In the 2025 novel Atmosphere, some astronauts argue over “what was the best song about space.” Certainly this is just the author’s (Taylor Jenkins Reid) opinion narrated through characters. But both space and music can be distant and ethereal yet, especially in the last century, accessible and imaginative.
I love that Reid captured this inaccessible accessibility. (I’ve seen enough Sci-Fi to know anything can happen in space even contradictory and lazy writing like “inaccessible accessibility.”) But Reid’s writing isn’t lazy and I think you’ll enjoy the list below. Consequently, I present Atmosphere’s songs in order of appearance (on page 223) and then a few of my own:
Two characters agree that Bowie has the top spot but passionately argue over which song. Therefore, tied for first is David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” (1969) and “Starman” (1972).
Third is “Rocket Man” (1972) by Elton John.
Next is The Tubes’ “Space Baby” (1975).
Followed by The Kinks (unnamed, but I assume it’s “Supersonic Rocket Ship” [1972]).
And lastly, Burt and Ernie’s “I Don’t Want to Live on the Moon” (1978).
I don’t fault Atmosphere’s author for focusing on the ’70s (I mean wow, 1972!), clearly, it was a pretty big era for space-related tunes. And the book is set in 1984, so she was limited. But there are a few fun ones from other decades I suggest:
I just watched the first episode of Ash vs. Evil Dead and he psyches himself up with Deep Purple’s “Space Truckin’ (1997 Remix).”
Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon” (1964). Quintessential crooner.
“Spaceman” (2022) by Electric Callboy. I had to throw a metal (and rap…and German…) song in.
Finally, although Andy Weir’s phenomenal novel Project Hail Mary doesn’t specifically name any space songs, user “Andrea” made this Spotify playlist (which I found in a comment from this Reddit user). I’m excited to see what the Ryan Gosling helmed upcoming Project Hail Mary film soundtrack looks (sounds?) like!
What are your favorite songs about space?
Thanks, in Him,
-Chris (the Bearded Wonder) Fogle