for capturing the emotional depth of human connection, both romantic and platonic.
