As the category 5 Hurricane Beryl sweeps through the Caribbean basin at windspeed surpassing 150 mph and heads towards the Gulf of Mexico, it follows a path familiar to many in the region. Beryl has become the fastest storm on record to reach Category Five during a hurricane season, evoking memories for Jamaicans of Lloyd Lovindeer’s words: “Water come eena me room/me sweep out some wid di broom/the likkle bird laugh to see such fun and the dish ran away with the spoon.”
Over the years, artists worldwide have transformed stormy tragedies into metaphors and inspiration for some of their biggest hits. WMV takes a look at other hurricane-themed songs that have climbed the Billboard charts.
1. Wild Glbert – Lloyd Lovindeer (1988)
Lloyd Lovindeer found the hit “Wild Gilbert” in the 1988 in the aftermath of one of the biggest storms to hit the shores of Jamaica. The song is reported to have sold more than 150,000 copies in Jamaica and appeared on Lovindeer’s 8th studio album Why Don’t We All Have Sex. That album also had the song”Gilbert – One Hell of a Blow-Job.” The song and storm had such an impact on Lovindeer and on Jamaica that in 1989 the St. Catherine native released the album “Gilbert Yu Gone.”
Gilbert is the second-largest hurricane on record, responsible for over 300 deaths as it ravaged the Caribbean, including 40 fatalities in Jamaica. It remains the most intense hurricane to have struck Jamaica and Mexico, where it claimed over 200 lives in the Gulf region. The hurricane was massive, with tropical storm-force winds spanning more than 575 miles (925 kilometers) in diameter.
2. The Tide Is High – Blondie (1980)
Blondie’s “The Tide Is High,” released in 1980, is a reggae-influenced track that became a major hit. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of the band’s most recognizable songs. The song was originally written by Jamaican singer John Holt, perfumed by The Paragons and produced by Duke Reid in 1967.
Atomic Kitten re-recorded a version which topped the UK Singles Chart In 2002 and Cardinal Offishall also released a dancehall-hip hop interpretation of the track in 2008 titled “Numba 1 (Tide Is High) featuring Keri Hilson” which is certified Gold in Canada. Other versions of the song featured Rihanna The 2024 Grammy winning Best Reggae album “Colors Of Royal” by Julian Marley and Alexx Antaeus also had a cover of the single.
3. Rock You Like A Hurricane – Scorpions (1984)
The Scorpions’ “Rock You Like A Hurricane” is the lead single from their ninth studio album “Love At First Sting.” It is a hard rock anthem that became one of the band’s most successful songs. Released in 1984, it peaked at No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a staple of rock radio and sports arenas worldwide. The song is certified Silver in the UK for selling 200,000 units by the British Phonographic Industry.
4. Riders on the Storm – The Doors (1971)
The Doors’ “Riders on the Storm,” released in 1971, is a psychedelic rock classic. It peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is known for its haunting melody and atmospheric production, cementing its place in rock history.
5. Who’ll Stop the Rain – Creedence Clearwater Revival (1970)
Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Who’ll Stop the Rain,” released in 1970, is a classic rock song with a timeless appeal. It peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of the band’s most enduring hits.
6. Jumpin’ Jack Flash – The Rolling Stones (1968)
The Rolling Stones’ “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” released in 1968, is a rock and roll classic. It reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is one of the band’s most enduring hits.
7. Hurricane – Luke Combs (2016)
Luke Combs’ “Hurricane” catapulted the country star into fame, marking his first No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Released in 2016, the song quickly gained popularity for its relatable lyrics and catchy melody, resonating with fans and establishing Combs as a force in country music.
8. When It Rains It Pours – Luke Combs (2017)
Luke Combs’ “When It Rains It Pours,” released in 2017, is another No. 1 hit on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. The song’s witty lyrics and catchy melody have made it a staple of Combs’ live shows.
9. It’s the End of the World as We Know It (and I Feel Fine) – R.E.M. (1987)
R.E.M.’s “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (and I Feel Fine),” released in 1987, is an alternative rock anthem. It peaked at No. 69 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of the band’s most recognizable songs.
10. Hurricane – Band of Heathens (2011)
The Band of Heathens’ “Hurricane,” released in 2011, is a soulful track that showcases the band’s Americana roots. It has gained a loyal following and is a favorite in their live sets, though it didn’t achieve significant chart success.
11. After the Hurricane – Jazmine Sullivan (2008)
Jazmine Sullivan’s “After the Hurricane,” from her 2008 debut album “Fearless,” highlights her powerful voice and emotive songwriting. Although not released as a single, it contributed to the album’s critical acclaim and commercial success.
12. Hurricane Drunk – Florence & The Machine (2009)
Florence & The Machine’s “Hurricane Drunk,” from their 2009 debut album “Lungs,” showcases Florence Welch’s powerful vocals. Although it wasn’t released as a single, the song received positive reviews and contributed to the album’s critical and commercial success.
13. Stormy Weather – Etta James (1960)
Etta James’ “Stormy Weather,” released in 1960, is a soulful rendition of the classic standard. Her powerful voice and emotive delivery have made it a timeless favorite.
14. Surfing in a Hurricane – Jimmy Buffett (2009)
“Surfing in a Hurricane” by Jimmy Buffett, released in 2009, captures the adventurous spirit of Buffett’s music. While not a major chart hit, it resonates with his dedicated fan base and highlights his signature tropical rock style.
15. Hurricanes – Dido (2019)
Dido’s “Hurricanes,” released in 2019, marked her return to music after a lengthy hiatus. The song received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and Dido’s distinctive voice, though it didn’t make a major impact on the charts.
16. Hurricane – Ella Henderson (2022)
Ella Henderson’s “Hurricane,” released in 2022, showcases her powerful vocals and pop sensibilities. While it didn’t achieve major chart success, it has been well-received by her fans.
17. Love Is a Hurricane – Boyzone (2010)
Boyzone’s “Love Is a Hurricane,” released in 2010, is a pop ballad that showcases the group’s harmonies. It achieved moderate success, particularly in the UK and Ireland, where the band has a strong fan base.
18. Butterflies and Hurricanes – Muse (2003)
Muse’s “Butterflies and Hurricanes,” from their 2003 album “Absolution,” is known for its dynamic composition and powerful lyrics. It remains a favorite among fans and is a highlight of the band’s live performances, though it didn’t chart significantly.
19. After the Storm – Mumford & Sons
Mumford & Sons’ “After the Storm” is a heartfelt ballad that showcases the band’s folk-rock sound. It wasn’t released as a single but is beloved by fans for its introspective lyrics and emotive delivery.
20. Hurricane – Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan’s “Hurricane,” released in 1976, is a protest song about the imprisonment of boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter. It peaked at No. 33 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is one of Dylan’s most powerful and politically charged songs.
21. Two Sparrows in a Hurricane – Tanya Tucker (1992)
Tanya Tucker’s “Two Sparrows in a Hurricane,” released in 1992, is a touching country ballad. It peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and is one of Tucker’s most beloved songs.
22. She Got the Best of Me – Luke Combs (2017)
Luke Combs’ “She Got the Best of Me,” released in 2017, is another chart-topping country hit. Its heartfelt lyrics and Combs’ strong vocals have made it a standout track in his catalog.
23. Highway Star / Not Fade Away – Deep Purple (1972)
Deep Purple’s “Highway Star,” released in 1972, is a classic rock staple known for its driving rhythm and powerful guitar solos. While “Not Fade Away” is a cover of the Buddy Holly classic, both songs highlight the band’s hard rock prowess.
24. Trying to Reason With Hurricane Season – Kenny Chesney (2018)
Kenny Chesney’s “Trying to Reason With Hurricane Season,” released in 2018, captures the laid-back vibe of Chesney’s music. While not a major hit, it resonates with his devoted fan base.
25. Hurricane – Thrice (2016)
Thrice’s “Hurricane,” released in 2016, is a powerful rock song that showcases the band’s dynamic sound. It has been well-received by fans and critics alike, though it didn’t achieve significant chart success.
26. The Eye – Brandi Carlile (2015)
Brandi Carlile’s “The Eye,” released in 2015, is a poignant ballad that highlights her vocal and songwriting talents. It received critical acclaim and remains a favorite among her fans.
27. Thunder in the Rain – Kane Brown (2016)
Kane Brown’s “Thunder in the Rain,” released in 2016, is a country hit that showcases Brown’s smooth vocals. It achieved moderate success on the country charts and is a favorite among his fans.
28. Hurricane – Lin-Manuel Miranda (2015)
“Hurricane” by Lin-Manuel Miranda, from the 2015 musical “Hamilton,” is a pivotal song in the show. It highlights Miranda’s lyrical prowess and the song’s significance within the narrative has made it a standout track among fans.
29. Hurricane Party – Cowboy Mouth (1999)
Cowboy Mouth’s “Hurricane Party,” released in 1999, captures the band’s energetic rock sound. While not a major chart hit, it has become a fan favorite at their live shows.
30. Here Comes the Rain Again – Eurythmics (1983)
Eurythmics’ “Here Comes the Rain Again,” released in 1983, is a synth-pop classic. It peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of the duo’s most iconic songs.
31. Waiting for the Hurricane – Chris de Burgh (1981)
Chris de Burgh’s “Waiting for the Hurricane,” released in 1981, is a reflective song that showcases his storytelling ability. While not a major chart hit, it remains a favorite among his fans.
32. Storm Coming – Gnarls Barkley
Gnarls Barkley’s “Storm Coming,” from their 2006 album “St. Elsewhere,” features the duo’s signature blend of soul and electronic music. It wasn’t released as a single but is noted for its unique sound and production.
33. Trying to Reason With Hurricane Season – Jimmy Buffett (1974)
Jimmy Buffett’s “Trying to Reason With Hurricane Season,” released in 1974, captures the laid-back, tropical vibe of Buffett’s music. It’s a fan favorite, especially among his “Parrothead” following.
34. Hell or High Water – Kiss (1987)
Kiss’s “Hell or High Water,” released in 1987, is a hard rock track that showcases the band’s signature sound. While not a major hit, it remains a favorite among Kiss fans.
35. Like a Hurricane – Neil Young (1977)
Neil Young’s “Like a Hurricane,” released in 1977, is a classic rock staple known for its intense guitar solos and emotional depth. While it didn’t chart as highly as some of Young’s other songs, it remains a fan favorite and a highlight of his live performances.
36. Some Kinda Hurricane – Peter Criss (1982)
Peter Criss’s “Some Kinda Hurricane,” released in 1982, is a rock track that showcases the former Kiss drummer’s solo efforts. While not a major hit, it has a cult following among rock fans.
37. Hurricane Eye – Paul Simon (2000)
Paul Simon’s “Hurricane Eye,” released in 2000, is a track from his album “You’re the One.” While not a major chart hit, it showcases Simon’s lyrical genius and musical creativity.
38. Only One Night – The Hurricanes (2019)
The Hurricanes’ “Only One Night,” released in 2019, is a contemporary track that showcases the band’s modern rock sound. While not a major chart hit, it has been well-received by their fans.
39. Red River Rock – Johnny and the Hurricanes (1958)
Johnny and the Hurricanes’ “Red River Rock,” released in 1958, is an instrumental rock classic. It became a hit, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and establishing the band’s place in rock history.
40. To The Pet Shop Boys – The Hurricanes (2019)
The Hurricanes’ “To The Pet Shop Boys,” released in 2019, is a tribute track that showcases the band’s eclectic influences. While not a major hit, it has garnered attention for its unique sound.
Bonus:
41. We Ride On – The Hurricanes (2023)
The Hurricanes’ “We Ride On,” released in 2023, is a modern rock track that highlights the band’s evolving sound. While not a major chart hit, it has been embraced by their fans.
