Contents
- 1.Brass Monkey – Beastie Boys
- 2.Sally MacLennane – The Pogues
- 3.Alabama Song (Whisky Bar) – The Doors
- 4.You And Tequila (With Grace Potter) – Kenny Chesney
- 5.Moonshiner – Bob Dylan
- 6.Gin and Juice – Snoop Dogg
- 7.Escape (The Piña Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes
- 8.Red Red Wine – UB40
- 9.White Lightning – George Jones
- 10.Cigarettes & Alcohol – Oasis
- 11.Red Solo Cup – Toby Keith
- 12.One Mint Julep – Ray Charles
- 13.Lilac Wine – Nina Simone
- 14.Tennessee Whiskey – Chris Stapleton
- 15.Liquor Store Blues – Bruno Mars feat. Damian Marley
- 16.Closing Time – Semisonic
- 17.Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers – ZZ Top
- 18.Pass the Courvoisier, Part II – Busta Rhymes
- 19.Drunk in Love – Beyoncé
Music and alcohol have been closely intertwined for centuries, with songs celebrating the joys and pitfalls of drinking. From classic rock anthems to country ballads, there is no shortage of songs about alcohol and its effects on the human experience. Whether you prefer a cold beer, a glass of whiskey, or a fruity cocktail, there is a song out there that will perfectly capture your love for your favorite tipple.
These songs not only serve as fun party anthems, but also offer a glimpse into the culture and traditions surrounding alcohol in different parts of the world. Some of the most iconic songs about alcohol include “Red Solo Cup” by Toby Keith, “Gin and Juice” by Snoop Dogg, “Red Red Wine” by UB40, and “Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)” by The Doors.
These songs range in style and genre, but all share a common theme of celebrating the joys of drinking and the camaraderie that comes with sharing a few drinks with friends. Other songs take a more introspective look at alcohol and its effects, such as “Moonshiner” by Bob Dylan and “Lilac Wine” by Nina Simone.
Whether you are looking for a fun party anthem or a contemplative ballad, there is a song about alcohol out there for everyone.
1.Brass Monkey – Beastie Boys
“Brass Monkey” by Beastie Boys is a popular hip-hop track released in 1986. The song is named after a popular cocktail made with orange juice and dark rum, and the lyrics are a celebration of partying and having a good time. The track is characterized by its catchy hook and funky bassline, which has been sampled by numerous artists over the years. The song is known for its high-energy performance and raucous delivery by the Beastie Boys, making it a crowd favorite at parties and clubs. “Brass Monkey” is considered one of the most iconic songs from the Beastie Boys’ early catalog and a classic of 80s hip-hop.
2.Sally MacLennane – The Pogues
“Sally MacLennane” by The Pogues is a traditional Irish song from their 1982 album “Rum Sodomy & the Lash”. The track is a rousing drinking song that tells the story of a woman named Sally MacLennane, who leaves her hometown in Ireland to seek her fortune in London. The lyrics are characterized by their poetic imagery and vivid descriptions of Irish culture and traditions. The song features a mix of traditional Irish instruments such as the tin whistle, accordion, and mandolin, combined with electric guitars and drums to create a unique sound that blends punk rock with traditional Irish folk music. “Sally MacLennane” is a classic example of The Pogues’ unique blend of genres and their ability to capture the spirit of Irish culture in their music.
3.Alabama Song (Whisky Bar) – The Doors
“Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)” is a cover song by The Doors, originally written by Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill for their 1927 opera “Mahagonny”. The Doors’ version was released on their 1967 album “The Doors” and became a hit single in Europe. The song features a jazzy, cabaret-style melody and lyrics that describe a drunken night at a bar in Alabama. The Doors’ version is characterized by Jim Morrison’s theatrical vocals and the band’s psychedelic rock sound, which gives the song a dark, brooding edge. “Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)” is one of The Doors’ most iconic tracks and a classic example of their ability to fuse different genres and styles into their music.
4.You And Tequila (With Grace Potter) – Kenny Chesney
“You And Tequila” is a country ballad by Kenny Chesney, featuring guest vocals by Grace Potter. The song was released in 2011 as the third single from Chesney’s album “Hemingway’s Whiskey” and became a commercial success, peaking at number 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song is a melancholic reflection on lost love and the power of alcohol to bring back memories and emotions. Chesney’s vocals are heartfelt and emotional, and Potter’s harmonies add a haunting quality to the track. “You And Tequila” is a standout track in Chesney’s catalog, showcasing his ability to create poignant, introspective songs that resonate with audiences.
5.Moonshiner – Bob Dylan
“Moonshiner” is a traditional folk song that has been covered by many artists over the years, including Bob Dylan. Dylan’s version was recorded during the sessions for his 1991 album “The Bootleg Series Volumes 1–3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961–1991” and features his distinctive vocals and acoustic guitar. The song tells the story of a moonshiner who makes and sells illegal alcohol, and the dangers and consequences that come with this illicit trade. Dylan’s version of “Moonshiner” is a haunting and introspective interpretation that captures the melancholic spirit of the song and highlights the timeless quality of traditional folk music.
6.Gin and Juice – Snoop Dogg
“Gin and Juice” is a hip-hop track by Snoop Dogg, released in 1994 as the second single from his debut album “Doggystyle”. The song features a laid-back, West Coast-style beat and lyrics that describe a party where Snoop and his friends drink gin and juice and engage in various activities. The song’s catchy hook and memorable lyrics have made it a classic of 90s hip-hop and a staple of Snoop Dogg’s catalog. “Gin and Juice” showcases Snoop Dogg’s unique style and personality, and his ability to create party anthems that resonate with audiences around the world.
7.Escape (The Piña Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes
“Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” is a pop song by Rupert Holmes, released in 1979. The song tells the story of a couple who are both feeling bored and disillusioned with their relationship. They both secretly respond to a personal ad in the newspaper seeking someone who likes piña coladas and ends up discovering they were looking for each other all along. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and cheerful vocals by Holmes. “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” is a classic of 70s pop music, known for its catchy hook and romantic storyline.
8.Red Red Wine – UB40
“Red Red Wine” is a reggae song originally written and performed by Neil Diamond in 1967. The song was later covered by UB40 and became a massive hit in 1983, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. UB40’s version of “Red Red Wine” features a slower, more laid-back tempo than the original, and is characterized by its reggae-inspired instrumentation, including a prominent horn section and a rhythmic guitar riff. The song’s melancholic lyrics describe the pain and heartache of lost love, and the comforting power of alcohol to ease the pain. “Red Red Wine” is one of UB40’s signature songs and a classic example of their unique blend of reggae and pop music.
9.White Lightning – George Jones
“White Lightning” is a country song by George Jones, released in 1959. The song is an uptempo, honky-tonk number that tells the story of a man who makes and sells moonshine, also known as “white lightning”. The song’s lyrics are filled with colorful, vivid imagery and wordplay, and Jones’ distinctive vocals bring a playful energy to the track. “White Lightning” became a huge hit for Jones and helped establish him as one of the most iconic voices in country music.
10.Cigarettes & Alcohol – Oasis
“Cigarettes & Alcohol” is a rock song by Oasis, released in 1994 as the fourth single from their debut album “Definitely Maybe”. The song features a driving guitar riff and lyrics that describe the pleasures and pitfalls of a hard-partying lifestyle. The song’s catchy chorus and rock-and-roll swagger have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Oasis’ live shows. “Cigarettes & Alcohol” showcases the Gallagher brothers’ songwriting and musical talents, and their ability to create anthemic rock songs that speak to the frustrations and dreams of a generation.
11.Red Solo Cup – Toby Keith
“Red Solo Cup” is a country song by Toby Keith, released in 2011. The song celebrates the iconic red plastic cups that are a staple of American parties and picnics. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus have made it a popular party anthem, and its humorous lyrics and playful tone have helped it become a fan favorite. “Red Solo Cup” showcases Keith’s ability to blend humor and music and create songs that resonate with audiences across the country.
12.One Mint Julep – Ray Charles
“One Mint Julep” is a jazz and rhythm and blues song by Ray Charles, released in 1961. The song features a smooth, soulful arrangement that highlights Charles’ powerful vocals and expressive piano playing. The song’s lyrics describe the pleasures of drinking a mint julep, a classic Southern cocktail made with bourbon and mint, and the soothing effect it has on the soul. “One Mint Julep” is a classic example of Ray Charles’ unique blend of jazz, blues, and gospel influences, and showcases his incredible musical talents as both a singer and a pianist. The song has been covered by many other artists over the years, including The Clovers, who had a hit with their version of the song in 1952.
13.Lilac Wine – Nina Simone
“Lilac Wine” is a haunting ballad originally written by James Shelton in the 1950s and covered by many artists, including Nina Simone. Simone’s version of the song, released in 1966, features her distinctive, smoky vocals and a sparse, elegant arrangement that highlights the song’s melancholy beauty. The song’s lyrics describe the powerful, intoxicating effect of lilac wine, and the way it can transport the drinker to a world of memories and emotions. Simone’s version of “Lilac Wine” is a powerful and moving rendition of a classic song, and showcases her incredible talents as a vocalist and interpreter of music.
14.Tennessee Whiskey – Chris Stapleton
“Tennessee Whiskey” is a soulful country song by Chris Stapleton, released in 2015. The song features Stapleton’s powerful, soulful vocals and a classic country arrangement that showcases his influences from blues, rock, and southern gospel music. The song’s lyrics describe the intense, intoxicating effect of Tennessee whiskey, and the way it can help numb the pain of heartbreak and loss. “Tennessee Whiskey” has become one of Stapleton’s most popular songs, and has helped establish him as one of the most talented and distinctive voices in contemporary country music. The song has also been covered by many other artists, including George Jones and David Allan Coe.
15.Liquor Store Blues – Bruno Mars feat. Damian Marley
“Liquor Store Blues” is a reggae-influenced R&B song by Bruno Mars, featuring Damian Marley. The song, released in 2010, features a laid-back, groovy beat, and Mars’ smooth, soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the struggles of working-class life, and the way that drinking and smoking can provide a temporary escape from those struggles. Marley’s verses add a touch of reggae flavor to the song, and his lyrics describe the impact that poverty and inequality can have on people’s lives. “Liquor Store Blues” is a powerful and moving song that combines Mars’ incredible vocal talents with Marley’s unique reggae style.
16.Closing Time – Semisonic
“Closing Time” is an alternative rock song by Semisonic, released in 1998. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody, and lead singer Dan Wilson’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe the end of a night out at a bar, and the way that the last call for alcohol signals the end of the party and the start of a new day. The song’s chorus has become an anthem for bar-goers and party animals everywhere, and its infectious melody and memorable lyrics have helped it become one of Semisonic’s most popular songs. “Closing Time” is a perfect example of the power of catchy hooks and relatable lyrics in popular music.
17.Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers – ZZ Top
“Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers” is a classic rock song by ZZ Top, released in 1973. The song features the band’s signature blues rock sound, with driving guitar riffs, bluesy vocals, and a catchy chorus. The lyrics celebrate the joys of drinking beer and raising hell, with lines like “Beer drinkers and hell raisers, yeah, we’re all coming to town.” The song’s hard-hitting sound and rebellious lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of classic rock and blues music.
18.Pass the Courvoisier, Part II – Busta Rhymes
“Pass the Courvoisier, Part II” is a hip-hop song by Busta Rhymes, featuring P. Diddy and Pharrell Williams. The song, released in 2002, features a heavy, bass-driven beat, and Busta Rhymes’ rapid-fire delivery. The lyrics describe a wild party scene, with everyone passing around bottles of Courvoisier cognac and enjoying the high life. P. Diddy and Pharrell Williams both contribute verses to the song, adding their own unique styles to the mix. “Pass the Courvoisier, Part II” is a fun, high-energy party anthem that captures the spirit of early 2000s hip-hop.
19.Drunk in Love – Beyoncé
“Drunk in Love” is a song by American singer Beyoncé, featuring her husband Jay-Z. The song was released in 2013 as the lead single from Beyoncé’s self-titled fifth studio album. The song features a slow, seductive beat with Beyoncé’s sultry vocals and Jay-Z’s rap verses. The lyrics describe a passionate and intoxicated love affair, with Beyoncé singing lines like “We woke up in the kitchen saying, ‘How the hell did this shit happen?'” The song’s music video features Beyoncé and Jay-Z in various beach and ocean settings, adding to the song’s sensual and carefree vibe. “Drunk in Love” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries and earning Beyoncé a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious beat made it a popular club and radio hit, while its lyrics and video showcased Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s undeniable chemistry as a couple. The song has since become a fan favorite and a staple in Beyoncé’s live performances.