Whether they’re sweet, badass, or mischievous, ladies named Jane have inspired artists across all music genres over the years. From ballads to rock bangers, the following are some of the best songs about Jane, so crank up the stereo and enjoy!
“Janie’s Got a Gun” – Aerosmith
“Janie’s Got a Gun” is a hit song by the rock band Aerosmith. It was released in 1989 as the second single from their album Pump.
The lyrics are about a girl who takes matters into her own hands after she’s been victimized by abuse. The protagonist, Janie, gets a hold of a gun and goes after her abuser.
Notably, the original lyrics had a line with the word rape included, which was omitted to ensure the song’s commercial success. Preferring his version, Steven Tyler has sung the line in question in numerous live performances.
“Jane” – Jefferson Starship
“Jane” is a song by Jefferson Starship released in 1979. It’s about a woman cheating on her partner. Trying to entice her back, he tells her he knows what’s best for her in love.
The song was written by David Freiberg, who said in an interview that it was loosely based on an old girlfriend of his whose name wasn’t Jane.
“Jane” peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 13 on the Canadian RPM chart.
“Jane Says” – Jane’s Addiction
“Jane Says” is a song by the American rock band Jane’s Addiction. It was released as the second single from their debut album, Nothing’s Shocking, in 1988.
The song is about Jane Bainter, Perry Farrell’s ex-housemate. In the lyrics, Farrell sings about Bainter’s struggles with drugs. “Jane Says” is an uncompromising song that speaks to addiction’s struggles and the pain it can cause.
“The Diary of Jane” – Breaking Benjamin
“The Diary of Jane” is a fan-favorite song by Breaking Benjamin. It’s about a guy who loved a girl and thought she loved her back, only to find out that she was just using him.
The combination of powerful lyrics and a catchy melody make “The Diary of Jane” one of the most memorable songs of the 2000s. If you’re a fan of hard rock, in particular, you’ll be hooked from the very first note.
“Jane” – Stevie Nicks
Stevie Nicks is one of the most iconic female singers of all time who’s had an illustrious career both as a member of the band Fleetwood Mac and as a solo artist. In between her countless hits lies an underrated gem, “Jane.”
The song is Stevie’s tribute to environmentalist Jane Goodall, a renowned anthropologist and primatologist born in 1934 in England.
It speaks to Goodall’s work with chimpanzees and her dedication to animal rights. It’s a beautiful tribute to an incredible woman who dedicated her life to making the world a better place.
“Jane Doe” – Alicia Keys
“Jane Doe” is the 8th song on Alicia Keys’ first album, released on September 4, 2001. The song is about a woman hurt by a man that is now trying to figure out who she is without him.
The lyrics are empowering and offer an important message to anyone who has ever been in a similar situation.
In addition to being relatable, the song is also catchy and easy to sing along to, which makes it one of Alicia Keys’ most popular tracks. So if you’re looking for a song to help you through a tough time, “Jane Doe” is definitely worth a listen.
“The Ballad of Jayne” – L.A. Guns
“The Ballad of Jayne” is a power ballad by L.A. Guns about actress Jayne Mansfield and her tragic death.
The lyrics are packed with raw emotion as they tell the story of Mansfield’s life, from her early days as a Hollywood starlet to her untimely end.
The song made it to the top 100 ranks on multiple charts following its release in 1989 and has remained one of the band’s most popular tracks since.
“Lady Jane” – The Rolling Stones
“Lady Jane” is a song written and composed by Keith Richards and Mick Jagger in early 1966. The Rolling Stones band recorded this song.
According to Jagger, the lyrics and the name are historical. However, the song’s most significant development was by Jones.
“Lady Jane” is rumored to be about drugs and very weird music. The song also showcases Brian’s instrumental improvisation.
“Mary Jane’s Last Dance” – Tom Petty
“Mary Jane’s Last Dance” is a song by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. It was released in 1993 as the lead single from their album, Greatest Hits.
Musically, the song is a shuffle with a country rock feel. The song is a goodbye song to a former love. The lyrics are somewhat vague, but the overall message is clear – it’s time to move on.
“Baby Jane” – Rod Stewart
Released in 1983, Baby Jane topped the charts worldwide and is one of Stewart’s most commercially successful songs to this date.
The lyrics are sung from the tail end of a relationship with a young girl named Jane. However, Stewart aims to stay optimistic and looks ahead to his next great love that will last forever.
Featuring Stewart’s recognizable raspy voice and a calming melody, it’s an ideal song when missing a loved one and looking for peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
We can thank Janes of this world for all the amazing music inspired by them. Delving into various themes and emotions, the above songs fit a wide range of moods and tastes in music. So whether you’re thinking of a particular Jane out there or simply looking for some great music to add to your playlist, give these popular songs a listen.
Born and raised in Austin, David is a dedicated writer and avid fragrance lover. When he's not trying out perfumes, he enjoys traveling and exploring new restaurants.