Play On

Numerous musicians in genres ranging from classic rock to country have drawn inspiration from Shakespeare. Some quote directly from the playwright, while others use his work to highlight the drama in their own stories or to further investigate an iconic character's point of view.

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Listen to Play On

About the Songs

“Love Story” – Taylor Swift
The reigning teen queen of country music takes inspiration from Romeo and Juliet for her latest chart topper.

“Romeo and Juliet” – Indigo Girls
Originally written and recorded by Dire Straits, this song has become a staple in live performances by folk-rockers the Indigo Girls.

“Macbeth” – John Cale
Underground rocker and former The Velvet Underground member pairs dark lyrics with a danceable, percussion-driven tune.

“Miss Macbeth” – Elvis Costello
The legendary songwriter paints the fictitious Miss Macbeth as a sympathetic character – until she works a little voodoo. 

“Ariel” – October Project
Inspired by a character in The Tempest, this song is written as a farewell to Prospero (although his name is never directly mentioned). Ariel explains, “My name is Ariel / And I want to be free / It is your sorrow / That has made a slave of me.”

“Sister Moon” – Sting
The lyric “My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun” is taken from "Sonnet 130," which also gives Sting’s album—Nothing Like the Sun—its name.

“(Just Like) Romeo and Juliet” – The Reflections
Young love is a common theme in pop music—especially in the early days of rock and roll. This song was a top ten hit on the pop charts in 1964.