Songs with 'End' in the Title: A Journey Through Time
Introduction
Music often explores profound themes such as the end of an era, the end of a relationship, or the finality of life. In this article, we take a journey through the vast landscape of music, focusing on songs that prominently feature the word 'end' in their titles. This exploration not only reveals the artistic importance of these chosen titles but also serves as a timeline of musical expression over the decades.
Album Opening Songs
The End
Earl Grant
In 1967, artist Earl Grant released his song "The End," which, despite not being as recognized as some of the later tracks in this list, remains a significant early example of a song with the title 'end' in rock history. This 45rpm single from Circa '58 is an intriguing start to our investigation.
The Doors and Various Artists
One of the most iconic tracks featuring the word 'end' is undoubtedly "The End" by The Doors, from their self-titled album in 1967. Released as a double A-side with "Riders on the Storm," this song has become a classic, closely associated with the end of an era and the transition into the free-wheeling psychedelic rock of the late 1960s. The Doors' version, with its powerful guitar and Jim Morrison's poetic lyrics, has been covered by numerous artists, ensuring its enduring relevance in music history.
Other notable album-opening tracks include "The End" by The Beatles from their album "Abbey Road" in 1969 and "The Answer's at the End" by George Harrison from his solo album "Extra Texture" in 1975. These tracks encapsulate the evolution of rock music, from the raw energy of the Beatles to the introspective sonatas of George Harrison.
Album Closing Songs
The Kinks and FAI
"Till the End of the Day" from The Kinks' 1965 album "Kontroversy" and "Dead End Street" from 1966, both concluding pieces, reflect a sense of closure, underscoring the melancholic themes prevalent in mid-60s rock. These tracks are indicative of the band's ability to explore complex emotions and life's darker aspects.
The Beatles and R.E.M.
In contrast, "The End" from the Beatles' "Abbey Road" in 1969 wraps up the album with an air of finality, while "It's the End of the World as We Know It (Turn the Radio On)" by R.E.M. from their 1987 album "Document" serves a similar purpose, ending their self-titled album, symbolizing the changing music scene and the emergence of alternative rock.
Endless Themes in Music
Other Notable Tracks
Tracks like "Childhood's End" by Pink Floyd, "Bitters End" by Roxy Music, and "Where Do the Stars End" by Kevin Ayers further explore the theme of endings, each in its unique way. These songs range from philosophical musings to heartbreaking ballads, adding depth to the themes around front and center in numerous musical compositions.
More modern examples include "Endgame" by They Might Be Giants from their 1994 album "John Henry" and "End of Time" by Danzig from the same band's 1988 release. These tracks continue the tradition of using the word 'end' in titles to convey powerful and often emotional messages.
Conclusion
Through this journey, we have explored a myriad of songs with 'end' in their titles, ranging from iconic classics to lesser-known treasures. These tracks not only reflect the complex human experience of endings but also serve as a testament to the enduring power of music to capture and express the essence of finality. Whether it's the end of a relationship, the end of a day, or the end of the world, these tracks continue to resonate with listeners, making them timeless and unforgettable.