9 Best Something Corporate Songs: The Emotional Hits You Need to Hear
“Walking by” • “Konstantine” • “as You Sleep” • “Heroine”/“Punk Rock Princess” • “I Woke up in a Car” • More ...
Something Corporate remains one of my absolute favorite bands of all time. While I adore Jack's Mannequin and Andrew McMahon's subsequent solo work, it's the raw energy of SoCo that truly captured my heart. Andrew’s voice is remarkably musical: it is raw, vulnerable, and incredibly clear. His poetry is phenomenal, and his lyrics continue to inspire fans across generations. If you're looking for songs that touch your soul, you've come to the right place. Here are 9 Something Corporate songs that move me, often to tears.
Before we dive into the tracks, here’s a quick look at why these songs resonate so deeply:
- Andrew McMahon’s raw vocals: His ability to convey pure emotion is unmatched.
- Piano-driven melodies: A unique sound in the early 2000s pop-punk scene.
- Relatable lyrics: Poetry that feels like a page from your own diary.
1. “Walking by”
This was the first SoCo song I ever heard, and it remains a top favorite. To explain why would practically mean quoting the entire track. Both the lyrics and the tone are absolutely breathtaking. This song is so moving that I can't hear it without getting shivers. The phrase “firefly stare” is so evocative it has even influenced my own writing more than once. For more music that hits home, check out our list of early 2000s bands you forgot you loved.
2. “Konstantine”
This song is unquestionably epic, which is one of the primary reasons I love it so much. It captures a specific kind of longing and beauty that is hard to find elsewhere. It makes me want to be as striking as the girl described in the lyrics. If you appreciate the epic scale of this track, you'll find the piano work in #4 equally captivating.
3. “as You Sleep”
This song is arguably the most beautiful lullaby I've ever heard. There is something truly special about the moments when it's just Andrew and his piano. This track makes my heart ache every single time. It's no wonder when you hear lyrics like: “In the car, the radio leaves me searching for your star / a constellation of frustration driving hard / singing my thoughts back to me, like watching heartache on TV.”
4. “Heroine”/“Punk Rock Princess”
“Heroine” is actually an earlier, slower version of the hit “Punk Rock Princess.” It features a few lyrical changes and is performed entirely on piano. While both versions are incredible, “Heroine” is my personal favorite because of the cadence in this line: “Maybe when I'm done with thinking, maybe you can think me whole / maybe when I'm done with endings, this can begin.” For more on the artist, visit Andrew McMahon's official site.
5. “I Woke up in a Car”
This song perfectly encapsulates the feeling of freedom and adventure. It’s about the thrill of going somewhere new without knowing exactly where you’ll land. It’s a staple for any road trip playlist. Despite what my better half might say about me falling asleep in the car, the sentiment of the song remains a powerful inspiration for anyone seeking a fresh start.
6. “Cavanaugh Park”
“Cavanaugh Park” is sweet, moving, and deeply nostalgic. It evokes memories of youth and the specific experiences that shape who we become. We all have those songs that act as a time machine, and for me, this is one of them. It's a beautiful look at the meaning behind growing up and moving on.
7. “Me and the Moon”
This song is hauntingly beautiful, starting with one of the best opening lines: “It's a good year for a murder.” The story within the lyrics is evocative, and Andrew delivers it with such grace. From the music to the chorus, every element of this song works together to create something unforgettable. You can listen to more of their hits on Something Corporate's Spotify profile.
8. “She Paints Me Blue”
I love this song for its evocative nature. Have you ever loved someone so deeply that the difficult times made you feel like they were "painting you blue"? It captures that complex mix of devotion and melancholy perfectly. It's a sentiment many of us can relate to when navigating deep emotional connections.
9. “Wait”
I’m including the original version of this song because I find it more impactful than the one on the Played in Space album. The rhyming scheme is fantastic, and Andrew's vocals are simply incredible. They have a certain quality that still gives me shivers years later. It's a testament to the band's lasting legacy.
Something Corporate continues to be a massive inspiration. Encountering musicians like them is a gift; they truly push you to be better at your own craft. If I've missed any of your favorites, I'd love to hear about the SoCo songs that move you the most!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Something Corporate's music so moving?
- Oh, for me, it's all about that raw emotion! Their songs often tap into feelings we can all relate to, like love, heartbreak, and personal growth. The lyrics just have a way of sticking with you, you know?
- Why do you think 'Konstantine' is such a fan favorite?
- Honestly, it's because 'Konstantine' is like a rollercoaster of emotions in song form. It's long, but that's the beauty of it – the storytelling is just so personal and captivating. Plus, Andrew McMahon's voice really brings out the vulnerability in the lyrics.
- How do Something Corporate lyrics resonate with listeners?
- Their lyrics are like poetry, filled with vivid imagery and relatable themes. Whether you're in love, going through a breakup, or just reflecting on life, there's probably a Something Corporate song that captures what you're feeling.
- Is there a particular theme that runs through Something Corporate's songs?
- I'd say their music often explores themes of self-discovery, love, and the complexities of relationships. They have this knack for balancing melancholy with hope, which is really inspiring.
- Which Something Corporate song holds the deepest meaning for you?
- That's tough, but I'd have to say 'Walking By'. It's a beautiful track that speaks to the feeling of longing and the memories of someone who used to be a big part of your life. It's pretty haunting in the best way.