The color black means many things in music. It can show sorrow, strength, danger, mystery, and beauty. For decades, artists have used it to give weight and depth to their lyrics. Here are ten songs that carry “black” in the title — each one a mood, a message, or a moment that still resonates today.

1. “Paint It Black” – The Rolling Stones (1966)

This Rolling Stones classic captures the rush of grief after a loss. Driven by a sitar riff and pounding drums, it became one of the band’s darkest hits. The narrator wants to cover the world in black — a striking image of emotional collapse. It’s a song that helped shape the sound of late-60s rock and opened the door to darker themes in mainstream music.

2. “Back to Black” – Amy Winehouse (2006)

Amy Winehouse’s heartbreak was never more haunting than on this track. The song tells the story of a failed relationship and a return to old habits. The retro Motown-inspired sound, layered with lush strings and Winehouse’s raw, smoky vocals, gives the song both elegance and edge. It’s the title track of the album that turned her into a global icon.

3. “Black Beauty” – Lana Del Rey (2014)

One of Lana Del Rey’s most underrated songs, Black Beauty paints a picture of a woman caught in a loveless world. She tries to bring color and joy into the life of a partner who only sees darkness. With ghostly strings and whispered vocals, the track is a slow dive into sadness — and yet, it’s heartbreak that feels beautiful.

4. “Black Dog” – Led Zeppelin (1971)

“Black Dog” opens Led Zeppelin IV with a snarling riff and cryptic lyrics. Despite the title, there’s no dog in the song — it’s more a metaphor for desire and wildness. Robert Plant’s wailing vocals chase the chaotic rhythm like a man possessed. It’s raw, unfiltered rock and roll at its finest.

5. “Blackbird” – The Beatles (1968)

This gentle acoustic song has a deep message. Paul McCartney wrote it during the American civil rights movement. The blackbird is a symbol of hope — someone rising despite the odds. It’s simple, but the guitar work and heartfelt lyrics give it lasting power.

6. “Black Magic Woman” – Santana (1970)

Originally written by Peter Green for Fleetwood Mac, this song found new life with Santana’s version. The Latin-infused guitar work adds mystique to the tale of a woman with a spellbinding hold. It’s a perfect mix of blues, rock, and Latin soul — and it made “black magic” a lasting musical metaphor.

7. “Black Hole Sun” – Soundgarden (1994)

Chris Cornell’s voice soars through this grunge classic, filled with strange images and aching melodies. Black Hole Sun feels like a dream turning into a nightmare. The lyrics are hard to pin down, but the mood is unmistakable — haunting, surreal, and emotionally heavy.

8. “Black Skinhead” – Kanye West (2013)

This track explodes with energy. Industrial beats, primal screams, and biting lyrics drive Kanye’s message about race, identity, and rebellion. Taken from Yeezus, one of his most experimental albums, it’s as much a protest as it is a performance.

9. “Black or White” – Michael Jackson (1991)

With a message of racial harmony, Black or White was one of the most popular songs of the early ‘90s. Mixing rock, rap, and pop, Jackson delivers a feel-good anthem with serious intent. The music video made headlines for its special effects and bold social commentary.

10. “Black” – Pearl Jam (1991)

One of Pearl Jam’s most emotional tracks, Black deals with the pain of lost love. Eddie Vedder’s voice cracks with emotion as he sings about letting go of someone he can’t forget. The song builds slowly, wrapping heartbreak in soaring guitars and aching words. It wasn’t a single, but it became one of the band’s most beloved songs.