Dive into the enchanting world of music, where melodies and emotions take flight.
Here we explore captivating songs that feature butterflies in their titles, symbolising transformation and beauty, and those special tunes that evoke the thrilling sensation of butterflies in your stomach.
Discover how artists across genres use these delicate creatures to convey profound feelings and experiences, making our hearts soar with each note.
Join us as we flutter through an array of tracks that celebrate the magic and mystery of butterflies, both in name and in the feelings they inspire.
1. Michael Jackson – “Butterflies” (2001)
“Butterflies” is a midtempo R&B ballad by Michael Jackson. It was written and composed by Andre Harris and Marsha Ambrosius, and produced by Jackson and Harris.
The track appears on Jackson’s tenth studio album, Invincible (2001).
The song captures the euphoria of infatuation, with key lyrics like: “All you got to do is walk away and pass me by / Don’t acknowledge my smile when I try to say hello to you.”
It charted at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Interestingly, Marsha Ambrosius of the English neo-soul duo Floetry wrote “Butterflies” when she was still in school.
She and her Floetry colleague Natalie Stewart met Jackson through John McClain, DreamWorks’s senior urban executive, who also manages Jackson.
Jackson heard the song and decided to record it. He invited the two Floetry girls to the studio and asked for their input during the recording process.
Ambrosius later revealed that the song was inspired by her own “butterflies”—she had a crush on a guy in London and felt too shy to express her feelings.
2. Travis Scott – BUTTERFLY EFFECT (2017)
“Butterfly Effect” is a track from Travis Scott’s third studio album, “ASTROWORLD”, released on May 15, 2017.
The song explores themes of love, transformation, and the impact of small actions.
The title refers to the concept of the “butterfly effect,” where small causes can have significant effects.
Travis Scott’s melodic delivery and sharp production by Murda Beatz create a hazy, low-key vibe.
“For this life, I cannot change / Hidden Hills, deep off in the main / M&M’s, sweet like candy cane / Drop the top, pop it, let it bang”
“All the ones, all the chains piled on the mantle / All the dawgs low creep right behind me in the Phantom”
The single debuted at number 99 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and later peaked at number 50 following the release of “ASTROWORLD.”
The music video, directed by BRTHR, adds to the song’s mysterious allure.
3. Alicia Keys – “Butterflies” (2005)
Alicia Keys’ song “Butterflyz” is a soulful track from her debut album, Songs in A Minor (2001).
In this romantic ballad, Alicia expresses the significance of her love interest, describing how they make her feel.
The connection between them is lovely and indescribable, akin to the fluttering sensation of butterflies in her stomach.
The lyrics beautifully capture the magic of infatuation:
“Lately when I look into your eyes, I realize / You’re the only one I need in my life / Baby, I just don’t know how to describe / How lovely you make me feel.”
The album, bolstered by its smash lead single “Fallin’,” was a huge hit, debuting at #1 on the US albums chart and selling over 10 million copies.
4. Tyla – “Butterflies” (2023)
“Butterflies” is track 7 from Tyla’s eponymous album, TYLA (2024).
The song delves into the rollercoaster of being in a complicated relationship, capturing both the ups and downs.
“You give me butterflies / Got me falling in the deep end of your disguise / Sparred with a hundred lies / So I fear this might be my goodbye, I.”
The partner’s “disguise” refers to hidden intentions, a recurring theme in Tyla’s songs.
Despite wanting to run away and end the relationship, Tyla’s heart yearns for the overwhelming intensity of their connection, leaving her torn between paths.
5. Queen Naija – “Butterflies Pt. 2” (2020)
“Butterflies Pt. 2” is track 17 on Queen Naija’s album missunderstood (2020).
The song continues the love story from the original “Butterflies,” providing an update on the relationship.
It beautifully captures the feeling of still having butterflies even after the honeymoon phase.
“You came, came into my life / Then made everything right again / I was once in a dark place / I remember when you told me / You were scared to fall in love again / Still, you found a way to fall for me.”
This track resonates with listeners, celebrating the enduring magic of love.
6. Camila Cabello – “Bad Kind of Butterflies” (2019)
“Bad Kind of Butterflies” is a bass-heavy track from Camila Cabello’s album Romance (2019).
In this song, Camila confesses that despite being in a happy relationship, there’s someone else stuck in her head.
The lyrics beautifully capture the struggle of having romantic feelings for someone while committed to another, leading to guilt and inner turmoil.
“Come here and sit next to me / Don’t look at me while I’m breaking / After what I’m gonna say / I understand if you hate me / What do I do when I love you and want somebody else? / What do I lose if I don’t choose and keep it to myself?”
This emotional track resonates with listeners who’ve grappled with conflicting feelings.
7. Kacey Musgraves – “Butterflies” (2018)
“Butterflies” is a genre-defying track from Kacey Musgraves’ fourth studio album, Golden Hour (2018).
It departs from the lyrical cynicism expressed in her previous songs, instead capturing the feelings of falling in love when meeting someone new.
The song was co-written by Musgraves, Luke Laird, and Natalie Hemby, and produced alongside Daniel Tashian and Ian Fitchuk.
“You tuck me in, turn out the light / Kept me safe and sound at night / Little girls depend on things like that / Brushed my teeth and combed my hair / Had to drive me everywhere / You were always there when I looked back.”
This touching ballad beautifully captures the transformative power of love.
8. Abe Parker – “Butterflies” (2021)
“Butterflies” is a track from Abe Parker’s second studio album, Everwood, released through Sounds Good on January 28, 2022.
The song gained popularity on video-sharing app TikTok, amassing over 7 million views, and has garnered more than 44 million streams on Spotify.
Abe Parker, though known for his breakthrough song “Empty House,” is no newcomer to the music scene.
“How do I tell you I need you? / When you steal the breath in my lungs? / My body shakes ’til the blood in my face / Makes me awkward smile and turn around / How do I hold these emotions? / When you spin my world out of place? / One look at me and it feels like everything / Is written marker on my face.”
This emotional ballad captures the complexities of romantic feelings and the uncertainty that often accompanies them.
9. Denise Julia – “Butterflies” (2023)
“Butterflies” is track 6 on Denise Julia’s album Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1) (2023).
The song delves into the complexities of love and attraction, capturing the feeling of being drawn to someone despite the chaos around.
“We’ve been on some dumb shit lately / Finding love in the worst place to be / Different dudes in the party / Finding no truth ‘cause they lyin’ / Hittin’ up girls but you want me / So I entertain ’em boys, say, ‘I’m lonely’ / But I figured I need real, I hate empty / Want a real thing, not some dumb fling.”
Denise Julia’s emotive vocals and relatable lyrics resonate with listeners navigating the complexities of relationships.
10. MAX & Ali Gatie – “Butterflies” (2021)
“Butterflies” is track 14 on their collaborative project, WHO HURT YOU? (2021).
The song beautifully expresses their love and admiration for their partners.
“You could give me chills on a summer day, yeah / When we’re layin’ still but you make my heart race / Gonna keep me young when we’re old and grey / I know that time moves on, but some things don’t change.”
This track captures the timeless magic of love and the joy it brings.
11. Fase Yoda – “Butterflies” (2021)
“Butterflies” is a track from Fase Yoda’s album FALLEN ANGEL (2021).
The song delves into the inner struggles of the artist, addressing themes of mental health, inner demons, and the desire for escape.
The lyrics describe feelings of struggling with mental health while finding beauty in life.
Despite contemplating suicide, there’s also a desire to live.
Fase Yoda’s emotive storytelling resonates with listeners navigating their own complexities.
12. Bring Me The Horizon – One Day The Only Butterflies Left Will Be In Your Chest As You March Towards Your Death…
Bring Me The Horizon’s haunting ballad “One Day The Only Butterflies Left Will Be In Your Chest As You March Towards Your Death.”
This track is the final song on Bring Me The Horizon’s album POST HUMAN: SURVIVAL HORROR (2020).
It’s a captivating collaboration between Oli Sykes (representing humanity) and Amy Lee of Evanescence (representing Mother Nature).
The collaboration emerged as a silver lining after Evanescence sued the band over similarities between a verse in “nihilist blues” and their 2017 song “Never Go Back”.
“On the verge of no return, why’d you keep messing it up? / Don’t wanna have to bury you, but nothing seems to get through your skull / One day, the only butterflies left will be in your chest / As you march towards your death, breathing your last breath / I hate to say ‘I told you so,’ but look how the bruises show.”
This poignant ballad captures the fragility of our world and the consequences of our actions.
14. Fiji Blue – Butterflies (2017)
“Butterflies” is a track by Fiji Blue, released on May 7, 2020. The song beautifully captures the feeling of being in love with someone who is far away.
“You should’ve seen the way that you bloomed / I think I saw your face in the moon / I promise I’ll be with you as soon as I find a way up / ‘Cause you’re farther than a kiss on the phone / There’s things about you I’ll never know / I hope that one day we’ll be in love when you’re not far away.”
This emotive track resonates with listeners navigating the complexities of distance and longing.
15. Floetry – Butterflies (2002)
“Butterflies” is a track by Floetry, a British R&B duo comprising Marsha Ambrosius (“the Songstress”) and Natalie Stewart (“the Floacist”).
The duo recorded two studio albums and sold over 1,500,000 records worldwide.
The song was written by Marsha Ambrosius and is part of their debut album, Floetic (2002).
Interestingly, Marsha Ambrosius originally wrote the song based on a boy who worked at a McDonald’s she frequented.
Later, she gave it to Michael Jackson, who used it on his album Invincible.
There are two versions of “Butterflies”: one with Michael’s vocals and another where Marsha serves as a background vocalist.
“You give me butterflies inside / All you gotta do is just walk away and pass me by / Don’t acknowledge my smile when I try to say hello to you / And all you gotta do is not answer my calls / When I’m tryna get through, keep me wondering why / When all I can do is sigh.”
This emotive track captures the magic of infatuation and longing.
16. Dolly Parton – Love Is Like a Butterfly
Dolly Parton’s song “Love Is Like a Butterfly” is a beautiful country ballad.
It was released in August 1974 as the first single and title track from her album of the same name.
“You give me butterflies inside / All you gotta do is just walk away and pass me by / Don’t acknowledge my smile when I try to say hello to you / And all you gotta do is not answer my calls / When I’m tryna get through, keep me wondering why / When all I can do is sigh.”
It became Dolly Parton’s overall fourth number one on the country chart as a solo artist (and her third consecutive number one).
The single stayed at number one for one week and spent a total of twelve weeks on the country chart.
Dolly used “Love Is Like a Butterfly” as the opening theme for her 1976–77 TV variety show, Dolly!
She also uses a butterfly as the “W” in the trade dress for her Dollywood theme park
17. Miley Cyrus and Billy Ray Cyrus’ – “Butterfly Fly Away” (2009)
“Butterfly Fly Away” is a soft country ballad featured in the 2009 film Hannah Montana: The Movie, where both Cyruses star.
It was subsequently released on the film’s soundtrack. An extended version is also included on Billy Ray’s eleventh studio album, Back to Tennessee.
“You tuck me in, turn out the light / Kept me safe and sound at night / Little girls depend on things like that / Brushed my teeth and combed my hair / Had to drive me everywhere / You were always there when I looked back.”
This touching ballad captures the bittersweet journey of growing up and leaving the comforting confines of home.
18. Crazy Town – “Butterfly” (2000)
Crazy Town’s song “Butterfly” is a captivating blend of rap and rock.
“Butterfly” was released in October 2000 as the third single from Crazy Town’s debut album, The Gift of Game.
The lead singer, Shifty Shellshock (Seth Binzer), wrote this song about the girl he was seeing at the time.
Most of the group’s songs exuded macho swagger, but he wanted to create something more romantic. Interestingly, she collected butterflies.
The song gained mainstream popularity after its physical release on February 19, 2001.
“Come my lady, come come my lady / You’re my butterfly, sugar baby / Come my lady, come come my lady / You’re my butterfly, sugar baby.”
19. Billie Eilish – WILDFLOWER (2024)
“WILDFLOWER” is the fifth track from Billie Eilish’s third studio album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT.
The song delves into the complexities of a relationship shadowed by the lingering presence and memories of a past lover.
“Things fall apart / And time breaks your heart / I wasn’t there, but I know / She was your girl / You showed her the world / But fell out of love and you both let go.”
The title of the song may allude to Wildflower Cases, a brand founded by Devon Carlson, who had previously dated Eilish’s now ex-boyfriend, Jesse Rutherford (frontman of alternative rock band the Neighbourhood).
Billie seems to have befriended Devon Lee Carlson and was seen out with her this year.
During the tracking week ending June 1, 2024, the song debuted at #17 on the Hot 100 chart.
20. Phoebe Bridgers – I Know The End (2021)
Phoebe Bridgers’s song “I Know the End” is a metalinguistic closing track from her sophomore album, Punisher.
This apocalyptic folk ballad reclaims the singer-songwriter narrative and describes a desolate vision of the world, referencing American culture and recent happenings.
“Somewhere in Germany, but I can’t place it / Man, I hate this part of Texas / Close my eyes, fantasize / Three clicks and I’m home / When I get back, I’ll lay around / Then I’ll get up and lay back down / Romanticize a quiet life / There’s no place like my room.”
The song weaves together themes of longing, existential uncertainty, and the desire for escape.
It culminates in a cathartic scream, capturing the intensity of emotions.
This haunting track leaves a lasting impression, blending vulnerability and raw power.
21. Joji – Glimpse of us (2022)
Joji’s song “Glimpse of Us” is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the bittersweet nature of relationships.
Glimpse of Us is the lead single from Joji’s third studio album, Smithereens, released on June 10, 2022.
The track compares Joji’s current relationship to the connection he felt with a past lover, unable to forget the feelings he had while with his current partner.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of nostalgia and introspection, capturing the essence of love’s complexities.
This emotive track resonates with listeners, evoking memories of lost love and the yearning for what once was.
21. Zinha – Why do you make me wait (2024)
Zinha’s song “Why Do You Make Me Wait” is a hypnotic ballad that blends retro pop with a modern twist. In this track, Zinha pours out her emotions with vigor, yearning for that perfect love while reflecting on what-ifs.
The solemn and soul-stirring piano arrangement sets the stage for her nuanced vocals, tinted with wistful yearning and an irresistible allure.
22. Avara’s – runnin’ round/flawless (2024)
Avara’s song “Runnin’round / flawless” is a slow-burning revelation that blends neo-soul and R&B to create a mesmerising sound.
The song’s structure begins with a raw, vulnerable dive into toxic relationships, then makes a dramatic pivot, mirroring an inner journey from self-doubt to empowerment.
23. Elvis Presley – Can’t Help Falling In Love
Elvis Presley’s song “Can’t Help Falling In Love” is a timeless classic.
It was featured in the 1961 Elvis movie Blue Hawaii and remains one of his most iconic ballads.
“Can’t Help Falling In Love” was written by the songwriter George Weiss.
Despite initial reservations from movie producers and Elvis’ associates, Elvis insisted on recording it for the film.
The song beautifully captures the feeling of falling deeply in love, with lyrics like:
“Wise men say only fools rush in / But I can’t help falling in love with you.”
This heartfelt ballad continues to resonate with listeners across generations.
24. James Blake – you’re too precious (2020)
James Blake’s song “You’re Too Precious” is a heartfelt ballad that captures the vulnerability of love.
Written and produced by Blake alongside frequent collaborator Dominic Maker of English electronic music duo Mount Kimbie, the track features subdued beats and heavy use of vocal manipulation.
The lyrics reflect the desire to protect someone who has become too precious to lose.
25. lana del rey – love song
Released in February 18, 2017 “Love” is part of Lana Del Rey’s fifth studio album, “Lust for Life.”
“Love” is a dreamy and nostalgic track that captures the essence of youthful romance.
Lana Del Rey’s signature ethereal vocals blend seamlessly with the lush instrumentation, creating a sense of longing and wistfulness.
The lyrics evoke memories of carefree days, where love feels like an escape from the mundane.
The song’s cinematic quality transports listeners to a world of faded glamour and starry-eyed yearning.
“You get ready, you get all dressed up / To go nowhere in particular / Back to work or the coffee shop / Doesn’t matter ’cause it’s enough / To be young and in love”
Lana Del Rey’s music video for “Love” features vintage visuals, celestial imagery, and a nostalgic nod to classic Hollywood.
The song’s timeless appeal continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
26. SZA – Garden (say it like dat) (2017)
“Garden (Say It Like Dat)” is the eighth track and the fifth and final single from SZA’s debut album, “Ctrl”.
The song finds SZA seeking emotional vulnerability and support in a relationship.
She questions whether she is deserving of her romantic interest’s love.
The lyrics express a desire to be loved for one’s true self, despite insecurities and doubts.
“Open your heart up / Hoping I’ll never find out that you’re anyone else / ‘Cause I love you just how you are / And hope you never find out who I really am / ‘Cause you’ll never love me, you’ll never love me”
The song contains a spoken-word outro by SZA’s grandmother, who advises her not to let anyone push her around and to stand her ground.
SZA often draws inspiration from close family members in her songs.
The music video features SZA and Donald Glover (Childish Gambino) on a tropical island, following her cameo appearance in Glover’s This Is America video.
27. Mac Demarco – My Kind of Woman
“My Kind of Woman” is track No. 8 on Mac DeMarco’s debut studio album, “2”, released on October 16, 2012.
The song is an interesting love ballad that captures the complexities of a relationship.
In the first verse, Mac DeMarco acknowledges that his sweetheart drives him crazy but still loves her when they’re together.
The second verse reveals his self-doubt, wondering why she remains committed to him despite their flaws.
“You’re my, my, my, my kind of woman / My, oh my, what a girl / And I’m down on my hands and knees / Begging you please, baby, show me your world.”
Mac DeMarco has stated that this song is about his girlfriend, Kiera McNally (also known as Kiki).
28. Sufjan Stevens – Mystery of Love
“Mystery of Love” is one of two songs written by Sufjan Stevens for the soundtrack of the 2017 film ‘Call Me By Your Name’.
An acoustic ballad that captures the complexities of love, it alludes to the relationship between film characters Elio and Oliver.
The lyrics evoke wonder, longing, and a sense of transcendence.
“Oh, to see without my eyes / The first time that you kissed me; Lord, I no longer believe / Drowned in living waters; How much sorrow can I take? / Blackbird on my shoulder”
Stevens was granted full creative control during the songwriting process.
The song was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song and featured in the film’s trailer.
29. Amandla Stenberg – Be mine (2018)
“Be Mine” is part of the “Euphoria” soundtrack, featured in the HBO Original Series.
“Be Mine” is a soulful and introspective song that delves into themes of love, fear, insecurity, and the desire for deep connection.
Through poignant lyrics and emotive vocals, the song explores the complexities of relationships and the deep yearning to be truly seen and understood by another person.
“I don’t wanna kid around like a man who’s dying / Grinning at the end, wondering if you’ll always be mine / Be mine”
“I don’t wanna spite God with my given fear / I just want euphoria the more you’re here / You’re here”
Amandla Stenberg’s vocals convey raw emotion, capturing the longing and vulnerability expressed in the song.
30. indigo de souza – what are we gonna do now (2018)
“What Are We Gonna Do Now” is track 6 on “I Love My Mom”, released on June 8, 2018.
The song expresses the challenges of a relationship where partners struggle to balance daily life demands while maintaining their emotional connection.
It’s a quiet revolt against the Instagram-perfect portrayal of love, reminding us that behind closed doors, we all crave substance over style.
“What are we gonna do now? / Saw you sleeping outside with a red nose / Saw you sleeping in bed with your day clothes on / You still haven’t cleaned the kitchen / And we’re still on hold with the nurses / I know you’re worn, you’re exhausted / This is love, this is lost on you.”
Conclusion
The song captures vulnerability, exhaustion, and the longing for authenticity in a world that often prioritises appearances over genuine connection.
Butterflies have an uncanny ability to evoke powerful emotions, both as a symbol and through the feelings they inspire.
The songs we’ve explored in this article span a wide range of genres and eras, each capturing the delicate dance of love, transformation, and emotional intensity that butterflies represent.
From Michael Jackson’s tender ballad to the neo-soul empowerment of Avara, these tracks remind us of the fleeting and magical moments that make our hearts flutter.
As you listen to these songs, may you find yourself transported to those precious moments of excitement and vulnerability.
Whether it’s the sweet nostalgia of Dolly Parton’s “Love Is Like a Butterfly” or the modern reflections of Queen Naija and Joji, let these melodies be a soundtrack to the butterflies in your life.
So, turn up the volume, let the music take flight, and embrace the fluttering emotions that connect us all.
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