20 Songs That Feel Like They Were Written for a Memory You Haven’t Made Yet

“Motion Sickness” – Phoebe Bridgers

“Motion Sickness” by Phoebe Bridgers feels like an emotional postcard from a road trip you’ll take someday—a song that perfectly captures the sensation of longing for an experience just out of reach. Bridgers’ lyrics swirl with sharp wit and aching vulnerability, and her voice has a way of making listeners feel exposed in the best way possible. The track, which has amassed millions of streams on Spotify and helped Bridgers garner over 2 million monthly listeners, resonates with fans who see themselves in the story she tells, even if their own story hasn’t started yet. The gentle strum of guitars and swelling choruses evoke the sense of movement, both literal and emotional, and you can’t help but picture yourself driving under a sky streaked with sunset colors, thinking about a future heartbreak. There’s something familiar about the pain she sings about, as if she’s captured a universal feeling of missing something—or someone—you’ve never had. The emotional impact of this song lies in its ability to make you feel like the main character in a movie, waiting for the plot to unfold. Bridgers’ rise in indie music circles has been nothing short of meteoric, with critics praising her for her honest storytelling and raw, unfiltered sound.

“Holocene” – Bon Iver

Bon Iver’s “Holocene” quietly sweeps listeners into a foggy morning in a place they’ve never visited, yet somehow already miss. The song’s minimalistic arrangement, layered with Justin Vernon’s gentle falsetto and intricate guitar work, creates an atmosphere that feels both intimate and vast. “Holocene” has been streamed over 300 million times on Spotify, and its poetic lyrics—“and at once I knew, I was not magnificent”—struck a chord with a generation looking for meaning in the mundane. The music’s ethereal quality has led to its use in countless film and TV soundtracks, making it a modern classic for reflective moments. Scientific studies have shown that music like Bon Iver’s, which uses soft dynamics and repeating motifs, can trigger nostalgia and imaginative thinking, even about events that haven’t happened yet. The sense of longing in “Holocene” isn’t rooted in the past, but in the anticipation of future memories that feel destined to matter. This track is a gentle reminder that even the smallest moments can be quietly epic.

“The Night We Met” – Lord Huron

“The Night We Met” by Lord Huron is hauntingly familiar, like a love you’ll lose before you even find it. The song shot to popularity after its feature in Netflix’s “13 Reasons Why,” causing its streams to soar past 1 billion on Spotify. Its lyrics, drenched in regret and longing, evoke a sense of yearning for a relationship that feels predestined, yet always out of reach. The gentle, echoing vocals paired with lush, atmospheric instrumentation create a cinematic quality that pulls listeners into a world of bittersweet nostalgia. According to research from the Journal of Consumer Research, songs that evoke strong emotional imagery can help listeners process feelings about events that haven’t happened yet, making “The Night We Met” a go-to for anyone dreaming of romantic what-ifs. The track’s soft, echoing guitar lines and melancholic tone turn every listen into a moment of quiet reflection. Lord Huron’s ability to make the unfamiliar feel heartbreakingly close is part of what makes this song so unforgettable.

“Space Song” – Beach House

“Space Song” by Beach House is the perfect soundtrack for dancing alone in your bedroom, wrapped in starlight. The track’s dreamy synths and Victoria Legrand’s ethereal vocals create an atmosphere that feels both cosmic and deeply personal. Since its release, “Space Song” has become a viral sensation on platforms like TikTok, with millions of clips using its instantly recognizable opening notes to soundtrack moments of longing and self-discovery. The song’s hypnotic melody and lush production are classic hallmarks of dream pop, a genre shown in studies to evoke nostalgia and daydreaming—often linked to the creation of imagined future memories. The lyrics aren’t explicit, but they leave space for listeners to project their own stories, making it easy to imagine yourself under a universe of stars, dancing through possibilities. Beach House’s ongoing influence in music is evident in the way their tracks inspire art, film, and countless late-night confessions. “Space Song” is a shimmering reminder that sometimes, the most powerful memories are the ones you haven’t made yet.

“Myth” – Beach House

“Myth” by Beach House feels like walking through a dream you can’t quite remember, a track that captures the essence of fleeting moments and half-remembered aspirations. The song’s layered production and lush harmonies create a surreal soundscape, blurring the line between reality and imagination. Its lyrics are cryptic, inviting listeners to interpret them in their own way and find personal meaning. “Myth” has been featured in numerous television dramas, reinforcing its connection to visually-driven, emotional storytelling. According to music psychologists, songs with ambiguous lyrics and dreamy instrumentation can stimulate the brain’s memory centers, giving rise to feelings of déjà vu and imagined nostalgia. For fans, “Myth” is more than just a song—it’s a mood, a feeling, and a portal to the memories and dreams still waiting on the horizon. Beach House’s consistent artistry continues to shape the dream pop landscape, and “Myth” stands out as a timeless invitation to wander through your own subconscious.

“Outro” – M83

M83’s “Outro” is the end credits of a life-altering adventure, a cinematic anthem that swells with emotion and grandeur. The track’s orchestral build and soaring vocals have made it a staple in movie trailers, commercials, and sporting event highlight reels, cementing its place as one of the most recognizable pieces of instrumental pop in the last decade. “Outro” has over 100 million streams, and its popularity reflects the universal appeal of epic, wordless music to soundtrack personal milestones. Research published in Psychology of Music shows that instrumental tracks can be especially evocative for future-oriented daydreaming, allowing listeners to imagine themselves at the center of their own stories. The song’s gradual crescendo feels like a metaphor for the anticipation of big life changes, whether it’s a graduation, a move, or a goodbye. M83’s ability to make listeners feel the magnitude of moments that haven’t happened yet is what makes “Outro” so enduring. The song doesn’t just end—it lingers, like the memory of something important just around the corner.

“Experience” – Ludovico Einaudi

“Experience” by Ludovico Einaudi is a wordless journey through an emotion you haven’t named yet, a piano-driven piece that moves with the ebb and flow of unspoken feelings. Einaudi’s composition, which has racked up hundreds of millions of streams globally, is often used in film and television to convey deep, unspoken emotion. Studies in the field of music therapy have shown that instrumental classical music can help listeners process emotions and imagine scenarios in vivid detail, making “Experience” a soundtrack for moments both real and imagined. The track’s gradual build and haunting melodies create a sense of anticipation, as if you’re standing on the edge of a life-changing realization. Einaudi’s music has been described by fans as “cinematic” and “transformative,” and “Experience” in particular seems to accompany the unfolding of a story you haven’t quite lived. The song’s impact is in its subtlety, allowing listeners to fill in the blanks with their own hopes and dreams.

“Saturn” – Sleeping at Last

“Saturn” by Sleeping at Last feels like the weight of the universe cradling your heart, a song that explores themes of love, loss, and the inexorable passage of time. The orchestral arrangement, combined with heartfelt lyrics, creates a powerful sense of wonder and gravitas. Sleeping at Last’s music has been used in numerous television shows, and “Saturn” has become a favorite for milestone moments like weddings and graduations. Research from the University of Durham found that music with cosmic or celestial themes can evoke a sense of awe and connectedness, making listeners feel part of something bigger than themselves. “Saturn” is poetic and philosophical, inviting listeners to reflect on the beauty and fragility of life. The song’s emotional depth has inspired countless fan tributes and personal stories, cementing its reputation as a piece that feels both timeless and timely. Listening to “Saturn” is like staring up at the stars and realizing your story is still being written.

“Wait” – M83

“Wait” by M83 is a slow-motion fall into something beautiful and uncertain, blending atmospheric synths and emotive vocals to create an overwhelming sense of hope tinged with melancholy. The track’s cinematic quality has led to its inclusion in films like “The Fault in Our Stars,” where it underscored moments of love and loss. According to Billboard, songs with slow builds and emotional peaks are particularly effective at triggering chills and goosebumps, physical responses linked to powerful memories and feelings. “Wait” captures the tension between longing for the future and the fear of the unknown, making it a favorite for late-night drives and reflective playlists. The song’s refrain, “No time, no time,” echoes the urgency of living in the moment while still yearning for what’s next. M83’s unique sound is a testament to the power of music to make the ordinary feel extraordinary, and “Wait” continues to resonate with listeners around the world.

“Time” – Hans Zimmer (Inception OST)

“Time” by Hans Zimmer, from the Inception soundtrack, is the ultimate soundtrack to a moment you know will define you. Zimmer’s minimalist composition gradually builds to an emotional crescendo, mirroring the intensity of pivotal life moments. “Time” has become one of the most streamed movie scores of all time, and Zimmer’s work has earned him multiple Academy Awards and Grammy Awards. According to a study published in Frontiers in Psychology, music with repetitive motifs and gradual builds can help listeners imagine themselves in transformative scenarios, such as achieving a dream or facing a major decision. The track is often used in real-world settings like graduation ceremonies and motivational videos, underscoring its role as an anthem for new beginnings. The sense of urgency and hope woven into the music makes listeners feel like they’re on the cusp of something monumental. Zimmer’s artistry lies in his ability to make the personal feel cinematic, turning every listen into a momentous event.

“Rivers and Roads” – The Head and the Heart

“Rivers and Roads” by The Head and the Heart is a bittersweet reflection on goodbyes that haven’t come yet, a song infused with the ache of distance and the hope of reunion. The band’s warm harmonies and earnest lyrics have made this track a staple at farewells, graduations, and other transitional moments. “Rivers and Roads” has been featured in popular shows like “New Girl” and “Chuck,” further embedding it in the pop culture landscape. According to statistics from Spotify, the track has over 200 million streams, reflecting its widespread resonance. The song’s repetitive refrain, “Rivers and roads, rivers and roads, rivers ‘til I reach you,” becomes a mantra for anyone facing change or separation. Research has shown that repeating musical phrases can help imprint emotions and memories, making “Rivers and Roads” the perfect companion for moments of nostalgia and anticipation. The Head and the Heart’s music often explores the tension between holding on and letting go, and this song is a powerful example of that delicate balance.

“Youth” – Daughter

“Youth” by Daughter is a portrait of innocence just as it slips away, capturing the bittersweet beauty of growing up and letting go. The band’s haunting vocals and sparse instrumentation create an atmosphere of vulnerability, drawing listeners into a space where memories and possibilities blur together. “Youth” has become a cult favorite among fans of indie and alternative music, amassing over 250 million streams and being featured in several emotional film and TV scenes. Research from the University of California, Berkeley, suggests that music with melancholic themes can help listeners process complex emotions, including grief and nostalgia for futures that never arrived. The song’s lyrics, “And if you’re still breathing, you’re the lucky ones,” speak to the fragility of hope and the resilience required to move forward. Daughter’s ability to turn heartache into something beautiful is what makes “Youth” a song that lingers long after the last note fades. It’s a gentle reminder that every ending contains the seeds of a new beginning.

“Cherry Wine” – Hozier (Live)

“Cherry Wine” by Hozier, especially in its live rendition, is tender and fragile—like morning light through old curtains. Hozier’s emotive voice and delicate acoustic guitar create an intimate setting, inviting listeners into a moment of vulnerability and quiet connection. The song’s lyrics tackle themes of love and pain with honesty and grace, making it a favorite at weddings and slow, reflective evenings. Since its release, “Cherry Wine” has been streamed over 60 million times, and Hozier has used its popularity to raise awareness about domestic violence, linking art with activism. According to a study in the Journal of Positive Psychology, music that fosters vulnerability can help listeners build empathy and deepen emotional connections with others. The raw, unpolished quality of the live version makes it feel like a secret shared between friends. Hozier’s storytelling is both universal and deeply personal, and “Cherry Wine” is a testament to the healing power of music.

“Pink + White” – Frank Ocean

“Pink + White” by Frank Ocean feels like a summer afternoon where time stands still, enveloping listeners in a haze of nostalgia and warmth. Ocean’s smooth vocals and subtle production create an atmosphere that is both laid-back and emotionally rich. The song, from his critically acclaimed album “Blonde,” has become a modern classic, frequently cited by fans and critics as one of Ocean’s best works. “Pink + White” has garnered over 400 million streams on Spotify, and its dreamy instrumentation has inspired countless remixes and covers. Research from the University of London highlights that songs with evocative lyrics and gentle melodies can enhance mood and foster positive daydreaming, a phenomenon Ocean’s music effortlessly taps into. The track’s references to nature and fleeting moments make it a perfect backdrop for reflecting on memories yet to be made. Frank Ocean’s ability to blend storytelling with atmosphere keeps listeners coming back for more, always discovering new layers.

“I Know the End” – Phoebe Bridgers

“I Know the End” by Phoebe Bridgers is a build-up to an apocalypse you kind of want to witness, combining vulnerability and catharsis in a single sweeping track. The song’s dynamic structure—starting softly and building to a chaotic, triumphant finale—mirrors the unpredictability of life’s big moments. Since its release, “I Know the End” has been streamed over 100 million times and has become a fan favorite for its emotional rawness and poetic storytelling. Bridgers’ lyrics tap into themes of uncertainty, acceptance, and the strange beauty of endings, resonating with listeners facing their own transitions. According to research in the Journal of Music Therapy, songs that blend hope and despair can help listeners process change and loss, making this track especially powerful for those on the brink of something new. The communal scream at the song’s climax has become iconic, representing the release of pent-up emotion and the thrill of facing the unknown. Bridgers’ artistry shines in her ability to make the end feel like a beginning.

“First Day of My Life” – Bright Eyes

“First Day of My Life” by Bright Eyes marks the beginning of a story you haven’t started telling yet, a simple acoustic ballad bursting with hope and vulnerability. The song’s gentle guitar strumming and earnest vocals invite listeners to reflect on moments of newness, whether it’s falling in love, starting a new job, or moving to a new city. Since its release, the track has become a staple at weddings and life milestones, with over 200 million streams on Spotify. Studies have shown that music with positive, forward-looking lyrics can improve outlook and increase motivation, making “First Day of My Life” an anthem for fresh starts. The song’s straightforward honesty is its greatest strength, reminding listeners that every day brings the chance for something wonderful to begin. Bright Eyes’ influence in the indie folk scene continues to grow, and this track stands as a testament to the power of simplicity in music.

“Sea of Love” – Cat Power

“Sea of Love” by Cat Power is simple and timeless—a love letter you didn’t write but wish you had. The stripped-down arrangement and Cat Power’s hushed vocals create a feeling of intimacy, as if the song was meant for a quiet moment between two people. The track has been featured in films like “Juno,” reinforcing its role as a soundtrack for vulnerable, heartfelt scenes. According to research from the University of Missouri, simple love songs can evoke powerful emotional responses, even in listeners who haven’t experienced the specific situations described. “Sea of Love” has become a favorite for slow dances and romantic evenings, its message as relevant now as it was decades ago. Cat Power’s ability to connect across time and experience speaks to the universality of love and longing. Listening to this song feels like holding someone’s hand for the first time, filled with anticipation for the memories yet to come.

“Take Me Home” – Jess Glynne

“Take Me Home” by Jess Glynne is the anthem for your future moment of return, a song about finding comfort and belonging after a long journey. Glynne’s powerful vocals soar over a driving beat, creating an uplifting and emotionally charged experience. The track has been streamed over 250 million times and was used as the official BBC Children in Need single in 2015, highlighting its broad appeal. Studies indicate that songs with themes of homecoming and resilience can boost feelings of security and optimism, making “Take Me Home” a go-to for moments of transition. The song’s chorus, “Could you take me home?” becomes a plea for connection, resonating with anyone who’s ever felt lost or alone. Jess Glynne’s music is known for its empowering messages, and this track stands out as a beacon of hope in uncertain times. “Take Me Home” is a reminder that, no matter where you go, there’s always a way back.

“New Slang” – The Shins

“New Slang” by The Shins feels like hearing the song in the background of your own indie film, a quirky, hopeful track that invites listeners to embrace change and self-discovery. The track’s jangly guitars and introspective lyrics made it an instant classic when it was featured in the film “Garden State,” with Natalie Portman famously declaring, “This song will change your life.” Over 150 million streams later, “New Slang” remains a defining anthem of the indie rock movement. Research from the University of Toronto suggests that songs with nostalgic and introspective themes can help listeners process identity and create imagined scenarios, making “New Slang” a key player in soundtracking life’s turning points. The Shins’ unique blend of whimsy and sincerity gives the song an air of adventure, as if anything is possible. “New Slang” is proof that sometimes, the best memories are the ones you’re still waiting to make.

“Tonight, Tonight” – The Smashing Pumpkins

“Tonight, Tonight” by The Smashing Pumpkins embodies hope burning through the clouds of a dream you’re chasing, an anthemic call to action for anyone striving for something more. The song’s sweeping strings and dynamic arrangement give it a sense of grandeur, making every listen feel like the climax of a great adventure. Since its release, “Tonight, Tonight” has been hailed as one of the greatest alternative rock songs, with Rolling Stone ranking it among the best of the 1990s. The lyrics, “Believe in me as I believe in you,” have become a rallying cry for dreamers and doers alike. According to research from Harvard University, inspirational music can increase motivation and resilience, helping listeners take risks and pursue goals. The Smashing Pumpkins’ legacy is built on their ability to turn emotion into spectacle, and “Tonight, Tonight” is a shining example of that power. The song is a reminder that hope can transform even the darkest night into something beautiful.