20 Famous Songs About Being 20 Years Old (Must Listen)

The age of 20 is a significant milestone, marking the transition from adolescence to full-fledged adulthood. It’s a time of exploration, self-discovery, and navigating the complexities of newfound independence.

Songs about being 20 capture the essence of this unique period, reflecting the emotions, challenges, and excitement that come with stepping into the next chapter of life.

Whether you’re celebrating the highs or contemplating the uncertainties of early adulthood, these songs provide a relatable soundtrack for this pivotal age.

20 Most Popular Songs About Being 20 You Should Hear

These songs vary in genre and mood but all touch on the themes and emotions associated with being 20.

Here’s a list of 20 songs that touch on the theme of being 20, whether celebrating youth, exploring the transition into adulthood, or reflecting on the challenges and joys of that age:

#1 “20 Something” by SZA

“20 Something” by SZA is a soulful reflection on the uncertainties and complexities of life in your twenties. The song dives deep into the fears, insecurities, and doubts that often plague this decade of life. SZA’s raw lyrics express the vulnerability and confusion that come with navigating relationships, personal growth, and the search for identity during these formative years.

The mellow, stripped-down production allows her voice to take center stage, creating an intimate and relatable atmosphere. The song resonates with many who feel the pressure of trying to figure everything out in a world that often feels overwhelming.

#2 “Twentysomething” by Jamie Cullum

“Twentysomething” by Jamie Cullum is a jazz-infused track that captures the chaotic yet exciting nature of being in your twenties. The song is playful and upbeat, reflecting the mix of optimism and confusion that characterizes this period of life. Cullum’s witty lyrics address the uncertainties of career, love, and life choices that are common for many in their twenties.

With its catchy melody and lively instrumentation, “Twentysomething” serves as both a celebration and a critique of the societal expectations placed on young adults. The song’s jazzy vibe adds a unique touch, making it a standout track about the journey through early adulthood.

#3 “Twenty Years” by Augustana

“Twenty Years” by Augustana is a poignant track that speaks to the feeling of standing at a crossroads between youth and adulthood. The lyrics reflect a sense of nostalgia for the past and a cautious anticipation of the future. The song captures the bittersweet nature of looking back on what has been lost and forward to what is yet to come.

The acoustic-driven sound of the track adds to its emotional depth, making it a powerful reflection on the passage of time. “Twenty Years” resonates with those who are navigating the complexities of growing older while still holding on to the dreams of youth.

#4 “20 Something” by Bryce Vine

“20 Something” by Bryce Vine is a catchy pop-rap track that embodies the carefree spirit of being in your twenties. The song highlights the highs and lows of young adulthood, from partying and relationships to the pressures of figuring out life. Vine’s laid-back delivery and infectious chorus make this a relatable anthem for anyone navigating the ups and downs of their twenties.

The production is modern and upbeat, perfectly capturing the vibe of the current generation. “20 Something” is a fun and relatable track that celebrates the messiness of being young and figuring things out as you go.

#5 “A-Punk”  by Vampire Weekend

“A-Punk” by Vampire Weekend may not explicitly be about being 20, but its energetic, carefree spirit captures the essence of youth. The song’s fast tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and playful lyrics reflect the vibrant and somewhat chaotic nature of life at this age. It’s a track that embodies the feeling of being young, adventurous, and unburdened by the weight of responsibility.

The infectious energy of “A-Punk” makes it a perfect anthem for those in their early twenties, a time often marked by spontaneity and a sense of freedom. The song’s quirky style and upbeat vibe have made it a timeless favorite.

#6 “What’s My Age Again?” by Blink-182

“What’s My Age Again?” by Blink-182, while specifically about being 23, resonates deeply with the youthful confusion and fun of being in your early twenties. The song captures the struggle of feeling like an adult but still holding on to the carefree, rebellious spirit of adolescence. Its fast-paced punk rock sound perfectly matches the theme of resisting maturity while facing the reality of growing up.

With its memorable chorus and humorous lyrics, “What’s My Age Again?” has become an anthem for anyone grappling with the transition into adulthood. The song’s blend of humor and honesty makes it a relatable and enduring classic.

#7 “22” by Taylor Swift

“22” by Taylor Swift is an upbeat, celebratory anthem that captures the carefree spirit of being in your early twenties. The song is about embracing the joy and freedom that comes with being young, with lyrics that highlight the excitement of living in the moment and not taking life too seriously. Swift’s infectious energy and catchy melody make it a perfect song for anyone who’s enjoying the fun side of their twenties.

Despite its lighthearted tone, “22” also touches on the idea of letting go of the pressures and expectations that come with growing older, making it a relatable track for many.

#8 “Twenty-Something” by Pet Shop Boys

“Twenty-Something” by Pet Shop Boys is a synth-pop track that explores the challenges and experiences of being in your twenties. The song delves into the societal pressures and expectations that young adults often face, from career struggles to the search for identity. The lyrics capture the feeling of being caught between youth and adulthood, trying to navigate a world that demands both independence and conformity.

The Pet Shop Boys’ signature electronic sound adds a modern, edgy vibe to the track, making it a thought-provoking anthem for those grappling with the realities of early adulthood.

#9 “When You Were Young” by The Killers

“When You Were Young” by The Killers is a nostalgic track that reflects on the dreams and ideals of youth. The song contrasts the innocence and optimism of being young with the realities that come with age and experience. The lyrics tell a story of longing for the simplicity and clarity of younger days, while also acknowledging the inevitable changes that life brings.

With its powerful rock instrumentation and Brandon Flowers’ emotive vocals, “When You Were Young” resonates with those in their twenties who are reflecting on the passage of time and the loss of youthful idealism.

#10 “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron

“The Night We Met” by Lord Huron is a hauntingly beautiful song that captures the bittersweet nature of reflecting on past experiences. The song’s lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and regret, emotions that can be particularly poignant during the transition into adulthood. The ethereal sound of the track, with its layered instrumentation and echoing vocals, creates an atmosphere of nostalgia and introspection.

“The Night We Met” speaks to the feeling of looking back on a significant moment in life, often felt more acutely in your twenties when the weight of past decisions begins to influence your present.

#11 “Lost” by Frank Ocean

“Lost” by Frank Ocean is a soulful exploration of the feeling of being adrift in life, a common theme for many in their twenties. The song’s narrative centers around a young person trying to find their way while dealing with the complexities of love, ambition, and self-discovery. Ocean’s smooth vocals and the song’s laid-back groove create a reflective atmosphere that resonates with anyone who has felt lost at some point in their journey.

“Lost” captures the essence of being in your twenties, a time when many are searching for direction and grappling with the uncertainty of the future.

#12 “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield

“Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield is an empowering anthem about embracing the unknown and living life to the fullest. The song encourages listeners to take control of their own destiny, a message that resonates strongly with those in their twenties who are just starting to chart their own path. The upbeat tempo and positive lyrics make it an inspiring track for anyone facing the challenges and opportunities of early adulthood.

“Unwritten” is a reminder that life is a blank canvas, especially at 20, and that the future is full of possibilities waiting to be explored.

#13 “Young, Dumb & Broke” by Khalid

“Young, Dumb & Broke” by Khalid is a laid-back track that perfectly captures the carefree, rebellious spirit of being young. The song’s lyrics reflect the reality of being in your late teens and early twenties—experiencing life with little responsibility, little money, but a lot of freedom. Khalid’s smooth vocals and the song’s relaxed vibe make it a relatable anthem for anyone enjoying the highs and lows of youth.

“Young, Dumb & Broke” is an ode to the time in life when mistakes are expected, and the future is still wide open, making it a perfect fit for those in their twenties.

#14 “Youth” by Troye Sivan

“Youth” by Troye Sivan is a celebration of the freedom and recklessness that comes with being young. The song captures the feeling of living in the moment, where the future is uncertain, but the present is all that matters. Sivan’s emotive vocals and the song’s dreamy production create an atmosphere of youthful abandon, making it an anthem for anyone who’s embracing the here and now.

“Youth” speaks to the desire to experience life fully, without being held back by fear or doubt, a sentiment that resonates strongly with those in their twenties who are still discovering who they are.

#15 “Vienna” by Billy Joel

“Vienna” by Billy Joel is a reflective ballad that advises young people to slow down and not rush through life. The song’s message is particularly relevant for those in their twenties, who often feel the pressure to achieve their goals quickly and make something of themselves. Joel’s lyrics encourage taking the time to enjoy life’s journey and understanding that it’s okay not to have everything figured out just yet.

The soothing melody and thoughtful lyrics make “Vienna” a comforting reminder that life is long, and there’s no need to hurry, a message that resonates deeply with those navigating the uncertainties of early adulthood.

#16 “19 You + Me” by Dan + Shay

“19 You + Me” by Dan + Shay is a nostalgic country-pop song that reminisces about a youthful summer romance. While the song is about being 19, it captures the essence of that transitional period into adulthood, where emotions are intense, and memories are made that last a lifetime. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of carefree days filled with love and adventure, emotions that resonate with those in their early twenties.

With its catchy melody and heartfelt storytelling, “19 You + Me” is a sweet reminder of the simplicity and beauty of young love, a theme that continues to be relevant as one moves into their twenties.

#17 “Twenty” by Boy

“Twenty” by Boy is a mellow track that reflects on the experiences and emotions of being in your early twenties. The song’s lyrics speak to the uncertainty and excitement that come with this stage of life, where every decision feels monumental, and the future is both thrilling and terrifying. The gentle acoustic sound of the track adds a layer of introspection, making it a soothing yet thought-provoking listen.

“Twenty” captures the essence of this pivotal age, where the weight of new responsibilities is balanced by the freedom to explore and discover who you are, making it a relatable anthem for anyone in their twenties.

#18 “I’m Eighteen” by Alice Cooper

“I’m Eighteen” by Alice Cooper, although about being 18, touches on themes of confusion and rebellion that extend into one’s early twenties. The song captures the frustration of feeling caught between adolescence and adulthood, a sentiment that is still relevant at 20. Cooper’s raw vocals and the gritty rock sound create an anthem for those who feel misunderstood and unsure of their place in the world.

“I’m Eighteen” resonates with anyone who has ever felt the struggle of growing up and the desire to assert their independence, making it a timeless track for young adults navigating the challenges of early adulthood.

#19 “20/20” by Pupil

“20/20” by Pupil is a reflective song that uses the concept of vision as a metaphor for clarity and understanding in life. The lyrics explore the idea of hindsight and the realization that comes with age, particularly relevant to those who are entering their twenties and beginning to see the world from a more mature perspective. The song’s rock-influenced sound adds a sense of urgency and intensity to the theme of self-discovery.

“20/20” is a powerful reminder that with time comes clarity, and the experiences of your twenties will shape how you see the world, making it a thought-provoking track for anyone at this stage of life.

#20 “20 Years” by The Civil Wars

“20 Years” by The Civil Wars is a hauntingly beautiful song that reflects on the passage of time and the changes it brings. The lyrics speak to the idea of growing older and the bittersweet nature of looking back on past experiences. The minimalist instrumentation and harmonized vocals create a somber yet captivating atmosphere, making the song a poignant reflection on the inevitability of change.

“20 Years” resonates with those who are grappling with the realization that time moves quickly and that the choices made in youth can have lasting impacts. It’s a fitting song for anyone contemplating the weight of their twenties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What themes are commonly found in songs about being 20?

Songs about being 20 often explore themes of self-discovery, navigating adulthood, and the excitement and uncertainty of early adulthood. They frequently reflect on the transition from adolescence to maturity, highlighting both the joys and challenges of this pivotal age.

Why do many artists write songs about being 20?

Many artists write songs about being 20 because it’s a time of significant change and emotional intensity, making it ripe for artistic expression. This age marks a period of exploration, growth, and memorable experiences that resonate with both the artists and their audience.

How do songs about being 20 resonate with listeners?

Songs about being 20 resonate with listeners because they capture universal feelings of confusion, excitement, and the search for identity that define this age. They often provide a soundtrack to the formative experiences and emotions that people go through in their twenties.

Are songs about being 20 only for people in their twenties?

While songs about being 20 are particularly relatable to those in their twenties, they can appeal to listeners of any age. The themes of growth, change, and nostalgia are universal, making these songs meaningful for a broad audience.