In the realm of contemporary music, few artists possess a voice as distinctive and captivating as Hozier. Hailing from Ireland, this enigmatic singer-songwriter has captivated audiences worldwide with his raw, emotive lyrics and haunting melodies. Known for his unique blend of soul, folk, and rock influences, Hozier's music transcends genres, resonating with listeners on both an intimate and universal level.
Hozier's rise to fame was propelled by the release of his debut EP, "Take Me to Church" in 2013. The title track, a soul-stirring anthem of love, longing, and defiance, became a global hit, propelling Hozier into the spotlight. Since then, he has released two critically acclaimed studio albums, "Hozier" (2014) and "Wasteland, Baby!" (2019), showcasing his versatility as a songwriter and his ability to explore themes of love, loss, and redemption with both depth and nuance. Throughout his career, Hozier has garnered numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award and two Brit Awards, cementing his status as one of the most celebrated musical artists of our time.
| Song | Artist | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Take Me to Church | Hozier | Hozier | 2014 | 853M+ |
| 2. Work Song | Hozier | Hozier (Expanded Edition) | 2015 | 113M+ |
| 3. From Eden | Hozier | Hozier (Expanded Edition) | 2014 | 60M+ |
| 4. Too Sweet | Hozier | Unreal Unearth: Unheard | 2024 | 58M+ |
| 5. Movement | Hozier | Wasteland, Baby! | 2018 | 34M+ |
| 6. Tell It To My Heart |
MEDUZA Hozier | Unreal Unearth | 2021 | 33M+ |
| 7. Jackie and Wilson | Hozier | Hozier (Expanded Edition) | 2014 | 25M+ |
1. Take Me to Church (Hozier)
There is no sweeter innocence than our gentle sin ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release25-03-2014 |
| Time04:17 | View853M+ |
| Likes 8M+ | SuitableChurchgoers |
| AlbumHozierListen on Spotify | |
- Love and romance
- Hozier
- Church hymns
- LGBTQ+ themes
In the landscape of contemporary music, Hozier's 'Take Me to Church' stands as a powerful anthem that transcended its role as a mere song to become a cultural phenomenon. Its raw and emotionally charged lyrics, coupled with its hauntingly beautiful melody, have captivated audiences worldwide, leaving an enduring mark on the music industry. Released in 2013, the song became an instant critical and commercial triumph, topping charts and garnering numerous accolades, including a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year.
The song's deeply personal lyrics explore the pain and disillusionment of a forbidden love, using religious imagery to express the anguish and frustration of societal judgment. Hozier has described 'Take Me to Church' as a "losing your religion song," inspired by a romantic breakup and the writings of the late atheist writer Christopher Hitchens. The song's title alludes to the hypocrisy of organized religion, and its accompanying music video depicts the raw and violent consequences of homophobia. Through its powerful storytelling and unflinching portrayal of human vulnerability, 'Take Me to Church' has become a poignant and evocative anthem for marginalized communities and a timeless masterpiece in the annals of modern music.
2. Work Song (2015)
Lay me gently in the cold, dark earth ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release23-03-2015 |
| Time03:38 | View113M+ |
| Likes 781K+ | SuitableAmericana Fans |
| AlbumHozier (Expanded Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Acoustic Guitar
- Folk rock
- Political
- Social Justice
- Hozier
If you haven't yet indulged in the captivating sounds of Hozier's "Work Song" now is the perfect moment to immerse yourself in its enchanting melody. Originally released in 2014 as part of his self-titled debut album, this track has garnered immense popularity and recognition within the realm of Hozier's best offerings. Its captivating lyrics and soulful arrangement have left an indelible mark on listeners, resonating deeply with those who have experienced the transformative power of love amidst life's arduous journeys.
"Work Song" transports us to the heart of a laborer's existence, where the relentless heat of toil is alleviated by the unwavering love for a special someone. Hozier's lyrics paint a vivid tapestry of exhaustion and longing, as the protagonist yearns for the moment they can reunite with their beloved. The song's haunting melody, infused with elements of indie, folk, and blues, perfectly complements the raw emotions expressed in the lyrics. It serves as a poignant reminder that even in the face of life's challenges, love has the power to sustain and inspire us, providing the strength to overcome adversity and endure the toughest of days.
3. From Eden
Idealism sits in prison, chivalry fell on his sword ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release18-11-2014 |
| Time05:03 | View60M+ |
| Likes 307K+ | SuitableFolk Enthusiasts |
| AlbumHozier (Expanded Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Acoustic Guitar
- Folk Acoustic
- Hozier
- Anthemic Chorus
- Nature Imagery
Among Hozier's critically acclaimed repertoire, "From Eden" stands out as a captivating exploration of temptation and flawed desire. Released in 2014, this blues-infused anthem has garnered widespread acclaim for its poignant lyrics and evocative storytelling. With its rich blend of rock, soul, and religious imagery, "From Eden" showcases Hozier's unique ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners.
Hozier's portrayal of the devil's perspective adds a provocative twist to "From Eden" Through the devil's eyes, listeners witness a longing for innocence and purity—a yearning that reveals the inherent complexity of human nature. The devil's seductive charm contrasts with his admission of the relationship's inevitable imperfections, creating a poignant exploration of temptation and the allure of forbidden love. Hozier's masterful use of metaphors and vivid imagery further enhances the song's emotional impact, painting a vivid picture of the devil's struggle between darkness and light.
4. Too Sweet
My coffee black and my bed at 3 ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release22-03-2024 |
| Time04:12 | View58M+ |
| Likes 703K+ | SuitableIndie Music Enthusiasts |
| AlbumUnreal Unearth: UnheardListen on Spotify | |
- Love song
- Heartbreak
- Acoustic Ballad
- Indie Rock
- Soulful Ballad
"Too Sweet" released in 2024, marked Hozier's return to the music scene and gained widespread recognition for its captivating lyrics and poignant melody. The song, featuring a collaboration with the renowned singer-songwriter, explores the complex dynamics between two individuals with vastly different lifestyles.
Hozier paints a vivid picture of one who embraces the indulgences of life, reveling in the simple pleasures of whiskey, coffee, and late-night adventures. In contrast, the other person embodies discipline and structure, valuing order and predictability. Through the song's introspective lyrics, Hozier delves into the delicate balance between overindulgence and self-control, questioning the sacrifices made in pursuit of both. The song resonated deeply with listeners, sparking discussions about the challenges of finding harmony between the desire for spontaneity and the need for stability in relationships.
5. Movement (Hozier)
You are a call to motion ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release14-11-2018 |
| Time03:56 | View34M+ |
| Likes 425K+ | SuitableAdults |
| AlbumWasteland, Baby!Listen on Spotify | |
- Acoustic Guitar
- Introspective Lyrics
- Uplifting Ballad
- Hozier
"Movement" a standout track from Hozier's critically acclaimed album "Wasteland, Baby!", has earned widespread recognition for its profound exploration of love and movement. Charting high on both the Irish Singles Chart and Billboard Digital Sales Chart, the song garnered praise from critics for its emotional intensity and lyrical depth. NPR lauded Hozier's ability to craft songs with soaring intensity and drama, while Billboard hailed its poignant exploration of movement's beauty.
The song's lyrics, written solely by Hozier, paint a vivid picture of a dancer's mesmerizing presence, evoking images of freedom, grace, and raw emotion. Through the song's narrative, Hozier expresses a profound awe and admiration for the dancer's ability to move with such passion and abandon. Listeners have connected deeply with the song's message, finding solace in its reminder of the transformative power of movement and the beauty of embracing our inner dance.
6. Tell It To My Heart (MEDUZA ft Hozier - 2021)
'Cause I can't keep guessing ”
Song information
| ArtistMEDUZA, Hozier | Release29-10-2021 |
| Time02:46 | View33M+ |
| Likes 277K+ | SuitablePop Music |
| AlbumUnreal UnearthListen on Spotify | |
- Pop
- Dance
- House
- Electronic
- Electro
From the very first notes of 'Tell It To My Heart', the collaboration between MEDUZA and Hozier, one is drawn into a realm of electronic dance beats and soulful vocals. The song takes a departure from the comfort zone of both artists, resulting in a unique and captivating blend that has resonated with listeners. Hozier's vocals soar over the energetic rhythm, creating a sense of both warmth and melancholy that perfectly captures the song's themes of emotional longing and distance.
The lyrics of 'Tell It To My Heart' explore the complexities of unrequited love, with Hozier's voice conveying a mix of vulnerability and longing. The song's production, with its heartbeat-like pulse and ethereal synths, adds a layer of emotional depth that sets it apart from other dance tracks. It's a testament to the versatility of Hozier as an artist and a showcase of the magic that can happen when different musical worlds collide.
7. Jackie and Wilson (Hozier - 2014)
Run her hands through my hair ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release03-09-2014 |
| Time03:40 | View25M+ |
| Likes 104K+ | SuitableFolk enthusiasts |
| AlbumHozier (Expanded Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Acoustic
- Folk rock
- Indie
- Heartfelt Ballad
- Romantic Duet
"Jackie and Wilson" by Hozier stands as a testament to the transformative power of love. This soulful ballad, released as part of his critically acclaimed self-titled debut album, has captivated listeners with its poignant lyrics and Hozier's haunting vocals. The song's narrative centers around a couple who seek solace and freedom within the confines of their relationship. They envision a future together, raising children named after the iconic soul singer Jackie Wilson, a symbol of their enduring love.
Hozier's masterful songwriting shines through in "Jackie and Wilson" His evocative imagery and lyrical depth paint a vivid picture of love's transformative journey. The song's raw emotionality resonates with listeners, evoking a sense of longing, hope, and the indomitable spirit of self-discovery.
8. Almost
She likes to roll here in my ashes anyway ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release16-04-2019 |
| Time03:52 | View20M+ |
| Likes 258K+ | SuitableTeenager |
| AlbumWasteland, Baby!Listen on Spotify | |
- Love song
- Acoustic Ballad
- Soulful Vocals
- Emotional
- Indie Folk
"Almost (Sweet Music)", a standout track from Hozier's album "Wasteland, Baby!", is a heartfelt ode to the transformative power of music. Released in 2019, the song has garnered critical acclaim and charted internationally, reaching number 8 on the Irish Singles Chart and number 69 on the UK Singles Chart.
Hozier's love for jazz shines through in "Almost (Sweet Music)", as he pays homage to the genre's legends with subtle references to classic songs. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, capturing the emotions that music can elicit, bridging the gap between past and present. Hozier himself has described the song as a celebration of music's ability to provide solace and connect people across time and space. Its popularity is a testament to its universal appeal, resonating with listeners seeking solace, inspiration, and a reminder of the profound impact that music can have on our lives.
9. Like Real People Do (Hozier)
I will not ask and neither should you ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release29-08-2013 |
| Time03:19 | View18M+ |
| Likes 105K+ | SuitableIntrospective Listeners |
| AlbumHozier (Expanded Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Introspective Lyrics
- Soulful Ballad
- Emotional Vocals
- Hozier
Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? "Like Real People Do" by Hozier is exactly that kind of song. It's a captivating and intimate exploration of a new relationship, where the singer draws metaphors from "bog bodies" in Ireland—bodies that have undergone natural mummification over centuries. These ancient remains represent the mysterious and hidden aspects of the person the singer is connecting with.
Despite the uncertainties and secrets that may lie beneath the surface, the singer chooses not to unravel them. Instead, they embrace and love the individual in an authentic way. The lyrics are filled with a sense of vulnerability and acceptance, as the singer sings, "I won't ask you where you came from / I won't ask you where you're going / You can be whoever you want to be." This song perfectly encapsulates the beauty and complexity of new love, where the unknown is not a source of fear but a source of allure and excitement.
10. Would That I (2019)
Where I'm set alight (Oh, oh) ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release01-03-2019 |
| Time04:31 | View14M+ |
| Likes 114K+ | SuitableFolk Enthusiasts |
| AlbumWasteland, Baby!Listen on Spotify | |
- Acoustic Guitar
- Irish Folk
- Haunting Vocals
- Hozier
Whenever the melancholic tune of "Would That I" by Hozier fills the air, it evokes a bittersweet symphony of memories and emotions. This poignant track stands apart as one of Hozier's most acclaimed songs for its captivating blend of raw emotion and poetic imagery. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of love lost and a longing for a transformative rebirth.
Hozier masterfully weaves metaphors of nature into his storytelling, comparing past relationships to trees that provided shelter before being consumed by the flames of a new love. The phrase "Would that I" becomes a haunting refrain, expressing a yearning for what could have been. Through its evocative lyrics and haunting melodies, "Would That I" resonates deeply with listeners, inviting them to reflect on the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection.
11. The Bones (Maren Morris ft Hozier)
Yeah, the paint could peel, the glass could shatter ”
Song information
| ArtistMaren Morris, Hozier | Release04-10-2019 |
| Time03:19 | View13M+ |
| Likes 77K+ | SuitableRomantic |
| AlbumUnreal UnearthListen on Spotify | |
- Heartbreak Ballad
- Acoustic Soul
- Raw Emotion
- Maren Morris
- Hozier
"The Bones" a captivating collaboration between Maren Morris and Hozier, has garnered widespread acclaim for its poignant exploration of resilience in relationships. Released in 2019, the song blends Morris's country roots with Hozier's haunting vocals, creating a sonic tapestry that resonates with listeners. The lyrics draw a parallel between a sturdy house and the unwavering strength of a partnership, conveying the belief that even through life's challenges, a strong foundation can withstand any storm.
The song's success is evident in its critical accolades and commercial performance. It received a CMA Award for Musical Event of the Year and a Grammy nomination for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. Topping Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart and reaching the top 12 on the Billboard Hot 100, "The Bones" has also achieved international recognition. The emotional depth expressed by Morris and Hozier, coupled with the song's universal message of resilience, has made it an enduring favorite among fans worldwide.
12. Shrike
Like a cry at the final breath that is drawn ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release06-09-2018 |
| Time05:03 | View8M+ |
| Likes 69K+ | SuitableAlternative music fans |
| AlbumWasteland, Baby!Listen on Spotify | |
- Emotional Depth
- Raw Emotion
- Hozier
- Deep voice
Nestled within Hozier's acclaimed "Wasteland, Baby!" album, "Shrike" emerges as a poignant exploration of a love lost. Drawing upon the haunting imagery of the shrike bird, whose predatory nature involves impaling its prey on thorns, the song metaphorically delves into the regret that arises when one fails to cherish a relationship until it's gone.
Hozier's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a failed connection, where he laments his inability to express his love clearly. The chorus echoes the frustration of unfulfilled words, as he sings, "Remember me love when I am reborn as a shrike to your sharp and glorious thorn." This powerful imagery symbolizes the pain of realizing the beauty of something only after it's been lost, leaving behind a sense of longing and regret that lingers deep within the heart.
13. Blood Upon the Snow
Nature offers a violence ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier, Bear McCreary | Release09-11-2022 |
| Time04:46 | View8M+ |
| Likes 117K+ | SuitableFantasy lovers |
| AlbumGod of War Ragnarök (Original Soundtrack)Listen on Spotify | |
- Celtic Folk
- Hozier
- Epic Fantasy
- Nature love
- Bear McCreary
"Blood Upon the Snow" a captivating collaboration between Hozier and Bear McCreary for the soundtrack of God of War: Ragnarök, evokes profound emotions in listeners. Its haunting melodies and raw lyricism resonate deeply, painting a vivid tapestry of the game's world where survival is a constant struggle. The song portrays the brutal cycle of life and nature's indifference, metaphorically reflecting the inherent violence and challenges faced by both humans and the creatures of the game's realm.
Hozier's haunting vocals intertwine with McCreary's powerful orchestration, creating an immersive soundscape that transports listeners to the heart of the narrative. The lyrics delve into the complexities of survival, highlighting the resilience and determination required to endure in a harsh and unforgiving world. The song's impact is further amplified by its appearance in the game after a pivotal moment, adding an emotional depth to the character's journey and resonating deeply with players who have forged a connection with the story.
14. Talk (Wasteland, Baby!)
When her body was found (Hey, yeah) ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release01-03-2019 |
| Time03:29 | View6M+ |
| Likes 51K+ | SuitableCouples |
| AlbumWasteland, Baby!Listen on Spotify | |
- Acoustic Guitar
- Romantic Ballad
- Emotional Expression
- Hozier
- Lyrical Poetry
With its haunting melody and soulful lyrics, Hozier's "Talk" captivates listeners with a raw and honest portrayal of unrequited love. The track's acoustic guitar strumming sets a melancholic tone as Hozier's voice weaves a tale of longing and vulnerability. The song's lyrics, brimming with imagery and emotion, have resonated deeply with listeners who see it as a testament to the transformative power of love.
Hozier's use of metaphors, such as comparing his love to Eurydice in the underworld and the final witness before a wave hits, creates a vivid and evocative soundscape. The unreliable narrator's desperate desire for connection and forgiveness is palpable, making the song both relatable and heart-wrenching. The refrain, "I won't deny I've got in my mind now all the things we could do," captures the protagonist's consuming thoughts and daydreams of reciprocated love. "Talk" stands as a poignant anthem for those who have experienced the pain and desperation of unrequited love, offering solace and a sense of shared vulnerability.
15. Eat Your Young
Pull up the ladder when the flood comes ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release05-04-2023 |
| Time04:16 | View6M+ |
| Likes 125K+ | SuitableGoth |
| AlbumUnreal UnearthListen on Spotify | |
- Indie Rock
- Indietronica
- Hozier
- Dark Folk
- gothic folk
Emerging from the depths of Hozier's artistic prowess, 'Eat Your Young' stands as a poignant anthem that resonates with listeners across the globe. Its haunting melody, adorned with the gentle strumming of a guitar, captivates the senses, drawing one into the depths of its lyrical tapestry. With its raw and unflinching lyrics, the song delves into the darker recesses of human nature, exploring themes of greed, violence, and societal corruption.
Hozier has described 'Eat Your Young' as a commentary on the exploitation and consumption of the vulnerable in society. Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where the young are devoured by the powerful, their innocence and dreams shattered in the pursuit of wealth and status. The song's evocative imagery, coupled with Hozier's deeply resonant vocals, evoke a profound sense of empathy and outrage in listeners, reminding us of the urgent need for compassion and justice in our world.
16. Northern Attitude (2023)
And I'm not how you hoped ”
Song information
| ArtistNoah Kahan, Hozier | Release10-11-2023 |
| Time04:28 | View5M+ |
| Likes 41K+ | SuitableAcoustic Music Fans |
| AlbumHozier (Expanded Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Acoustic Ballad
- Introspective Lyrics
- Noah Kahan
- Hozier
- Melancholy Tune
Among the captivating tracks in Noah Kahan's 'Stick Season (We’ll All Be Here Forever)', "Northern Attitude" stands out as an exceptional collaboration with Hozier. The song interweaves Kahan's poignant folk-pop melodies with Hozier's captivating vocals, resulting in a masterpiece that has garnered widespread acclaim. Notably, Kahan himself expressed immense pride in the collaboration, stating that it is the definitive version of the song.
The lyrics of "Northern Attitude" are a testament to the power of human connection and the transformative nature of shared experiences. Kahan's evocative storytelling meets Hozier's haunting harmonies, creating an emotional tapestry that resonates deeply with listeners. The song has been lauded for its authenticity and raw vulnerability, with fans echoing the sentiment that it captures the essence of a profound bond. The collaboration between Kahan and Hozier amplifies the emotional depth of the song, giving it a timeless and universal appeal.
17. Francesca
Heaven is not fit to house a love like you and I ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release31-05-2023 |
| Time04:44 | View5M+ |
| Likes 71K+ | SuitableEnglish speakers |
| AlbumUnreal UnearthListen on Spotify | |
- Acoustic
- Lyrical
- Indie Folk
- Hozier
"Francesca" Hozier's latest masterpiece from his upcoming third album, Unreal Unearth, is a haunting ballad that has captivated listeners worldwide. Inspired by Dante Alighieri's epic poem, Divine Comedy, the song delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the torturous journey through Hell. Francesca da Rimini's tragic tale echoes through Hozier's lyrics, evoking a raw and visceral portrayal of enduring passion amidst adversity.
Hozier's unique blend of poetic lyricism and haunting melodies is on full display in "Francesca" The track made its exclusive debut during intimate Pop-Up Shows in Paris and London, teasing fans with its evocative harmonies and raw storytelling. The subsequent release of the song was met with an outpouring of emotional responses, with listeners hailing it as a testament to Hozier's lyrical genius and therapeutic power. Through its exploration of love's transformative nature and the unyielding human spirit, "Francesca" solidifies its place as a standout in Hozier's already impressive catalog.
18. Unknown / Nth (Unreal Unearth - 2023)
I swam a lake of fire, I'd have walked across the floor of any sea ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release23-06-2023 |
| Time04:41 | View3M+ |
| Likes 52K+ | SuitableAlternative Music Enthusiasts |
| AlbumUnreal UnearthListen on Spotify | |
- Hozier
- Deep Vocals
- Haunting Atmosphere
- Atmospheric Folk
From the very first notes of 'Unknown / Nth' by Hozier, listeners are captivated by its haunting melody and raw emotional depth. The song's lyrics, inspired by Dante's 'Divine Comedy', delve into the complexities of love and betrayal, exploring the universal experience of feeling misunderstood and alone in a relationship. As Hozier himself described, the "Nth" in the title represents an "unknown but large number," reflecting the countless individuals who have endured the pain of romantic treachery.
The song's evocative imagery and visceral lyrics resonate deeply with listeners, who find solace and understanding in Hozier's ability to articulate their own emotions with such poignancy. The chorus, "It ain't the being alone sha la la / It ain't the empty home baby sha la la / You know I'm good on my own sha la la sha la la baby / You know it's more the being unknown," captures the essence of the song's message: that the pain of being unknown or unseen in a relationship often outweighs the physical solitude. Hozier's powerful vocals and the song's haunting melody further amplify the emotional weight of these lyrics, creating a deeply moving and unforgettable listening experience.
19. De Selby (Hozier - 2023)
You take in the blackness of air ”
Song information
| ArtistHozier | Release16-08-2023 |
| Time03:53 | View2M+ |
| Likes 44K+ | SuitableIndie Music Fans |
| AlbumUnreal UnearthListen on Spotify | |
- Soulful Vocals
- Soft acoustic
- Intense Emotion
- Hozier
"De Selby - Hozier" is a haunting and introspective song that delves into themes of darkness, self-sabotage, and the human condition. Hozier's enigmatic lyrics, inspired by the eccentric philosopher De Selby, create a tapestry of imagery that depicts a cycle of self-destruction and isolation. Andrew Hozier-Byrne, the mastermind behind Hozier, masterfully weaves a sonic landscape that captures the song's emotional depth, with haunting melodies and evocative lyrics that linger long after the final note.
Hozier's performance of "De Selby" is a testament to his artistry and emotional range. The song's raw and confessional nature has resonated deeply with listeners, who have interpreted its symbolism in various ways. Some see it as a metaphor for alcoholism and self-destructive behavior, while others perceive it as a reflection on the darkness within all of us. Hozier's decision to conclude the song with lyrics in Irish adds an ethereal dimension, imbuing it with a sense of ancient wisdom and connection to the land.