Gather the Family for These 19 Great Songs about Uncles

The role of an uncle is often overlooked in popular culture, with most attention given to parents or grandparents. However, uncles can play an important and unique role in the lives of their nieces and nephews, providing guidance, support, and a different perspective on the world.

In this collection of 19 great songs about uncles, we celebrate the importance of these relationships and the impact that uncles can have on their families.From classic rock anthems to soulful ballads, this playlist features a diverse range of musical genres and styles, showcasing the enduring influence of uncles in popular culture..

Some songs, such as “Uncle John’s Band” by the Grateful Dead, pay tribute to the role that music can play in bringing families together, while others, like “Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey” by Paul McCartney, use humor and whimsy to capture the quirks and idiosyncrasies of family life. Still others, like “Third Uncle” by Bauhaus, explore the darker side of familial relationships, highlighting the complexities and tensions that can arise within families.

Whether you have a beloved uncle in your life or simply appreciate the role that uncles play in shaping our identities and worldviews, this collection of songs is sure to inspire and entertain. So gather the family and listen to these great songs about uncles – you might just discover a new favorite!

1. Uncle John’s Band – Grateful Dead

“Uncle John’s Band” is a classic song by the Grateful Dead that was released on their 1970 album “Workingman’s Dead”. The song features intricate harmonies and poetic lyrics that tell a story of a band traveling across the country and spreading their music to the masses. With its catchy melody and sing-along chorus, “Uncle John’s Band” has become a beloved staple of the Dead’s live performances, and continues to be celebrated as one of their most iconic songs.

2. Uncle Remus – Frank Zappa

“Uncle Remus” is a funk-infused track by Frank Zappa that was released on his 1974 album “Apostrophe (‘)”. The song features Zappa’s signature blend of complex instrumentation and humorous lyrics, with a memorable chorus that asks “Why don’t you take your little funky car and drive it?” The track also features a standout vocal performance by George Duke, who delivers a soulful and playful rendition of the song’s lyrics. “Uncle Remus” has become a fan favorite in Zappa’s catalog, and remains a testament to his genre-defying musical style.

3. Uncle Salty – Aerosmith

“Uncle Salty” is a classic rock song by Aerosmith that was released on their 1975 album “Toys in the Attic”. The song features a driving guitar riff, powerful vocals from lead singer Steven Tyler, and lyrics that tell the story of a troubled young woman searching for her uncle Salty. With its gritty sound and dark lyrics, “Uncle Salty” has become a fan favorite and remains a staple of Aerosmith’s live shows.

4. Uncle Walter – Ben Folds

“Uncle Walter” is a piano-driven track by Ben Folds that was released on his 1997 album “Whatever and Ever Amen”. The song features Folds’ signature wit and humor, with lyrics that tell the story of a dysfunctional family gathering for the funeral of Uncle Walter. The song’s catchy chorus and playful instrumentation have made it a fan favorite, and it remains a testament to Folds’ unique musical style and songwriting prowess.

5. My Uncle Used to Love Me But She Died – Roger Miller

“My Uncle Used to Love Me But She Died” is a humorous and somewhat morbid song by country music legend Roger Miller, released in 1965. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a young girl who is left with nothing but her uncle’s old suit after his passing. Miller’s unique vocal style and clever wordplay make the song both catchy and memorable, and it has become a favorite of his fans and a classic of the country music genre.

6. The Monkey’s Uncle – Annette Funicello

“The Monkey’s Uncle” is a lively and fun song performed by Annette Funicello, released in 1965 as part of the soundtrack for the Disney film of the same name. The song features Funicello’s bright and cheerful vocals, as well as a catchy and upbeat melody that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of the 1960s. The song’s lyrics celebrate the joys of being young and carefree, and its infectious energy has made it a favorite of Disney fans and music lovers alike.

7. Uncle Pen – Goldie Hawn

“Uncle Pen” is a classic bluegrass song performed by Goldie Hawn. Originally written and recorded by Bill Monroe, the song tells the story of Uncle Pen, a fiddler who taught Monroe how to play. Hawn’s version features upbeat instrumentation and her own unique vocal style, adding a touch of charm to the already beloved tune.

8. Uncle Joe – Buffy Sainte-Marie

In “Uncle Joe,” Buffy Sainte-Marie sings about her uncle and the hardships he faced as a Native American man in a colonized world. The song is a powerful commentary on the struggles and injustices faced by Indigenous people and speaks to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. With her signature voice and evocative lyrics, Sainte-Marie delivers a poignant tribute to her uncle and his legacy.

9. Uncle Arthur – David Bowie

“Uncle Arthur” is a song by David Bowie that was released on his self-titled debut album in 1967. The song tells the story of Uncle Arthur, a character who is unhappy with his life and longs for a change. The track features lush orchestration and Bowie’s distinctive vocal style, showcasing his early talents as a songwriter and performer.

10. Uncle Son – The Kinks

“Uncle Son” is a track by The Kinks from their album “The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society” released in 1968. The song tells the story of Uncle Son, a man who is content with his simple life and finds joy in the little things. The track features gentle acoustic guitar and a folksy vocal delivery, creating a warm and nostalgic atmosphere. The song is a reflection on the changing times of the late 1960s and the value of simplicity and tradition in a rapidly changing world.

11. Uncle Harry – Noël Coward

“Uncle Harry” is a song by Noël Coward, a British playwright, actor, and composer, who was known for his witty lyrics and sophisticated melodies. The song was written in 1935 and tells the story of a wealthy and eccentric uncle who lives a life of luxury and excess. The track features Coward’s distinctive vocal style and playful piano accompaniment, creating a satirical and entertaining portrait of upper-class society.

12. Uncle Joe – The Country Gentlemen

“Uncle Joe” is a classic bluegrass tune performed by The Country Gentlemen. The song tells the story of Uncle Joe, a hard-working man who is respected and admired by his community. The track features lively banjo, fiddle, and guitar instrumentation, showcasing the band’s virtuosic musicianship and high-energy performance style. The song celebrates the virtues of honesty, hard work, and community, making it a beloved staple of the bluegrass genre.

13. Third Uncle – Bauhaus

“Third Uncle” is a song by Bauhaus, a British post-punk band known for their dark and atmospheric sound. The track was originally written by Brian Eno and features driving basslines, sharp guitar riffs, and Peter Murphy’s distinctive vocals. The song’s lyrics are enigmatic and surreal, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue.

14. Uncle Sam Blues – Jefferson Airplane

“Uncle Sam Blues” is a bluesy track by Jefferson Airplane, an American rock band known for their psychedelic sound and politically charged lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is forced to leave his home and family to serve in the military, highlighting the impact of war on individuals and communities. The track features powerful vocals by Grace Slick and a soulful guitar solo by Jorma Kaukonen, creating a haunting and emotive atmosphere. The song is a poignant commentary on the Vietnam War and the toll it took on American society.

15. Man Called Uncle – Elvis Costello & The Attractions

“Man Called Uncle” is a track by Elvis Costello & The Attractions from their album “Blood and Chocolate” released in 1986. The song tells the story of a man who is struggling to come to terms with his past and his family history. The track features Costello’s signature blend of rock and punk influences, with driving guitars and powerful vocals creating a sense of urgency and intensity.

16. Uncle Sam – Tevin Campbell

“Uncle Sam” is a track by Tevin Campbell, an American R&B singer known for his smooth vocals and soulful sound. The song was released in 1993 and tells the story of a man who is proud to be an American and willing to defend his country. The track features a catchy melody and upbeat instrumentation, creating a celebratory and patriotic atmosphere. The song is a tribute to the values of freedom, democracy, and national pride, making it a popular anthem for Independence Day and other national celebrations.

17. Fiddle About – The Who

“Fiddle About” is a song by The Who, a British rock band known for their energetic performances and powerful sound. The track was released on their 1969 rock opera “Tommy” and features John Entwistle on lead vocals. The song tells the disturbing story of Uncle Ernie, a character who abuses young boys, and creates a sense of discomfort and unease with its dark subject matter.

18. Uncle Jam – Funkadelic

“Uncle Jam” is a track by Funkadelic, an American funk band known for their innovative sound and psychedelic visuals. The song was released on their 1979 album “Uncle Jam Wants You” and features a blend of funk, rock, and electronic influences. The track’s catchy chorus and funky bassline create a danceable and upbeat groove, showcasing the band’s musical virtuosity and experimental approach to genre blending. The song’s title references the iconic Uncle Sam recruiting poster and the album’s cover art features a psychedelic parody of the image, further showcasing the band’s subversive and irreverent approach to politics and culture.

19. Uncle Toad Said – Gordon Lightfoot

“Uncle Toad Said” is a song by Gordon Lightfoot, a Canadian singer-songwriter known for his poetic lyrics and folk-influenced sound. The track was released on his 1966 album “Lightfoot!” and features Lightfoot’s signature fingerpicking style and gentle vocals. The song tells the story of a wise old toad who imparts advice and wisdom to the singer, creating a sense of nostalgia and innocence with its whimsical and imaginative lyrics. The track’s gentle melody and acoustic instrumentation create a sense of warmth and comfort, showcasing Lightfoot’s ability to capture the beauty and simplicity of everyday life in his music.