38 Best Songs About Sisters & Sisterhood

Are you looking for songs about sisters?

Whether it’s a blood sister or a close friend you consider to be like a sister, music is a powerful way to express your feelings and strengthen connections.

This article explores the best songs to celebrate your sibling, show her how much you care, evoke female empowerment, or simply enjoy the lyrical mention of ‘sister’.

Songs About Sisters 

1. “Look At Little Sister” by Stevie Ray Vaughan

Year: 1985
Genre: Blues Rock
Album: Soul to Soul

First on the list is “Look at Little Sister”. This song was originally written by Hank Ballard in 1959 and covered by Stevie Ray Vaughan on his third album, Soul to Soul, in 1985. The exact meaning of this song is unclear and there are many interpretations of it floating around the internet.

Some say the song is about a younger sister doing something that is causing concern or attention from others. Others believe the younger sister is a guitarist with a style her brother doesn’t agree it. And the lyrics describe a little sister playing in the backyard, shaking and rolling like a log, while her older sibling worries what the neighbors will think.

2. “Two Sisters” by The Kinks

Year: 1967
Genre: English Folk
Album: Something Else by The Kinks

This song was written by Ray Davies, and as the name suggests it compares two sisters, Sybilla and Priscilla. Sybilla is a single “wayward lass”, while Priscilla is a married housewife who is tired of the “drudgery of being wed”.

The song describes how Priscilla is jealous of her sister’s freedom and compares the different paths their lives have taken. The meaning behind this song is somewhat ambiguous, with some interpretations suggesting that the sisters are proxies for Ray and Dave Davies, the two brothers who founded The Kinks.

3. “Older Sister” by Carly Simon

Year: 1974
Genre: Acoustic Pop
Album: Hotcakes

In “Older Sister” by Carly Simon she sings about a sisters admiration for an older sister. The lyrics describe her sister’s power over her, her sophistication, and how she is wicked to all the beaming dreamers who later boast of an evening by her fiery side. It’s not clear if this song is for Carly’s sister, or if it is purely fictional. Carly has two sisters, Joanna and Lucy, and they performed together as a folk duo known as the Simon Sisters in the 1960s.

4. “My Sister Rose” by 10,000 Maniacs

Year: 1987
Genre: Alternative Rock
Album: In My Tribe

“My Sister Rose” by 10,000 Maniacs paints a picture of a sister’s wedding day. From their 1987 album, In My Tribe, this song captures family gatherings, brimming with laughter, love, and wedding traditions. It portrays the best man’s toast, the scramble of single ladies for the bouquet, and the heartwarming dollar dances with the bride.

The song’s narrative exudes the ecstasy of a wedding and serves as a charming ode to sisters, showcasing the bonds that tie sisters together, especially on one of the most significant days of their lives.

5. “Sister Oh Sister” by Rosanne Cash

Year: 2012
Genre: Country
Album: Kin: Songs by Mary Karr & Rodney Crowell

The lyrics of this song describe the relationship between two sisters and the support they provide for each other, as well as a specific incident where the sisters beat up some boys who were making noise and causing trouble. The song talks about how the older sister has been a role model for the younger sister and how she has helped her through difficult times. It also expresses gratitude for the older sister’s guidance and support.

6. “My Sister” by Reba McIntyre

Year: 2003
Genre: Country
Album: Room to Breath

This next song is a reminder of the importance of family and staying connected, even when life gets busy. The lyrics tell a story of two sisters who are trying to keep in touch despite leading very busy lives. It is a heartfelt message from one sister to another, asking her to call when she gets the message and to give her nephew’s a big kiss. 

7. “Sister Christian” by Night Ranger

Year: 1983
Genre: Rock
Album: Midnight Madness

Night Ranger’s 1984 hit song “Sister Christian” was written by drummer Kelly Keagy for his little sister Christy, who was growing up in a small town in Oregon and cruising up and down the street at weekends on a Friday or Saturday night.

The song lyrics urge Kelly’s sister to be careful as she goes around the town with her friends in a car. The song has been interpreted in different ways, but the general consensus is that it is about growing up and coming of age.

8. “You Are My Sister” by Antony and the Johnsons

Year: 2005
Genre: Baroque Pop
Album: I Am a Bird Now

“You Are My Sister” by Antony and the Johnsons is a touching and heartfelt song that speaks of the bond between siblings. The lyrics are emotional and haunting, with lines such as “You are my sister, we were born. So innocent, so full of need” and “Each night I’d ask for you to watch me as I sleep”.

The song features co-lead vocals by Boy George and is taken from Antony and the Johnsons second studio album, I Am a Bird Now. This is also a beautiful song to dedicate to a sister, as it expresses the love and appreciation one has for their sibling.

9. “Dear Sister” by The Pretty Reckless

Year: 2014
Genre: Hard Rock
Album: Going to Hell

“Dear Sister” by The Pretty Reckless is an emotional request for help from one sister to another. The lyrics convey an internal struggle that the protagonist is experiencing as she looks to her sister for guidance and support.

The song begins with a plea to her sister to help her lie, suggesting that the truth has caused the protagonist pain for years and that she is ready to give up on the truth. This song is about the struggle to fit in and be accepted for who you are.

10. “Baby Sister” by Dolly Parton

Year: 1968
Genre: Country
Album: Just Because I’m a Woman

Dolly Parton released “Baby Sister” in 1968. It’s not about Parton’s sister, Stella. It’s about a woman who is worried about her sister, who is in a bar room filled with people who are all higher than a steeple. This country hit is slow and full of simple yet touching lyrics that express the womans love for her sister and her concern for her well-being. 

11. “My Big Sister” by Barenaked Ladies

Year: 2008
Genre: Children’s Music
Album: Snacktime!

This is a very short song, lasting less than one minute, about a younger sibling who likes their older sister but doesn’t want to wear her coat because it is a girl’s coat. The song is part of the album “Snack Time” and encourages children to be themselves and not conform to societal expectations of gender norms. The song is a playful and lighthearted take on a serious topic and encourages listeners to be true to themselves. 

12. “Little Me (To My Sister)” by Britney Spears

Year: 2006
Genre: Pop
Album: * the song was never released

“Little Me (To My Sister)” is an unreleased song by Britney Spears that was dedicated to her younger sister, Jamie Lynn, for her fifteenth birthday.

The song is also known by the unofficial titles “For My Sister” and “Just Yesterday”. The lyrics express regret and sadness as Britney reflects on her life and the changes that have occurred over time. She sings about how her sister used to look up to her and ask for her opinion, but now she is alone and crying, wondering where she went wrong.

That said, this song is not only about Britney’s sister, it’s also about herself, as she asks her old self where she went and what happened to her. The lyrics suggest that Britney has made mistakes and is asking for forgiveness from her younger self, who she refers to as “little me”.

13. “The Sister Song” from Barney & Friends

Year: 1993
Genre: Children’s Music
Album: Barney’s Favorites, Volume 1

WoW. This is a blast from the past! Do you remember the big purple dinosaur, Barney? I do, my daughter loved it. She must have watched it at least a hundred times. Anyways …

“The Sister Song” is an original song from the children’s television show Barney & Friends. It’s about the relationship between siblings, particularly sisters, and how they may not always get along.

The lyrics describe how siblings can be close friends who stay up late at night talking and how sometimes they fight and have disagreements. But despite conflicts, they are always there for each other and care for one another very much. 

Songs About Sisterhood & Female Empowerment

14. “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves” by Eurythmics and Aretha Franklin

Year: 1985
Genre: Pop (with a touch of R&B and Soul)
Album: Be Yourself Tonight

Featuring American singer, Aretha Franklin, this song is a feminist pop song about women’s freedom and power. It was written by Annie Lennox and David A. Stewart of Eurythmics. The song’s message? Women no longer need men to accomplish great things. The song celebrates the fact that they can do anything they set their minds to.

After its release in 1985, this song saw great success, reaching number 9 on the UK Singles Chart and number 18 on the US Billboard Hot 100. 

15. “This One’s for the Girls” by Martina McBride

Year: 2003
Genre: Country
Album: Martina

In this song, Martina McBride celebrates the strength and resilience of women. The song’s lyrics salute women of all ages for dealing with the struggles they face throughout different phases of life, and its empowering message is clear; women can do whatever they put their minds to and nothing should hold them back from being themselves. 

16. “We are Family” by Sister Sledge

Year: 1979
Genre: Disco
Album: We Are Family

This classic disco hit celebrates the bonds of both sisters and sisterhood. The chorus refers to the fact that the group are the four sisters of a family, and it represents the closeness of the sisters, who grew up singing as a form of recreation.

After its release in April 1979 it quickly became the group’s signature song and an anthem for women’s groups due to its message of unity and encouragement for listeners to come together and support each other, regardless of differences. 

17. “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper

Year: 1983
Genre: New Wave
Album: She’s So Unusual

While this next song is not specifically about sisters its message of female solidarity and friendship has resonated with women of all ages. It was released in 1983 and has become an enduring symbol of female freedom and fun. With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” has become an important contribution to the history of pop music.

18. “Girl” by Destiny’s Child

Year: 2004
Genre: Contemporary R&B
Album: Destiny Fullfilled

“Girl” by Destiny’s Child is about friendship and support among women. It was written by Beyoncé and Michelle Williams as a plea to their bandmate, Kelly Rowland, to escape an abusive relationship. The group released this song in 2005 as the 3rd single on their final album Destiny Fulfilled.

This song encourages listeners to be strong and independent, and has been praised by critics as a representation of the band’s transition from “teen-dom to womanhood.” The video for “Girl” pays homage to the HBO hit show, Sex And The City, with the band members walking down the streets of Manhattan in high fashion dresses.

19. “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys

Year: 2012
Genre: Contemporary R&B
Album: Girl on Fire

“Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys was created to empower women everywhere. It celebrates women’s strength and determination and has become an anthem for women’s leadership and empowerment. The song is about finding your own inner strength and channeling it in a way you’ve never tried before. It encourages women to let go of anything that’s holding them back and follow their passion.

20. “Run Sister Run” by Cass McCombs

Year: 2016
Genre: Soft Rock
Album: Mangy Love

This song calls for gender equality and encourages women to continue fixing gender imbalances. Although the song is not about sisters or sisterhood, it is an empowering track about feminism, double standards, and women supporting women.

It is titled as a mantra for a misogynistic justice system and has a driving rhythm. It is a hidden gem by the American singer Cass McCombs that was released in 2016 on his album, Mangy Love. It’s a great addition to every playlist of songs about sisterhood as it encourages women to support each other and fight for their rights.

Song to Dedicate to Your Sister

21. “Good Friend, and a Glass of Wine” by LeAnn Rimes

Year: 2007
Genre: Country
Album: Family

“Good Friend And A Glass of Wine” by LeAnn Rimes is a feel-good country song about how grateful she is to have good friends in her life. You know the ones. Friends you can enjoy a glass of wine with at the end of busy and stressful day. Friends you trust with your darkest secret. Those special friends who make a tough day feel brighter. Dedicating this song to your sister will let her know how grateful YOU are to have her in your life.

22. “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers

Year: 1972
Genre: Soul
Album: Still Bill

This classic song by Bill Withers captures sisterly bonds to a tee. The lyrics paint a picture of how we all need someone to lean on during tough times and how sisters are always there for us when we need them most. Its genuine lyrics create a positive atmosphere and are super relatable. The song was released on Bill’s second album, Still Bill, in 1972. This song is a great way to let your sister know you will always be there for her.

23. “What About Your Friends” by TLC

Year: 1992
Genre: Contemporary R&B
Album: Ooooooohhh… On the TLC Tip

“What About Your Friends” by TLC is another good song to tell your sister that you are always here for her. Not only does it remind us to cherish the genuine relationships we have in our lives, it also emphasizes the importance of having true friends who will always there for you, even when life gets tough, just like a sister is.

24. “It Don’t Have to Change” by John Legend

Year: 2004
Genre: Contemorary R&B
Album: Get Lifted

This soulful ballad by John Legend is about the importance of family and the desire to hold onto the love and connection, even when times are hard and things are changing. The song’s lyrics suggest that even though things have changed, the love between family, including sisters, doesn’t have to. Legend’s emotional performance make it a timeless classic that continues to touch the heart of listeners.

25. “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler

Year: 1988
Genre: Pop
Album: Beaches

“Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler is a classic ballad that tells the story of an unsung hero who lifts a loved one up. Although it is a love song written from one lover to another, the song’s message of gratitude and appreciation can also be used to honor the selfless love and support that a sister provides, making this song a great way to thank your sister for being your best friend and confidante.

26. “Count On Me” by Whitney Houston and CeCe Winans

Year: 1995
Genre: Contemporary R&B
Album: Waiting to Exhale

Another fantastic song to dedicate to a sister is “Count On Me” by Whitney Houston and CeCe Winans. Why? Because it is about being there for each other through thick and thin. The song’s message emphasizes the importance of friendship and support, and having someone you can always count on. It has an upbeat tempo and inspiring lyrics that will lift your sisters spirits and remind her of the special bond you both share.

27. “I Got You” by Leona Lewis

Year: 2009
Genre: Pop and R&B ballad
Album: Echo

Finally, in the list of songs to dedicate to a sister is “I Got You” by Leona Lewis. Similar to the songs above, the lyrics are supportive and uplifting. In the opening verse, Leona sings:

“A place to crash
I got you
No need to ask
I got you
Just get on the phone
I got you
Come and pick you up if I have to”

As you can see, the lyrics paint a picture of always being there for someone you care deeply about – and that someone could be a friend, a partner, a brother, a sister, etc.

Songs With Sister in the Lyrics

28. “Dance Little Sister” by The Rolling Stone

Year: 1974
Genre: Rock
Album: It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll

“Dance Little Sister” by The Rolling Stones does not use the word ‘sister’ as a metaphor for anything. The lyrics simply tell the story of a girl who likes to dance, and a man who asks women in high heels and tight skirts to dance for him all night. The song focuses more on partying than sibling relationships or sisterhood.

29. “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train

Year: 2009
Genre: Pop Rock
Album: Save Me, San Fransico

This song celebrates the power of connection and the joy of being in love. The lyrics express the singer’s admiration for his lover’s moves and the desire to be with her every moment. The song’s popularity shows that it resonates with people who appreciate the feeling of being in love and the joy of being with someone who is their soulmate.

Despite the song’s title, it has nothing to do with sisters. “Soul Sister” is simply being used throughout the song as a synonym for ‘soulmate’.

30. “Oh Sisters and Brothers” by RESOUNDworship

Year: 2020
Genre: Worship Music
Album: Oh Sisters and Brothers

This song by Joel Payne is a worship song that encourages unity and brotherhood among believers. The song’s opening line is “Oh sisters and brothers, be strong, do not lose heart.” The use of the word ‘sisters’ in the lyrics is likely meant to be inclusive of all believers, regardless of gender.

31. “Sister Golden Hair” by America

Year: 1975
Genre: Folk Rock
Album: Hearts

From America’s fifth album, Hearts, “Sister Golden Hair” is about a guy who loves a woman with golden hair but is not ready to commit to her. The song features an upbeat melody with unexpected strands of darkness woven into the lyrics.

After its release in 1975, this song quickly ascended to number one on the Billboard charts, becoming America’s second single to do so. While this song is not about sisters in a  literal sense, the word ‘sister’ is in the chorus lyrics and title.

32. “Sister Moon” by Sting

Year: 1987
Genre: Rock Pop
Album: Nothing Like The Sun

Although this next song only uses the word ‘sister’ once in the title and once in the opening verse,  “Sister Moon” by Sting is a great addition to any sister song playlist. It is a standout track from Sting’s album, Nothing Like the Sun, which features a great mix of rock pop hits and jazzy ballads.

The song was released in October of 1987, and according to Sting, the song is “for the lunatics everywhere, for all those whose sanity is dependent on the phases of the moon.”

33. “Sister” by Angel Olsen

Year: 2016
Genre: Indie Rock
Album: My Women

Although this song does not have the word ‘sister’ in the actual lyrics, “Sister” is the songs title. It is about a moment of realization and attraction towards a woman that shakes the protagonist’s beliefs about who she is and isn’t attracted to.

34. “Dark Sisters” by Inkubus Sukkubus

Year: 2015
Genre: Rock
Album: Mother Moon

“Dark Sisters” by Inkubus Sukkubus, a British Goth and pagan band, is a rallying cry to witches to take revenge against men. The lyrics mention ‘dark sisters’ joining a night flight and riding with Holt across the sky. This song is included in their album, Mother Moon. The historical records show that the herbs mentioned in this song were used in ‘flying potions’ which witches would use to fly to the Sabbat. The song is simply about having a Shamanistic experience.

35. “Sisters of the Moon” by Fleetwood Mac

Year: 1979
Genre: Rock
Album: Tusk

This song is a haunting and mysterious ode to an otherworldly woman who captures the attention of the narrator. The woman is referred to as “Sister of the Moon,” and the narrator follows her despite feeling intimidated by her dark energy.

The song creates a sense of intrigue and wonder, with lyrics that describe the woman’s black robes and black moons in her eyes. This song has been interpreted in different ways, with some listeners saying it is about female empowerment or the struggle to find oneself in a cruel world.

However you interpret it, “Sisters of the Moon” is a captivating and enigmatic song that will leave you spellbound.

36. “Oh, Sister” by Bob Dylan

Year: 1976
Genre: Folk Rock
Album: Desire

“Oh, Sister” by Bob Dylan is another song that can be interpreted in various ways, including a relationship of siblings, a love affair, or a spiritual discourse.

The song’s lyrics talk about a person who grew up with another person from the cradle to the grave, and the narrator asks the other person not to treat him like a stranger when he comes to lie in their arms.

The lyrics also mention ‘Our Father,’ which is capitalized, hinting at the divine Father. Despite the title’s implication that they are siblings, these two people might even be strangers to each other in the sense of two people who haven’t met.

Final Thoughts

I hope you found this list of songs about sisters helpful. Let me know in the comments box below if you know of any other sister songs. You may also like:

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