The National, a band hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, has carved a unique space in the world of indie rock. For over two decades, their music has resonated with listeners, crafting a sound that is both intimate and grand. The National's success goes beyond the music, however. Their music is often a soundtrack to life, exploring themes of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of time. They are renowned for their introspective lyrics and Matt Berninger's baritone voice, which imbues their music with a sense of vulnerability and emotional depth. From the understated melancholy of "I Need My Girl" to the soaring grandeur of "Light Years", the band's work is a testament to their ability to capture the complexities of human experience.
This list aims to celebrate the best of The National's musical legacy, offering a glimpse into their diverse sound and introspective songwriting. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, this collection of their most enduring songs will transport you to the emotional landscapes they so masterfully create. Let The National be your guide through the intricacies of life, love, and the profound beauty of music that transcends time.
| Song | Artist | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. The Alcott |
Taylor Swift The National | First Two Pages of Frankenstein | 2023 | 3M+ |
| 2. I Need My Girl | The National | Trouble Will Find Me | 2013 | 17M+ |
| 3. Light Years | The National | I Am Easy to Find | 2019 | 4M+ |
| 4. About Today | The National | I Am Easy to Find | 2004 | 21M+ |
| 5. Fake Empire | The National | Boxer | 2007 | 14M+ |
| 6. Bloodbuzz Ohio | The National | High Violet | 2010 | 11M+ |
| 7. Don't Swallow the Cap | The National | Trouble Will Find Me | 2013 | 10M+ |
1. The Alcott (First Two Pages of Frankenstein - 1970)
To meet you at The Alcott ”
Song information
| ArtistTaylor Swift, The National | Release2023 |
| Time04:28 | View3M+ |
| Likes 66K+ | SuitableFolk Lovers |
| AlbumFirst Two Pages of FrankensteinListen on Spotify | |
- Taylor Swift
- Acoustic Guitar
- Female Vocals
- Indie Folk
- The National
"The Alcott" - Taylor Swift, The National, is a poignant collaboration that showcases the strengths of both artists. The song, a somber ballad from The National's 2023 album 'First Two Pages of Frankenstein,' features Taylor Swift's vocals weaving through Matt Berninger's characteristic baritone. This dynamic interplay is the song's heart, creating a powerful dialogue that feels both intimate and expansive. The lyrics, inspired by Matt's wife, Carin Besser, are full of emotional depth, exploring themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human connection.
The National are known for their evocative music, often blending a melancholy atmosphere with introspective lyrics. "The Alcott" continues this tradition, offering a raw and vulnerable exploration of emotions that resonates deeply with listeners. Taylor Swift's presence adds a layer of ethereal beauty to the song, her voice soaring above the instrumentation, creating a haunting and memorable soundscape. The song's compelling blend of vocal interplay, evocative lyrics, and a melancholic yet beautiful sonic tapestry make "The Alcott" a true stand-out track that exemplifies the best of both The National and Taylor Swift.
2. I Need My Girl (2013)
Davy says that I look taller ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2013 |
| Time04:02 | View17M+ |
| Likes 98K+ | SuitableYoung Adults |
| AlbumTrouble Will Find MeListen on Spotify | |
- Sentimental
- Indie Rock
- Broken Heart
- The National
"I Need My Girl" by The National is a stark departure from the band's more introspective and melancholic work, while still retaining the signature The National sound. The song is a love ballad, but not the kind that relies on soaring melodies or saccharine lyrics. Instead, it's a raw and honest expression of deep affection, delivered through Matt Berninger's signature baritone and a restrained but powerful instrumental arrangement. This song stands out in The National's catalog for its directness, capturing the vulnerability and desperation of needing someone in your life.
The song, with its potent lyrics and haunting melody, goes beyond mere romantic longing. "I Need My Girl" delves into a deeper need for connection, for a safe haven in a world that often feels unforgiving. The song's simple but poignant lyrics, like the line "in the end you couldn't love me," carry a powerful weight, leaving listeners reflecting on their own relationships and the profound impact of love in their lives. "I Need My Girl" serves as a reminder of the strength and solace found in finding someone who understands and supports you, even amidst the chaos of life.
3. Light Years (2019)
Laying down to soak it all in before we had to run ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2019 |
| Time03:38 | View4M+ |
| Likes 44K+ | SuitableStudents |
| AlbumI Am Easy to FindListen on Spotify | |
- Alternative
- Indie Rock
- Experimental
- The National
"Light Years" the closing track from The National's 2019 album "I Am Easy to Find," is a haunting ballad that captures the band's signature blend of melancholic beauty and raw emotional honesty. The song's delicate piano melody and Matt Berninger's achingly vulnerable vocals create a powerful atmosphere of yearning and regret, while the lyrics explore themes of missed opportunities and the lingering pain of lost love.
"Light Years" is a prime example of The National's ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners. The song's simple yet evocative imagery, such as the line "I thought I saw your mother last weekend in the park / It could’ve been anybody / It was after dark," creates a vivid picture of a lost connection and the feeling of being hopelessly out of reach. The song's repetition of the phrase "light years away" emphasizes the vastness of the emotional distance between the narrator and the subject of their affection, painting a poignant picture of unfulfilled longing. It's a song that lingers in the mind long after it's finished, reminding us of the bittersweet nature of love and loss.
4. About Today (The National)
And I didn't ask you why ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2004 |
| Time04:13 | View21M+ |
| Likes 100K+ | SuitableIndie Fans |
| AlbumI Am Easy to FindListen on Spotify | |
- Indie Rock
- Folk
- Americana
- The National
"About Today" from The National's 2004 EP Cherry Tree, stands out as a poignant and understated exploration of the complexities of love and loss. The song's haunting melody and Matt Berninger's melancholic vocals create a melancholic atmosphere, perfectly capturing the bittersweet feeling of a fading relationship. The lyrics, often open to interpretation, touch on themes of longing, regret, and the desperate hope for connection, painting a picture of two people drifting apart while desperately clinging to the remnants of their love.
This track marks a crucial point in The National's early career, showcasing their ability to craft deeply personal and emotionally resonant songs. While their later work often explored more complex narratives and experimental sounds, "About Today" remains a testament to their ability to evoke raw emotions with minimal instrumentation and a simple yet powerful lyrical structure. Its enduring popularity among fans speaks to the song's timeless relevance, offering a universal and relatable portrayal of love's fragility and the heartache that comes with letting go.
5. Fake Empire (The National - 1970)
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2007 |
| Time03:24 | View14M+ |
| Likes 46K+ | SuitableIndie music enthusiasts |
| AlbumBoxerListen on Spotify | |
- Alternative
- Indie Rock
- Slowcore
- The National
If you haven't yet experienced the haunting beauty of "Fake Empire" by The National, now is the perfect time to dive in. This song, from their 2007 album "Boxer," encapsulates the band's signature sound—a blend of melancholic lyricism, driving guitars, and Matt Berninger's distinctive baritone vocals. "Fake Empire" is a standout track not just for its captivating melody, but also for the raw emotion it conveys, a feeling of being lost and disillusioned in a world that feels increasingly unreal.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world that's both alluring and oppressive. Lines like "We're half awake in a fake empire" capture the feeling of being trapped in a system that feels both artificial and inescapable. This theme of disillusionment and yearning for something more authentic is a recurring thread throughout The National's catalog, and "Fake Empire" exemplifies this theme with its evocative imagery and poignant delivery. This song, while deeply personal, speaks to a universal experience, making it a deeply resonant and timeless piece of art.
6. Bloodbuzz Ohio (The National)
I never married but Ohio don't remember me ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2010 |
| Time04:36 | View11M+ |
| Likes 47K+ | SuitableIndie Music Enthusiasts |
| AlbumHigh VioletListen on Spotify | |
- Indie Rock
- Post-Punk Revival
- Alternative Indie
- The National
"Bloodbuzz Ohio" by The National, a track from their critically acclaimed album "High Violet," has received widespread recognition for its haunting beauty and evocative lyrics. While the song achieved a respectable number 31 spot on the Triple J Hottest 100 of 2010, its true impact lies in the profound connection it has fostered with listeners.
The song showcases The National's signature sound—a blend of melancholic melodies, Matt Berninger's deep, emotive vocals, and a driving, atmospheric rhythm section. "Bloodbuzz Ohio" captures a potent sense of longing and a yearning for something elusive, as exemplified by the repeated phrase "I still owe money, to the money, to the money I owe." This refrain, intertwined with the song's evocative imagery and poignant lyrics, creates a unique sense of melancholy that resonates deeply with listeners, evoking a feeling of nostalgia for an experience yet to be lived. This song is a testament to The National's ability to craft music that is both emotionally resonant and musically captivating, solidifying their place as one of the most influential indie rock bands of the 21st century.
7. Don't Swallow the Cap (Trouble Will Find Me - 1970)
I'll never be ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2013 |
| Time04:46 | View10M+ |
| Likes 41K+ | SuitableAlternative Fans |
| AlbumTrouble Will Find MeListen on Spotify | |
- Alternative
- Indie Rock
- Rock
- The National
With its understated melody and Matt Berninger's signature baritone vocals, "Don't Swallow the Cap" from The National's 2013 album "Trouble Will Find Me" evokes a profound sense of melancholy that resonates deeply with listeners. The song's haunting lyrics, filled with existential angst and raw emotion, create an intimate atmosphere that feels both personal and universal. Berninger's vocal delivery is at its most vulnerable, painting vivid pictures of isolation and yearning, leaving the listener captivated by the sheer rawness of the experience.
"Don't Swallow the Cap" represents a crucial moment in The National's evolution, showcasing their ability to craft intricate melodies and lyrics that delve into the complexities of the human experience. The song's captivating arrangement, characterized by a stark acoustic guitar and subtle instrumentation, accentuates the raw emotional depth of Berninger's lyrics, solidifying the song's place as a standout track in The National's extensive and acclaimed catalog.
8. The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness
and I can tell that somebody sold you ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2017 |
| Time03:57 | View9M+ |
| Likes 53K+ | SuitableElectronica enthusiasts |
| AlbumSleep Well BeastListen on Spotify | |
- Haunting Atmospheric
- The National
- Dark electronica
- Distinctive vocals
"The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness" is a haunting masterpiece that showcases The National at their most introspective and evocative. This song, from their critically acclaimed 2017 album "Sleep Well Beast," stands out for its stark, minimalist arrangement and Matt Berninger's signature baritone vocals, which deliver lyrics filled with existential dread and longing. The song's repeated phrase, "The system only dreams in total darkness" is both a chilling statement and a desperate plea, reflecting the band's anxieties about a world seemingly spiraling out of control. This track epitomizes The National's ability to blend melancholy and beauty, creating a sonic landscape that is both intensely personal and universally relatable. Its stark beauty and emotionally resonant lyrics make it a standout track in their discography, and a must-listen for any fan of the band.
9. Tropic Morning News (First Two Pages of Frankenstein - 1970)
The tropic morning news was on ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2023 |
| Time05:09 | View1M+ |
| Likes 13K+ | SuitableIndie Music Lovers |
| AlbumFirst Two Pages of FrankensteinListen on Spotify | |
- Indie Pop
- Alternative rock
- Indie Rock
- The National
"Tropic Morning News" released in 2023 as the lead single from The National's ninth album, "First Two Pages of Frankenstein," is a poignant and evocative track that embodies the band's signature melancholic sound. It showcases The National's ability to craft aural landscapes that evoke both a sense of longing and quiet strength, capturing the complexities of modern life through its melancholic lyrics and layered instrumentation. The song's title, inspired by the term coined by Matt Berninger's wife, Carin Besser, hints at the overwhelming nature of the modern news cycle, mirroring the band's exploration of anxieties and personal struggles within the context of contemporary life.
"Tropic Morning News" is a testament to The National's enduring power to create music that resonates deeply with listeners. Matt Berninger's distinct baritone vocals, combined with the band's signature blend of atmospheric instrumentation, create a sonic tapestry that is both intimate and expansive. The song is an example of The National's ability to create a mood, a feeling, and a sense of shared experience, one that has cemented their place as one of the most essential and influential rock bands of the 21st century.
10. Slow Show
For twenty-nine years before I saw you ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2007 |
| Time04:12 | View1M+ |
| Likes 4K+ | SuitableIndie Rock Fans |
| AlbumBoxerListen on Spotify | |
- Dream pop
- Indie Rock
- Slowcore
- The National
The National's 'Slow Show' is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that captures the essence of yearning and longing for connection. The song's core lies in the raw and emotionally charged lyrics, particularly the line "You know I dreamed about you for twenty-nine years before I saw you." These words encapsulate a depth of love and the sheer desperation for intimacy that resonates with listeners on a visceral level. The melody, characterized by its somber yet hopeful tone, perfectly complements the heartfelt lyrics, creating a soundscape that is both melancholic and deeply moving.
"Slow Show" is a quintessential example of The National's signature sound: introspective, often melancholic, yet profoundly hopeful. The song fits seamlessly into the band's acclaimed album 'Boxer', which is known for its exploration of themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. While The National's music has evolved over the years, 'Slow Show' remains a timeless masterpiece that showcases their ability to create music that transcends genre boundaries and connects with listeners on a deeply personal level.
11. This is the Last Time (The National)
Like a hundred times yourself ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2013 |
| Time04:45 | View4M+ |
| Likes 16K+ | SuitableLovers |
| AlbumTrouble Will Find MeListen on Spotify | |
- Emotional Ballad
- Heartbreak Anthem
- sad breakup song
- The National
'This Is the Last Time' is a song that encapsulates The National's signature melancholic beauty. It showcases their ability to weave intricate narratives of heartbreak and self-reflection, painting a stark picture of a love gone sour. Matt Berninger's mournful baritone, echoing with a profound sense of loss, delivers the lyrics with raw vulnerability. The song's stripped-down instrumentation, featuring Aaron Dessner's poignant guitar work, accentuates the emotional weight of the lyrics, leaving listeners feeling both deeply moved and utterly heartbroken.
This song, released on their 2013 album "Trouble Will Find Me," captures a raw and honest portrayal of the struggle to move on from a toxic relationship. It's a lament on a relationship that's become a swamp, where the narrator, despite recognizing the harm it inflicts, is still deeply drawn in. The song's emotional resonance lies in the stark realization that even the most beautiful love can turn destructive, leaving one grappling with the weight of regret and the difficult decision to let go. 'This Is the Last Time' exemplifies The National's mastery of creating music that resonates deeply with listeners, offering a poignant reflection on the complexities of love and loss.
12. Graceless (Trouble Will Find Me)
Is there a powder to erase this? ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2013 |
| Time04:36 | View10M+ |
| Likes 45K+ | SuitableIndie Music Enthusiasts |
| AlbumTrouble Will Find MeListen on Spotify | |
- Emotional Rock
- Indie Folk
- Lyrical Depth
- The National
'Graceless' is a powerful exploration of vulnerability and the longing for solace, a hallmark of The National's ability to dissect the human condition with raw honesty. This track, from their 2013 album 'Trouble Will Find Me,' showcases the band's signature melancholic sound, marked by Matt Berninger's baritone vocals and a stark, yet somehow comforting, instrumentation. The lyrics, a poignant reflection on the struggle for self-acceptance and the search for meaning in the face of despair, hit with an almost palpable intensity.
'Graceless' stands out not just for its lyrical depth but for its paradoxical juxtaposition of a somber mood with a driving, even uplifting, instrumental undercurrent. The song's tension between despair and hope is beautifully captured in the interplay between the lyrics, which grapple with feelings of worthlessness and invisibility, and the music, which builds towards a sense of catharsis. This unique blend of bleakness and potential redemption, coupled with the band's signature sonic landscape, makes 'Graceless' a standout track that exemplifies The National's artistic brilliance.
13. Weird Goodbyes
The sky is leaking, my windshield's cryin' ”
Song information
| ArtistBon Iver, The National | Release2022 |
| Time05:04 | View2M+ |
| Likes 18K+ | SuitableN/a |
"Weird Goodbyes" a haunting collaboration between The National and Bon Iver, captures the melancholic beauty that has become a hallmark of the band's sound. The song embodies the feeling of a fragmented memory, with Matt Berninger's signature baritone weaving a tapestry of regret and acceptance. His vocals, layered with Justin Vernon's ethereal harmonies, evoke a sense of yearning and the bittersweet ache of letting go. The song's emotional depth resonates deeply, exploring the complexity of navigating a bittersweet ending, whether it be a relationship, a chapter in life, or a moment in time.
The National's discography is characterized by their ability to craft music that delves into the depths of human emotion. "Weird Goodbyes" perfectly encapsulates this characteristic, standing as a powerful example of their introspective lyrics and melancholic melodies. The song's haunting atmosphere and layered vocals make it a poignant reminder of the bittersweet nature of life, showcasing the band's ongoing commitment to crafting emotionally resonant and deeply personal music.
14. I Am Easy to Find - 1970
Towers to the skies, an academy of... ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2019 |
| Time26:45 | View1M+ |
| Likes 26K+ | SuitableN/a |
"I Am Easy to Find" the title track from The National's 2019 album of the same name, is a poignant and evocative exploration of identity and connection. Released alongside a short film directed by Mike Mills, the song is a powerful testament to the band's ability to create immersive sonic landscapes that capture complex emotions. Matt Berninger's signature baritone vocals weave a tapestry of longing and vulnerability, creating a sense of both intimacy and epic scale. The song's lyrical themes of self-discovery and the search for meaning resonate deeply with listeners, evoking a sense of empathy and shared experience.
"I Am Easy to Find" stands out as a hallmark of The National's later work, showcasing their evolution towards a more cinematic and collaborative approach to songwriting. The inclusion of guest vocalists like Lisa Hannigan and Sharon Van Etten adds layers of emotional depth, highlighting the song's themes of relationships and interconnectedness. The song's haunting melody and layered instrumentation create a soundscape that feels both personal and universal, making it a standout track in The National's extensive discography.
15. Day I Die
Besides I barely ever see you anymore ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2017 |
| Time04:32 | View5M+ |
| Likes 26K+ | SuitableN/a |
In a world often dominated by upbeat pop anthems, The National's "Day I Die" stands out as a raw and melancholic masterpiece. This song, from their 2017 album "Sleep Well Beast," is a poignant exploration of a fractured relationship, where the weight of emotional turmoil is palpable in every note. Matt Berninger's haunting vocals, layered with the band's signature sound of yearning guitar and melancholic piano chords, create a sonic tapestry that perfectly mirrors the song's thematic core.
"Day I Die" is a powerful testament to The National's ability to tap into the deepest corners of human emotion. The lyrics, a raw and honest portrayal of the speaker's internal struggles, paint a vivid picture of a relationship on the brink of collapse. The repeating refrain "The day I die, the day I die, where will we be?" encapsulates the song's central theme of existential longing and the uncertainty of the future. This song is a standout in The National's extensive catalog, marking a period of introspection and vulnerability in their sonic journey, and reminding listeners why they are considered one of the most important bands of the past two decades.
16. Mr. November (2005)
I wish I didn't sleep so late ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2005 |
| Time04:17 | View345K+ |
| Likes 1K+ | SuitableN/a |
'Mr. November' by The National is more than just a song; it's a raw and deeply affecting portrait of vulnerability, capturing the anxieties and pressures of modern life. Matt Berninger's vocals are both intimate and intensely powerful, drawing the listener into the emotional core of the song. The song's stark and melancholic beauty is a hallmark of The National's sound, a signature style that is both relatable and uniquely their own.
'Mr. November' was released on the band's third album, 'Alligator,' a defining record that cemented their place as one of the most important indie bands of the 21st century. The song's raw emotion and its evocative lyrics, like the line "I'm no good at keeping up appearances," have resonated with listeners for over a decade, making it a standout track within their diverse catalog. It's a song that lingers long after it's finished, a testament to The National's ability to capture the complexities of human experience with an unflinching honesty and an unyielding artistic vision.
17. Mistaken for Strangers (The National - 1970)
When you pass them at night ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2007 |
| Time03:34 | View6M+ |
| Likes 17K+ | SuitableN/a |
"Mistaken for Strangers" from The National's 2007 album "Boxer," is a haunting anthem that encapsulates the band's signature sound. The song's melancholy mood, driven by Matt Berninger's deep baritone vocals and the band's trademark restrained yet powerful instrumentation, evokes feelings of alienation and existential unease. The lyrics, with their cryptic imagery and poignant observations on the complexities of human connection, resonate deeply with listeners grappling with the challenges of adulthood. The song's slow build and dramatic climax, culminating in a cathartic release, showcase The National's mastery of crafting emotionally charged and unforgettable music.
"Mistaken for Strangers" stands out not only for its emotional impact but also for its position within The National's discography. It exemplifies the band's evolution from their earlier, more experimental sound towards a more focused and accessible style, while still retaining their core elements of introspection and atmospheric beauty. This track, along with other songs from "Boxer," propelled The National into the forefront of the indie rock scene, cementing their place as one of the most important and influential bands of their generation.
18. Terrible Love - 1970
It's a terrible love and I'm walkin' in ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2010 |
| Time05:02 | View3M+ |
| Likes 17K+ | SuitableN/a |
"Terrible Love" the opening track from The National's 2010 album High Violet, is a sonic storm of raw emotion and powerful instrumentation. It marks a turning point for the band, showcasing their willingness to embrace a more expansive and experimental sound while retaining their signature blend of indie rock and post-punk influences. The song's haunting lyrics, delivered with Matt Berninger's trademark baritone, paint a picture of a love that is both destructive and inescapable, a feeling echoed in the relentless build-up of the instrumentation that culminates in a cathartic release.
The song's emotional intensity is amplified by the repeated refrain, "It takes an ocean not to break," a poignant metaphor for the immense strength required to resist the pull of a relationship that is ultimately doomed. "Terrible Love" embodies the raw, often turbulent beauty that defines The National's music, showcasing their ability to capture the complexities of human emotion with honesty and vulnerability.
19. England
You must be loving your life in the rain ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2010 |
| Time05:41 | View1M+ |
| Likes 9K+ | SuitableN/a |
"England" by The National, a standout track from their 2010 album High Violet, showcases the band's signature blend of emotional depth and sonic complexity. While often interpreted as a reflection on longing and loss, the song's lyrics, sung with Matt Berninger's trademark baritone, go beyond a simple love song, exploring themes of distance and disconnection. The melancholic tone is underscored by a sweeping orchestral arrangement that builds tension and emotion, culminating in a powerful and cathartic climax.
"England" stands as a testament to The National's ability to create music that is both intimate and epic. The song's exploration of yearning and loss resonates deeply with listeners, while its intricate instrumentation and nuanced songwriting solidify its place as one of the band's most captivating and enduring works. It's a song that lingers in the mind long after its final notes fade, leaving an indelible mark on the listener's heart.
20. Sorrow (2010)
Sorrow waited, sorrow won ”
Song information
| ArtistThe National | Release2010 |
| Time03:26 | View1M+ |
| Likes 8K+ | SuitableN/a |
"Sorrow" by The National, a haunting and poignant track from their 2010 album "High Violet," is a masterpiece of subdued emotion and melancholic beauty. With a hushed, almost whispered vocal delivery from Matt Berninger, the song unfolds with a slow, deliberate pace, mirroring the weight of the lyrical themes. It’s a song that perfectly captures the band’s signature sound, characterized by introspective lyrics, evocative instrumentation, and a restrained yet powerful delivery. "Sorrow" is not a song that demands attention, but rather a quiet meditation on the pain of lost love and the lingering shadow of regret, a feeling that resonates deeply with listeners.
The song's understated beauty, with its delicate piano chords and understated guitar melodies, stands out as a poignant contrast to the band's more expansive and anthemic work. "Sorrow" is a testament to The National's versatility, demonstrating their ability to create music that is both intimate and profoundly moving. It is a song that invites listeners into a space of quiet contemplation, offering solace and understanding in the face of life's inevitable sorrows.