I'm starting to get really excited about the solar eclipse coming up this year on April 8th. Evansville, Indiana is in the exact trajectory of totality meaning we are in the prime position to get the full experience. Although no matter where you are, it's still a pretty dang cool thing to get to see.

I read the other day that the whole shebang is supposed to last 4 minutes and 28 seconds. Not enough to enjoy a whole list of songs, but if you have a get-together or work party, these songs will go perfectly with the solar or lunar theme of the day whichever way you look at it.

2024 Solar Eclipse Playlist

1. "Total Eclipse of the Heart" -Bonnie Tyler

Of course, I had to start with this one! I wanted to stick to a country theme, but there is something special about this dramatic jam. Not only is the word "Eclipse" in the title of the song, it's length is 4 minutes and 30 seconds. Almost exactly the same time span as the eclipse.

2. "Ring of Fire" -Johnny Cash

Areas of totality like Evansville, IN will experience totality which means they will be the special folks who get to see the perfect "Ring of Fire" as the moon centers with the sun.

3. "Neon Moon" -Brooks & Dunn

Turn up the volume on this absolute banger as the events unfold. It's 4 minutes and 27 seconds of goodness.

4. "Shine" -Dolly Parton's Cover of Collective Soul

You could use Collective Soul's version if you wanted to, of course. I love the original too and always have to sing "yeah" during that one part, you know what I mean? But, I mean...it's Dolly. She can do no wrong. Plus, she won a Grammy for this amazing bluegrass performance it's so good. And looky who is playing for her in this video! (Nickel Creek)

5. "Third Rock From the Sun" -Joe Diffie

The only thing cooler than this song is Joe Diffie's magnificent Kentucky waterfall. This music video was fun too! I love this clip with his introduction.

6. "Runnin' Outta Moonlight" Randy Houser

I was today years old when I realized he borrowed a lyric from the Collective Soul song in the #4 spot for this hit. "Heaven let your light shine down."

7. "Fishin' in the Dark" -Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

You could certainly go fishin' in the dark during the eclipse if the fish are really biting!

8. "Eclipse" John Denver

If ever a song painted a picture, it's this one. Makes me a little verklempt, to be honest. Here are the lyrics if you want to be reminded of the beauty and timeless nature of a good songwriter.

9. "When the Sun Goes Down" -Kenny Chesney & Uncle Kracker

And now for something completely different! This song paints a picture too, it's just a TOTALLY different vibe.

10. "Blue Moon of Kentucky" - Bill Monroe

You knew I had to include this one!

11. "Ain't Goin' Down Til the Sun Comes Up" -Garth Brooks

Two words: Harmonica. Player.

11. "Final Countdown" -Europe

And to liven things up for a grand finale! Once again, just like "Total Eclipse of the Heart," I know this isn't a country song, but it just feels right.