Lana Del Rey's 26 Best Songs: An Ultimate Playlist

Lana Del Rey, with her hauntingly beautiful vocals and melancholic storytelling, has captivated audiences worldwide. Her career, marked by a distinctive blend of cinematic imagery and emotionally resonant lyrics, has solidified her status as a modern icon. From her early rise with the ethereal soundscapes of her debut album to her continued exploration of love, loss, and the American dream, she has consistently pushed creative boundaries. This journey, filled with critical acclaim and commercial success, has been punctuated by moments of raw vulnerability that connect deeply with listeners. We're celebrating her enduring impact by exploring a collection of songs that showcase the breadth and depth of her artistry—a musical tapestry woven from themes of yearning, heartbreak, and intoxicating glamour. These songs, each a miniature masterpiece in its own right, reveal the complexities of her persona and the enduring power of her music.

This curated list isn't just about ranking; it's about experiencing the emotional rollercoaster that is a Lana Del Rey listening session. Her music transcends fleeting trends, offering a timeless quality that resonates with each generation. From the cinematic grandeur of certain tracks to the intimate vulnerability in others, her songs provide a captivating escape and introspective journey. Whether you're a longtime fan seeking a fresh perspective or a curious newcomer, exploring these songs will be a rewarding experience – a testament to her unparalleled storytelling abilities and unwavering commitment to crafting unforgettable music. Prepare to be swept away by her unique blend of vintage Hollywood charm and modern emotional rawness.

Lana Del Rey's 26 Best Songs: An Ultimate Playlist
SongAlbumListens
1. Young And Beautiful Mylo Xyloto 641M+
2. Born to Die630M+
3. Blue Jeans395M+
4. Video Games Born To Die – Paradise Edition (Special Version) 349M+
5. Love231M+
6. Lust for Life229M+
7. West Coast Ultraviolence (Deluxe) 210M+

1. Young And Beautiful (2013)

"Young and Beautiful" Lana Del Rey's contribution to the Great Gatsby soundtrack, transcends typical soundtrack fare. Its haunting melody and melancholic lyrics, perfectly capturing the film's bittersweet romance, exemplify Del Rey's signature blend of cinematic drama and emotional vulnerability. The song's evocative power lies in its ability to evoke a potent mix of sadness and longing, a feeling described by listeners as a "sad but not really sad" wistfulness, prompting introspection and a sense of both isolation and captivating beauty. This blend of seemingly contradictory emotions, coupled with its lush production and haunting vocals, solidifies its place among Del Rey's best, a testament to her unique ability to craft deeply resonant and emotionally complex music. Its critical acclaim and Grammy nomination further cement its status as a standout track.

If you're a fan of Lana Del Rey's romantic and melancholic melodies, then be sure to check out our post on The 26 best to request at a wedding songs . This article features an expertly curated list of 26 love songs perfect for weddings, ensuring you have the perfect soundtrack for your special day.
Young And Beautiful - Lana Del Rey

2. Born to Die (2012)

Released in 2012, Lana Del Rey's "Born to Die" featuring a haunting melody and evocative lyrics, solidified her status as a captivating artist. While it didn't receive Grammy recognition, the song's enduring impact transcends awards. The cinematic visuals, often depicting Del Rey in regal settings, mirror the song's grand, melancholic atmosphere. Its blend of classic Hollywood glamour with a raw, emotionally resonant narrative resonates deeply with listeners, evoking a sense of nostalgic longing for a past never lived. This unique ability to trigger profound emotional responses, coupled with its sophisticated production and Del Rey's signature blend of vulnerability and defiance, cements "Born to Die's" place among her best works. The song exemplifies her recurring themes of doomed romance and melancholic beauty, showcasing a vocal performance that perfectly encapsulates both fragility and strength. Its lasting popularity, driven by its lyrical depth and memorable melody, continues to captivate audiences, highlighting its significance within her discography.

Born to Die is a haunting pop ballad that will transport you to a bygone era. If you're looking for more soothing pop tunes to enjoy in your coffee bar, check out 20 best coffee bar music playlist songs for 20 more playlist-worthy songs that will create the perfect ambiance.
Born to Die - Lana Del Rey

3. Blue Jeans - 2025

Dive into the captivating world of Lana Del Rey with "Blue Jeans" a track that showcases her unique artistry. This song, often cited among her best, masterfully blends sensual and melancholic elements, creating a hypnotic atmosphere. The lyrics, rich with evocative imagery and a raw emotional honesty, detail a passionate yet doomed romance, a recurring theme in Del Rey's work. "Blue Jeans" stands out not only for its lyrical depth but also for its production, a slow-burn crescendo that perfectly complements Del Rey's distinctive vocals. Its haunting melody and unforgettable chorus leave a lasting impact, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of her discography and a testament to her enduring appeal. The song's enduring power lies in its ability to evoke a potent mix of longing, heartbreak, and nostalgic remembrance, making it a truly captivating listen.

Blue Jeans by Lana Del Rey is an ethereal ballad that beautifully captures the essence of the alternative and indie genres. If you enjoy the dreamy landscapes of Lana Del Rey's music, then you'll definitely want to venture into Top 30 Essential Tracks from The Jam: Their Best Hits for a comprehensive guide to the greatest tracks from The Jam, another iconic band that left an undeniable mark on the alt-indie scene.
Blue Jeans - Lana Del Rey

4. Video Games - Born To Die – Paradise Edition (Special Version)

Lana Del Rey's "Video Games" released in 2011, is a cornerstone of her discography and a prime example of her signature sound. The song's melancholic melody, coupled with its evocative lyrics painting nostalgic scenes of romance and loss, creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. Its cinematic quality, achieved through both the production and lyrical imagery, sets it apart, instantly transporting listeners to a bygone era. Critical acclaim, including Pitchfork's "Best New Track" designation, solidified its status, while its enduring popularity demonstrates its lasting cultural impact. The song's ability to evoke both joy and sorrow simultaneously, reflecting on past relationships and dreams, resonates deeply with listeners, cementing its place among Del Rey's finest work.

Video Games - Lana Del Rey

5. Love - 2025

"Love" by Lana Del Rey, is more than just a song; it's a nocturnal reflection, a soundtrack for moments of quiet self-assessment. The track resonates deeply with listeners, offering a poignant exploration of universal themes of regret and longing, mirroring the introspective moments described in many fan comments. While maintaining Del Rey's signature blend of melancholic beauty and sultry vocals, "Love" distinguishes itself through its empathetic perspective. Unlike her previous work focusing on her own experiences, this song shifts to address her listeners directly, connecting with fans who identify with her themes of vulnerability and resilience. The production, subtle yet evocative, enhances the song's introspective mood, allowing Del Rey's lyrics to take center stage. This shift in narrative, coupled with its emotional resonance, cements "Love" as a standout track in a discography filled with iconic works. It's a testament to her artistic growth and enduring connection with her audience.

Love - Lana Del Rey
  • Lust for Life
    6

    Lust for Life

    Lana Del Rey

    2017

  • West Coast
    7

    West Coast

    Lana Del Rey

    2014

    Ultraviolence (Deluxe)

  • Summertime Sadness
    8

    Summertime Sadness

    Lana Del Rey,Cedric Gervais

    2013

    Blood, Sweat & 3 Years

  • High by the Beach
    9

    High by the Beach

    Lana Del Rey

    2015

  • Doin' Time
    10

    Doin' Time

    Lana Del Rey

    2019

    Norman Fucking Rockwell!

  • National Anthem
    11

    National Anthem

    Lana Del Rey

    2012

  • Ultraviolence
    12

    Ultraviolence

    Lana Del Rey

    2014

  • Music to Watch Boys To
    13

    Music to Watch Boys To

    Lana Del Rey

    2015

  • Dark Paradise
    14

    Dark Paradise

    Lana Del Rey

    2012

  • Chemtrails over the Country Club
    15

    Chemtrails over the Country Club

    Lana Del Rey

    2021

  • Salvatore
    16

    Salvatore

    Lana Del Rey

    2015

  • Mariners Apartment Complex
    17

    Mariners Apartment Complex

    Lana Del Rey

    2019

  • Summer Bummer
    18

    Summer Bummer

    Lana Del Rey

    2017

  • Groupie Love
    19

    Groupie Love

    Lana Del Rey

    2017

  • Hope Is a Dangerous Thing for a Woman like Me to Have
    20

    Hope Is a Dangerous Thing for a Woman like Me to Have

    Lana Del Rey

    2019

  • White Dress
    21

    White Dress

    Lana Del Rey

    2021

  • In My Feelings
    22

    In My Feelings

    Lana Del Rey

    2018

  • Arcadia
    23

    Arcadia

    Lana Del Rey

    2021

  • Let Me Love You Like a Woman
    24

    Let Me Love You Like a Woman

    Lana Del Rey

    2020

  • Blue Banisters
    25

    Blue Banisters

    Lana Del Rey

    2021

  • Dance Till We Die
    26

    Dance Till We Die

    Lana Del Rey

    2021