8 Best Songs about Helen & Helena
Ever noticed how some names just seem to inspire musicians more than others? Helen is one of those names.
So, whether you’re a Helen(a), know Helen, or are simply intrigued by the name’s charm, check out this list of the most famous songs about Helen.
1. “Helena” by My Chemical Romance
The Vibes: Emo rock at its finest with intense, dramatic flair.
Behind the Tune: Perhaps the most recognizable “Helena” in the music scene, this track by My Chemical Romance became the anthem of 2000s emo kids worldwide. A tribute to lead singer Gerard Way’s late grandmother, the song revolves around dealing with the passing of a loved one and the guilt accompanying it. The accompanying music video is equally theatrical and heartbreaking.
2. “Helen Wheels” by Paul McCartney & Wings
The Vibes: From the 1973 album “Band on the Run,” “Helen Wheels” is classic McCartney. The playfulness of McCartney’s lyrics and the association with speed and adventure make this track a memorable one.
Behind the Melody: A play on the word “Hell on Wheels”, this song isn’t about a woman named Helen but instead about Paul’s Land Rover, which he nicknamed “Helen Wheels.” However, with the catchy chorus and groovy rhythm, it’s become synonymous with the name itself.
3. “Helena Beat” by Foster the People
The Vibes: Indie pop with a slightly psychedelic touch.
Behind the Tune: This track isn’t about a woman named Helena but uses the name to symbolize a state of mind. The lead singer, Mark Foster, described it as feeling beat up by life but remaining resilient. It’s a song of survival and confronting personal demons, all wrapped up in a catchy tune. Plus, the music video? Totally trippy and worth a watch!
4. “Helen of Troy” by John Cale
The Beauty of Myth: Off the 1975 album, also named “Helen of Troy,” this song encapsulates the beauty and allure of the legendary figure. With John Cale’s unique sound, the track offers a modern touch to a classic tale.
Behind the Legend: Helen of Troy, often dubbed the “face that launched a thousand ships,” is a central figure in Greek mythology, known for her beauty. Cale’s rendition offers a haunting and atmospheric reflection on the myth and its implications.
5. “Helena” by Nickel Creek
The Vibes: Folksy, bluegrass vibes with rich, harmonious vocals.
Behind the Tune: This lovely piece is a deep dive into the complexities of relationships and love. Helena, in this track, represents a love that’s so near yet so far. With lyrics like “If I can’t change your mind, then no one will,” there’s an air of finality and acceptance of unreciprocated feelings.
6. “Helen in the Woods” by TORRES
The Vibes: A compelling track from the indie artist TORRES delves into the mysterious narrative surrounding Helen. With its intense vocals, the song evokes a sense of both fascination and unease.
Behind the Tune: Helen represents a figure shrouded in mystery and perhaps danger. The song, with its electrifying energy, draws listeners into the depths of the woods, painting an eerie tale that lingers long after the last note.
7. “Helena” by The Misfits
The Vibes: Punk rock with raw, edgy beats.
Behind the Tune: Before MCR’s rendition, The Misfits had their own “Helena” in the 90s. True to The Misfits’ style, the song has horror punk influences and tells the story of a man’s obsession with bringing Helena back from the dead.
8. “To Helen” inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s
The Vibes: Derived from the timeless words of Edgar Allan Poe, “To Helen,” the melodic adaptations by various artists capture the ethereal essence of Helen.
Behind the Tune: Helen, in Poe’s poem, serves as a symbol of ideal beauty and longing.
