“Black Coffee” is a classic jazz song written by Sonny Burke and Paul Francis Webster. It was first recorded by Sarah Vaughan in 1949, but Ella Fitzgerald’s 1960 version is one of the most famous and iconic renditions of the song. It’s a slow and moody ballad that tells the story of a woman who is drinking black coffee to help her forget about a lost love. Fitzgerald’s soulful and powerful voice perfectly captures the emotion of the song and makes it a timeless classic.
2: “Coffee Song” by Frank Sinatra
“The Coffee Song” (also known as “They’ve Got An Awful Lot of Coffee in Brazil”) is a light-hearted and upbeat song written by Bob Hilliard and Dick Miles in 1946. Frank Sinatra recorded a popular version of the song in 1960, which became a hit in the United States and around the world. The song celebrates the abundance of coffee in Brazil and the joy that it brings to people. Sinatra’s smooth and charming vocal style perfectly suits the playful and fun nature of the song, and it remains a beloved classic in his repertoire.
3: “One Cup of Coffee” by Bob Marley
“One Cup of Coffee” is a reggae song written by Bob Marley and recorded by The Wailers in 1962. It was one of the first songs that Marley wrote and recorded, and it’s a simple but powerful expression of love and devotion. The lyrics describe the singer’s desire to share a cup of coffee with his lover and to spend time together, even if it’s just for a little while. The song has a catchy and upbeat rhythm, with Marley’s signature vocal style and the Wailers’ tight harmonies. While it’s not one of Marley’s most well-known songs, “One Cup of Coffee” is a gem that showcases his early talent and the roots of his distinctive sound.
4: “Cigarettes and Coffee” by Otis Redding
“Cigarettes and Coffee” is a soulful ballad written by Jerry Butler and recorded by Otis Redding in 1966. The song is a mellow and introspective meditation on life’s simple pleasures, including cigarettes and coffee, and the desire to share them with someone special. Redding’s smooth and soulful voice is perfectly suited for the song’s intimate and romantic tone. The song has been covered by many other artists over the years, including Marvin Gaye, Eric Clapton, and even a duet by Joss Stone and Jeff Beck. “Cigarettes and Coffee” is a classic example of Redding’s ability to infuse his music with raw emotion and to capture the essence of the human experience.
5: “Java Jive” by The Ink Spots
“Java Jive” is a popular song written by Ben Oakland and Milton Drake, and was first recorded by The Ink Spots in 1940. The song’s lyrics celebrate the joy of drinking coffee and the social experience that comes with it. The catchy melody and upbeat tempo of the song made it a hit, and it has since become a classic standard of the swing and jazz eras. The Ink Spots’ signature harmonies and crooning vocal style add a touch of nostalgia to the song, which has been covered by many other artists over the years, including The Manhattan Transfer and The Andrews Sisters. “Java Jive” remains a beloved and lighthearted tribute to the simple pleasures of life, and to the beloved beverage that has become an essential part of daily routines for many people.
6: “Coffee in Bed” by Squeeze
“Coffee in Bed” is a new wave song written by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook of the band Squeeze, and was released in 1982. The song’s lyrics describe a couple who are enjoying a lazy morning in bed, sharing coffee and conversation. The laid-back and mellow vibe of the song perfectly captures the feeling of a lazy Sunday morning, and the catchy melody and upbeat rhythm make it a classic example of the 80s new wave genre. “Coffee in Bed” was a hit for Squeeze, and has remained a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock and pop radio. It’s a timeless tribute to the simple joys of spending time with loved ones, and to the pleasure of a good cup of coffee in the morning.
7: “I Love Coffee” by Jonathan Coulton
“I Love Coffee” is a humorous and lighthearted song written by Jonathan Coulton, an American singer-songwriter and internet personality. The song’s lyrics are a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the joys of coffee and the obsessive love that many people have for the beverage. Coulton’s witty and irreverent style adds to the song’s playful tone, and the catchy melody and upbeat rhythm make it a fun and enjoyable listen. “I Love Coffee” has become a fan favorite of Coulton’s extensive catalog, and has been covered by other artists and featured in various media, including TV shows and commercials. It’s a charming and entertaining ode to the world’s favorite caffeinated drink.
8: “The Coffee Cola Song” by Francis Bebey
“The Coffee Cola Song” is an Afro-pop song written by Francis Bebey, a Cameroonian musician, and writer. The song was released in 1982 and was a hit in many African countries. The song’s lyrics describe the pleasures of drinking coffee and cola, and the energy and excitement that it can bring. The upbeat and catchy melody, which features traditional African rhythms and instruments, makes it a joyful and infectious tune that has become a classic of the Afro-pop genre. Bebey’s unique style, which combines elements of traditional African music with modern pop and electronic sounds, has made him a beloved figure in African music and a pioneer of the world music movement. “The Coffee Cola Song” is a prime example of his innovative and eclectic approach to music, and a celebration of the vibrant and diverse cultures of Africa.
9: “I Like Coffee, I Like Tea” by The Ink Spots
“I Like Coffee, I Like Tea” is a classic swing song first recorded by The Ink Spots in 1940. The song’s lyrics describe the singer’s preference for coffee and tea, as well as his love for a woman who shares his passion for these drinks. The catchy melody and upbeat rhythm of the song make it a fun and lively tune that has become a staple of the swing and jazz eras. The Ink Spots’ signature harmonies and crooning vocal style add a touch of nostalgia to the song, which has been covered by many other artists over the years, including Manhattan Transfer and the Boswell Sisters. “I Like Coffee, I Like Tea” remains a beloved and timeless tribute to the simple pleasures of life, and to the joys of sharing them with loved ones.
10: “Another Cup of Coffee” by Mike + The Mechanics
“Another Cup of Coffee” is a rock ballad written by Mike Rutherford, the guitarist and bassist of the band Mike + The Mechanics. The song was released in 1995 and features the soulful vocals of Paul Carrack. The song’s lyrics describe a lonely and introspective mood, as the singer longs for the comfort and companionship that a good cup of coffee can bring. The haunting melody and Carrack’s emotive performance give the song a melancholy and wistful tone, which perfectly captures the feelings of isolation and yearning that the lyrics express. “Another Cup of Coffee” has become a fan favorite of Mike + The Mechanics’ extensive catalog, and is a poignant and affecting tribute to the simple pleasures of life, and to the power of music to express deep emotions.
